Additional introns inserted within the luciferase reporter gene stabilise transgene expression in wheat

As part of a study to understand factors affecting transgene expression, constructs containing maize introns within the luciferase reporter gene coding region, in addition to a 5' untranslated leader intron, were transformed into wheat plants. Adding a single intron at one particular position increased transgene activity by 1.5- to 2-fold, however the additional presence of a second intron reduced expression levels in both T-1, and T-2 populations. These results are in agreement with the transient assay results that we have previously reported. More importantly, we showed that both intron combinations led to a stabilisation of luciferase expression between generations in transgenic wheat plants.(C) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.