Enhanced photosynthesis rate in genetically engineered indica rice expressing pepc gene cloned from maize

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (pepc) gene is known to play the key role in C4 photosynthesis by catalyzing initial fixation of CO2 in C4 maize. We have introduced intact maize pepc gene in indica rice by biolistic transformation. Integration of the gene was confirmed by PCR and Southern analysis. RT-PCR and Northern blot showed expression of the gene in RNA level in transgenic plants. Immunoblot studies showed the presence of 106 kDa PEPC protein in transgenic plants. The transformants showed enhancement in photosynthesis rate in high temperature conditions.