Gene containment strategies for genetically modified crops

Genetically Modified Organisms

Discuss general problems with GMO (genetically modified organisms) in food.

One of the major risks of GMOs stems from pollen spread and outcrossing. Wind, animals and insects can spread pollen cover large areas. Researchers studying creeping bentgrass have found modified genes in normal grass up to 13 miles away from the source, and also within close relatives of the same genus (Genetically modified organism). Because pollen from the GMO may carry to a non-GMO crop, there is the potential for introducing the novel gene into a conventional crop (Reiger as cited in Mills, 2006). Or, pollen from a herbicide resistant GMO may cross with a compatible weed and introduce resistance in the weed. Thus, herbicide resistant crop plants may emerge in a subsequent season and be difficult to control.

Possible approaches, or solutions to problem.

Presently, management systems such as spatial and temporal isolation zones, crop barrier rows and vegetarian barriers are used to minimize direct gene flow between crops, and to minimize seed bank and volunteer populations. Although these methods can reduce pollen dispersal, weather and environmental conditions mean that some long distance pollen dispersal can still occur. For this reason, biological containment measures are being developed to control plants by inhibiting gene flow through pollen and/or seed (Eastham and Sweet). For example, outcrossing can be controlled by ensuring that the pollen of the GMO is sterile (Mills, 2006).

3) Explain interest in subject.