An efficient and reproducible method for regeneration and transformation of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) plants via somatic embryogenesis was developed. The influence of genotype, explant source and growth regulators concentrations on somatic embryogenesis induction was investigated. Embryogenic callus was induced from different organs of two pepper genotypes with potential for high frequency production of this important horticultural crop. The embryogenic callus was developed within 6-17 weeks (depending on the explant tissues and genotype used) incubation on MS medium containing different concentrations of thidiazuron (TDZ) or 2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2, 4-D). The number of embryogenesis in different explants ranged from 2.2 to 45.2 depending on the organ and genotype used. Transgenic plants were produced using Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation. Successful acclimatization of pepper in vitro plants was achieved in the greenhouse and field. Regenerated plants appeared morphologically normal and set flowers and fruits with seeds that could germinated normally. Current study was reported for the first time, an Agrobacterium-mediated model transformation system coupled with regeneration via somatic embryogenesis for production of transgenics plants in C. annuum L. |
