Plant genetic engineering

Molecular biology and genetic engineering offer new tools to meet agricultural needs. Molecular biologists are learning how to transfer foreign genes into plant cells. Plant genetic engineering is defined by some as the isolation, introduction and expression of foreign DNA in the plant.

However, in considering plant genetic manipulation a broader definition is preferred which focuses on the cellular level of organization and involves the interfacing of all aspects of cell biology, molecular biology and gen-transfer procedures.

For example genetic engineering with potatoes has been well-established using Agrobacterium – mediated transformation methods.

Genetic engineering to increase levels of compatible solutes appears to be a promising approach in efforts to increase the capacity of plants to tolerate environmental stress.
Plant genetic engineering