Targeted Integration of Bacillus thuringiensis delta -Endotoxin cry1Fa1 in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)

Gene integration in plants by homologous recombination eliminates variation in transgene expression and gives a predictable plant phenotype. Present study demonstrates homologous recombination-mediated integration of Bacillus thuringenisis cry1Fa1 gene at Flavonoid-3-ghicosyltransferase (anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway) locus in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.), for introduction of resistance against its major insect pest 'Brinjal Fruit and Shoot Borer' (BFSB) (Leucinodes orbonalis). The transgenic lines showed complete protection against BFSB. These results provide a novel perspective on development of genetically modified crops with stable and predictable transgene expression, and the possibility of the utilization of such promising technology in future crop improvement programmes.