Hormonal activities of 5-aminolevulinic acid in callus induction and micropropagation

The role of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) as a precursor of chlorophyll and a herbicide is well documented. 5-ALA as a Plant Growth substance is also proven in recent times. In the present report, to elucidate the physiological effects of 5-ALA, the compound was used in in vitro studies using MS medium supplemented with 5-ALA at 2, 5 and 10 mg l(-1). Leaf and cotyledonary node were used as the explants. In vitro studies confirmed the hormonal role of 5-ALA by striking proliferation of callus paripassu induction of rooting and shooting with a profound effect of the former than the latter. Thus, 5-ALA has the dual properties of auxin and cytokinin in the induction of callusing and rhizogenesis, and shooting respectively.