Transformation of Brassica Species Via Direct Gene Transfer

Abstract

Two approaches may be relevant for the transfer of disease resistances using two plant species, which can not be crossed sexually: asymmetric protoplast fusion and direct gene transfer. Important prerequisites in both techniques are that the plant species used possess a good regeneration capacity and that high transformation rates can be obtained using an antibiotic marker gene. Such marker genes can also be used to select hybrids in fusion experiments. Direct gene transfer and co-cultivation experiments (Sacristan et al.,this volume) were started with a) Brassica nigra lines possessing resistances against Phoma lingam and Plasmodiophora brassicae; b) Brassica napus varieties, which are sensitive against both pathogens.