Long-term Storage and Cryopreservation of Desiccated Microspore-derived Embryos in Brassica spp.

Abstract

Microspore-derived embryos of Brassica napus were cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen (LN) after desiccation treatment. Desiccated embryos which were directly immersed in LN converted to plantlets without any decrease in their viability. In contrast, non-desiccated embryos lost their viability after cryopreservation. The longevity and viability of the desiccated embryos of B. campestris were examined under several storage conditions. Survival rates of the embryos were affected by temperature of storage. Lower temperature conditions prolonged their viability. Storage up to 3 years at -80°C did not affect the plant conversion ability of desiccated embryos. These results suggest that naked desiccated embryos of Brassica spp. could be stored for a long period at lower-temperature.