Somatic Embryogenesis: A Model for Early Development in Higher Plants

Competence and regulatory interactions during regeneration in plants

The ability to regenerate is widely exploited by multitudes of organisms ranging from unicellular bacteria to multicellular plants for their propagation and repair. But the levels of competence for regeneration vary from species to species. While variety of living cells of a plant display regeneration ability, only a few set of cells maintain their stemness in mammals. This highly pliable nature of plant cells in-terms of regeneration can be attributed to their high developmental plasticity. De novo organ initiation can be relatively easily achieved in plants by proper hormonal regulations. Elevated levels of plant hormone auxin induces the formation of proliferating mass of pluripotent cells called callus, which predominantly express lateral root meristem markers and hence is having an identity similar to lateral root primordia. Organ formation can be induced from the callus by modulating the ratio of hormones. An alternative for de novo organogenesis is by the forced expression of plant specific transcription factors. The mechanisms by which plant cells attain competence for regeneration on hormonal treatment or forced expression remain largely elusive. Recent studies have provided some insight into how the epigenetic modifications in plants affect this competence. In this review we discuss the present understanding of regenerative biology in plants and scrutinize the future prospectives of this topic. While discussing about the regeneration in the sporophyte of angiosperms which is well studied, here we outline the regenerative biology of the gametophytic phase and discuss about various strategies of regeneration that have evolved in the domain of life so that a common consensus on the entire process of regeneration can be made.

Genetic and epigenetic controls of plant regeneration

Plants have evolved powerful regeneration abilities to recover from damage. Studies on plant regeneration are of high significance as the underlying mechanisms of plant regeneration are not only linking to the fundamental researches in many fields but also to the development of widely used plant biotechnology. Higher plants show three main types of regeneration: tissue regeneration, de novo organogenesis, and somatic embryogenesis. In this review, we summarize recent research on plant regeneration, mainly focusing on Arabidopsis thaliana and moss. New data suggest that plant hormones trigger regeneration and that several key transcription factors respond to hormone signals to determine cell-fate transition. Cell-fate transition requires genome-wide changes in gene expression, which are regulated via epigenetic pathways. Certain epigenetic factors may be recruited by transcription factors to relocate to new loci and regulate gene expression. Cross talk among hormone signaling, transcription factors, and epigenetic factors is involved in different types of plant regeneration, suggesting that elegant and complex regulatory mechanisms control which type of regeneration is triggered in plants under different circumstances. Since regeneration is initiated by wounding, identification of the wound signal is an important objective for future research.

Efficient regeneration potential is closely related to auxin exposure time and catalase metabolism during the somatic embryogenesis of immature embryos in Triticum aestivum L

Regeneration of cultured tissue is a prerequisite of Agrobacterium- and biolistic-mediated plant transformation. In this study, an efficient protocol for improving wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) immature embryo regeneration was developed. Based on the statistical analysis of embryogenic callus induction efficiency, green spot differentiation efficiency, and plant regeneration efficiency from five wheat accessions, improved culture conditions were found to be more effective for embryogenic callus production than the traditional conditions. Using semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, a candidate gene, designated as TaCAT1, which encodes a catalase was identified to have a significant correlation with high-regeneration trait of wheat immature embryos. Three amino acid substitutions were found in TaCAT1 protein between high- and low-regeneration wheat accessions. Hydrogen peroxide content in the cultured calli increased from day 5 to 15, and then decreased sharply on day 20, followed by a second peak on day 25 during regeneration stage. Furthermore, a 3,500-bp 5' flanking region upstream of the first codon ATG of TaCAT1 was isolated using inverse polymerase chain reaction. In silico, analysis revealed that the TaCAT1 promoter contained two regulatory motifs associated with responses to auxin.

Characterization and expression analysis of WOX5 genes from wheat and its relatives

The WUSCHEL (WUS)-related homeobox (WOX) gene family plays an important role in coordinating gene transcription in the early phases of embryogenesis. In this study, we isolated and characterized WOX5 from common wheat and its relatives Triticum monococcum, Triticum urartu, Aegilops speltoides, Aegilops searsii, Aegilops sharonensis, Aegilops longissima, Aegilops bicornis, Aegilops tauschii, and Triticum turgidum. The size of the characterized WOX5 alleles ranged from 1029 to 1038 bp and encompassed the complete open reading frame (ORF) as well as 5' upstream and 3' downstream sequences. Domain prediction analysis showed that the putative primary structures of wheat WOX5 protein include the highly conserved homeodomain besides the WUS-box domain and the EAR-like domain, which is/are present in some members of the WOX protein family. The full-length ORF was subcloned into a prokaryotic expression vector pET30a, and an approximate 26-kDa protein was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) cells with IPTG induction. The WOX5 genes from wheat-related species exhibit a similar structure to and high sequence similarity with WOX5 genes from common wheat. The degree of divergence and phylogenetic tree analysis among WOX5 alleles suggested the existence of three homoeologous copies in the A, B, or D genome of common wheat. Quantitative PCR results showed that TaWOX5 was primarily expressed in the root and calli induced by auxin and cytokinin, indicating that TaWOX5 may play a role related to root formation or development and is associated with hormone regulation in somatic embryogenesis.

Orchid protocorm-like bodies are somatic embryos

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

Protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of orchids are important in orchid micropropagation and outwardly resemble somatic embryos in form and development. To determine whether PLBs are truly embryogenetic, we compared PLBs with somatic embryos and zygotic embryos to determine whether they had similar surface molecules and whether hydroxyproline-rich glycoprotein (HRGP) inhibitors similarly alter their growth.

METHODS

Embryogenic calluses (ECs), zygotic embryos, and protocorms were collected for histological and histochemical studies with light microscopy. The presence of JIM11 and JIM20 epitopes was determined using immunodot blots and immunolocalization procedures. The importance of wall proteins in the formation of PLBs was investigated using 3,4-dehydro-l-proline (3,4-DHP), an inhibitor of HRGP biosynthesis.

KEY RESULTS

At the early stages of PLB formation, the cytoplasm of the globular cell clusters and meristemoids took on a vacuolated appearance. Starch granules and protein bodies appeared, albeit transitory in nature. Positive localizations of JIM11 and JIM20 were noted in the embryogenic culture and developing PLBs similar to zygotic embryos. The inclusion of an inhibitor to HRGPs inhibited PLB formation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that during the early stages of PLB formation, the cells show cytological characteristics and cell wall markers similar to zygotic embryo development, justifying the statement that PLBs are indeed somatic embryos of orchids. Thus, these results suggest that PLBs could be used as an experimental embryological system for physiological or molecular characterization.

Plant callus: mechanisms of induction and repression

Plants develop unorganized cell masses like callus and tumors in response to various biotic and abiotic stimuli. Since the historical discovery that the combination of two growth-promoting hormones, auxin and cytokinin, induces callus from plant explants in vitro, this experimental system has been used extensively in both basic research and horticultural applications. The molecular basis of callus formation has long been obscure, but we are finally beginning to understand how unscheduled cell proliferation is suppressed during normal plant development and how genetic and environmental cues override these repressions to induce callus formation. In this review, we will first provide a brief overview of callus development in nature and in vitro and then describe our current knowledge of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying callus formation.

