Cherries

Abstract

AbstractGenetic transformation will be an increasingly important tool for potential improvement of cultivated cherry species (e.g.,Prunus aviumL.,P. cerasusL., and interspecific rootstocks). To understand the best potential applications of genetic engineering and transformation to overcome current genetic barriers to, and/or improve efficiency of, developing improved genotypes for fruit production and rootstock development, the review begins with pertinent background on cherry cultivation, including species history, origins, botanical features, ploidy levels and genetic linkages, and economic and nutritional importance. Traditional breeding objectives, tools, strategies, and achievements to date are discussed, as well as the limitations of conventional breeding, for sweet cherry, sour cherry, and cherry rootstocks. Subsequently, current information on state‐of‐the‐art cherry regeneration and transformation systems is presented. Most cherry species have been recalcitrant to transformation, primarily due toin vitroregeneration difficulties. Consequently, the various regeneration systems that have been attempted are discussed, including descriptions of the biotic and abiotic factors that have been found to influence plant regeneration, such as genotype and explants, culture media, plant growth regulators, and environmental conditions. Current cherry transformation systems are described, including gene delivery systems, explant tissues for transformation, selection regimes, and regeneration of transgenic plants. Based on the perspective of priorities for transgenes, the review concludes with an outline of some targeted traits for future cherry improvement via genetic transformation, including resistance to specific diseases and insects as well as horticultural characteristics.