*4.8. Vector Construction and Plant Transformation*

To construct the *MdSAP15* overexpression (OE) vectors, we performed RT-PCR to isolate the full-length cDNA of *MdSAP15* from fully expanded leaves of the "Golden Delicious" apple. The cDNA was cloned into pRI 101-AN plant transformation vectors that were driven by the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter. For *Arabidopsis* transformation, the recombinant plasmid described above was introduced into the "Col-0" ecotype via the *Agrobacterium tumefaciens* GV3101-mediated floral dip method. Seeds of the transgenic plants were individually harvested and screened with kanamycin monosulfate. Homozygous transgenic lines were used for further investigations.