Comparative proteomic analysis of off-type and normal phenotype somatic plantlets derived from somatic embryos of Feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret)

Morphological disorders in a relevant portion of emerged somatic embryos have been a limiting factor in the true-to-type plantlet formation in Acca sellowiana. In this sense, the present study undertook a comparison between normal phenotype and off-type somatic plantlets protein profiles by means of the 2-D DIGE proteomics approach. Off-type and normal phenotype somatic plantlets obtained at 10 and 20 days conversion were evaluated. Results indicated 12 exclusive spots between normal and off-type plantlets at 10 days conversion, and 17 exclusive spots at 20 days conversion. Also at 20 days conversion, 4 spots were differentially expressed, up- or down-regulated. Two proteins related to carbohydrate metabolism were only expressed in off-types at 10 days conversion, suggesting a more active respiratory pathway. A vicilin-like storage protein was only found in off-types at 20 days conversion, indicating that plantlets may present an abnormality in the mobilization of storage compounds, causing reduced vigor in the development of derived plantlets. The presence of heat shock proteins were only observed during formation of normal phenotype somatic plantlets, indicating that these proteins may be involved in normal morphogenesis of plantlets formed. These new findings shed light on possible genetic or epigenetic mechanisms governing A. sellowiana morphogenesis.

Optimisation of tomato Micro-tom regeneration and selection on glufosinate/Basta and dependency of gene silencing on transgene copy number

An efficient protocol of transformation and selection of transgenic lines of Micro-tom, a widespread model cultivar for tomato, is reported. RNA interference silencing efficiency and stability have been investigated and correlated with the number of insertions. Given its small size and ease of cultivation, the tomato (Solanum lycopersicon) cultivar Micro-tom is of widespread use as a model tomato plant. To create and screen transgenic plants, different selectable markers are commonly used. The bar marker carrying the resistance to the herbicide glufosinate/Basta, has many advantages, but it has been little utilised and with low efficiency for identification of tomato transgenic plants. Here we describe a procedure for accurate selection of transgenic Micro-tom both in vitro and in soil. Immunoblot, Southern blot and phenotypic analyses showed that 100 % of herbicide-resistant plants were transgenic. In addition, regeneration improvement has been obtained by using 2 mg/l Gibberellic acid in the shoot elongation medium; rooting optimisation on medium containing 1 mg/l IAA allowed up to 97 % of shoots developing strong and very healthy roots after only 10 days. Stable transformation frequency by infection of leaf explants with Agrobacterium reached 12 %. Shoots have been induced by combination of 1 mg/l zeatin-trans and 0.1 mg/l IAA. Somatic embryogenesis of cotyledon on medium containing 1 mg/l zeatin + 2 mg/l IAA is described in Micro-tom. The photosynthetic psbS gene has been used as reporter gene for RNA silencing studies. The efficiency of gene silencing has been found equivalent using three different target gene fragments of 519, 398 and 328 bp. Interestingly, silencing efficiency decreased from T0 to the T3 generation in plants containing multiple copies of the inserted T-DNA, while it was stable in plants containing a single insertion.

Microspore embryogenesis: establishment of embryo identity and pattern in culture

The developmental plasticity of plants is beautifully illustrated by the competence of the immature male gametophyte to change its developmental fate from pollen to embryo development when exposed to stress treatments in culture. This process, referred to as microspore embryogenesis, is widely exploited in plant breeding, but also provides a unique system to understand totipotency and early cell fate decisions. We summarize the major concepts that have arisen from decades of cell and molecular studies on microspore embryogenesis and put these in the context of recent experiments, as well as results obtained from the study of pollen and zygotic embryo development.

Microspore embryogenesis: establishment of embryo identity and pattern in culture

The developmental plasticity of plants is beautifully illustrated by the competence of the immature male gametophyte to change its developmental fate from pollen to embryo development when exposed to stress treatments in culture. This process, referred to as microspore embryogenesis, is widely exploited in plant breeding, but also provides a unique system to understand totipotency and early cell fate decisions. We summarize the major concepts that have arisen from decades of cell and molecular studies on microspore embryogenesis and put these in the context of recent experiments, as well as results obtained from the study of pollen and zygotic embryo development.

Improvement of somatic embryogenesis and plantlet conversion in Oplopanax elatus, an endangered medicinal woody plant

Oplopanax elatus is a medicinal plant on the verge of extinction because of overexploitation. In the present study, the effects of various factors on enhancing somatic embryogenesis and plantlet conversion were studied. Mature seeds were collected from a total of 13 plants from 4 mountains in South Korea, and the genetic distances were calculated to analyze the effect of genotype on somatic embryogenesis. Results of cluster analysis and the unweighted-pair-group method with arithmetic mean of 13 genotypes indicated the presence of 3 main groups. Both genotype and explant type affected the induction of somatic embryos (SEs). Sorak 2 and root were found to be the most suitable genotype and explant type, respectively, for SE induction in O. elatus. Among the different types of carbon sources tested, 5% sucrose induced the maximum number of SEs. The formation and development of SEs were significantly influenced by culture density; thus, 10 mg embryonic callus was found to be the most suitable for SE induction. The highest rates of germination and SE conversion were obtained in a germination medium containing 1.8 gelrite and 3.2 g·l(-1) agar. In addition, 80% of the plantlets that were transplanted into artificial soil acclimatized successfully. Thus, our results showed that the percentage survival of O. elatus during in vitro proliferation could be increased by optimizing to the somatic embryogenesis system.

New insights into somatic embryogenesis: leafy cotyledon1, baby boom1 and WUSCHEL-related homeobox4 are epigenetically regulated in Coffea canephora

Plant cells have the capacity to generate a new plant without egg fertilization by a process known as somatic embryogenesis (SE), in which differentiated somatic cells can form somatic embryos able to generate a functional plant. Although there have been advances in understanding the genetic basis of SE, the epigenetic mechanism that regulates this process is still unknown. Here, we show that the embryogenic development of Coffea canephora proceeds through a crosstalk between DNA methylation and histone modifications during the earliest embryogenic stages of SE. We found that low levels of DNA methylation, histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) and H3K27me3 change according to embryo development. Moreover, the expression of LEAFY cotyledon1 (LEC1) and BABY BOOM1 (BBM1) are only observed after SE induction, whereas WUSCHEL-related homeobox4 (WOX4) decreases its expression during embryo maturation. Using a pharmacological approach, it was found that 5-Azacytidine strongly inhibits the embryogenic response by decreasing both DNA methylation and gene expression of LEC1 and BBM1. Therefore, in order to know whether these genes were epigenetically regulated, we used Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. It was found that WOX4 is regulated by the repressive mark H3K9me2, while LEC1 and BBM1 are epigenetically regulated by H3K27me3. We conclude that epigenetic regulation plays an important role during somatic embryogenic development, and a molecular mechanism for SE is proposed.

