Somatic embryogenesis and artificial seeds in forage legumes

Among the forage legumes somatic embryogenesis has been most studied in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) reflecting inherent breeding problems and the high demand for seeds of this species. Current methods of somatic embryogenesis are reviewed with emphasis on each of the 3 stages involved: the acquisit...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Seed science research 1996-09, Vol.6 (3), p.109-126
Main Authors: McKersie, Bryan D., Brown, Daniel C.W.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
alfalfa
artificial seeds
forage legumes
Medicago sativa
Research Papers
somatic embryogenesis
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Summary:Among the forage legumes somatic embryogenesis has been most studied in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) reflecting inherent breeding problems and the high demand for seeds of this species. Current methods of somatic embryogenesis are reviewed with emphasis on each of the 3 stages involved: the acquisition of competence, the induction of somatic embryogenesis, and somatic embryo development and maturation. The role of plant growth regulators is particularly stressed. Artificial seed production, the development of reduced-generation synthetics or hybrids and genetic transformation of alfalfa are considered. Research on somatic embryogenesis and plant transformation in a wide range of other forage legumes is examined but it is suggested that the application of artificial seed technology is unlikely in forage legumes other than alfalfa.
ISSN:0960-2585
1475-2735
DOI:10.1017/S0960258500003135