Novel techniques in handling and manipulating cells

Abstract

Two major aspects of protoplast fusion are discussed. First, the combination of complete genomes by protoplast fusion of two different species either by using protoplasts of albino or auxotrophic mutants for a complementation selection, or by culturing mechanically isolated hybrid fusion bodies between wild type species along with auxotrophic nurse protoplasts. Interspecific somatic hybrid colonies or plants could be obtained within the genera Datura and Nicotiana. Second, stable asymmetric somatic hybrids could be obtained possessing only a few chromosomes or smaller genomic fragments from one parent. This is demonstrated between the genera Datura and Atropa or Physalis, and between Nicotiana and Datura or Physalis. Indications for the transfer of only a part of the nuclear genetic information were the restoration of albinism and nitrate reductase activity as well as isoenzyme investigations, cytological studies, and in a few asymmetric hybrids also determination of the DNA content.