The Institute of Forest, represented by researcher Marina Kusenkova (headed by Dr. Vladimir Padutov), is developing a highly efficient technology for the vegetative propagation of European spruce through the use of the somatic embryogenesis method and is looking for partners to conclude a research cooperation agreement.

At the moment, laboratory methods have been developed for obtaining a specific type of callus tissue, inducing the development of embryoids in it, and regenerating full-fledged plants capable of growing in soil conditions. The practical significance of the results of the project lies in the possibility of their application in the production of planting material for decorative and selectively selected forms of conifers, as well as for genetic engineering manipulations as a regeneration system from a small number of cells.

The presentation of the technology can be found here (in Russian).

The main advantages of somatic embryogenesis:
• high reproduction rate, (up to several hundred embryos can be formed per 1 g of callus tissue within one to two months);
• the possibility of automating the process by growing the culture in vitro in a liquid medium in bioreactors;
• agrotechnics of cultivation of clonal plant material and common seedlings in forest nursery conditions are identical;
• availability of a number of effective methods for deposition of plant embryogenic cell lines through cryogenic storage.

"Highly effective technology of vegetative propagation of European spruce through the use of the method of somatic embryogenesis" is the winner of the Republican youth project "100 ideas for Belarus 2023" in the nomination "Ecology (rational nature management and deep processing of natural resources)".

The main activities of the Institute:
- Study of genetic, physiological and biochemical mechanisms of formation of productivity and sustainability of forests;
- Improvement of scientific bases of reproduction, rational use and protection of forest resources;
- Development of technologies for sustainable forest management and forest use;
- Development of technologies for reforestation on a genetic selection basis, increasing their productivity, environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation;
- Development of methods, means and technologies for protecting forests from fires and protection from harmful organisms;
- Development of methods and technologies for the rehabilitation of anthropogenically disturbed forest lands;
- Development of methods and technologies for the protection and reproduction of non-timber forest products, the use of biotechnology for industry, agriculture, medicine and environmental protection.

The Institute carries out active scientific cooperation with research institutes and higher educational institutions of the CIS countries and far abroad.

Partners interested in developing a highly efficient technology for the vegetative propagation of European spruce through the use of the somatic embryogenesis method within the framework of a scientific cooperation agreement.

To implement the development in a commercial direction, it is necessary:
• conducting additional studies on process scaling;
• purchase of laboratory equipment.