Transgenic Cereal Plants Expressing Pigmented Seed Endosperm Tissues 

Technology Description: Genes have been introduced into maize plants that result in red, blue or purple pigmented kernel tissue while the hulls remain uncolored. This method can also be used in other cereal grains for permanent coloration. The invention would be highly useful as an indelible warning "marker" for transgenic cereal grains that are intended for use only as crop seeds, animal feed or other restricted or special uses. It could also provide for a variety of novel "naturally" colored cereal grain products including: popping corn, flour for preparation of bread or tortilla products, snack foods, and grain-based beverages.

The invention has been reduced to practice in maize and in arabidopsis. Transgene-derived pigments are localized only in the endosperm tissues in high concentrations and there are no apparent untoward effects on the plant.

Case Number : SD2000-090

Inquiries To: invent@ucsd.edu