Marchantia polymorpha is a bryophyte widely distributed worldwide, usually growing on moist soil, rocks, and bark. It is characterized by low genomic redundancy, easy genetic transformation, asexual reproduction, and rapid value-addition in cell suspension culture, which makes it one of the most important model organisms for botanical research. With the continuous development of technological approaches to genetic transformation, the study of Marchantia polymorpha genetic transformation contributes to a deeper understanding of plant genetic engineering and functional studies.

Lifeasible specializes in plant genetic transformation research. Relying on the advanced technology platform and experienced expert team, we aim to provide effective and reliable transformation solutions for bryophytes and strategic guidance to promote bryophyte transformation research.

Technical process of Marchantia polymorpha transformation

• Sporangia preparation. Sporangia are prepared under controlled laboratory conditions, often through the induction of reproductive development using far-red light irradiation.
• Genetic material delivery. Immature thalli developing from spores are subjected to particle bombardment with plasmids containing the desired genetic material. These plasmids often carry selectable markers for antibiotic resistance like hygromycin and spectinomycin.
• Selection and analysis. Transformed thalli are selected on media containing the appropriate antibiotics, allowing only transgenic plants to grow. DNA gel-blot analysis is then employed to confirm the transgene integration into the genome.
• Propagation. Transgenic Marchantia polymorpha can be propagated through gemma propagation, ensuring the stable transmission of the introduced genes to subsequent generations.

Direct transformation of Marchantia polymorpha by particle bombardment

Particle bombardment is an efficient method used for the genetic transformation of plants and is widely used in botanical research and plant genetic engineering. Applying particle bombardment technology in the direct transformation of Marchantia polymorpha is as follows.

• Preparation of target material. In the case of ground money, spores, seedlings, or somatic cells of Marchantia polymorpha are usually used as target materials. These tissues usually need to be cultured and prepared beforehand to ensure they are at the proper growth stage.
• DNA vectors and preparation. Exogenous DNA is usually bound to a carrier with metal particles. This carrier can be a small particle in a particle bomb device in which the DNA has been attached to the surface of the metal particle. This ensures that the DNA can be injected into the target cell.
• Particle bombardment. In the device's presence, metal particles are launched into the Marchantia polymorpha tissue at very high speeds. As these particles enter the cell, they release DNA and introduce it into the nucleus. This process is usually instantaneous.
• Selection and cultivation of transformants. Transformants are Marchantia polymorpha cells or tissues that have successfully received exogenous DNA. Typically, transformants are selected and cultured on appropriate media to allow them to differentiate into whole Marchantia polymorpha plants.
• Detection and analysis. Successfully transformed Marchantia polymorpha is further analyzed and assayed to confirm the presence and expression of exogenous genes.

The direct transformation of Marchantia polymorpha represents a significant milestone in plant biology research. Marchantia polymorpha is becoming a powerful tool for genetic manipulation and a source of invaluable insights into the evolution and biology of land plants. If you are interested in us, please feel free to contact us.