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AIR2-CT94-1571
Stability and Expression of Foreign Genes in Populus |
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Contract No | AIR2-CT94-1571 |
| Total Cost | 747 000 | |
| EC Contribution | 747 000 | |
| Start Date | 01/09/1994 | |
| Duration | 36 months |
Recent advances in biotechnology have made it possible to attempt gene transfer in plants, including forest trees. Transgenic plants have been produced in both herbaceous and forest tree species. However, forest trees are longlived and may require special considerations when genetically transformed. Forest trees have long generation cycles with extended vegetative phase ranging from 10 to 50 years.
We have asked questions regarding the stability of foreign genes in forest trees. Are the newly introduced foreign genes expressed immediately, or some remain silent for a long time, or are they lost during the long vegetative phase of a tree, or cause genetic changes in the host genome?
We have chosen Populus as a model system to investigate the genetic stability and expression of foreign genes on a shortterm as well as longterm basis. Because of adequate experience in regeneration and genetic transformation in Populus, we have selected only three groups to participate in the ECC programme. These three groups belonging to 01, 02, and 03 indeed complement each other in several ways in the programme. In order to answer some of the above questions, we intend to employ a number of constructs with different promoters and marker genes and genetically transform Populus tissues employing Agrobacterium vector system. However, one construct will be common to all three groups. In addition, each group will select two other constructs, which will be different for different groups. Further, each group will use a Populus clone for which regeneration and transformation technology has been standardised in the lab. Genetic confirmation of transformation will be carried out by molecular techniques involving Southern blot and PCR analysis, and phenotypic markers. Taken together, we shall be able to generate data on 7 constructs and three different genetically engineered genotypes. We hope our collaborative research will provide answers to some of the questions regarding gene transfer in woody plants. Hopefully, it will also provide guidelines for other researchers working on gene transfer in forest trees, and for administrators making policy decisions on genetic engineering in forest trees.
Contacts
Coordinator
EC Scientific Officer
Participant
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by CPL Press:
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