This is still the first and only Agrobacterium mediated transformation and regeneration of conifers in the world. We have also developed very efficient micropropagation techniques for scale up production of transgenic trees. Advantages O ur protocols yield the most reliable and stable transformation of highly recalcitrant conifers species. T his is the only method to rapidly enhance the genetic makeup of the conifer trees for value added genes. P rovides opportunity to introduce genes from foreign sources, such as herbicide resistance, which are otherwise not available through the germplasm of conifers and express these genes in transgenic trees through use of conifer specific gene promoters.
E asy to incorporate ecological containment for transgenic trees.
Uses G enetic improvement of conifers for value added genes. G enetic improvement of conifers for improved wood quality and characteristics. G enetic improvement of conifers for improved paper pulp. G enetic improvement and reproductive sterility for increased biomass production and ecological containment of transgenic plants for scale up production on commercial lands.