Genética e Biotecnologia Aplicada ao Melhoramento Genético Vegetal: Relatório de Pós-Doutorado

Resumo

In this document, the activities developed in the postdoctoral program at University of Florida about Genetics and Applied Biotechnology in vegetal breeding were related. The research involves molecular marker analysis, intra and interspecific hybridization and selection of superior hybrids, chromosome doubling to restore fertility of triploid interspecific hybrids and genetic transformation to introduce transgenes for improved stress tolerance and quality. For the development of the first genetic transformation protocol of elephant grass the tissue culture, gene transfer and selection protocols for various explants including immature leaves, inflorescences and seeds were optimized. For chromosome doubling an in vitro protocol which improves the production of non-chimeric plants was developed. Interspecific hybridization between elephant grass and pearl millet may allow improving important traits (e.g. drought tolerance, biomass quality and production). In contrast to elephant grass and pearl millet, which produce large amounts of wind dispersed seeds, interspecific hybrids are male and female sterile and do not produce seeds which will enhance biosafety. Chromosome doubling of the triploid hybrids may restore seed production and fertility, allowing backcrosses with elephant grass to further enhance biomass production and persistence. Activities about participation in scientific events and training were also related.