Protoplast technology and somatic hybridization in the Apiaceae family

   The Apiaceae family holds a significant market share, currently dominated by open-pollinated varieties. This results in a lack of uniformity and suboptimal quality, necessitating the development of F1 hybrids. Breeding challenges associated with manual flower emasculation have compelled breeders to employ biotechnological approaches, including somatic hybridization, which leverage traits of self-incompatibility and male sterility. Protoplast technology and somatic hybridization have emerged as crucial instruments in the genetic improvement and breeding of Apiaceae crops, such as carrot and celery, which are of significant economic importance but traditionally rely on open-pollinated varieties. This article discusses the application of protoplast fusion technology for generating somatic hybrids and cybrids, as well as in vitro selection targeting commercially important traits such as cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and genetic male sterility (GMS), which are critical for hybrid seed production and trait introgression. Information is provided on plant materials and tissues suitable for protoplast isolation. Typically, young leaves, hypocotyls, or cell suspension cultures are utilized as sources owing to their high viability and regenerative potential, alongside various enzyme mixtures employed for cell wall digestion and the release of viable protoplasts. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and breeders aiming to utilize protoplast fusion technology for the genetic improvement of Apiaceae crops, thereby ultimately contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity and crop quality.

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