Difference Between Organogenesis And Somatic Embryogenesis: Process, Stages

What Is Organogenesis?

Organogenesis is the process by which certain organs—roots and shoots—from undifferentiated plant cells or tissues are formed in vitro, usually through tissue culture techniques.

What Is Somatic Embryogenesis?

It is the process of making embryos from somatic or non-reproductive cells in vitro that may later develop into whole plants, hence allowing mass propagation and genetic manipulation.

Table: Difference Between Organogenesis And Somatic Embryogenesis

Process Of organogenesis

The process of organogenesis is described below:

Initiation

• Explant selection and sterilisation

• Introduction of a culture medium with growth hormones

Callus Formation

• Explant develops into an undifferentiated mass of cells

• Proliferation of callus cells

Organ Formation (Roots, Shoots)

• Differentiation of callus cells to form roots and shoots

• Development of roots and shoots

Types Of Organogenesis

The types of organogenesis are:

Direct Organogenesis

• Organs develop directly from the explant without an intermediate callus stage

• Faster with less genetic variation

Indirect Organogenesis

• Organs develop from callus tissue that is developed from the explant

• More intense manipulation of tissue is possible

Applications Of Organogenesis

The application of organogenesis is described below:

Horticulture

• Rapid multiplication of ornamental plants

• Propagation of rare and endangered species

Crop Improvement

• Development of disease-resistant and high-yielding varieties

• Genetic modification for desired traits

Genetic Modification

• Introduction of new genes into plants

• Production of transgenic plants

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Organogenesis

The advantages and disadvantages are given below:

Advantages

• Efficient propagation of plants

• Potential for genetic improvements

• Ability to produce large numbers of plants

Disadvantages

• Risk of somaclonal variation

• Requires skilled labour and controlled conditions

• Can be expensive

Somatic Embryogenesis

Somatic embryogenesis is the process by which embryos develop from somatic cells; it is one of the most important approaches for plant propagation and genetic engineering.

Process Of Somatic Embryogenesis

The process of somatic embryogenesis includes:

Induction Phase

• Selection of somatic cells followed by culture in a medium containing specific growth regulators

• Embryogenic callus induction

Embryo Development Phase

• Differentiation of callus cells into proembryos

• Development of globular, heart-shaped, and torpedo-shaped embryos

Maturation Phase

• Maturation and development of characteristic features of the embryos

• Preparation for germination

Germination Phase

• Fully developed embryos grow into plantlets.

• Transfer to soil or other appropriate growing medium

Types Of Somatic Embryogenesis

The types of somatic embryogenesis are:

Direct Somatic Embryogenesis

• Embryos directly form from the explant with no intermediate callus stage

• Uniform and genetically stable

Indirect Somatic Embryogenesis

• Embryos formed from callus tissue that is derived from somatic cells

• Can be manipulated and varied to a greater extent

Applications Of Somatic Embryogenesis

The application of somatic embryogenesis is given below:

Clonal Propagation

• Mass production of genetically identical plants

• Conservation of elite genotypes

Synthetic Seed Production

• Encapsulation of somatic embryos for storage and sowing

• Easy handling and transportation

Cryopreservation

• Long-term storage of genetic material

• Conservation of endangered plant species

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Somatic Embryogenesis

The advantages and disadvantages are given below:

Advantages

• High efficiency of plant regeneration

• Mass production is possible

• Genetic fidelity in clonal propagation

Disadvantages

• A laborious and complex process

• Risk of genetic and epigenetic changes

• Cultural conditions need accurate control

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