Though a controversial area of biotechnology, genetic modification of plants is an increasingly popular scientific application. Introduce students to GMO experiments by establishing plant cells in culture.

• Demonstrate cell differentiation
• Solidify for your students the abstract concept of Geneticaly Modified Organisms (GMOs)

This kit involves de-differentiating plant cells to form plant “stem cells.” In this experiment, students will establish cell cultures of African Violets from leaves and then use plant growth regulators to encourage root growth from the cultured cells, and produce a mature plant.

The initial lab can be completed in 60 minutes, allowing for several following months to observe several stages of growth.

Required but not included:
Live African Violets (available separately)