The Plant Tissue Culture Department is one of the key scientific divisions at the Libyan Biotechnology Research Center, specializing in the application of modern biotechnological techniques to improve and propagate plants with the goal of increasing productivity and enhancing resistance to diseases and harsh environmental conditions. The department also places special emphasis on the propagation of rare and endangered plant species, as well as those of high economic and medicinal importance. Additionally, it contributes to the study and analysis of plant extracts and natural products to identify their chemical components and evaluate their therapeutic properties, thereby supporting research on the medicinal applications of plants.
Research Units:
1- Plant Propagation and Improvement Research Unit: Focuses on plant propagation using tissue culture techniques, including medicinal and endangered plants, and on developing genetic traits through radiation-induced mutations. The unit is also involved in the preservation of genetic resources and the supervision of graduation projects.
2- Plant Genetic Engineering Research Unit: Specializes in studying genetic variation among plant varieties and applying genetic engineering techniques to improve traits such as disease resistance and production quality. The unit’s activities include DNA extraction and analysis, as well as gene transfer.
3- Medicinal Plant Chemistry and Natural Products Research Unit: Dedicated to the extraction and analysis of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants using chromatographic techniques, studying their therapeutic effects and economic value, and supervising related graduation projects.