Summary
A soil bacterium whose Ti plasmid is used to deliver genes into plant cells.
In depth
Agrobacterium tumefaciens causes crown gall by transferring T-DNA from the Ti plasmid into plant genomes. Scientists replace tumour genes with desired genes; the vir genes mediate transfer. Dicots are readily transformed.
The T-DNA borders define the transferred region, and vir genes are induced by plant phenolic compounds like acetosyringone. Monocots are less susceptible but protocols exist.
Key idea: the bacterium's natural genetic engineering was harnessed for plant biotechnology.
Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a soil bacterium that naturally causes crown gall tumours by transferring a piece of its Ti plasmid (T-DNA) into plant cells, where it integrates into the plant genome.
Scientists remove the tumour-causing genes and replace them with useful genes, so the bacterium becomes a delivery vehicle. Plant tissue is infected, then cells are regenerated into whole plants on selective media with hormones. It works best in dicots but protocols now exist for cereals.
Example: it was used to make herbicide-tolerant soybeans and Golden Rice.
Frequently asked questions
What is Agrobacterium Transformation?
A soil bacterium whose Ti plasmid is used to deliver genes into plant cells.
Which area of biology covers Agrobacterium Transformation, and how advanced is it?
Agrobacterium Transformation is one of the 56 topics in Biotechnology & Genomics. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Gene Therapy Vectors, Selective Breeding, Biotechnology.
Why does Agrobacterium Transformation matter?
It is the most widely used method for plant transformation, offering stable integration with few copies.
Can you give an example of Agrobacterium Transformation?
Leaf discs are co-cultivated with Agrobacterium then regenerated on selective media.
What should I learn before Agrobacterium Transformation?
Work through the Beginner topics in Biotechnology & Genomics first, such as Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding, then return to Agrobacterium Transformation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Agrobacterium Transformation?
The closest topics to Agrobacterium Transformation are Gene Therapy Vectors, Selective Breeding, Biotechnology, Stem Cell Therapy. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Agrobacterium Transformation?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Agrobacterium Transformation. To practise the whole of Biotechnology & Genomics, use the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz.
How is Agrobacterium Transformation different from Gene Therapy Vectors?
Agrobacterium Transformation: A soil bacterium whose Ti plasmid is used to deliver genes into plant cells. Gene Therapy Vectors: Viral vectors such as AAV and lentivirus deliver therapeutic genes, with safety and immune challenges. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Agrobacterium Transformation step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Gene Therapy Vectors and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.