ARS | Publication request: Unexpected Finding Suggests Method for Controlling Pollen Dispersal

Submitted to: Electronic Publication
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: November 1, 2007
Publication Date: November 1, 2007
Repository URL: http://www.isb.vt.edu/articles/nov0704.htm
Citation: Scott, M.P. 2007. Unexpected Finding Suggests Method for Controlling Pollen Dispersal. Information Systems for Biotechnology News Report November.

Technical Abstract: Two studies on the genetic inheritance of a wheat genomic DNA fragment in transgenic corn conclude that this DNA fragment is inherited maternally because it functions as a pollen specific gametocide. The authors of these studies illustrate that this transgene can but used to control transfer of a second transgene through pollen. This obeservation suggests an approach for controlling dispersal of transgenes using transgene-mediated pollen specific gametocides. Implementation of this approach would allow developers of transgenic crops greater control over the dispersal of transgenes by pollen, reducing the risk of unwanted transfer of transgenes through pollen and increasing the safety of transgenic crops.