Transformation of Wheat Immature Embryos by Particle Bombardment

Transformation of Wheat Immature Embryos by Particle Bombardment

The objective of this study was to identify the major parameters controlling DNA delivery by particle bombardment to immature embryos of Chinese spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Efficiency of DNA (uidA gene) delivery was assessed by transient GUS (${\beta}$-glucuronidase) expression in bombarded tissues. Of the parameters analyzed, acceleration pressure, bombardment distance, chamber vacuum pressure, bombardment times, osmotic conditioning of culture had a remarkable influence on transient gene expression. A bombardment procedure suitable for Chinese spring wheat cultivars was developed which allowed high-efficiency DNA delivery combined with reduced damage to target tissues. The high efficiency made the system practical for wheat genetic transformation research and accelerating wheat breeding programs.