Patent ID: 6084154
Filing Date: 2000-07-04
Classification: A01H,C12M,C12N

Abstract:
A method of delivering genes into the cells of a plant comprising the steps of:preparing copies of an expression vector appropriate for the plant including an exogenous coding region and flanking regulatory sequences effective to express the coding region in the cells of the plant;coating the copies of the expression vector onto biologically inert carrier particles;applying the coated carrier particles in a layer on a biologically inert carrier sheet;placing the carrier sheet above a pair of spaced electrodes which have a gap between them bridged by a water droplet;mounting a retaining screen spaced above the carrier sheet for retaining the carrier sheet after a selected upward distance of travel;placing on a target surface above the retaining screen cells of the plant; andapplying an electric voltage between the electrodes sufficient to generate an electric discharge between the electrodes vaporizing the water droplet, the shock wave from which accelerates the carrier sheet toward the retaining screen which retains the carrier sheet permitting the carrier particles to continue on to penetrate the cells of the plant, the force of the penetration being controlled by the voltage of the electric discharge.