This vector contains a fully functional gusA reporter construct for simple and sensitive analysis of gene function or presence in regenerated plants by GUS assay. The construct uses E.coli gusA with an intron (from the castor bean catalase gene) inside the coding sequence to ensure that expression of glucuronidase activity is derived from eukaryotic cells, not from expression by residual A.tumefaciens cells. This vector is suitable for insertion of other genes of interest containing their own promoter and terminator. Researchers can excise the gusA gene and insert their own gene of interest in its place or use these vectors to create fusions of gusA with their gene of interest. These vectors contain the pUC18 polylinker-lacZa.