Analysis of the global transcriptome of longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) embryogenic callus using Illumina paired-end sequencing

Background

Longan is a tropical/subtropical fruit tree of great economic importance in Southeast Asia. Progress in understanding molecular mechanisms of longan embryogenesis, which is the primary influence on fruit quality and yield, is slowed by lack of transcriptomic and genomic information. Illumina second generation sequencing, which is suitable for generating enormous numbers of transcript sequences that can be used for functional genomic analysis of longan.

Results

In this study, a longan embryogenic callus (EC) cDNA library was sequenced using an Illumina HiSeq 2000 system. A total of 64,876,258 clean reads comprising 5.84 Gb of nucleotides were assembled into 68,925 unigenes of 448-bp mean length, with unigenes ≥1000 bp accounting for 8.26% of the total. Using BLASTx, 40,634 unigenes were found to have significant similarity with accessions in Nr and Swiss- Prot databases. Of these, 38,845 unigenes were assigned to 43 GO sub-categories and 17,118 unigenes were classified into 25 COG sub-groups. In addition, 17,306 unigenes mapped to 199 KEGG pathways, with the categories of Metabolic pathways, Plant-pathogen interaction, Biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and Genetic information processing being well represented. Analyses of unigenes ≥1000 bp revealed 328 embryogenesis-related unigenes as well as numerous unigenes expressed in EC associated with functions of reproductive growth, such as flowering, gametophytogenesis, and fertility, and vegetative growth, such as root and shoot growth. Furthermore, 23 unigenes related to embryogenesis and reproductive and vegetative growth were validated by quantitative real time PCR (qPCR) in samples from different stages of longan somatic embryogenesis (SE); their differentially expressions in the various embryogenic cultures indicated their possible roles in longan SE.

Conclusions

The quantity and variety of expressed EC genes identified in this study is sufficient to serve as a global transcriptome dataset for longan EC and to provide more molecular resources for longan functional genomics.

Extensive modulation of the transcription factor transcriptome during somatic embryogenesis in Arabidopsis thaliana

Molecular mechanisms controlling plant totipotency are largely unknown and studies on somatic embryogenesis (SE), the process through which already differentiated cells reverse their developmental program and become embryogenic, provide a unique means for deciphering molecular mechanisms controlling developmental plasticity of somatic cells. Among various factors essential for embryogenic transition of somatic cells transcription factors (TFs), crucial regulators of genetic programs, are believed to play a central role. Herein, we used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to identify TF genes affected during SE induced by in vitro culture in Arabidopsis thaliana. Expression profiles of 1,880 TFs were evaluated in the highly embryogenic Col-0 accession and the non-embryogenic tanmei/emb2757 mutant. Our study revealed 729 TFs whose expression changes during the 10-days incubation period of SE; 141 TFs displayed distinct differences in expression patterns in embryogenic versus non-embryogenic cultures. The embryo-induction stage of SE occurring during the first 5 days of culture was associated with a robust and dramatic change of the TF transcriptome characterized by the drastic up-regulation of the expression of a great majority (over 80%) of the TFs active during embryogenic culture. In contrast to SE induction, the advanced stage of embryo formation showed attenuation and stabilization of transcript levels of many TFs. In total, 519 of the SE-modulated TFs were functionally annotated and transcripts related with plant development, phytohormones and stress responses were found to be most abundant. The involvement of selected TFs in SE was verified using T-DNA insertion lines and a significantly reduced embryogenic response was found for the majority of them. This study provides comprehensive data focused on the expression of TF genes during SE and suggests directions for further research on functional genomics of SE.

Induction of somatic embryos in Arabidopsis requires local YUCCA expression mediated by the down-regulation of ethylene biosynthesis

Somatic embryogenesis is an important experimental model for studying cellular and molecular mechanisms of early embryo development. Although it has long been known that removal of exogenous auxin from medium results in somatic embryogenesis, the mechanisms underlying the initiation of somatic embryos (SEs) are poorly understood. In this study, we showed that YUCCAs (YUCs) encoding key enzymes in auxin biosynthesis are required for SE induction in Arabidopsis. To identify other factors mediating SE initiation, we performed transcriptional profiling and gene expression analysis. The results showed that genes involved in ethylene biosynthesis and its responses were down-regulated during SE initiation. Ethylene level decreased progressively during SE initiation, whereas treatment with the metabolic precursor of ethylene, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), or mutation of ETHYLENE-OVERPRODUCTION1 (ETO1) disrupted SE induction, suggesting that ethylene plays a role in this process. Suppression of SE induction was also observed in the constitutive triple response 1 (ctr1) mutant, in which ethylene signaling was enhanced. These results indicate that down-regulation of not only ethylene biosynthesis, but also ethylene response is critical for SE induction. We further showed that ethylene disturbed SE initiation through inhibiting YUC expression that might be involved in local auxin biosynthesis and subsequent auxin distribution. Our results provide new information on the mechanisms of hormone-regulated SE initiation.

High frequency regeneration via direct somatic embryogenesis and efficient Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of tobacco

A direct somatic embryogenesis protocol was developed for four cultivars of Nicotiana species, by using leaf disc as an explant. Direct somatic embryogenesis of Nicotiana by using BAP and IAA has not been investigated so far. This method does not require formation of callus tissues which leads to somaclonal variations. The frequency of somatic embryogenesis was strongly influenced by the plant growth hormones. The somatic embryos developing directly from explant tissue were noticed after 6 d of culture. Somatic embryogenesis of a high frequency (87-96%) was observed in cultures of the all four genotypes (Nicotiana tabacum, N. benthamiyana, N. xanthi, N. t cv petihavana). The results showed that the best medium for direct somatic embryogenesis was MS supplemented with 2.5 mg/l, 0.2 mg/l IAA and 2% sucrose. Subculture of somatic embryos onto hormone free MS medium resulted in their conversion into plants for all genotypes. About 95% of the regenerated somatic embryos germinated into complete plantlets. The plants showed morphological and growth characteristics similar to those of seed-derived plants. Explants were transformed using Agrobacterium tumifacious LBA4404 plasmid pCAMBIA1301 harboring the GUS gene. The regenerated transgenic plants were confirmed by PCR analysis and histochemical GUS assay. The transformation efficiency obtained by using the Agrobacterium- mediated transformation was more than 95%. This method takes 6 wk to accomplish complete transgenic plants through direct somatic embryogenesis. The transgenic plantlets were acclimatized successfully with 98% survival in greenhouse and they showed normal morphological characteristics and were fertile. The regeneration and transformation method described herein is very simple, highly efficient and fast for the introduction of any foreign gene directly in tobacco through direct somatic embryogenesis.

