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Green Genetic Engineering Technology: The Use of Endogenous Genes to Create Fungal Disease-Resistant Grapevines

Author

Listed:
  • Gray, D. J.
  • Dhekney, S. A.
  • Li, Z. T.
  • Zimmerman, T. W.

Abstract

Use of genetic engineering technology to add disease resistance to otherwise desirable varieties is an attractive approach to establishing a Vitis vinifera L.-based agriculture in the Caribbean. Endogenous genes isolated directly from grapevine were engineered for enhanced expression and transformed into V. vinifera 'Merlot', 'Shiraz' and 'Thompson Seedless', plus Vitis hybrid 'Seyval Blanc'. Transgenic plant lines were selected via greenhouse screening based on resistance to powdery mildew. Outstanding lines were vegetatively propagated and established, along with non-transgenic controls, into USDA APHIS-approved field test sites at UVI St. Croix and UF/IFAS Florida in 2007. Vines grew rapidly and began to fruit in 2008. Based on preliminary results, certain transgenic lines exhibited significant resistance to black rot and anthracnose diseases compared to non-transgenic control lines. Because these are three of the most serious tropical/subtropical fungal diseases of V. vinifera, availability of resistant lines will provide new opportunities for production in the region. Our adaptation of endogenous genes to modulate disease resistance is a first step in creating "green transgenic plants" that contain only genetic elements from grapevine, thus eliminating concerns about incorporation of foreign genes in GMOs.

Suggested Citation

  • Gray, D. J. & Dhekney, S. A. & Li, Z. T. & Zimmerman, T. W., 2008. "Green Genetic Engineering Technology: The Use of Endogenous Genes to Create Fungal Disease-Resistant Grapevines," 44th Annual Meeting, July 13-17, 2008, Miami, Florida, USA 256471, Caribbean Food Crops Society.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:cfcs08:256471
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.256471
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