Somaclonal variation

Somaclonal variation is a phenomenon of genetic variation that occurs in plants propagated through tissue culture, particularly via somatic embryogenesis. This variation can be both advantageous and disadvantageous, as it can lead to the development of new cultivars with desirable traits, but can also result in off-types with undesirable characteristics.

Overview

Somaclonal variation was first described in the 1970s and has since been observed in a wide range of plant species. It is thought to be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic mutation, epigenetic changes, and changes in chromosome number or structure. The extent and type of variation can be influenced by the tissue culture conditions, the genotype of the plant, and the duration of the culture period.

Causes

The exact mechanisms underlying somaclonal variation are not fully understood, but several factors have been implicated. These include DNA methylation, transposon activity, and changes in chromosome structure and number. In addition, stress induced by the tissue culture environment can lead to genetic instability, which can result in variation.

Applications

Despite its potential drawbacks, somaclonal variation has been exploited in plant breeding programs to develop new cultivars with improved traits. For example, it has been used to generate disease-resistant varieties of potato, banana, and sugarcane. However, the unpredictable nature of the variation can make it difficult to use effectively in breeding programs.

See also

• Plant tissue culture
• Genetic variation
• Epigenetics
• Transposon

References

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