The Basics of Transgenic Technology.ppt

What are transgenic plants? Transgenic indicates gene transfer using recombinant DNA technology. The transferred gene is usually, but not necessarily, from outside the normal range of sexual compatibility. Synonyms: Genetically modified organism (GMO) Genetically engineered organism (GEO) Add DNA segments to control gene expression Promoter initiates transcription; affects when, where, and how much gene product is produced. Termination sequence marks end of gene. Add selectable markers Because gene transfer is an inefficient process (1 to 5% success rate), a system is needed to identify cells with the new genes. Typically, antibiotic or herbicide resistance genes are used as markers. Bt gene construct Introduce gene construct into plant cells (transformation) “Gene gun” (synonyms: biolistics, microprojectile bombardment) Agrobacterium infection Evaluate transformed plants Presence and activity of introduced gene Other effects on plant growth Environmental effects Food or feed safety Whole plants with inserted genes are regenerated through tissue culture. Source: USDA New techniques will improve efficiency and may resolve some health or environmental concerns. Insertion at specific points in the genome New marker genes to replace antibiotic resistance markers Better control of gene expression (only when and where needed) Transformation of chloroplasts rather than nuclei Future of transgenic technology * The Basics of Transgenic Technology Pat Byrne Department of Soil Crop Sciences Colorado State University 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 Cotton Soybean Corn 20 40 60 80 US adoption of transgenic crops Percent of acreage A gene is a DNA segment that encodes a specific protein that contributes to expression of a trait. mRNA protein trait transcription translation expression What crops were developed from these plants? What crops were developed from these plants? corn carrot lettuce Plant breeding includes two basic steps I. Generation (or identification) of variati