Agrobacterium T-DNA integration: molecules and models

Trends Genet. 2004 Aug;20(8):375-83. doi: 10.1016/j.tig.2004.06.004.

Abstract

Genetic transformation mediated by Agrobacterium involves the transfer of a DNA molecule (T-DNA) from the bacterium to the eukaryotic host cell, and its integration into the host genome. Whereas extensive work has revealed the biological mechanisms governing the production, Agrobacterium-to-plant cell transport and nuclear import of the Agrobacterium T-DNA, the integration step remains largely unexplored, although several different T-DNA integration mechanisms have been suggested. Recent genetic and functional studies have revealed the importance of host proteins involved in DNA repair and maintenance for T-DNA integration. In this article, we review our understanding of the specific function of these proteins and propose a detailed model for integration.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Active Transport, Cell Nucleus
  • DNA Repair / genetics*
  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • DNA, Bacterial / genetics*
  • Models, Genetic
  • Recombination, Genetic*
  • Rhizobium / genetics*
  • Transformation, Genetic*

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • DNA, Bacterial
  • T-DNA