Multiple buds are an alternative target to genetic manipulation of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.)

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is an annual fiber crop cultivated as an important source of cellulose and lignin. In the recent years, fibers have increased their economic importance as organic component in bio-composite materials. However, industry requires rheological improvements of these fibers. Genetic manipulation has been considered a feasible approach for fiber improvement; however, kenaf is considered a crop species difficult to manipulate. Here we propose meristematic cells from mature embryos as target for genetic modification driven by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. In vitro meristems proliferation and multiple shoots regeneration were evaluated by sowing kenaf mature seeds on medium containing three different concentration of thidiazuron, a substituted urea compound. The highest number of regenerated shoots was obtained from mature seeds germinated in presence of 10 μM thidiazuron after 14 days of culture. Interactions between two A. tumefaciens strains and two kenaf varieties were assessed. Transgene stable integration and its inheritance in T1 generation were also verified, demonstrating that kenaf meristematic cells are an useful target for genetic manipulation by agroinfection.

► Multiple buds are target for genetic modification driven by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. ► Thidiazuron induces multiple meristematic cell centres from kenaf mature seeds. ► Fertile transgenic plants generating transgenic progenies were also obtained.