Variations in the DNA methylation and polypeptide patterns of adult hazel (Corylus avellana L.) associated with sequential in vitro subcultures.

The polypeptide and DNA methylation patterns of leaves from adult hazel trees maintained by sequential in vitro subcultures were analyzed. Qualitative and quantitative variations were found in the in vitro tissues as compared to both adult and juvenile forms. From the comparisons between different tree sources it may be concluded that hazel trees under in vitro conditions show specific biochemical and molecular patterns. The specificity of the induced changes could be a prerequisite related to the higher morphogenic potential of adult plants when they are subjected to sequential in vitro subcultures.