Unlocking the Potential of Pollen-Mediated Gene Transfer in Transgenic Camelina via Cleistogamy
A recent breakthrough in plant genetics research could have far-reaching effects on the agricultural industry. Scientists at the University of Göttingen in Germany have successfully demonstrated pollen-mediated gene transfer in the plant species camelina. This method of gene transfer uses pollen from one plant to transfer genetic material to another, allowing researchers to introduce new traits to plants without the need for genetic engineering. The research team, led by Professor Georg Jander, used the technique to introduce a gene for cleistogamy—the ability of a plant to self-pollinate—to camelina plants. This is the first time pollen-mediated gene transfer has been used to successfully introduce a trait to a plant species. The breakthrough could have a wide range of applications, from creating crops that are resistant to pests and disease to giving farmers more control over their crops. It is yet another example of the incredible advances being made in plant genetics research.
source: Phys.org