A novel, simple, and stable mesoporous silica nanoparticle-based gene transformation approach in .

In this study, a novel and stable gene transformation system was developed under control of () as an inducible promoter using the Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles (MSNs). The functionalized MSNs with a proper particle size were synthesized and attached to a recombinant construct (pDNA) containing gene under the control of promoter (pPZP122:::MSN [pDNA: MSN]) following transformation of tomato plants through injection of the pDNA: MSN complex into tomato red fruit at early ripening stage and then, putative transgenic seeds were collected. As an initial selection, gentamicin-resistant seedlings of T (24.24%) and T (61.37%) plants were identified. The transgene integration and expression were confirmed through the PCR, RT-PCR, and western blot approaches in the selected seedlings. PCR analysis showed that transformation frequency was equal to 10.71% in T plants. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis confirmed the transcript expression of in all the T and T PCR-positive plants. Western blot analysis confirmed the existence of CryIAb protein in the leaves of T putative transgenic plants. Accordingly, the results demonstrated that the transgene has more likely integrated into the tomato genome through homologous recombination. Bioassay was carried out for further assessment of the plant responses to resulting in an enhanced tolerance of the plant. In conclusion, the MSN-mediated stable transformation system under the as an inducible promoter can be used as a suitable alternative for conventional genetic transformation methods due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, cost and time-effectiveness, and positive effect on the plant defense against pathogens and pests.