Direct analysis of RNA transcripts in electroporated carrot protoplasts

We describe a method for direct analysis of RNA transcribed from DNA introduced into carrot cells by electroporation. Octopine synthase RNA transcribed from the plasmid p35SOcs was detected in total and poly A(+) RNA on Northern blots and in RNA protection assays. The highest level of octopine synthase transcript was detected at approximately 8 hrs post-electroporation, although RNA could still be detected after 48 hrs. This method allows detection of foreign gene expression in a plant system and bypasses the need for reporter genes.