Optimizing Callus Induction in Bryonia laciniosa : A Combined Approach of SterilizationProtocols and Plant Growth Regulators

The usage of traditional drugs by 60% of the global population has heightened concerns regarding the extinction of medicinal plants like Bryonia laciniosa, attributed to over harvesting and habitat constraints. This study investigates effective sterilization methods for the in vitro culture of Bryonia laciniosa, revealing optimal disinfection with 0.2% sodium hypochlorite followed by fungicide (Sofia) treatment. Although 0.3% mercuric chloride yielded high explant survival, it resulted in elevated culture mortality, favoring sodium hypochlorite for successful disinfection. Leaf explants displayed efficient callus induction on MS medium, with the 2,4-D (3.0mg/l) + Kin (0.5mg/l) combination exhibiting the best response, followed by NAA (1.5mg/l) + Kin (1.5mg/l). Maximum callus induction occurred on MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D (3mg/l) + Kin (0.5mg/l). The regenerated callus was transferred to a half-strength MS medium fortified with 2,4-D for elongation. These findings underscore the potential of explants for callus induction, morphological analysis, and indirect plantlet regeneration, emphasizing the importance of in vitro techniques in preserving endangered medicinal plants.