Perspectives of Somatic Embryogenesis: Concluding Remarks

Abstract

One of the main objectives to achieve in plant tissue culture is the multiplication of the available plant material, taking full advantage of the regenerative capacities of plant cells. Somatic embryogenesis leverages cell totipotency to produce new explants from a cell, thus obtaining many propagules for scientific research, industrial, or exploitation purposes. Somatic embryogenesis (ES) characterizes by being one of the most efficient techniques in plant micropropagation. However, developing an efficient plant ES protocol requires several key factors to consider, as demonstrated throughout the chapters of this book. These chapters highlight the major drivers of the success of ES in different plant species: plant growth regulators, concentration of auxins and cytokines, water deficit, photoperiod, and type of culture medium; techniques such as the use of bioreactors and Thin Cell Layer (TCL); and the influence of stress on the formation of somatic embryos. Research has been conducted to address each phase of somatic embryogenesis, either individually or for all phases. The chapters of this book cover in detail the techniques used and provide guidance that will allow readers to successfully develop all the somatic embryogenesis phases in different cultures, from cell dedifferentiation to differentiation.