Transformation and evaluation of different transgenic lines for Glyphosate Tolerance and Cane borer resistance genes in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.)

The aim of this study was to ensure the systematic pro­tein expression of two genes (GTG and Cry1Ac) under the influence of two different constitutive promoters i.e. Ubiquitin­1 and CaMV 35S promoters in different su­garcane lines. PCR amplification of GTG and Cry1Ac was achieved from putative transgenic plants through gene specific primers. Qualitative comparisons of GTG and Cry1Ac genes expression under two different promoters were obtained through protein dot blot and dipstick assay. The appearance of comparatively dark color dots in dot blot and dark color bands on dipstick with Ubiquitin as compared to light color bands with CaMV35S promoter, qualitatively confirmed high protein expression of two genes under Ubiquitin promoter. In quantitative gene ex­pression comparisons maximum optical density (OD) at 450nm of UV­light was obtained for GTG (3.7 OD) and Cry1Ac (3 OD) under Ubiquitin promoter, while for GTG (1.6 OD) and Cry1Ac (2.5 OD) with CaMV 35S promoter. The results indicated higher expression of two genes under Ubiquitin­1 promoter in sugarcane was found as compared to CaMV 35S promoter. This study provides a guide for stable and high expression of transgenes with reference to Ubiquitin­1 promoter which can be utilize in sugarcane as well as in other monocots.

Keywords: Saccharum officinarum, GTG, Cry1Ac gene, CaMV 35S promoter, Ubiquitin promoter