Physical methods for genetic plant transformation

► The insertion of molecules into plant cells, called transformation, opened a new future in biotechnology. ► We review the state of the art of the physical methods used for genetic plant transformation. ► The basic physics behind direct methods for genetic plant transformation are described. ► Physical transformation methods under research are also discussed. ► Electroporation, biolistics, vacuum infiltration, ultrasound, shock waves, microinjection, macroinjection, and electrophoresis are some examples of transformation methods described in this article.