ABSTRACT
In the present investigation, successful and reproducible protocol for somatic embryogenesis was developed for sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) cv. E8. Direct somatic embryo induction without an intervening callus phase is reported for the first time from 5 days old cotyledonary and hypocotyl explants. Embryogenic frequency as well as number of somatic embryos was dependent on concentration of 2, 4-D. The optimum concentration of 2,4-D required for induction high frequency and large number of somatic embryos was 3.0mg/l. Addition of cytokinins along with 2, 4-D, further enhanced the number of somatic embryos. Maximum number of somatic embryos per explant was noted on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/l 2, 4-D + 1.0 mg/l BAP. Cotyledonary explants proved superior over hypocotyl explants and BAP over Kinetin. Conversion of somatic embryos into complete plantlets was achieved on MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP + 0.5 mg/l ABA + 5.0 mg/l AgNO3. Proliferation of embryogenic cultures was confirmed by histological studies.