ELECTROPORATION-MEDIATED DNA DELIVERY TO SEEDLING TISSUES OF PHASEOLUS-VULGARIS L (COMMON BEAN)

DNA was delivered to intact embryonic axes of the legume Phaseolus vul garis L. through electroporation. Expression of the beta-glucuronidase reporter gene was observed in hypocotyl and epicotyl tissue in a spot -like manner. Transgene expression was high when a single pulse of 260 ms at a field strength of 225 V . cm(-1) was applied but could be ach ieved within a wide range of electrical conditions. Linearization of p lasmid DNA greatly enhanced transient expression levels. The procedure was successful for embryonic axes of all tested P. vulgaris cultivars , for similar explants of several large-seeded leguminous species, as well as for some other tissues of P. vulgaris.