Variation in structure and plant regeneration of Agrobacterium rhizogenes transformed and control roots of the potato cv. Bintje

Abstract

Agrobacterium rhizogenes transformed and control roots of the tetraploid potato cv. Bintje were compared. Transformed roots were obtained after infection by A. rhizogenes 15834 or 1855. Both in leaf and stem segments, more roots were formed at the basal side of the segments, indicative for a polarity in root formation. As compared to control roots the transformed roots are characterized by smaller and more densely stained cells, a zone of cell division, and smaller statoliths. These characteristics are correlated with vigorous growth, high branching incidence and diminished geotropism. The plant regeneration procedure according to Ooms et al. [1] was modified. The transformed roots required less 2,4-D than control roots for the induction of shoot-competent calli. The callus and shoot induction phases were reduced from 8 and 6 weeks to 3 and 3 weeks, respectively. Upon induction, 25%, 58% and 61% of the root clones originating from tuber, stem and leaf, respectively, produced shoots, whereas all of the control roots produced shoots. Shoot outgrowth occurred on liquid MS medium in the absence of hormones.