Exploring the potential of synthetic seeds: Influence of explant, encapsulating agent and matrix, advantages and challenges

Synthetic seed can serve as a substitute for conventional seed where conventional seed production is not practical. This method gives a viable solution for propagating plants that are difficult to reproduce through traditional means. Technologies based on synthetic seeds, encapsulating somatic embryos, shoot tissues, or axillary buds in a suitable matrix, demonstrate great influence over plant propagation by helping to accelerate germplasm exchange, increasing genetic preservation, and efficient genetic modification, thus providing the avenue for planting new seeds and accomplishing common goals. This review paper explores the importance of synthetic seeds, the impact of different explants, matrix composition, and encapsulating agents on the quality of synthetic seeds, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of synthetic seeds. Among the various explants used in synthetic seed production, somatic embryos promote genetic stability, shoot buds possess better viability, and axillary buds ensure genotype conservation. Alginate is the prevalent encapsulating agent due to its biocompatibility and cheapness. However, variable germination rates and microbial contamination remained a challenge and we must develop a protocol standardization too. Besides techniques like enhancing the germination rates, stabilizing genes, and having secondary metabolites in the process, the use of cryopreservation technologies and field performance evaluation is also crucially important in the process of creating synthetic seeds. This review discusses current trends in synthetic production research, emphasizing the need for new strategies to address poor germination rates and standardize explants used in synthetic seeds. It examines the factors affecting the production of synthetic seeds, factors affecting seed quality, and potential future developments.