Conservation and management of haploid genetic diversity throgh pollen cryopreservation

Genetic diversity is one of the foremost pre-requisites for any crop improvement programme. Pollen which is a product of genetic recombination has enormous potential to release diversity at the (haploid) gametophytic stage. Attempts to conserve pollen at sub-zero temperatures (−10 to −20°C) resulted in low viability, associated with reduced fertility levels after prolonged durations of storage. Successful cryogenic preservation of pollen (in liquid nitrogen at 0196°C) has been accomplished in about 30 species of agri-horticultural importance at IHHR, without much sacrifice on viability and fertility profiles. Transmission and expression of a dominant genetic character in the F1 progeny through intergeneric crosses using cryopreserved pollen was successfully accomplished. Gene pool cryopreservation in the form of pollen could lead to establishment of Pollen cryobanks serving as male gametophytic inputs for breeding new cultivar genotypes having high agricultural value, by way of broadening the genetic base. An attempt is made to review the research carried out on this subject at IIHR, contemplating its implications in future breeding strategies.