Studies on in vitro regeneration and kanamycin sensitivity in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) cv. Poinsett

The present investigation was aimed to identify suitable explants and growth regulators for efficient in vitro regeneration in cucumber to be used in genetic transformation experiments. The shoot tip was screened as the best explant for regeneration via direct organogenesis in comparison to cotyledons used for regeneration studies via somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis. Dark green leaves from developing shoots were obtained in MS media supplemented with BAP (0.05 mg/l) and IBA (0.04 mg/l). Rooting was also observed in the same medium. Using the protocol, shoot tips were screened against different concentrations of kanamycin as chimeric gene constructs are to be used in genetic transformation having npt-II gene as a selectable marker. The antibiotic sensitivity assay revealed MS medium supplemented with 100 mg/l of kanamycin arrests the growth and differentiation of shoot tips totally.