Big Things in Small Packages: Attaching Genes to Maize Minichromosomes

A discovery has opened new avenues for the development of crops with multiple resistance to a vast array of pests, and for the development of proteins and metabolites that can be used to treat human illnesses. In a paper published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), a team of scientists at the University of Missouri-Columbia reported creating engineered minichromosomes in maize. Minichromosome are extremely small versions of a chromosome, however, they have the ability to accept the addition of new genes in subsequent experiments.

By stacking genes on minichromosomes, scientists could create crops that have multiple beneficial traits, such as resistance to drought, certain viruses and insects, or other stresses. In addition, minichromosomes could be used for the inexpensive production of multiple foreign proteins and metabolites useful for medical purposes. Because of their protein-rich composition, a part of the maize kernels can be used to grow animal proteins and human antibodies that treat diseases and disease symptoms. Minichromosomes could enable new and better production of these foreign proteins and antibodies. In addition, scientists also may be able to use them to develop plants better suited for biofuel production.

 To read more, visit http://munews.missouri.edu/searchnews.cfm and http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2007-05/uom-rag051407.php.