MS Candidate North Carolina State University Raleigh, North Carolina
Body of Abstract: Our research in eucalyptus genome editing has led us to explore the optimization of both in vitro tissue culture as well as methods to improve tree growth and development in our greenhouse. To do this, we established new culturing media and propagation procedures for several eucalyptus clones from in vitro explants to greenhouse trees. Importantly, we also developed a novel callus induction method to initiate single cell cultures that yields healthy and viable protoplasts for genome editing. Additionally, we have made advancements in protocols for inducing root and shoot formation from eucalyptus callus. We have tested media composition as well as growth conditions such as temperature and light to optimize cell differentiation and overall tree health. These tissue culture developments have paved the way for exciting progress in the genome editing of eucalyptus.