Wuschel overexpression promotes somatic embryogenesis and induces organogenesis in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) tissues cultured in vitro

This work shows that overexpression of the WUS gene from Arabidopsis enhanced the expression of embryogenic competence and triggered organogenesis from some cells of the regenerated embryo-like structures. Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of cotton was described in the late 1980s, but is still time consuming and largely genotype dependant due to poor regeneration. To help solve this bottleneck, we over-expressed the WUSCHEL (WUS) gene, a homeobox transcription factor cloned in Arabidopsis thaliana, known to stimulate organogenesis and/or somatic embryogenesis in Arabidopsis tissues cultured in vitro. The AtWUS gene alone, and AtWUS gene fused to the GFP marker were compared to the GFP gene alone and to an empty construct used as a control. Somatic embryogenesis was improved in WUS expressed calli, as the percentage of explants giving rise to embryogenic tissues was significantly higher (×3) when WUS gene was over-expressed than in the control. An interesting result was that WUS embryogenic lines evolved in green embryo-like structures giving rise to ectopic organogenesis never observed in any of our previous transformation experiments. Using our standard in vitro culture protocol, the overexpression of AtWUS in tissues of a recalcitrant variety did not result in the production of regenerated plants. This achievement will still require the optimization of other non-genetic factors, such as the balance of exogenous phytohormones. However, our results suggest that targeted expression of the WUS gene is a promising strategy to improve gene transfer in recalcitrant cotton cultivars.

5-Azacytidine combined with 2,4-D improves somatic embryogenesis of Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret by means of changes in global DNA methylation levels

DNA methylation is an epigenetic regulatory mechanism of gene expression which can be associated with developmental phases and in vitro morphogenetic competence in plants. The present work evaluated the effects of 5-azacytidine (AzaC) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) on Acca sellowiana somatic embryogenesis (SE) and global DNA methylation levels by high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). 2,4-D-free treatments revealed no somatic embryo formation in both accessions tested. Treatments supplemented with 2,4-D pulse plus AzaC in the culture medium resulted in increased embryo formation. In AzaC-free treatment, HPLC/MS/MS analysis showed a gradual increase in methylation levels in cultures of both accessions tested during SE induction. Treatment with AzaC and 2,4-D-free resulted in a marked decrease in methylation for both accessions, ranging from 37.6 to 20.8 %. In treatment with 2,4-D and AzaC combined, the 85 accession showed increasing global methylation levels. Otherwise, the 101X458 accession, in the same treatment, showed a decrease between 10 and 20 days, followed by an increase after 30 days (39.5, 36.2 and 41.6 %). These results indicate that 2,4-D pulse combined with AzaC improves SE induction. However, the conversion phase showed that although positively influencing SE induction, AzaC had a dysregulatory effect on the stage of autotrophic plant formation, resulting in significantly lower conversion rates. The results suggest that DNA methylation dramatically influences SE in Acca sellowiana, and global DNA methylation dynamics are related to morphogenetic response.

KEY MESSAGE

5-Azacytidine combined with 2,4-D increases the number of Acca sellowiana somatic embryos. Global DNA methylation is directly affected by these compounds.

Accumulation pattern of dehydrins during sugarcane (var. SP80.3280) somatic embryogenesis

The objective of the present study was to determine dehydrin protein levels in sugarcane var. SP80-3280 during somatic embryogenesis. Dehydrins from embryogenic and non-embryogenic cell cultures were analyzed using western blot and in situ immunolocalization microscopy. Both techniques employ antibodies raised against a highly conserved lysine-rich 15-amino acid sequence termed the K-domain, which is extensively used to recognize proteins immunologically related to the dehydrin family. In embryogenic cultures, western blot analysis of the heat-stable protein fraction revealed eleven major bands ranging from 52 to 17 kDa. They were already visible on the first days, gradually increasing until reaching peak values around day 14, when organogenesis begins, to later decrease in concurrence with the appearance of green plantlets (around day 28). These fluctuations indicate that this pattern of accumulation is under developmental control. Dehydrins were mainly immunolocalized in the nuclei. A phosphatase treatment of protein extracts caused a mobility shift of the 52, 49, and 43 kDa dehydrin bands suggesting a putative modulation mechanism based on protein phosphorylation. In sugarcane embryogenic cultures, presence of dehydrins is a novel finding. Dehydrins were absent in non-embryogenic cultures. The novel findings regarding accumulation, nuclear localization, and phosphorylation of dehydrins provide a starting point for further research on the role of these proteins in the induction and/or maintenance of embryogenesis.

KEY MESSAGE

The novel findings regarding accumulation, nuclear localization, and phosphorylation of dehydrins provide a starting point for further research on the role of these proteins in the induction and/or maintenance of embryogenesis.

Distribution of lipid transfer protein 1 (LTP1) epitopes associated with morphogenic events during somatic embryogenesis of Arabidopsis thaliana

Using immunocytochemical methods, at both the light and electron microscopic level, we have investigated the spatial and temporal distribution of lipid transfer protein 1 (LTP1) epitopes during the induction of somatic embryogenesis in explants of Arabidopsis thaliana. Immunofluorescence labelling demonstrated the presence of high levels of LTP1 epitopes within the proximal regions of the cotyledons (embryogenic regions) associated with particular morphogenetic events, including intense cell division activity, cotyledon swelling, cell loosening and callus formation. Precise analysis of the signal localization in protodermal and subprotodermal cells indicated that cells exhibiting features typical of embryogenic cells were strongly labelled, both in walls and the cytoplasm, while in the majority of meristematic-like cells no signal was observed. Staining with lipophilic dyes revealed a correlation between the distribution of LTP1 epitopes and lipid substances within the cell wall. Differences in label abundance and distribution between embryogenic and non-embryogenic regions of explants were studied in detail with the use of immunogold electron microscopy. The labelling was strongest in both the outer periclinal and anticlinal walls of the adaxial, protodermal cells of the proximal region of the cotyledon. The putative role(s) of lipid transfer proteins in the formation of lipid lamellae and in cell differentiation are discussed. Key message Occurrence of lipid transfer protein 1 epitopes in Arabidopsis explant cells accompanies changes in cell fate and may be correlated with the deposition of lipid substances in the cell walls.

Callose deposition is required for somatic embryogenesis in plasmolyzed Eleutherococcus senticosus zygotic embryos

Dynamic changes in callose content, which is deposited as a plant defense response to physiological changes, were analyzed during somatic embryogenesis in Eleutherococcus senticosus zygotic embryos plasmolyzed in 1.0 M mannitol. During plasmolysis, callose deposition was clearly observed inside the plasma membrane of zygotic embryo epidermal cells using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The callose content of zygotic embryos gradually increased between 0 and 12 h plasmolysis and remained stable after 24 h plasmolysis. During eight weeks induction of somatic embryogenesis, the callose content of explants plasmolyzed for 12 h was slightly higher than explants plasmolyzed for 6 or 24 h, with the largest differences observed after 6 weeks culture, which coincided with the maximum callose content and highest number of globular somatic embryos. The highest frequency of somatic embryo formation was observed in explants plasmolyzed for 12 h. The somatic embryo induction rate and number of somatic embryos per explant were markedly different in zygotic embryos pretreated with plasmolysis alone (78.0%, 43 embryos per explant) and those pretreated with plasmolysis and the callose synthase inhibitor 2-deoxy-d-glucose (11.5%, 8 embryos per explant). This study indicates that callose production is required for somatic embryogenesis in plasmolyzed explants.

