Induction of somatic embryogenesis in mature coniferous forest trees

Abstract

Somatic embryogenesis using apical meristematic tissues of mature trees of conifers has many practical applications in the commercial forestry. However, induction of somatic embryogenesis in conifers has many challenges. This review paper highlights the recent achievements made in the somatic embryogenesis of conifers particularly the mature tree cloning. Our recent study showed that the induction of somatic embryogenesis in many recalcitrant pines is influenced by shoot bud collection timing, thin cell layers of apical meristems, nutrient medium composition, cambial  layer activation (stem cells), smoke-saturated water, triacontanol, and 24-epibrassinolide.  Therefore, the exact molecular events underlying the conversion from differentiation of somatic to embryogenic cell fate needs further studies in order to understand the somatic embryogenesis in conifers.