Award details

204i: Transformation systems and transgene expression in Brassica oleracea

Reference	BBS/E/H/00031417
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor Ian Puddephat
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors	Dr Derek Barbara
Institution	University of Warwick
Department	Warwick HRI
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	475,492
Status	Completed
Type	Institute Project
Start date	01/04/1997
End date	31/03/2000
Duration	36 months

Abstract

Genetic transformation of horticultural crops requires not only the availability of suitable genes and promotors but also the development of efficient transformation techniques coupled with the ability to regenerate transformed cells. Agrobacterium-mediated transformation has been successfully achieved in broccoli and cauliflower crop types and rapid cycling alboglabra. Although Brassica oleracea is a highly polymorphic species encompassing a wide range of important vegetable and fodder crops, a repeatable genetic co- transformation system has been developed. Co- transformation is being used to enable the production of marker-free transgenic plants following segregation in the second generation of ancillary DNA sequences used for the selection of primary transformants. Co- transformation facilitates the repeat transformation or hybridisation of transformed lines to stack multiple transgenes within the same genetic background without the build up of unwanted related DNA sequences. Transgene expression among regenerants is being studied. The work addresses the Technology Foresight Priorities under Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, which call for more investment in biotechnology and the BBSRC response under the Agricultural Systems Directorate for developing new protocols for gene characterisation and gene transfer. Genetic transformation is making a worldwide impact on the improvement of horticultural crops. The first genetically engineered food product, the Flavr Savr tomato with improved ripening characteristics, is now in the market place, bringing with it the prospect of extending the benefits of genetic engineering to other horticultural crops. The existence of efficient regeneration and transformation systems will provide the enabling technology for the transfer of desirable genes to a range of horticulturally important plants. Transformation technology, linked with increasing knowledge of DNA sequence and gene location, will allow crucial studies on gene function and regulation. In particular, the technology will facilitate fundamental studies driven by the close relationship of Brassica oleracea to Arabidopsis. Plant breeding programmes will have access to a greater range of genes, previously restricted by genetic barriers. Novel crop genotypes will have commercial potential if they pass regulations governing release of GMO's.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Plant & Microbial Sciences (PMS)
Research Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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