Binary Vectors

Overview

Binary vector systems include the most commonly used vectors devised for Agrobacterium gene transfer to plants. In these systems, the T-DNA region containing a gene of interest is contained in one vector and the vir region is located in a separate disarmed (without tumor-genes) Ti plasmid. The plasmids co-reside in Agrobacterium and remain independent.

We will now introduce you to the entities that have applied for, and in some cases, been granted patents on binary vectors for plant transformation via Agrobacterium.

The patent applications are characterized according to the following criteria:

• Patents on basic binary vectors and methods. Directed to the basic binary vector molecules, including their primary elements and in some cases, the basic methods for their assembly and use; and
• Patents on modified binary vectors and methods. Directed to special applications or improved vectors and methods based on the basic binary vector molecules.