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.
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 Vaccines by Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding, Reporter Genes.
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 Vaccines by Genetic Engineering, Selective Breeding, Reporter Genes, Recombinant DNA. 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 Vaccines by Genetic Engineering?
Agrobacterium Transformation: A soil bacterium whose Ti plasmid is used to deliver genes into plant cells. Vaccines by Genetic Engineering: Recombinant subunit and vector vaccines use specific antigens made in engineered cells. 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 Vaccines by Genetic Engineering and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biotechnology & Genomics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.