The biolistic technique was used with the objective of adapting a transformation protocol to cupuassu plants. Foliar paths of cupuassu were bombed with a plasmid, containing the antocianine reporter gene with helium pressures of 650, 1000 and 1100 psi. The bombarded explants were transferred to half MS medium for 24 hours for incubation and red points were detected using a stereomicroscope Stemi SV11 Zeiss (Germany). The expression of the antocianine gene (red points) was observed with pressures of 650 and 1000 psi and necroses were found when 1100 psi were used. Genes C1 and R ‘ of the antocianina synthesis, under the control of the promoter 35S, can be used as reporters to monitor transformation events in cupuassu.
microparticles; Theobroma grandiflorum; transformation
