Storage Proteins and Peroxidase Activity During Zygotic and Somatic Embryogenesis of Firs (Abies sp.) -- Origin, Development and Structure of Somatic Embryos in Selected Bulbous Ornamentals: BAP as Inducer.-Environmental Design Considerations for Somatic Embryogenesis -- Importance of Cytoskeleton and Cell Wall in Somatic Embryogenesis -- Comparison of Molecular Mechanisms of Somatic and Zygotic Embryogenesis -- Genome-Wide Expression Analysis of Genes Involved in Somatic Embryogenesis -- Why somatic Plant Cells Start to Form Embryos? -- Participation of Plant Hormones in Determination and Progression of Somatic Embryogenesis -- Somatic Embryogenesis of Pine Species: From Functional Genomics to Plantation Forestry -- Somatic Embryogenesis in Pinus nigra Arn.: Some Physiological, Structural and Molecular Aspects -- Mode of Action of Plant Hormones and Plant Growth Regulators During Induction of Somatic Embryogenesis: Molecular Aspects -- Somatic Embryogenesis in Chestnut -- Somatic Embryogenesis in Cryptomeria japonica D. Don: Gene for Phytosulfokine (PSK) Precursor -- Protein Markers for Somatic Embryogenesis -- Cytological, Physiological and Biochemical Aspects of Somatic Embryo Formation in Flax -- Somatic Embryogenesis in Rose: Gene Expression and Genetic Transformation -- Embryogenesis in Catharanthus roseus: Roles of Some External Factors in Proliferation, Maturation and Germination of Embryos -- Somatic and Zygotic Embryogenesis in Avocado -- Somatic Embryogenesis in Genera Medicago: an overview -- Differential Gene Expression During Somatic Embryogenesis -- Gametic Embryogenesis in Triticum: a Study of Some Critical Factors in Haploid(Microspore) Embryogenesis -- In vitro culture of Arabidopsis embryos. Somatic embryogenesis, the initiation of embryos from previously differentiated somatic cells, is a unique process in plants. This volume expands our view of a subject that is important for plant biotechnology, genetics, cell biology, development, and agricultural applications. All chapters present the latest research progress, including functional genomic, genetic, and proteomic approaches. A special focus is placed on the effects of stress, environment, and plant growth regulators on embryogenesis. The role of genes such as Leafy Cotyledons and Baby Boom in defining and maintaining cell competence is discussed.