We have been investigating the potential protective role of polyamines (PAs) against drought stress in transgenic rice plants. Rice (Oryza sativa L. cv EYI105) plants transformed with the Datura S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (samdc) cDNA driven by the constitutive maize ubiquitin-1 (Ubi-1) promoter have been regenerated. Each independent transformant was characterized molecularly and biochemically. Plants with higher spermidine (Spd) and spermine (Spm) content were selected for drought stress experiments. Expression of endogenous PA pathway genes has also been analysed. Preliminary results indicate that recovery of the drought tolerant phenotype is linked to transgene expression and concomitant accumulation of Spd and Spm. We will present a detailed analysis of the drought tolerant phenotype in these plants and in the process, we will define crucial factors that are implicated in the response of cereal crops to abiotic stress tolerance such as drought and salinity.