Development of the particle inflow gun for DNA delivery to plant cells

Summary A simple and inexpensive particle bombardment device was constructed for delivery of DNA to plant cells. The Particle Inflow Gun (PIG) is based on acceleration of DNA-coated tungsten particles using pressurized helium in combination with a partial vacuum. The particles are accelerated directly in a helium stream rather than being supported by a macrocarrier. Bombardment parameters were partially optimized using transient expression assays of a ß-glucuronidase gene in maize embryogenic suspension culture and cowpea leaf tissues. High levels of transient expression of the ß-glucuronidase gene were obtained following bombardment of embryogenic suspension cultures of corn and soybean, and leaf tissue of cowpea. Stable transformation of embryogenic tissue of soybean has also been obtained using this bombardment apparatus.Abbreviations 2,4-D 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid - PCV packed cell volume - GUS ß-glucuronidase - NOS nopaline synthaseSalaries and research support were provided by State and Federal funds appropriated to OSU/OARDC and USDA-ARS. Mention of trademark of proprietary products does not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the product by OSU/OARDC or USDA, and also does not imply approval to the exclusion of other products that may also be suitable. Journal Article No. 34-92