Transformation of Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) by Infection of Seeds with Agrobacterium tumefaciens

Abstract

A simple method of genetic transformation of leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) by infection of the seeds with Agrobacterium tumefaciens was investigated. Sterilized and water-imbibed seeds were vacuum-infiltrated with a suspension of A. tumefaciens that harbored pIG121-Hm. After co-cultivation, the shoot primodium tissue was induced on a medium that contained antibiotics, for elimination of the bacteria and selection of transgenic cells. Plants regenerated on the selection medium showed GUS activity. These results indicated that transgenic leaf lettuce can be developed using the seed infiltration method.