Tissue-specific localization of β-carotene and iron in transgenic indica rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Tissue-specific distribution and localization of β-carotene and iron were characterized in transgenic rice seeds by histochemical studies. Histochemical reactions clearly revealed the accumulation of β-carotene in the endosperm of transgenic seeds in comparison with non-transgenic control where no β-carotene could be detected. A similar observation was made for iron-colour reaction in the endosperm. Since histochemical tests can be carried out easily and are fairly specific for determining particular compounds both qualitatively and to some extent quantitatively (based on the intensity of colour), this method could be used for identifying the desirable transgenic material with high β-carotene and iron content.