Transformation and regeneration of Lobelia erinus using Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

A transformation/regeneration system was developed for the common garden Lobelia (Lobelia erinus). Using an Agrobacterium-based protocol, over 40 transformants have been generated with four different binary vectors. The explant source was hypocotyl-root sections from axenically grown seedlings. Stable transformation was demonstrated by Southern hybridization analysis, β-glucuronidase staining, and transmission of the T-DNA to progeny. This extends the ever-widening range of transformable plant species to the Campanulaceae and will allow molecular studies of development and physiology in this easily cultured and popular garden plant.