Effect of the combination of NAA and BA on callus induction from hypocotyl explants in black cumin (Nigella sativa L.)

Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds contain the main bioactive compound thymoquinone, which is beneficial for health. Callus cell culture techniques are an alternative method for the production of plant bioactive compounds. Therefore, it was necessary to develop a method for producing callus in vitro. This study evaluated the effect of a combination of NAA and BA growth regulators on MS medium on in vitro callus induction using black cumin hypocotyl explants. There were two variables used in the nature of the study: NAA (1 and 2 mg/L) and BA (1, 1,5, 2, 5 and 3 mg/L). All hypocotyl explants were able to induce callus on all medium used. The callus appeared between 8-11 days. A combination of NAA and BA influenced black cumin hypocotyl callus formation and development. With NAA 1 mg/L added and BA 1.5 mg/L added, MS medium was able to induce best hypocotyl explants to shape and develop callus with an average callus weight of 0.262 g/Explant. However, the time of callus emergence was not significantly affected by the combination of NAA and BA growth regulators.