Proteomics study of rice embryogenesis: discovery of the embryogenesis-dependent globulins

The plant embryo is the germination center of the seed. How an embryo forms during seed maturation remains unclear, especially in the case of monocotyledonous plants. Generally, the complex processes of embryogenesis result from the action of a coordinated network of genes. Thus, a large-scale survey of changes in protein abundance during embryogenesis is an effective approach to study the molecular events of embryogenesis. In this study, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) was applied to separate rice embryo proteins collected during the three phases of embryogenesis: 6 days after pollination (DAP), 12 DAP, and 18 DAP. We then employed matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry(MALDI TOF/TOF MS) to identify the phase-dependent differential 2DE spots. A total of 66 spots were discovered to be regulated during embryogenesis, and of these spots, 53 spots were identified. These proteins were further categorized into several functional classes, including storage, embryo development, stress response, glycolysis, and protein metabolism. Intriguingly, the major differential spots originated from three globulins. We further examined the possible mechanism underlying the globulins' multiple forms using Western blotting, proteolysis, and blue native gel electrophoresis techniques and found that the multiple forms of globulins were produced as a result of enhanced proteolysis during embryogenesis, indicating that these globulin forms may serve as chaperone proteins participating in the formation of multiple protein complexes during embryogenesis.

Recent progress in the understanding of tissue culture-induced genome level changes in plants and potential applications

In vitro cell and tissue-based systems have tremendous potential in fundamental research and for commercial applications such as clonal propagation, genetic engineering and production of valuable metabolites. Since the invention of plant cell and tissue culture techniques more than half a century ago, scientists have been trying to understand the morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular changes associated with tissue culture responses. Establishment of de novo developmental cell fate in vitro is governed by factors such as genetic make-up, stress and plant growth regulators. In vitro culture is believed to destabilize the genetic and epigenetic program of intact plant tissue and can lead to chromosomal and DNA sequence variations, methylation changes, transposon activation, and generation of somaclonal variants. In this review, we discuss the current status of understanding the genomic and epigenomic changes that take place under in vitro conditions. It is hoped that a precise and comprehensive knowledge of the molecular basis of these variations and acquisition of developmental cell fate would help to devise strategies to improve the totipotency and embryogenic capability in recalcitrant species and genotypes, and to address bottlenecks associated with clonal propagation.

Identification of differentially accumulated proteins associated with embryogenic and non-embryogenic calli in saffron (Crocus sativus L.)

BACKGROUND

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a complex biological process that occurs under inductive conditions and causes fully differentiated cells to be reprogrammed to an embryo like state. In order to get a better insight about molecular basis of the SE in Crocus sativus L. and to characterize differentially accumulated proteins during the process, a proteomic study based on two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry has been carried out.

RESULTS

We have compared proteome profiles of non-embryogenic and embryogenic calli with native corm explants. Total soluble proteins were phenol-extracted and loaded on 18 cm IPG strips for the first dimension and 11.5% sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels for the second dimension. Fifty spots with more than 1.5-fold change in abundance were subjected to mass spectrometry analysis for further characterization. Among them 36 proteins could be identified, which are classified into defense and stress response, protein synthesis and processing, carbohydrate and energy metabolism, secondary metabolism, and nitrogen metabolism.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that diverse cellular and molecular processes were affected during somatic to embryogenic transition. Differential proteomic analysis suggests a key role for ascorbate metabolism during early stage of SE, and points to the possible role of ascorbate-glutathione cycle in establishing somatic embryos.

Maize somatic embryogenesis: recent features to improve plant regeneration

Plant regeneration capacity is maintained through the life of a plant by the stem cell niche present in the meristems. Stem cells are capable of differentiating into any plant organ, allowing propagation of new plants by different techniques. Among them, somatic embryogenesis is a widely used technique characterized by a complex process that involves coordinated expression of genes, mediated by the influence of specific hormones, nutrients, stress, and/or environmental signals. This tool is particularly relevant in the propagation of genetically improved crops. The intrinsic embryogenic potential of the explant used as starting material for plant in vitro cultures varies depending on the genotype of each plant species. Particularly in maize, the regeneration capacity is lost during the course of tissue maturation, since embryogenic callus (E) is almost exclusively obtained from immature zygotic embryos. In this chapter, the latest advances in the literature for maize somatic embryogenesis process are reviewed. Further, a detailed procedure for maize plant regeneration from E callus is described. The callus obtained from immature zygotic embryos is capable to generate somatic embryos that germinate and develop into fertile normal plants.

Two SERK genes are markers of pluripotency in Cyclamen persicum Mill

The genetic basis of stem cell specification in somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis is still obscure. SOMATIC EMBRYOGENESIS RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE (SERK) genes are involved in embryogenesis and organogenesis in numerous species. In vitro culture of Cyclamen persicum immature ovules provides a system for investigating stem cell formation and maintenance, because lines forming either organs or embryos or callus without organs/embryos are available for the same cultivar and plant growth regulator conditions. The present aim was to exploit this property of cyclamen cultures to understand the role of SERK(s) in stem cell formation and maintenance in somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis in vitro, in comparison with expression in planta. CpSERK1 and CpSERK2 were isolated from embryogenic callus. CpSERK1 and CpSERK2 levels by RT-PCR showed that expression is high in embryogenic, moderate in organogenic, and null in recalcitrant calli. in situ hybridizations showed that the expression of both genes started in clumps of pluripotent stem cells, from which both pre-embryogenic aggregates and organ meristemoids derived, and continued in their trans-amplifying, meristem-like, derivatives. Expression declined in organ meristemoids, in parallel with a partial loss of meristematization. In mature somatic embryos, and in shoot and root primordia, CpSERK1 and CpSERK2 were expressed in meristems, and similar patterns occurred in zygotic embryo and primary meristems in planta. The results point to SERK1 and SERK2 as markers of pluripotency in cyclamen. It is proposed that the high expression of these genes in the trans-amplifying derivatives of the stem cells maintains a pluripotent condition leading to totipotency and, consequently, somatic embryogenesis.

