microprojectiles
Microprojectiles are small solid particles used as carriers to deliver genetic material or other biomolecules into cells by ballistic bombardment. In plant biology they are most commonly gold or tungsten beads coated with DNA or RNA and propelled into tissues by a gene gun. The particles, typically 0.5 to 3 micrometers in diameter, are accelerated to high velocity and penetrate cell walls and membranes, depositing their cargo inside the target cells.
The delivery mechanism relies on physical penetration rather than chemical uptake. A device releases a burst
Microprojectile bombardment emerged in the late 20th century as a versatile method for transforming plant cells,
Applications include plant genetic engineering, functional genomics, and rapid testing of gene function. Advantages include the