DEREGULATION OF PLUM POX RESISTANT TRANSGENIC PLUM 'HONEYSWEET'

Abstract

Genetic engineering (GE) has the potential to revolutionize fruit tree breeding. It is an approach that can specifically target genetic improvements and allow for the development of novel, useful traits. While GE does not provide a panacea for all of the difficulties associated with fruit tree breeding, it can be a useful approach to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of breeding programs. In spite of the potential utility of GE for fruit tree improvement, the technology has not, to date, been widely exploited in these species. Of over 11,000 field tests of transgenic plants in the United States between 1987 and 2004, less than 1% have involved fruit tree species. Transgenic plum trees that are highly resistant to Plum pox virus (PPV) are one example of GE that can be of significant benefit to growers and consumers while providing unique genetic material for use in conventional breeding programs. The development and testing of this plum has spanned 15 years and included researchers in five countries. Currently this plum, 'HoneySweet', is being evaluated for deregulation by U.S. regulatory agencies so that it may possibly be released in the future to breeders and growers who are concerned about the threat of PPV to U.S. stone fruit production.