Plant tissue culture

Plant tissue culture (PTC) is a set of techniques for the aseptic culture of cells, tissues, organs and their components under defined physical and chemical conditions in vitro and controlled environment (Fig. 50.1). PTC technology also explores conditions that promote cell division and genetic re-programming in in vitro conditions and it is considered an important tool in both basic and applied studies, as well as in commercial application (1). Today, facilities for in vitro cell cultures are found in practically each plant biology laboratory, serving different purposes because tissue culture has turned into a basic asset for modern biotechnology, from the fundamental biochemical aspects to the massive propagation of selected individuals. Today five major areas, where in vitro cell cultures are being currently applied, can be recognized: as a model system for fundamental plant cell physiology aspects, generation of genetic modified fertile individuals, large-scale propagation of elite materials, preservation of endangered species, and metabolic engineering of fine chemicals.