Abstract: The subject invention provides novel plants that are not only resistant to 2,4-D, but also to pyridyloxyacetate herbicides. Heretofore, there was no expectation or suggestion that a plant with both of these advantageous properties could be produced by the introduction of a single gene. The subject invention also includes plants that produce one or more enzymes of the subject invention “stacked” together with one or more other herbicide resistance genes. The subject invention enables novel combinations of herbicides to be used in new ways. Furthermore, the subject invention provides novel methods of preventing the development of, and controlling, strains of weeds that are resistant to one or more herbicides such as glyphosate. The preferred enzyme and gene for use according to the subject invention are referred to herein as AAD-12 (AryloxyAlkanoate Dioxygenase). This highly novel discovery is the basis of significant herbicide tolerant crop trait and selectable marker opportunities.

Abstract: The subject invention provides totipotent, chlorophyllous, cell cultures of maize. In addition, the methods of producing such cultures are applicable to other related species, including cereals such as rice, oats, barley, and heat. The subject cultures are valuable for herbicide studies, studies for enhancing photosynthesis, and genetic manipulation, such as plastid transformation. The methods of the subject invention are capable of providing high percentages of totipotent cells. These cells are capable of sustained cell division and are competent for regeneration over long periods; they provide high-quality target tissue for nuclear and organelle transformation. The invention also describes methods for the introduction of heterologous DNA into the chloroplast genome. The present invention also provides methods, vectors, and gene constructs for enhancing expression of a recombinant nucleic acid sequence in transgenic plants and plant tissues.