Dennis J. Gray, Ph.D.
Professor of Developmental Biology

The mission of this program is to apply tissue culture and molecular genetics for propagation and genetic improvement. Grape and watermelon are emphasized, but other crops will be integrated as opportunities arise.

Florida is the third largest consumer of grape products in the United States, after California and New York, but does not have a competitive grape industry because our humid climate causes severe disease problems. Currently, research is aimed at using biotechnology to develop disease-resistant varieties.

Today's presentation will detail research that has led to the genetically engineered plants being created in the laboratory and includes the following:

• Tissue culture systems for grapes
• Cell cultures and plants of genetically-engineered Thompson Seedless grapes
• Liquid suspension cultures

In 1999, $185,000 for grape research was generously provided by The Florida Viticultural Trust Fund via Florida DACS and by private industry.