Somatic embryogenesis and rhizogenesis of tissue cultures of two genotypesof Papaver somniferum: Relationships to alkaloid production

Papaver somniferum L. tissue cultures, issued from various explants (cotyle dons, hypocotyls, roots) derived from plantlets belonging to two genotypes, were established on LS solid medium containing growth regulators (NAA, Kin ) in various combinations. Hypocotyls and roots were found to be interestin g explants to obtain cellular development. Many roots developed on calli gr owing on a medium containing NAA (1 mg/l) + Kin (0.1 mg/l) for the PS genot ype while somatic proembryos redifferentiated on calli issued from PS 1639 genotype. The same growth substance combination was the most favourable for the production of morphinan alkaloids and papaverine: up to 10 x 10(-3)% D W in roots redifferentiated from PS calluses.