Download Media Advisory, scientists have developed tobacco plants that glow

Media Advisory, scientists have developed tobacco plants that glow in dark
by introducing gene that lights up fireflys into plants' DNA
October 31, 1986
Media contacts: Susan Pollock or Winifred Cox, 534-3120
NEWS CONFERENCE EVENT: FIREFLY GENES TURN ON PLANTS: news conference on major advance in
molecular genetics research at UCSD
DATE: Thursday, November 6, 1986
TIME: 1 p.m.
LOCATION: Room 1103, Muir Biology Building (map enclosed)
REMARKS: UCSD scientists have developed tobacco plants that glow in the dark by introducing the gene
that lights up fireflies into the plants' DNA. The potential of the versatile and adaptable firefly gene as a research
tool has created tremendous excitement among scientists and in a number of industries, including biotechnology
and agriculture. It is expected to light the way to a new understanding of gene expression in living systems and of
plant development and to important advances in genetic engineering.
VISUAL POSSIBILITIES:
1. Genetically altered tobacco plants in biology laboratory.
2. Photographs (color and black/white) of the turned-on plants and leaves will be available as the plants will
not appear to be glowing.
3. Black/white video clips of a leaf lighting up will be shown and made available to TV reporters.
4. Opportunity to photograph a glowing vial of luciferase, the enzyme that lights up fireflies.
Release and background information will be available at the news conference.
October 31, 1986