Aug 4, 2005

Research Projects

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Optimisation of the use of marker-gene-free transformation methods in potatoes; Part 1 (modification of genes)

(2001 – 2004) BIOPLANT Biotechnologisches Forschungslabor GmbH, Ebstorf

Topic

The aim of the project is to develop methods with which genes within the plant itself can be specifically modified or silenced.

Summary

The project is to determine the optimum conditions for the formation of protoplasts and their regeneration for various potato strains. Experiment conditions for the formation of protoplasts and regeneration are to be optimised using various relevant potato strains.

Experiment description

Various potato strains were investigated to see whether they were suitable for the production of protoplasts (= plant cells without a cell wall) and their regeneration into complete plants.

The potato plants regenerated from the protoplasts were tested in the greenhouse for possible modifications due to somaclonal variation. This could cause the regenerated potatoes to demonstrate different traits from the protoplasts. Within this project it was necessary to continue to work only with potatoes in which no somaclonal variation had occurred.

Results

In vitro cultures were developed for dihaploid potato varieties. Unlike most potato varieties, which are tetraploid and therefore have four sets of chromosomes, the dihaploid breeding lines have only two sets of chromosomes. Tests were carried out to see whether they were free from viruses and bacteria.

Optimised regeneration conditions were successfully developed.