The John Innes Centre receives strategic funding from BBSRC
The John Innes Centre receives strategic funding from BBSRC
 Plant transformation at the John Innes CentreIntroductionPlant genetic modification is an important research technique used in many JIC science programmes. Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and direct DNA transfer by particle bombardment are routinely used in both model systems (eg. tobacco and Arabidopsis) and crop species (wheat, barley, rice, brassicas, peas and bananas). The method chosen depends on the target species and traits being studied. JIC has extensive experience in the development of transformation vectors, analysis of transgenic plants and transgenic field trials. JIC has excellent resources, including tissue culture facilities, controlled environment growth facilities, containment glasshouses and field sites suitable for GM trials. JIC has developed versatile molecular 'cassettes' to facilitate cloning of multiple genes into appropriate direct DNA transfer and Agrobacterium-based vectors (http://www.pgreen.ac.uk). Reporter gene systems such as B-glucuronidase, luciferase and GFP (green fluorescent protein) are widely used. Clean gene technologies have been developed to allow the production of marker-free transgenic plants. The development of high throughput rice, and efficient barley and brassica, transformation systems has facilitated the work of JIC and other scientists who are testing genes that are important in metabolic, physiological and developmental processes. The study of transgene behaviour in plants at JIC has contributed to the discovery of key biological processes such as RNA silencing. JIC's ability to introduce different genes into a wide range of species is unique. We are the only Centre in the UK and one of few worldwide with this capacity. Our ability to translate fundamental science questions studied in model systems to crop species grown in the glasshouse and field trials, is a particular JIC strength. Understanding and exploiting plant transformation systemsKey objectives are to improve the understanding and control of transgene intergration, expression and stability in plants, to provide improved transformation systems, address biosafety considerations and to develop GM crops for the benefit of developing countries. Detailed analysis of transgene insertion sites is leading to strategies for the development of transformation vectors to influence transgene insertion. Gene targeting approaches are being investigated. Factors affecting transgene expression and stability, such as the presence of additional introns and MARS (Matrix Attachment Regions) are being assessed. Work is conducted using the best biolological systems to promote model-crop translation and functional genomic studies. A DFID-funded research project is developing transgenic strategies for nematode resistance in rice, potato and banana for the benefit of developing countries. This will capitalise on previously developed high throughput, genotype-independent and clean gene technologies to produce and disseminate rice plants free of selectable marker genes with level of resistance to nematodes.
The BRACT projectBiotechnology Resources for Arable Crop Transformation (BRACT) is a DEFRA funded research programme to provide an efficient transformation capability for the main UK crops, while facilitating further improvements in transformation technology and delivery to the UK research community. BRACT will provide all resources needed to facilitate transformation including:
The BRACT project is a collaboration between Rothamsted Research and the John Innes Centre.
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