Recent developments in our knowledge of potato transgenic biology

Transgenic potato plants are being generated world-wide to assess the impact of transgene expression (sense and/or antisense) on parameters as diverse as yield, quality, stress physiology and pest/disease resistance. Strategies for alternative uses of the potato crops by diverting metabolism into high value products or by expressing recombinant proteins are also being explored. Results obtained are often surprising although the science of plant molecular biology is relatively young. Whilst the outcome of any transgenic approach is by no means certain, this review provides sufficient examples to illustrate the versatility and applicability of transgenic biology in potato improvement.