Biotechnology of Major Cereals

This book contains 16 chapters focusing on the recombinant DNA techniques and transformation methods used by the commercial maize biotechnology sector, current traits and future trends of the global adoption of transgenic maize, specific breeding challenges and the current trends in applied sorghum biotechnology research, genetic modification methods, target traits and other relevant issues for barley, wheat and rice and the development of Setaria viridis as a research model for important food crops. Molecular and in vitro cellular techniques that provide refinements to conventional recombinant DNA technologies are discussed and the challenges of developing insect-resistant plants via RNAi, the issues facing food manufacturers regarding the potential carcinogen, acrylamide, the opportunities for engineering the cereal endosperm and the biotechnology approaches to freezing tolerance in cereals are highlighted. An overview of the commercial biotechnology landscape, along with recent mergers and acquisitions are also presented