Transient Expression of β-Glucuronidase (GUS) Activity in Embryogenic Callus Tissue of Alkaligrass (Puccinellia distans) using Particle Bombardment

Abstract

<jats:p>Callus induction and regeneration of alkaligrass (<jats:italic>Puccinellia distans</jats:italic>) was developed in our laboratory for use in transformation studies of turfgrass. Particle bombardment of the embryogenic callus is being evaluated using a helium particle inflow gun constructed at Colorado State Univ., according to the design of Philippe et al. (Ohio State Univ., 1993). Its utility in delivering DNA to plant cells is being tested by measuring the frequency of transient gene expression of a reporter gene (GUS pBI121) in embryogenic callus of alkaligrass. Varying pressure of helium and the distance of the calli in the chamber are also being evaluated for efficiency in transformation.</jats:p>