Optimization of conditions for callus induction and indirect organogenesis of Cucumis anguria L.

An efficient procedure has been developed for callus induction and indirect organogenesis of Cucumis anguria L. Seedlings were grown under in vitro conditions and selection was carried out between the leaf and nodal segments for the explants in the seedlings. Different parameters like the explant source, hormones and sugars were checked for the optimization of cultures. Leaf explants which showed the maximum response to callus induction (42.0%) was thus, selected for the study. MS medium supplemented with 4.0 mg L-1 2,4-D and 4.0 mg L-1 NAA proved to be the most efficient hormone in promoting callus development from the leaf explants with 42.0% response and was the most favorable medium. Apart from the type of explant and growth regulators, different sugars and their concentrations were also checked for the induction of callus. 3% glucose produced highest rate of callus in the culture. In response to MS medium with 3.0 mg L-1 BAP and 0.5 mg L-1 Kn, best response of shoot induction was evoked with an average number of 5.02±0.76 shoots per callus. In vitro regenerated shoots (3.0 cm long) were excised aseptically and implanted on MS half strength medium fortified with 3.0 mg L-1 NAA and 2.5 mg L-1 IBA. Following initial hardening for four weeks, the rooted plantlets were successfully acclimatized in pots containing sterilized soil and sand mixture (1:1) with 75% survival rate in the field conditions. The protocol provides a basis for germplasm conservation and for further investigation of bioactive constituents of this medicinal plant.

Author(s): J. Jerome Jeyakumar* and L. Vivekanandan

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