Biotech Updates

Scientists Develop EFSB Resistant Eggplant Using cry1Aa3 Gene

October 2, 2013

With the goal of developing eggplant shoot and fruit borer (EFSB) resistant eggplant, scientists from Indian Institute of Vegetable Research and Banaras Hindu University introduced cry1Aa3 gene into eggplant (cv. Kashi Taru) through Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated transformation.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Southern blot analyses confirmed the presence of cry1Aa3 gene in the transformed plants. Furthermore, ELISA revealed the presence of Cry1Aa3 protein in the leaves and fruits of the transgenic plants. Expression of the Cry protein led to high mortality of EFSB in the shoot and fruit tissues of the transgenic eggplant lines. The authors of the study concluded that use of these resistant lines could decrease pesticide application to control EFSB, and thus contribute to a safer environment.

Read the abstract of the study at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S026121941300152X.