PROMOTERS THAT RESPOND TO CHEMICAL INDUCERS

The introduction of foreign genes constitutes a powerful tool with whi ch to study and improve the genetic resources of plants, Transgene exp ression levels and expression patterns can be adjusted by combining th e protein coding region with a suitable promoter. There is a diverse s pectrum of endogenous plant promoters and these are currently being br oadened by the development of chimeric promoters that respond to other wise inactive chemicals. This range includes promoters that respond to inducers such as the antibiotic tetracycline, the steroid dexamethaso ne, the copper ion, ethanol or the agrochemical RH-5992, These chimeri c promoters offer a range of options for transgene design for experime ntal and field use.