An efficient transient transformation system for gene function studies in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata D.)

Currently, gene exploration and molecular breeding in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) is a challenging process. There are limited efficient stable transformation methods for pumpkin. Transient transformation is a promising tool for the study of gene function. Here, an efficient Agrobacterium-mediated transient transformation system was developed for gene function studies in pumpkin. In this system, the function of salt-tolerant gene StNHX1 was confirmed by over-expression in germinated seeds. The CmPHD1-EGFP fusion protein was detected in the nucleus of cotyledon epidermal cells. This system can be used to analyze gene function and protein subcellular localization in pumpkin. Its advantages are highly efficient, cost-effective and time-saving (∼14 days). It may play a key role in gene exploration and molecular breeding in pumpkin, especially in large-scale analyses.