Abstract: Tissue specific promoters can control gene expression in certain organs or tissues. Expression of foreign genes driven by tissue specific promoters can reduce the accumulation of heterologous proteins and waste of plant energy. In this paper, we reviewed current research advances in tissue promoters, including promoter structure, classification, application and related cis-acting elements. The existing problems and future prospects were also discussed.

Key words: promoter, Cis-acting elements, tissue specific promoter