Identification of genes up-regulated during somatic embryogenesis of cucumber

Somatic embryogenesis is a method of plant regeneration, but it can also be used as a model to study plant development. A normalized library of cDNA fragments representing genes up-regulated after the induction of somatic embryogenesis in cucumber suspension cultures was constructed using the suppression subtractive hybridization technique. Candidate cDNA fragments (119) were classified according to their similarity to genes encoding known proteins and the presence of potential functional domains. Of the translation products with homology to known proteins, about 23% were possibly involved in metabolism, 13% represented proteins with a probable role in cellular communication and signal transduction, about 12% were likely to participate in protein synthesis, while around 10% were potential transcription factors. The genes corresponding to four of the cDNAs were subsequently analyzed in more detail: CsSEF2, CsSEM1 and CsSESTK1 encoding putative transcription factors or co-activators, and CsSECAD1 encoding cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase. Full-length cDNAs were isolated and analyzed. RT-PCR confirmed the up-regulation of these genes after the induction of somatic embryogenesis and showed the presence of their transcripts in other tissues. The in situ localization of transcripts of the CsSEF2 and CsSEM1 genes demonstrated that signalling in somatic embryo tissues involving these factors is concentrated in the cotyledon primordia and roots.

Spatially selective hormonal control of RAP2.6L and ANAC071 transcription factors involved in tissue reunion in Arabidopsis

When grafting or wounding disconnects stem tissues, new tissues are generated to restore the lost connection. In this study, the molecular mechanism of such healing was elucidated in injured stems of Arabidopsis. Soon after the inflorescence stems were incised, the pith cells started to divide. This process was strongly inhibited by the elimination of cauline leaves, shoot apices, or lateral buds that reduced the indole-3-acetic acid supply. Microarray and quantitative RT-PCR analyses revealed that genes related to cell division, phytohormones, and transcription factors were expressed because of incision. Among them, two plant-specific transcription factor genes, ANAC071 and RAP2.6L, were abundantly expressed. ANAC071 was expressed at 1-3 d after cutting exclusively in the upper region of the cut gap, with concomitant accumulation of indole-3-acetic acid. In contrast, RAP2.6L was expressed at 1 d after cutting exclusively in the lower region, with concomitant deprivation of indole-3-acetic acid. The expression of ANAC071 and RAP2.6L were also promoted by ethylene and jasmonic acid, respectively. In transformants suppressing the function of RAP2.6L or ANAC071, the division of pith cells was inhibited. Furthermore, the ethylene signaling-defective ein2 mutant showed incomplete healing. Hence, plant-specific transcription factors differentially expressed around the cut position were essential for tissue reunion of Arabidopsis wounded flowering stems and were under opposite control by polar-transported auxin, with modification by the ethylene and jasmonic acid wound-inducible hormones.

Enolases: storage compounds in seeds? Evidence from a proteomic comparison of zygotic and somatic embryos of Cyclamen persicum Mill

Somatic embryogenesis is well established for the economic relevant ornamental crop Cyclamen and thus could supplement the elaborate propagation via seeds. However, the use of somatic embryogenesis for commercial large scale propagation is still limited due to physiological disorders and asynchronous development within emerged embryos. To overcome these problems, profound knowledge of the physiological processes in Cyclamen embryogenesis is essential. Thus, the proteomes of somatic and zygotic embryos were characterised in a comparative approach. Protein separation via two dimensional IEF-SDS PAGE led to a resolution of more than 1,000 protein spots/gel. Overall, 246 proteins were of differential abundance in the two tissues compared. Mass spectrometry analysis of the 300 most abundant protein spots resulted in the identification of 247 proteins, which represent 90 distinct protein species. Fifty-five percent of the 247 proteins belong to only three physiological categories: glycolysis, protein folding and stress response. The latter physiological process was especially predominant in the somatic embryos. Remarkably, the glycolytic enzyme enolase was the protein most frequently detected and thus is supposed to play an important role in Cyclamen embryogenesis. Data are presented that indicate involvement of "small enolases" as storage proteins in Cyclamen. A digital reference map was established via a novel software tool for the web-based presentation of proteome data linked to KEGG and ExPasy protein-databases and both were made publicly available online.

Somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration in the culture of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. immature zygotic embryos

Immature zygotic embryos (IZEs) of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh., a model species for plant -genomics, provide efficient explants for a simple, rapid, and effective system for inducing somatic embryogenesis (SE) under in vitro culture. The process of SE can be induced directly from explant tissue, or indirectly through a callus stage, and the mode of morphogenesis depends on the developmental stage of the IZEs that are used. Auxin treatment, preferably with 2,4-D, results in the formation of embryogenic callus tissue in cultures derived from IZEs less advanced in development, i.e., at globular and torpedo stages, while IZE at the late cotyledonary stage rapidly produces somatic embryos, mostly via a direct pathway. In the best SE-responsive genotypes, including the commonly used Col-0 ecotype, up to 90% of the late cotyledonary-stage zygotic embryos undergo rapid and efficient SE. The subculture of somatic embryos onto auxin-free medium results in their conversion into plantlets with an average frequency of 80%. Such a high frequency of somatic embryos developing rapidly from explant tissue, followed by efficient regeneration of fertile plants with a low level of somaclonal variation, is the recommended system for wide application in studies on mechanisms governing plant totipotency; and especially for identifying genetic factors controlling embryogenic transition of somatic plant cells. In this chapter, the induction, development, and maturation of somatic embryos leading to subsequent regeneration of Arabidopsis plantlets in culture of IZEs are presented.

GA3 stimulates the formation and germination of somatic embryos and the expression of a KNOTTED-like homeobox gene of Cocos nucifera (L.)

The micropropagation of coconut palm has progressed rapidly; yet, there are constraints with regard to the number of somatic embryos formed and their germination. To overcome these, we tested the effect of gibberellic acid and characterized genes of the KNOX family. Gibberellic acid at 0.5 muM increased 1.5-fold the number of calli forming somatic embryos and twofold the number of somatic embryos per callus, calli with germinating embryos and the number of germinating somatic embryos per callus. With regard to the study of KNOX family genes, the complete sequences of two KNOX-like genes were obtained for CnKNOX1 and CnKNOX2. The deduced amino acid sequence of both showed highly conserved domains characteristic of KNOX genes. CnKNOX1 showed high homology with KNOX class I proteins. CnKNOX1 expression was detected throughout the embryogenesis process except in somatic embryos at the pro-globular stage, and was highest in somatic embryos at the coleoptilar stage. No detection of CnKNOX1 expression occurred in calli with aberrant embryos. The addition of gibberellic acid stimulated the expression of CnKNOX1 earlier and the relative expression at all stages was higher. CnKNOX2 expression occurred at all stages peaking at the globular stage, but gibberellic acid treatment decreased the expression. Gene expression was also analyzed in tissues of different organs of adult palms. With CnKNOX1, high level of expression was found in tissues of organs with, but not in those without, meristem, whereas CnKNOX2 expression was detected in tissues with and also in those without meristem.

