Main trends in the genetic transformation of Populus species

The main advantages that could be obtained by poplar plantation production were described in this review. We also described the significance of poplars for industry and for solutions to ecological problems. Taking into consideration the results obtained by genetic engineering methods, we analyzed the trends in the improvement of the Populus phenotypes related to the resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and herbicides, as well as to the modification of the wood quality (decreasing or modifing the lignin content), phytoremediation, plant growth acceleration, and changes in the plant morphology.