Induction of streptomycin resistance in the wild tomato Lycopersicon peruvianum

A protoplast mutagenesis and cell selection system was used for the isolation of streptomycin resistant Lycopersicon peruvianum colonies. Protoplasts were treated with the mutagen N-nitroso-methylurea and could be regenerated into fertile plants, carrying the streptomycin resistant character. Several classes of streptomycin resistance could be distinguished. Reciprocal crosses between streptomycin resistant and sensitive plants showed a non-Mendelian transmission of the resistance trait. Streptomycin resistance is the first selectable and maternally inherited cell organelle marker described in tomato.