Tissue culture of parasitic flowering plants: Methods and applications in agriculture and forestry

Abstract

Parasitic flowering plants from 23 genera in 7 families (Convolvulaceae, Lauraceae, Loranthaceae, Orobanchaceae, Santalaceae, Scrophulariaceae and Viscaceae) have been cultured in vitro. These plants include both hemiparasites and holoparasites that parasitize stems and roots of angiosperms and gymnosperms. This review highlights relevant information on each genus with regard to its biology, distribution, host range, and tissue culture procedures. Tissue culture has been used to study aspects of the development, metabolism, reproduction, physiology and nutritional requirements of these plants under controlled conditions. Studies of host-parasite relationships, including potential roles of signals/receptors that influence host development and physiology, and factors influencing seed germination and haustorium formation, have been conducted. The effects of chemicals and herbicides on the physiology and biochemistry of parasite embryo and seedling development have been studied, as well as tile influence of inhibitors or stimulants on seed germination. Tissue culture has provided a method for propagation and genetic improvement of plants with commercial value.

A protocol for in vitro germination and sustainable growth of two tropical mistletoes

“…As reported previously (Bhojwani, 1969;Hall et al, 1987;Deeks et al, 1999), mistletoes did germinate on tissue culture media and this indicates that mistletoe germination is probably not host-specific, at least for the two tropical species tested in this paper. After germination, further development of the mistletoes requires a hormonal input from the medium.…”

“…Thus, it would be interesting to assess whether mistletoe could germinate and grow on a suitable culture medium (simulating host plant xylem sap) using plant tissue culture techniques. While germination of mistletoes on tissue culture media has been described (Johri and Bajaj, 1964;Bhojwani, 1969;Hall et al, 1987;Deeks et al, 1999), there are no reports of sustainable growth of mistletoes on these culture media. Growing mistletoes on tissue culture media is a good way to test the hypothesis of whether mistletoes are truly 'water and nutrient parasites' by introducing an exogenous source of carbohydrates in the medium.…”

Stable transformation and actin visualization in callus cultures of dodder (Cuscuta europaea)

“…Deeks et al (1999) summarized from previously published data responses of 23 genera of parasitic plants to tissue culture conditions. Successful surface sterilization and germination of parasite seeds is prerequisite for derivation of in vitro culture.…”

Growth Response of Tapinanthus bangwensis (Engl. and Krause, Danser) Seeds in vitro and Artificial Infestation in the Field

“…Identifying chemical contents involved in germination or haustorium formation of T. bangwensis will be a major step towards its effective control. Several studies have reported germination and growth of Loranthaceae mistletoes on culture media but little is known about T. bangwensis (Johri & Bajaj, 1965;Bajaj, 1966;Onofeghara, 1972;Deeks et al, 1999;Didier et al, 2009;Oyetunji et al, 2012). As a prelude to our research goal of studying the biochemical and physiological interactions of T. bangwensis, this work determined a suitable hormone-free culture medium, optimal temperature and photoperiod for germination and production of seedling stages of T. bangwensis.…”