Gene targeting – Targeted integration of genes into the plant genome
Easy in theory, difficult in practice – gene targeting can be used to disable, modify or replace specific genes. Gene targeting has been used successfully in bacteria, yeasts and mice for a long time now, but its deployment in plants is proving very difficult.
Background
Research info
- SiFo project (2008-2011): Developing a technique for the targeted integration of genes in plants
- SiFo project (2001-2004): The targeted insertion of genes by gene targeting; University of Karlsruhe
Homologous recombination: gene swapping
Genes are exchanged even under natural conditions, especially among bacteria. Now scientists are attempting to apply these "recombination systems" in plants as well – to eliminate marker genes. This strategy is now capable of being applied in practice: the first GM plants whose marker genes were removed using this method are awaiting authorisation.
Background
Research info
Agrobacterium – a gene ferry: there are better ways
Agrobacteria are capable of modifying plants genetically by “natural” means. For twenty years this ability has been used to insert new genes into plant cells. Although the procedure is now routine, there is still room for improvement.
Background
Microinjection: Genes by injection
It would be an elegant method – using an ultra-fine cannula to inject new genes directly into plant cells. But so far it only works with animal cells. A lot of research and development work is required before microinjection will work in plant cells too. It is not just the procedure itself that must be adapted to plant conditions – scientists also need suitable genes, vectors and cells.
Background
Science live
Injecting DNA directly into the cell nucleus of a plant is a difficult matter. Ralf Schindler of the University of Giessen explains why.
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