New gene transfer methods
Inserting new genes into plant cells has become a routine laboratory procedure. But today’s methods are by no means perfect. Various research projects are working on improvements. The aim is for the transgenic plants to be free of markers – and any other genes that are no longer required.
"We test what is scientifically possible."
Researchers around the world are working on methods for the genetic modification of plants via the plastids rather than the cell nucleus. Plastids have their own DNA. One of the advantages is that the genetic information in the plastids is not passed on via pollen, thereby preventing a potential spread of the new genes. GMO Safety paid a visit to Ralph Bock and his team at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology in Potsdam-Golm.
What is the outcome of the research, Prof. Hehl?
New and improved gene transfer methods are being developed throughout the world. The aim is to transfer only the target gene of interest; all sequences which are no longer required once transformation is complete, especially marker genes, are to be removed. Several safety research projects are also addressing this issue. GMO Safety talked to Professor Reinhard Hehl, coordinator of the research group, to find out whether any results were already available and how they are being used in practice.
Agrobacterial transformation: Is it safe?
The soil bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens can transfer segments of its plasmid DNA to the genome of plants. Researchers make use of the bacterium’s ability when producing transgenic plants. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research in Cologne and at the University of Bielefeld have discovered that other DNA segments can be transferred from the Agrobacteria to the plant genome in addition to the plasmid DNA. Have they uncovered a safety hole? GMO Safety speaks to Bernd Weisshaar of the University of Bielefeld.
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