Rajnish SharmaVINAY KUMAR2024-08-242024-08-242024-06-21https://krishikosh.egranth.ac.in/handle/1/5810213683In the present investigations, 64 SSR markers (both genic and genomic) were used to determine the genetic diversity and population structure of Satuwa (Paris polyphylla Smith), an endangered medicinal plant of Indian Himalayan Region. Molecular marker analysis classified the 32 P. polyphylla individuals procured from the natural habitat of Himachal Pradesh (at 1500-2500 m amsl) into two main clusters at a similarity coefficient of 0.62. The dendrogram revealed low level of genetic diversity by sorting the individuals from the same location into similar cluster due to asexual propagation behavior. The population structure showed the admixture of two different genetic pools among the characterized individuals. Based on dendrogram interpretation, the rhizomes of all the diversified locations were subjected to HPLC analysis which emphasized on the selective altitudinal harvesting due to significant difference in the diosgenin contents. The identified diverse location with high diosgenin contents was further considered for carrying in vitro propagation studies. Among the numerous factors tested during in vitro establishment studies, maximum shoot regeneration was observed on half strength MS medium containing 3% sucrose, 2.27 μM TDZ and 2.70 μM NAA using rhizome bud explants. In vitro shoot multiplication was done via lateral bud production using 6% sucrose concentration in half strength MS medium. Maximum mini rhizome production was observed on half strength MS medium containing 9% sucrose, 2.22 μM BAP, 2.27 μM TDZ, 2.70 μM NAA, 100 mg/L casein hydrolysate and 1000 mg/L activated charcoal. The in vitro regenerants were further rooted and hardened successfully. This is the first report which showed the impact of various factors that are crucial during the in vitro propagation procedures via micro rhizome and mini rhizome production including type of explants, physiological phase, culture conditions (photoperiod and temperature), MS stock strength, sucrose concentrations, decapitation, various combinations and concentrations of plant growth regulators and additives. Therefore, the present findings can be of immense potential for large-scale ex-situ practices including mini rhizome induction, which will aid in conservation and management of this valuable endangered medicinal plant.EnglishThesis