Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of an interspecific grapevine

Anther-derived somatic embryos (cv. Georgikon 28) were transformed with reporter gene encoding beta-glucuronidase, using the Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA 101. Embryogenic calli were maintained and proliferated on MS medium containing plant growth regulators and 50 mg·l -1 kanamycin. Numerous somatic embryos were obtained by placing calli on hormone-fret MS medium supplemented with 50 mg·l -1 kanamycin. Transgenic plants were regenerated from these embryos. Application of antioxidants during and after cocultivation reduced necrotic symptoms of plant cells, while in the presence of an antioxidant during cocultivation the frequency of transformation was decreased. Injuries caused by particle bombardment did not increase the transformation efficiency.