Gametic embyogenesis biology and applications

The activity of the group focuses on gametic embryogenesis as a tool for the production of doubled haploid plants (DH). During this process, the gametic cells change their developmental pathway initiating an embryogenic route, allowings the production of complete homozygous plants in a single generation. The introduction of DHs in plant breeding programs can accelerate the development of new plant varieties. The group studies the morphological, genetics and molecular mechanisms that determine gametic embryogenesis. Different approaches, including high throughput techniques, are performed. A better understanding of the processes allows the development of efficient protocols for DH production in cereals and vegetables. The direct transfer of materials and technologies is one of the objectives of our group which is performed by collaborations agreements or contracts with other research groups and private companies both nationally and internationally.