Generation of Transgenic Carnation Plants with Novel Characteristics by Combining Microprojectile Bombardment with Agrobacterium Tumefaciens Transformation

Abstract

As one of the major contributors to the cut-flower market and a commercial leader in terms of number of stems sold worldwide (Jensen, Malter 1995), carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) has been an important target for the breeding of new varieties with novel characteristics. Although new carnation varieties are continuously being produced through classical breeding, their high heterozygosity and limited gene pool, and a lack of knowledge regarding their genetic makeup, severely restrict such breeding programs (Woodson 1991). Thus, the possibility of genetically transforming carnation, as well as other cut-flower species, via direct gene transfer is quite attractive (reviewed by Zuker et al. 1998).