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ARS Home » Northeast Area » Kearneysville, West Virginia » Appalachian Fruit Research Laboratory » Innovative Fruit Production, Improvement, and Protection » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #252497

Title: Transgenic plums developed and commercialized through public research

Author
item Scorza, Ralph

Submitted to: American Phytopathological Society Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/15/2010
Publication Date: 4/21/2010
Citation: Scorza, R. 2010. Transgenic plums developed and commercialized through public research [abstract]. American Phytopathological Society Annual Meeting.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Genetic engineering (GE) is a breeding approach that can specifically target genetic improvements and allow for the development of novel, useful traits including pathogen resistance. GE can provide a complementary approach to conventional breeding methodologies to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of breeding programs. In spite of the potential utility of GE for fruit tree improvement, the technology has not, to date, been widely exploited in fruit trees especially in terms of bringing products to market. Transgenic plum trees that are highly resistant to Plum pox virus (PPV) are one example of GE that can be of significant benefit to growers and consumers, while providing unique genetic material for use in conventional breeding programs. The development and testing of this plum, including long-term field test data from several countries, and its current regulatory status in the U.S. will be presented.