Optimal conditions for the isolation and culture of protoplasts from a cell suspension culture of an isoleucine–valine-requiring auxotroph of Datura innoxia
Conditions have been standardized for obtaining high yields of viable protoplasts from cell suspension cultures of an isoleucine–valine-requiring auxotroph (IV-1) of Datura innoxia P. Mill. Isolation of protoplasts critically required the use of a salt solution, containing sodium chloride and potassium chloride (0.125 M each), as osmotic stabilizers. The yield, viability, and divisional activity of the protoplasts isolated with mannitol or sucrose were poor. Protoplast-releasing enzymes used to isolate IV-1 protoplasts could be used twice without any loss in the yield or viability of the protoplasts. Cultured protoplasts developed cell walls and underwent sustained divisions in a modified Murashige and Skoog medium enriched with organic acids. Pretreatment of isolated protoplasts with glycine (0.1 M) and calcium chloride (0.05 M) prior to culture increased the frequency of cell colony formation. Protoplast-derived cells developed calli on transfer to agar-solidified medium.