Silver nanoparticles enhanced efficiency of explant surface disinfection and somatic embryogenesis in begonia tuberous via thin cell layer culture

Abstract

In vitro culture establishment is one of the most important stages in micropropagation. The disinfectant effectiveness depends on the type of surface disinfectant, concentration and the time treatment. In this initial study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were used as a disinfectant for petioles, flower stalks and stems of Begonia tuberous. In addition, thin cell layer culture (TCL) technique has been applied for the purpose of somatic embryogenesis. The results showed that AgNPs were effective in eliminating infectious microorganisms on B. tuberous explants; which were identified included 4 species of fungi (Fusarium sp.. Aspergillus aculeatus, Trichoderma sp. and Penicillium sp.) and 1 species of bacteria (Pseudomonas sp.).