In vitro clonal propagation, organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis in Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst

Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst is a well-known medicinal herb in the Ayurveda. It is also used as laxative and curative for ulcers, inflammation, anaemia, scabies, leucoderma, asthma and epilepsy, enlargement of spleen, leprosy and others. In vitro propagation and regeneration through somatic embryogenesis of B. monnieri has played an important role in the production of healthy, disease-free plants with desirable traits. In B. monnieri, there are few reports which indicate rapid regeneration and somatic embryogenesis. For in vitro clonal propagation, the highest shoot formation was obtained when BAP 2 mg/ l used. The best response for rooting was obtained in IAA 1.0 mg/ l. The recorded survival rate of the plants was 70%. Plants were without any detectable phenotypic variations. Cytological study indicated that the chromosome number remain same (2n= 64) in in vitro and in vivo roots. A rapid, simple and efficient protocol for plantlet regeneration was achieved through embryogenic callus from leaf explants of B. monnieri. Callus induction and embryogenesis were significantly affected by presence/absence and type and concentration of growth regulators. Best organogenic callus induction was obtained in MS medium supplemented with BAP 5mg/ l. For induction of somatic embryogenesis, auxin (2, 4-D 1 mg/ l) was used in the culture medium subsequently in basal media for embryo maturation. Kn 0.2 mg/ l was the best for production of plantlet from embryo. Thus, this can be an easiest protocol for stable clonal propagation and plant regeneration through somatic embryogenesis in B. monnieri. The protocol used here for propagation and regeneration is much easier, low cost and reliable.