Prof. Aqeel Nazzal Al-Abadi and Assistant Prof. Dr. Ali Abdul-Hussein Kareem Al-Rubaie from the Plant Protection Department at the College of Agriculture secured second place in patents during Iraq’s Science Day. This achievement was for inventing a new device to deliver plasmid DNA into plant tissues using particles as an alternative to gold particles.
The device, locally manufactured, efficiently launches DNA-coated particles into plant cells, offering performance comparable to devices produced by specialized companies for generating genetically modified plants. The device operates without requiring a direct power source and is equipped with a rechargeable battery, making it convenient and easy to use.
The invention demonstrated the feasibility of using DNA-coated fine glass particles as an alternative to expensive and hard-to-obtain gold particles. The preparation of these glass particles is straightforward, eliminating the need to purchase them.
This innovative device is characterized by its lightweight, compact size, and ease of use and transport, providing significant advantages over devices manufactured by commercial companies.
