Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation of Rice: Constraints and Possible Solutions

Genetic transformation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) by introducing beneficial traits is now a central research instrument in plant physiology and a practical tool for plant improvement. Many approaches are verified for stable introduction of foreign genes into the plant genome. The review examined the different constraints that limit the success of rice genetic transformation via Agrobacterium-mediated approach and suggested possible solutions. Explant identification, gene transfer technique and construct to tailor the integration, transgene expression without collateral to genetic damage and transformant selection are among the technical challenges affecting the rice transformation. Despite the contests, Agrobacterium- mediated transformation system has been a better option for producing transgenic rice varieties because of its exact T-DNA processing and simple integration of low copy-number transgene. This information is necessary for improving the transformation system for recalcitrant rice varieties. Keywords: rice, Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, tissue culture, gene transfer, T-DNA integratio