Protocol optimization for efficient in vitro micro-propagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni

Background: Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is one of the most amazing herb that is an abundant source of diterpene glycoside a non-caloric sweetener. In recent years alongside its utilization in herbal and folk medicine, commercial exploitation of this herb for weight control and anti-diabetic treatment has started.Methods: In present study healthy nodal segments of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni were used as explants for optimization of in vitro micro-propagation and regeneration protocol for rapid, fast and efficient multiplication under in-vitro conditions. For shoot proliferation and rooting various concentrations cytokinins NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid), BAP (Benzyl amino purine), IAA (Indole acetic acid) and kinetin (Kn) were employed.Results: Shoots without roots were regenerated from nodal segments via auxiliary shoot induction. The production of multiple shoots from nodal portion was maximum on MS medium complemented with 0.5 mg/L of BAP and 1.5 mg/L of Kn. Maximum rooting was recorded on MS medium supplemented with 0.25 mg/L NAA and 1.0 mg/L of IAA. Successful hardening was achieved under controlled growth room conditions followed by transfer to glass house and open field.Conclusion: Standardization of explant source and culturing media for multiplication of shoot resulted in mass proliferation of homogenous and healthy plantlets of Stevia clones under local conditions. Keywords: Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni; BAP; Kinetin, NAA; IAA; Micro-propagation; Regeneration