Introduction
Synthetic seeds are artificially encapsulated somatic embryos or other plant tissues that can develop into a whole plant under suitable conditions.
Purpose: They provide a cost-effective, efficient, and easy-to-handle way to propagate plants, especially for species that are difficult to grow from traditional seeds.
Applications: Widely used in plant breeding, conservation, and large-scale agricultural production.
Components of Synthetic Seeds:
Somatic Embryos: Synthetic seeds can grow from somatic embryos, which are derived from the plant's cells other than gametes.
Encapsulation Matrix: Synthetic seeds are coated with a protective gel or covering, typically made of substances like sodium alginate and calcium carbonate.
Additives: The encapsulation medium may contain nutrients, plant growth regulators or antimicrobial regulators to support embryo viability and developments.
Types of Synthetic Seeds:
Dessicated Synthetic Seeds: These seeds are partially dried, which makes them more tolerant to storage but may reduce the viability.
Hydrated Synthetic Seed: Keeps them in hydrating condition, which makes them more viable but require specific storage.
Production Process of Synthetic Seeds:
Selection of Explants: Select plant tissue, such as Somatic embryos, meristematic tissues or buds, that can regenerate into plants.
Encapsulation:
The plant tissue is coated with a gel, typically sodium alginate, which is hardened by using sodium chloride to create a capsule.
The coating protects the embryo from everything.
Addition of Nutrients and Growth Hormones: Nutrients, hormones or antimicrobial agents can be included in the capsule to enhance the growth and development.
Storage: can be stored in the controlled conditions until they are ready for planting.
Advantages of Synthetic Seeds:
Less expensive than traditional seeds, especially for elite or genetically modified plants.
Ensures genetic uniformity, producing identical plants with desirable traits.
Synthetic seeds are easy to store, transport and plant, especially useful in controlled or artificial environments.
Since synthetic seeds are produced in a sterile environment, they reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Applications of Synthetic Seeds:
Facilitates large-scale propagation of plants, especially those with high economic value.
Helps conserve endangered or rare plants by storing and regenerating them.
Limitations of Synthetic Seeds:
Some synthetic seeds have a limited shelf life and may lose viability over time.
High costs associated with producing synthetic seeds for some species, especially those that are difficult to culture.
Not all plants regenerate successfully from synthetic seeds; somatic embryos need specific conditions for successful germination.
Conclusion
Synthetic seeds offer a promising method for plant propagation and conservation, combining biotechnology with plant breeding techniques. While they have some limitations, synthetic seeds play a valuable role in agriculture, conservation, and biotechnology, providing a viable alternative to traditional seed propagation, especially for high-value and difficult-to-grow plant species.