Assessing Jatropha curcas pollen viability: a comparative assessment of transgenic and non-transgenic pollen under various environmental conditions using rapid staining technique

This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of pollen viability in transgenic and non-transgenic Jatropha. The findings highlight the significant influence of environmental factors, particularly temperature and UV-B exposure, on pollen longevity. The optimized double staining technique (FDA + PI) provides a reliable method for assessing pollen viability and may be useful in environmental risk evaluations of transgenic Jatropha. Given the rapid decline in pollen viability under field-relevant conditions, the likelihood of transgene flow via pollen appears limited.