Transcription profiling of fertilization and early seed development events in a solanaceous species using a 7.7 K cDNA microarray from Solanum chacoense ovules

BACKGROUND

To provide a broad analysis of gene expression changes in developing embryos from a solanaceous species, we produced amplicon-derived microarrays with 7741 ESTs isolated from Solanum chacoense ovules bearing embryos from all developmental stages. Our aims were to: 1) identify genes expressed in a tissue-specific and temporal-specific manner; 2) define clusters of genes showing similar patterns of spatial and temporal expression; and 3) identify stage-specific or transition-specific candidate genes for further functional genomic analyses.

RESULTS

We analyzed gene expression during S. chacoense embryogenesis in a series of experiments with probes derived from ovules isolated before and after fertilization (from 0 to 22 days after pollination), and from leaves, anthers, and styles. From the 6374 unigenes present in our array, 1024 genes were differentially expressed (>or= +/- 2 fold change, p value <or= 0.01) in fertilized ovules compared to unfertilized ovules and only limited expression overlap was observed between these genes and the genes expressed in the other tissues tested, with the vast majority of the fertilization-regulated genes specifically or predominantly expressed in ovules (955 genes). During embryogenesis three major expression profiles corresponding to early, middle and late stages of embryo development were identified. From the early and middle stages, a large number of genes corresponding to cell cycle, DNA processing, signal transduction, and transcriptional regulation were found. Defense and stress response-related genes were found in all stages of embryo development. Protein biosynthesis genes, genes coding for ribosomal proteins and other components of the translation machinery were highly expressed in embryos during the early stage. Genes for protein degradation were overrepresented later in the middle and late stages of embryo development. As expected, storage protein transcripts accumulated predominantly in the late stage of embryo development.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis provides the first study in a solanaceous species of the transcriptional program that takes place during the early phases of plant reproductive development, including all embryogenesis steps during a comprehensive time-course. Our comparative expression profiling strategy between fertilized and unfertilized ovules identified a subset of genes specifically or predominantly expressed in ovules while a closer analysis between each consecutive time point allowed the identification of a subset of stage-specific and transition-specific genes.

Comparative transcriptional profiling analysis of the two daughter cells from tobacco zygote reveals the transcriptome differences in the apical and basal cells

BACKGROUND

In angiosperm, after the first asymmetric zygotic cell division, the apical and basal daughter cells follow distinct development pathways. Global transcriptome analysis of these two cells is essential in understanding their developmental differences. However, because of the difficulty to isolate the in vivo apical and basal cells of two-celled proembryo from ovule and ovary in higher plants, the transcriptome analysis of them hasn't been reported.

RESULTS

In this study, we developed a procedure for isolating the in vivo apical and basal cells of the two-celled proembryo from tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), and then performed a comparative transcriptome analysis of the two cells by suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) combined with macroarray screening. After sequencing, we identified 797 differentially expressed ESTs corresponding to 299 unigenes. Library sequence analysis successfully identified tobacco homologies of genes involved in embryogenesis and seed development. By quantitative real-time PCR, we validated the differential expression of 40 genes, with 6 transcripts of them specifically expressed in the apical or basal cell. Expression analysis also revealed some transcripts displayed cell specific activation in one of the daughter cells after zygote division. These differential expressions were further validated by in situ hybridization (ISH). Tissue expression pattern analysis also revealed some potential roles of these candidate genes in development.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that some differential or specific transcripts in the apical and basal cells of two-celled proembryo were successfully isolated, and the identification of these transcripts reveals that these two daughter cells possess distinct transcriptional profiles after zygote division. Further functional work on these differentially or specifically expressed genes will promote the elucidation of molecular mechanism controlling early embryogenesis.

Semi-viviparous embryo development and dehydrin expression in the mangrove Rhizophora mucronata Lam

Rhizophora mucronata Lam. is a tropical mangrove with semi-viviparous (cotyledon body protrusion before shedding), non-quiescent and non-desiccating (recalcitrant) seeds. As recalcitrance has been thought to relate to the absence of desiccation-related proteins such as dehydrins, we for the first time systematically described and classified embryogenesis in R. mucronata and assessed the presence of dehydrin-like proteins. Embryogenesis largely follows the classic pattern till stage eight, the torpedo stage, with the formation of a cotyledonary body. Ovule and embryo express radical adaptations to semi-vivipary in the saline environment: (1) A large, highly vacuolated and persistent endosperm without noticeable food reserves that envelopes the developing embryo. (2) Absence of vascular tissue connections between embryo and maternal tissue, but, instead, transfer layers in between endosperm and integument and endosperm and embryo. Dehydrin-like proteins (55–65 kDa) were detected by the Western analysis, in the ovules till stage 10 when the integuments are dehisced. An additional 50 kDa band was detected at stages 6–8. Together these results suggest a continuous flow of water with nutrients from the integument via the endosperm to the embryo, circumventing the vascular route and probably suppressing the initially induced dehydrin expression.

Isolation of development-related genes in somatic embryo radicle of carrot (Daucus carota L.) using modified cDNA RDA

Using modified cDNA RDA capitalizing on the high affinity of streptavidin for biotin and magnetic-absorption-based separation, we have obtained four bands of specifically expressed cDNA in the carrot somatic embryo deregulated for 12 h, which were designated as NR-1, NR-2, NR-3 and NR-4, respectively. As revealed by homology analysis of their DNA sequences after cloning them into pBS, remarkable homology was demonstrated in NR-2, NR-3 and NR-4 with the genes coding for LEA (late embryogenesis abundant protein), Dna J and xyloglucan endo-transglycosylase in plants. On the other hand, NR-1 showing no homology with any known sequence may have come from unknown genes. Using(32)P-labeled NR-1 as probe, hybridization with cDNA fragment population has shown that we have actually cloned a new gene fragment related to radicle development. As shown by further Southern hybridization, these genes may be present in carrot genome in the form of single or low copies.

LEAFY COTYLEDON2 gene expression and auxin treatment in relation to embryogenic capacity of Arabidopsis somatic cells

The expression pattern of the LEC2 gene during somatic embryogenesis (SE) in Arabidopsis explants (immature zygotic embryos) induced in vitro was followed, using real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). The analysis revealed differential expression of LEC2 transcripts within a 30 days time course of somatic embryo development. A significant auxin-dependent upregulation of the LEC2 gene was found to be associated with the induction phase of SE. In contrast to embryogenic culture the level of LEC2 expression was noticeably lower in non-embryogenic callus of Col-0 and hormonal mutants (cbp20 and axr4-1) with low SE-efficiency. The study with 35S::LEC2-GR transgenic plants showed that overexpression of LEC2 can compensate for the auxin requirement, and that transgenic explants formed somatic embryos when cultured in vitro under auxin-free conditions. However, unlike in auxin-induced SE, intense callus formation preceded the embryogenic response triggered via LEC2 overexpression, suggesting an indirect pathway of morphogenesis. Moreover, a negative interaction between auxin treatment and LEC2 overexpression in terms of SE efficiency was observed, as transgenic explants cultured on auxin medium displayed a significantly reduced level of embryogenic potential. The study provides further experimental evidence that in the determination of the embryogenic response in Arabidopsis somatic cells, a close link exists between auxin and the LEC2 activity.

