Effect of an electromagnetic field application on the content of soluble proteins and carbohydrates in zygotic embryos of <em>Coffea arabica</em> L. <em>in vitro</em> cultured

Abstract

Electromagnetic fields have been applied to increase plant growth and in vitro germination of coffee. Even though it is not clear yet the mechanisms developed during the interaction of electromagnetic fields and plant tissue. This study aimed to determine the effect of applying an electromagnetic field on the concentration of soluble proteins and carbohydrates of coffee zygotic embryos during in vitro establishment stage. After three days of embryos establishment the treatment was applied with 2ì T magnetic induction level and 60 Hz frequency for an exposure time of 3 minutes. An electromagnetic stimulator for in vitro cultures BioNaK-03 was used. Embryos free of electromagnetic treatment were used as controls. The content of protein and carbohydrates was determined after 6 weeks of culture. Results showed a significant increase in the concentrations of these compounds in treated embryos. The application of electromagnetic fields at this stage of culture could improved the quality of plants obtained from coffee zygotic embryos by changing the way of some physiological and biochemical processes. This leads to increase the vigour and ensure a better plant development at later stages. Key words: Caturra rojo, coffee, in vitro plants