RESUMO
Some physiological and biochemical changes were measured between embryogenic and non-embryogenic callus obtained from Cardiospermum halicacabum. Combination of auxin with cytokinin was more favourable for high amount of callus formation. 2,4-D played a key role in triggering somatic embryo formation. Embryogenic callus had more total carbohydrate and starch contents, total free amino acids, nucleic acids, phenols and ascorbic acid. Non-embryogenic callus exhibited high chlorophyll content, total soluble sugar, protein, ammonia and enzymes like peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. Thus, the present study indicated that the process of somatic embryogenesis was characterized by some biochemical and physiological changes induced by plant growth regulators.