Jikku, Jose; Dr.Padma, Nambisan(Cochin University of Science And Technology, January 30, 2013)
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Abstract:
Given the economic importance of Jatropha curcas, and its limited
availability in the wild, it would be desirable to establish plantations ofthe tree so
as to obtain assured supply of raw material for extraction of phytochemicals, and
seeds for production of biodiesel. However both seed propagation as well as
propagation by cuttings is unsatisfactory in this tree species. Seeds have poor
viability and are genetically heterozygous leading to genetic variability in terms of
growth, biomass, seed yield, and oil content. Stern cuttings have poor roots and the
trees are easily uprooted. Tissue culture techniques could possibly be gainfully
employed in the propagation of elite plants ofJaIropha.
When plant tissue is passaged through in vitro culture, there is possibility
of induction of variations. An estimation of somaclonal variability is useful in a
determination of culture protocols. Molecular markers could be employed to
estimate the amount of variations induced in callus and regenerants by different
honnonal combinations used in culture.
In this context the present study aims to develop an in vitro propagation
protocol for the production of plantlets and to evaluate the variation induced in
callus and regenerants in comparison with mother plant by the use of molecular
markers and by studying phytochemicals and bio active compounds present in
callus and regenerated plants
Description:
Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University
of Science and Technology