Transformation studies in Hordeum vulgare using a highly regenerable microspore system

A highly regenerable, isolated microspore system for barley, Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Igri, has been developed which is amenable to transformation studies using particle bombardment. The system allows DNA to be delivered to microspores at the single cell stage and both transient and stable transformation events have been demonstrated. The potential advantages of using isolated microspores as the target tissue in routine transformation systems are discussed.