Visual assays of transformation in plant cells

We discuss the utility of visual assays for the expression of genes introduced into plant cells. Such assays are valuable for both transient and stable gene expression studies. We review the properties of three visual assays that are already in use or under development phase for maize and other cereal crops. These assays depend on the expression of beta-galactosidase, luciferase, or structural genes required for anthocyanin pigment biosynthesis.