Influence of donor material and genotype on protoplast regeneration in banana and plantain cultivars (Musa spp.)

Among the various strategies for genetic improvement in banana, somatic hybridisation appears to be a promising complement to classical breeding since protoplasts are amenable to plant regeneration. Therefore, the present investigation was undertaken to improve protoplast regeneration in banana. Protoplasts were isolated from young leaves, calli and embryogenic cell suspensions. The highest protoplast yield was obtained with cell suspensions. Mesophyll protoplasts and callus-derived protoplasts did not divide. However, protoplasts isolated from cell suspension developed into plants. Feeder cells and protoplast culture at high density were required for plant regeneration from protoplasts. Plant regeneration through somatic embryogenesis was achieved in 'Grande Naine' and 'Gros Michel' (#Musa# spp. Sub-Group 'Cavendish' AAA), 'Currare Enano' and 'Dominico' (Sub-Group plantain AAB), SF265, IRFA903 and Col49 (Sub-Group AA). The frequency of embryo formation and plant regeneration was genotype-dependent. Large number of somatic embryos and regenerated plants were produced in SF265 (AA) followed by 'Domenico' (AAB) and 'Grande Naine' (AAA). (Résumé d'auteur