Biolistic DNA Delivery in Maize Immature Embryos

: One of the key factors for ensuring a successful genetic transformation is to effectively introduce genetic materials, such as plasmid DNA, into plant cells. A biolistic gun is one of the two best established and most popular tools for delivery of DNA into maize cells. It is the method that generated the first fertile transgenic maize plant. In this chapter, we describe steps involved in introducing single or paired plasmid DNAs into immature embryos of maize Hi II hybrid genotype, using Biolistic® PDS-1000/He particle delivery system. While we focus on the biolistic delivery process in the protocol presented here, we also provide step-by-step information required for successful regeneration of transgenic maize plants.