Oligochitosan enhanced shoot multiplication, plantlet quality and cynarin content of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)
摘要
The study determined that oligochitosan (OCS) effectiveness is strictly dependent on its molecular weight (Mw). A Mw of 4.45 kDa was found to be optimal, producing 8.33 shoots per explant more than double the control group (without OCS). Concentrations of 15–20 mg/L OCS yielded the best results for shoot height and biomass. In the rooting stage, the combination of 15 mg/L OCS and 4 mg/L IBA achieved a 90.67% rooting rate. Crucially, OCS reduced abnormal phenomena; while control plantlets formed callus at the root, OCS-treated plants developed roots directly from the stem base with lateral root systems, which is essential for survival in the greenhouse. In addition, OCS as a biological elicitor, treated-plantlets showed significantly higher activities of antioxidant enzymes like SOD and CAT, as well as increased phenolic content. This internal strengthening translated to a 96% survival rate during greenhouse acclimatization, compared to only 84% in the control. Furthermore, the medicinal value of the artichoke was enhanced. Plants treated with OCS during the in vitro stage accumulated 512.45 µg/g of cynarin - the primary bioactive compound in artichokes - compared to only 330.15 µg/g in untreated plants.