Colloquia

Seminars

• Astronomy and Space Physics
• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Condensed Matter
• Fluids and Plasmas
• Particle Physics
• Calendar of Events

Graduation Commencement

Condensed Matter Seminar Abstract

Date: March 4th (215 Conference Room Sharp Lab at 2:00pm)

Speaker: Ted Klein, Senior Scientist, Pioneer Crop Genetics Research, DuPont Experimental Station

Title: Bullets for Biotechnology: Physics Meets Biology in the Form of a Gene Gun

Abstract:

Research in biology relies on a host of high-tech devices and
instruments for imaging, DNA manipulation and sequencing, and
high-throughput simultaneous assessment of almost all macromolecules in
biological samples. One critical technology is the delivery of foreign
genetic material into living cells and tissues. Techniques for DNA
delivery are essential for the study of gene function and for practical
applications such as the improvement of crops and treatment of diseases
by human gene therapy. Some types of cells readily take up and
incorporate exogenous DNA. However, plant cells and tissues can be
recalcitrant to the direct uptake of exogenous DNA, mainly due to the
cell wall that surrounds them. Several techniques have been developed
for gene delivery to plants. One of the most successful techniques
employs the acceleration of sub-micron metal particles to velocities
that allow their penetration of cell walls and membranes. The DNA-coated
'microprojectiles' deliver DNA to thousands of cells simultaneously.
Virtually any cell or tissue type can be genetically transformed using
the Biolistic Gene Gun. During my talk, I will discuss the development
and evolution of the gene gun. I will also discuss the application of
the device for the agronomic and nutritional enhancement of crops. The
application of the gene gun to gene delivery to human tissues will also
be briefly discussed.