Metabolic Profiling to Improve Somatic Embryogenesis

Through careful genetic selection, clonal forestry could increase forest productivity by 10% to 20% and increase the uniformity of the fiber output. This research focuses on laboratory induced (somatic) embryogenesis, which is among the best-suited propagation methods to meet the objectives of clonal forestry. Project activity includes studying natural osmoticants present during the course of embryo development, because understanding these compounds is a first step toward modifying tissue culture protocols. In turn, modified tissue culture protocols will produce improved somatic embryos that will germinate into more vigorous seedlings.