Abstract: The invention provides a novel method of controlling gene expression in plastids, using a peptide extension that can be fused to a desired protein, expression cassettes that include the genetic constructs, and plants comprising the novel expression systems. A nucleic acid sequence encoding a peptide extension fused in frame to a protein coding sequence. This genetic construct is subsequently inserted into the chloroplast genome, where the peptide extension increases expression of the fused protein. The present invention further describes the use of this method for increased production of cellulose-degrading enzymes in chloroplasts.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel method of controlling gene expression in plastids, using a peptide extension that can be fused to a desired protein, expression cassettes that include the genetic constructs, and plants comprising the novel expression systems. A nucleic acid sequence encoding a peptide extension fused in frame to a protein coding sequence. This genetic construct is subsequently inserted into the chloroplast genome, where the peptide extension increases expression of the fused protein. The present invention further describes the use of this method for increased production of cellulose-degrading enzymes in chloroplasts.

Abstract: Resistance genes and their encoded proteins from the wild potato, Solanum bulbocastanum, are disclosed. The genes and proteins are useful for conferring disease resistance to plants, particularly solanaceous species such as potato and tomato. In particular, the genes confer resistance to potato late blight. Compositions and methods that use the genes and proteins to enhance plant disease resistance are also disclosed, as are transgenic plants that comprise the resistance genes.

Abstract: Transgenic plants which express cellulose-degrading enzymes, methods to make the transgenic plants, and methods to use the cellulose-degrading enzymes produced by the transgenic plants are disclosed.

Abstract: A value-added composition of matter containing plant matter from transgenic alfalfa which expresses exogenous phytase activity is disclosed. The phytase activity is a gene product of an exogenous gene encoding for phytase which has been stably incorporated into the genome of alfalfa plants. The transgenic alfalfa expresses phytase activity in nutritionally-significant amounts, thereby enabling its use in animal feeds to eliminate the need for phosphorous supplementation of livestock, poultry, and fish feed rations.

Abstract: Transgenic plants which express cellulose-degrading enzymes, methods to make the transgenic plants, and methods to use the cellulose-degrading enzymes produced by the transgenic plants are disclosed.

Abstract: A value-added composition of matter containing plant matter from transgenic alfalfa which expresses exogenous phytase activity is disclosed. The phytase activity is a gene product of an exogenous gene encoding for phytase which has been stably incorporated into the genome of alfalfa plants. The transgenic alfalfa expresses phytase activity in nutritionally-significant amounts, thereby enabling its use in animal feeds to eliminate the need for phosphorous supplementation of livestock, poultry, and fish feed rations.

Abstract: A value-added composition of matter isolated from the juice of a transgenic green plant is disclosed. The composition of matter includes enzymatically-active phytase, xanthophylls, and dietary protein. The phytase is a gene product of an exogenous gene encoding for phytase which has been stably incorporated into the genome of the transgenic green plant, while the xanthophylls and the dietary protein are components native to the juice of the transgenic green plant.