Alternative methods to antibiotic resistance marker genes

Researchers have devised selection methods that avoid the use of antibiotic or herbicide resistance genes or eliminate them in the final transgenic product. The development of these methods are in part in response to the concerns about horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes, the public perception of risk and the consumer acceptance of the marketed products. Another motivation has been the need for multiple selectable marker genes because the use of a selectable marker gene in a particular line precludes further use of the same selectable gene in subsequent transformations of the same line. The generation of a cultivar with several distinct desirable traits may require repeated transformations events, which would require the use of a different selectable marker for each transformation event. The number of suitable, multiple selectable markers available is limited at present. In addition, the presence of multiple homologous sequences in the same genome may cause instability of the transgenes.[add a comment]

Two general strategies have been pursued to avoid the use of antibiotic resistance genes:[add a comment]

1. elimination of the selectable marker gene in the resultant transgenic organism and
2. use of a non−toxic compound that favors or promotes the regeneration and growth of transformed cells expressing a transgene product that acts on the compound (positive selection).

The information contained in this page was believed to be correct at the time it was collated. New patents and patent applications, altered status of patents, and case law may have resulted in changes in the landscape. CAMBIA makes no warranty that it is correct or up to date at this time and accepts no liability for any use that might be made of it. Corrections or updates to the information are welcome. Please send an email to info@bios.net.

CAMBIA Login