Recent Progress in Genetic Transformation of Four Pinus spp.

摘要

Advances in conifer tissue culture and genetic transformation offer new opportunities in the field of genetic engineering. Genetic transformation is an important tool for breeders because it allows them to introduce valuable genes that might otherwisebe difficult to integrate into elite genotypes. Combined with mass vegetative propagation, such as somatic embryogenesis, regeneration of transgenic conifers could result in accelerated tree improvement. Genetic transformation requires the development of an efficient gene delivery system. Extensive work has been done in Pinus spp. to improve transformation methods, either by DNA-coated particle bombardment or by co-culture with Agrobacterium tumefaciens. This review describes the most recent progress made in genetic transformation in the genus Pinus, with emphasis on four important forest and plantation species grown in Europe (P. pinaster), New Zealand, Australia and South America (P. radiatd), and North America (P. taeda and P. strobus). The biosafety issues associated with potential deployment of transgenic pine varieties in commercial forestry are highlighted.