Question

Explain the process of somatic hybridisation.

Answer 1

1. Cell walls are removed from cells of two selected plants using enzymes such as cellulase and pectinase, producing protoplasts.
2. Protoplasts from the two parents are mixed and induced to fuse using polyethylene glycol (PEG) or a brief high-voltage electric pulse.
3. The fused protoplast forms a somatic hybrid. It regenerates a cell wall and divides in suitable culture medium.
4. The resulting cells form a callus or somatic embryo, from which a plantlet can be regenerated and grown.

This method can combine traits from plants that cannot readily be crossed sexually.