Abstract: Bi and Cl genes, encoding anthocyanin synthesis of transcription factor, were used as visual selection reporter genes, and the glyphosate-resistance gene EPSPS as a selective marker, to generate a visualizing track vector pBAC9017. We used this vector to transform Cry1Ab/c driven by an enhanced CaMV 35S (E35S) promotor, into immature embryos and embryonic callus of maize inbred line 501 by microprojectile bombardment. We obtained 147 transformed, and among 106 plants with harvested T₀ ears, 16 ears were decorated with mosaic purple seeds. PCR analysis showed that the Cry1Ab/c gene was integrated into the genome of maize. Extracts of seed protein were tested by BT-Cry1Ab/1Ac immune-strip and ELISA, showing that Bt-Cry1Ab/c gene was expressed in transgenic lines.

Key words: anthocyanin, Bt, Cry1Ab/c, maize, transgenic