Enhancing Performance of F1 Solanum Interspecifics via Embryo-Culture for Probable Redistribution of their Pharmacological Properties

Abstract: If Solanum species were recommended for treating diabetes and another for cardiac debilities; then there is need to remove them from narrow genetic-base so that working on their further improvement will be enhanced. This trial was carried out at the National Centre for Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Moor Plantation, Ibadan in tropical rainforest zone, Nigeria. Interspecific crosses were made using five Solanum species; seed were excised from successful crosses and subjected to in-vitro evaluation via embryo-culture of the F1 generation. Murashige and Skoog (MS) solution used with different treatment combinations indicated significant difference at P=0.05 for all desirable parameters evaluated: especially when low phyto-hormone was added (100-200nM); hence we so recommend. Callus formation opened insight to fascinating biosynthetic processes and plant evolution, which will remain invaluable for future investigation. In the face of much controversy and suspicion levied on genetic engineering technology, marker assisted selection and mass production of elite plant varieties through tissue culture may remain the preferred choice for years to come