December 11, 2023 | Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture (PCTOC) |
Conducted by Universidade Federal de Lavras, Brazil, this pioneering study sheds light on the fascinating interplay between oxidative stimuli and endoreplication induced by the cryopreservation of red pitaya seeds (Hylocereus costaricensis) in liquid nitrogen. Unveiling a novel aspect of the cryopreservation process, the research demonstrates that preserving seeds for 30 and 60 days prompts genome duplication stimuli through endoreplication. The study meticulously explores the modulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels and antioxidant enzymes, providing a comprehensive understanding of the oxidative stimuli triggered by this preservation technique. Through flow cytometry analysis, the researchers unveil mixoploidy levels in cladodes, with seedlings from the lengthier cryopreservation period exhibiting higher percentages of octoploid nuclei compared to the control treatment. Notably, the study highlights a remarkable 130% increase in seedling biomass after 60 days of seed cryopreservation, potentially linked to elevated ploidy levels resulting from endoreplication. Additionally, the incorporation of cryoprotectant solutions (PVS2) enhances the efficiency of antioxidant metabolism, suppressing oxidative signaling, and maintaining stable growth patterns, thus underscoring the intricate relationship between cryopreservation, endoreplication, and plant development.
