Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation of Melia volkensii Gürke

Melia volkensii, a native dryland tree species in Eastern Africa, is extensively grown for its timber that resists termites, as well as for firewood and animal fodder. This study presents the first successful genetic transformation of Melia volkensii mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. A new binary vector enabled the introduction of the reporter gene M24::eGFP resulting in robust gene expression. This breakthrough facilitates future genetic improvement of M. volkensii, including applications of CRISPR-Cas-9 technology, to develop superior varieties for reforestation and sustainable land management in arid regions.