Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus is disclosed for the genetic transformation of organisms by accelerated particle mediated transformation. Foreign genes are introduced into cells by coating on carrier particles which are physically accelerated into the cells by positioning the carrier particles on the external surface of a carrier ribbon which is wound on a cartridge, the carrier ribbon having an exposed portion. The carrier particles on the exposed portion of the ribbon are displaced and accelerated toward an exit port by a high pressure stream of helium gas. By rotating the ribbon, a continuous supply of carrier particles can be produced and hence large target areas can be transformed without the need to replace the particle carrier. Near the exit port, the gaseous stream is diverted through use of the Coanda effect to divert the gas stream away from a target area. The carrier particles, being much heavier than the gas, continue toward and into the target cells. The treated cells are recovered and a portion of the them contain the foreign gene in their genome.

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First Claim