Elicitation of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of Dendrobium 'Sabin Blue' using methyl jasmonate, salicylic acid and melatonin for in vitro production of anthocyanin

High demands for Dendrobium cut flowers, as well as the secondary metabolite products, have led to the overexploitation of the orchid from its natural habitat. The use of in vitro hybrid orchid is one of the prominent strategies to meet the demand. Dendrobium Sabin Blue (a hybrid species between Dendrobium Blue Angel and Dendrobium Sanan Blue) orchid was used in this study to produce anthocyanin. This study aimed to improve in vitro production of anthocyanin (Petunidin) from protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) of Dendrobium Sabin Blue by using elicitors such as methyl jasmonate (MeJA), salicylic acid (SA), and melatonin. After four weeks of culture, results showed that all three elicitors had stimulated the production of petunidin. Although the insignificant or low petunidin content was achieved in elicited PLBs as compared to the mother plant, in vitro culture of PLBs can be considered as a more economical strategy than using mother plants.

Automated summary

The study found that using elicitors such as methyl jasmonate, salicylic acid, and melatonin can stimulate anthocyanin production in Dendrobium Sabin Blue orchids, though the yield is lower compared to the mother plants, in vitro culture of PLBs remains a more economical strategy.