Gene gun

Definition

A gene gun is a device used to deliver exogenous DNA into cells by bombarding them with high-velocity microprojectiles coated with genetic material. It is commonly used in genetic engineering and biotechnology for transforming plant, fungal, and bacterial cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gene guns are primarily used for plant transformation but can also be applied to other microorganisms.
2. The microprojectiles are typically made of gold or tungsten particles.
3. The DNA-coated particles penetrate cell walls and membranes without killing the cells.
4. Gene guns enable the direct delivery of genetic material into the cytoplasm or nucleus of target cells.
5. This method is particularly useful for organisms that are difficult to transform using traditional methods such as Agrobacterium-mediated transformation.

Review Questions

Related terms

Transformation:

The process by which foreign DNA is introduced into a cell.

Microprojectile: Small particles, often made of gold or tungsten, used to deliver DNA into cells via a gene gun.

Agrobacterium-mediated transformation: A method of introducing foreign DNA into plants using the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens.