ARS | Publication request: 'HONEYSWEET' - A TRANSGENIC PLUM POX VIRUS RESISTANT PLUM - DEVELOPMENT, FIELD TESTING, AND REGULATORY ISSUES.

Submitted to: International Symposium on Biotechnology of Temperate Fruit Crops and Tropical Species
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 10, 2005
Publication Date: October 10, 2005
Citation: Scorza, R., Gonsalves, D., et. al. 'Honeysweet' - A Transgenic Plum Pox Virus Resistant Plum - Development, Field Testing, and Regulatory Issues. International Symposium on Biotechnology of Temperate Fruit Crops and Tropical Species. Abstract. October 10-14, 2005 in Daytona Beach, Florida, USA.

Technical Abstract: Genetic engineering (GE) has the potential to revolutionize fruit tree breeding. It is an approach that can specifically target genetic improvements and allow for the development of novel, useful traits. While GE does not provide a panacea for all of the difficulties associated with fruit tree breeding, it can be a useful approach to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of breeding programs. In spite of the potential utility of GE for fruit tree improvement, the technology has not, to date, been widely exploited in these species. Of over 11,000 field tests of transgenic plants in the United States between 1987 and 2004, less that 1% have involved fruit tress species. Transgenic plum trees that are highly resistant to Plum Pox virus (PPV) are one example of GE that can be of significant benefit to growers and consumers while providing unique genetic material for use in conventional breeding programs. The development and testing of this plum, including long-term field test data from several countries, and its current regulatory status in the U.S. will be presented.