Molecular aspects of somatic-to-embryogenic transition in plants

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a model system for understanding the physiological, biochemical, and molecular biological events occurring during plant embryo development. Plant somatic cells have the ability to undergo sustained divisions and give rise to an entire organism. This remarkable feature is called plant cell totipotency. SE is a notable illustration of plant totipotency and involves reprogramming of development in somatic cells toward the embryogenic pathway. Plant growth regularities, especially auxins, are key components as their exogenous application recapitulates the embryogenic potential of the mitotically quiescent somatic cells. It has been observed that there are genetic and also physiological factors that trigger in vitro embryogenesis in various types of plant somatic cells. Analysis of the proteome and transcriptome has led to the identification and characterization of certain genes involved in SE. Most of these genes, however, are upregulated only in the late developmental stages, suggesting that they do not play a direct role in the vegetative-to-embryogenic transition. However, the molecular bases of those triggering factors and the genetic and biochemical mechanisms leading to in vitro embryogenesis are still unknown. Here, we describe the plant factors that participate in the vegetative-to-embryogenic transition and discuss their possible roles in this process.

The molecular basis for stress-induced acquisition of somatic embryogenesis

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) has been studied as a model system for understanding of molecular events in the physiology, biochemistry, and biology areas occurring during plant embryo development. Stresses are also the factors that have been increasingly recognized as having important role in the induction of SE. Plant growth regulators such as 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), ABA, ethylene, and high concentrations of 2,4-D are known as stress-related substances for acquisition of embryogenic competence by plant cells. Gene expression analysis in both the proteome and transcriptome levels have led to the identification and characterization of some stress-related genes and proteins associated with SE. This review focuses on the molecular basis for stress-induced acquisition of SE.

Auxin-induced WUS expression is essential for embryonic stem cell renewal during somatic embryogenesis in Arabidopsis

Somatic embryogenesis requires auxin and establishment of the shoot apical meristem (SAM). WUSCHEL (WUS) is critical for stem cell fate determination in the SAM of higher plants. However, regulation of WUS expression by auxin during somatic embryogenesis is poorly understood. Here, we show that expression of several regulatory genes important in zygotic embryogenesis were up-regulated during somatic embryogenesis of Arabidopsis. Interestingly, WUS expression was induced within the embryonic callus at a time when somatic embryos could not be identified morphologically or molecularly. Correct WUS expression, regulated by a defined critical level of exogenous auxin, is essential for somatic embryo induction. Furthermore, it was found that auxin gradients were established in specific regions that could then give rise to somatic embryos. The establishment of auxin gradients was correlated with the induced WUS expression. Moreover, the auxin gradients appear to activate PIN1 polar localization within the embryonic callus. Polarized PIN1 is probably responsible for the observed polar auxin transport and auxin accumulation in the SAM and somatic embryo. Suppression of WUS and PIN1 indicated that both genes are necessary for embryo induction through their regulation of downstream gene expression. Our results reveal that establishment of auxin gradients and PIN1-mediated polar auxin transport are essential for WUS induction and somatic embryogenesis. This study sheds new light on how auxin regulates stem cell formation during somatic embryogenesis.

An epigenetic perspective on developmental regulation of seed genes

The developmental program of seeds is promoted by master regulators that are expressed in a seed-specific manner. Ectopic expression studies reveal that expression of these master regulators and other transcriptional regulators is sufficient to promote seed-associated traits, including generation of somatic embryos. Recent work highlights the importance of chromatin-associated factors in restricting expression of seed-specific genes, in particular PcG proteins and ATP-dependent remodelers. This review summarizes what is known regarding factors that promote zygotic and/or somatic embryogenesis and the chromatin machinery that represses their expression. Characterization of the regulation of seed-specific genes reveals that plant chromatin-based repression systems exhibit broad conservation with and surprising differences from animal repression systems.

Auxin gradients trigger de novo formation of stem cells during somatic embryogenesis

Single or a group of somatic cells could give rise to the whole plant, which require hormones, or plant growth regulators. Although many studies have been done during past years, how hormones specify cell fate during in vitro organogenesis is still unknown. To uncover this mechanism, Arabidopsis somatic embryogenesis has been recognized as a model for studying in vitro plant organogenesis. In this paper, we showed that establishment of auxin gradients within embryonic callus is essential for inducing stem cell formation via PIN1 regulation. This study sheds new light on how hormone regulates stem cell formation during in vitro organogenesis.

Transcriptome analysis during somatic embryogenesis of the tropical monocot Elaeis guineensis: evidence for conserved gene functions in early development

With the aim of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying somatic embryogenesis (SE) in oil palm, we examined transcriptome changes that occur when embryogenic suspension cells are initiated to develop somatic embryos. Two reciprocal suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) libraries were constructed from oil palm embryogenic cell suspensions: one in which embryo development was blocked by the presence of the synthetic auxin analogue 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D: ) in the medium (proliferation library); and another in which cells were stimulated to form embryos by the removal of 2,4-D: from the medium (initiation library). A total of 1867 Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) consisting of 1567 potential unigenes were assembled from the two libraries. Functional annotation indicated that 928 of the ESTs correspond to proteins that have either no similarity to sequences in public databases or are of unknown function. Gene Ontology (GO) terms assigned to the two EST populations give clues to the underlying molecular functions, biological processes and cellular components involved in the initiation of embryo development. Macroarrays were used for transcript profiling the ESTs during SE. Hierarchical cluster analysis of differential transcript accumulation revealed 4 distinct profiles containing a total of 192 statistically significant developmentally regulated transcripts. Similarities and differences between the global results obtained with in vitro systems from dicots, monocots and gymnosperms will be discussed.

Overexpression of PGA37/MYB118 and MYB115 promotes vegetative-to-embryonic transition in Arabidopsis

Formation of somatic embryos from non-germline cells is unique to higher plants and can be manipulated in a variety of species. Previous studies revealed that overexpression of several Arabidopsis genes, including WUSCHEL (WUS)/PLANT GROWTH ACTIVATOR6 (PGA6), BABY BOOM, LEAFY COTYLEDON1 (LEC1), and LEC2, is able to cause vegetative-to-embryonic transition or the formation of somatic embryos. Here, we report that a gain-of-function mutation in the Arabidopsis PGA37 gene, encoding the MYB118 transcription factor, induced vegetative-to-embryonic transition, the formation of somatic embryos from root explants, and an elevated LEC1 expression level. Double mutant analysis showed that WUS was not required for induction of somatic embryos by PGA37/MYB118. In addition, overexpression of MYB115, a homolog of PGA37/MYB118, caused a pga37-like phenotype. A myb118 myb115 double mutant did not show apparent developmental abnormalities. Collectively, these results suggest that PGA37/MYB118 and MYB115 promote vegetative-to-embryonic transition, through a signaling pathway independent of WUS.