Articles tagged with Genetically Modified Crops
A team of Belgian philosophers and plant biotechnologists explores the widespread anti-GMO sentiment, attributing it to cognitive processes and emotional representations. They argue that the public should form opinions on GMOs on a case-by-case basis, rather than focusing on the technology itself.
A survey of genome-edited crops reveals many may not be subject to current GMO regulations due to advanced genetic engineering techniques. Bioethicists propose new models for regulation to address social issues associated with such crops.
Researchers at the University of Guelph identified a gene that can make certain plants self-pollinate, reducing the risk of genetically modified crop contamination. The discovery could also benefit perfume-makers by allowing for more control over fragrance production.
The world's first human trial of pro-vitamin A-enriched bananas will start soon, with the goal of improving the health status of millions of Ugandans. The project, led by Professor James Dale, aims to increase the level of pro-vitamin A in bananas to 20 micrograms per gram dry weight.
The European Union's current policies on genetically engineered crops are undermining its competitiveness and humanitarian activities in the developing world. The authors recommend adopting rational, science-based principles to prevent economic decline and lower standards of living across the continent.
A study by Washington State University finds that genetically modified crops have led to a 25% increase in herbicide use, driven by the emergence of glyphosate-resistant weeds. The annual herbicide usage has grown from 1.5 million pounds in 1999 to 90 million pounds in 2011.
A new study by the University of Minnesota researchers found that APHIS failed to recognize environmental impacts and made legal errors in regulating genetically engineered crops. The agency's regulatory decisions have faced criticism, leading to litigation delays in the development of new GE crops.
A new study from the University of Minnesota found that genetically modified Bt corn reduces pest losses in both transgenic and non-transgenic corn. The study found that areawide suppression of European corn borer populations resulted in estimated annual losses of $1 billion, but also benefited non-Bt corn by 28-73% in neighboring states.
A study found that Bt corn's pest suppression benefits non-Bt farmers in Wisconsin by up to 75%, with total economic benefits exceeding $6.9 billion across the Midwest. The primary benefit of Bt corn is reduced yield losses, which non-Bt farmers also experience without paying Bt technology fees.
A new study by University of Notre Dame ecologist Jennifer Tank and colleagues found that streams throughout the Midwest receive transgenic materials from corn crop byproducts six months after harvest. The research detected Cry1Ab insecticidal protein in 13% of stream sites and dissolved in 23% of water samples.
A study published in Science reveals that genetically modified cotton (Bt cotton) reduces pest populations not only among the modified crops but also among nearby unmodified crops. This finding could offer promising ideas for controlling pests and maximizing crop yields in the future.
A discussion-based scenario was shared by Lori Unruh Snyder to teach critical thinking about food biotechnology. The exercise helped students understand the conflict between those affected and policymakers, as well as regional opinions impacting the world. By debating pros and cons of biotechnology globally, students enhanced their cri...
Researchers at Zhejiang University developed a technology to create selectively terminable transgenic rice plants using RNAi cassette. This innovation allows for controlled cultivation and reduces the risk of transgene spreading, making it ideal for bioreactors and industrial applications.
A new study published in Science analyzed the environmental impact of genetically modified (GM) crops and found that they can have benefits for sustainable agriculture. The research used data from field experiments worldwide and found that Bt-crops, which produce an insecticide internally, can reduce the need for chemical spraying.
A sociocultural anthropologist found that Indian farmers' inability to test new genetically modified crops led to a breakdown in traditional farming methods. The speed of change, number of choices in the seed market, and desire for novelty resulted in fads, not testing.
Researchers Haygood, Ives, and Andow analyzed the probability of transgene escape within a given period, finding that it can happen much sooner than anticipated. Even with small leakage parameters, the risk of escape increases within ten generations.
A Cornell University researcher found that awareness and knowledge of golden rice among Filipino farming community leaders is almost nonexistent. Vitamin A deficiency affects over 100 million children worldwide, leading to preventable blindness and high mortality rates.
Researchers found that a genetically modified wheat transgene in sunflowers has little effect on wild relatives, suggesting a glacial pace of gene movement. The study suggests examining each transgene and crop on a case-by-case basis to determine potential ecological impacts.
A new study found that genetically modified crops in India produced yields up to 80% greater than non-Bt counterparts, while also reducing pesticide use. This breakthrough has implications for small-scale farmers in developing nations who struggle with crop losses due to pests.
Mathematical theory explains how high dose/refuge strategy works, allowing farmers to protect crops in refuges. The analysis leads to unexpected results, including minimal impact of insecticides on refuge value for some Bt crops and pests.
Researchers found transgenic DNA in four out of six native Mexican corn samples, including the presence of a popular insecticidal bacterium. The contamination is believed to have occurred through multiple pollinations over time, threatening the region's diverse genetic heritage.
Prominent plant scientists share their perspectives on genetically modified crops, exploring their potential to address world hunger and improve nutrition. The publication addresses concerns over safety, regulation, and social impact, offering a science-based understanding of the GMO controversy.
Cooperative Extension specialists from the University of Delaware discussed the scope of issues surrounding genetically modified foods, including science, ethics, and production. They addressed concerns about resistance to GMOs in European Common Market and debated how to advise farmers on planting GMO crops for next year's harvest.
Two prominent entomologists warn that recent studies on genetically engineered crops have distorted the debate, potentially having profound consequences for science and public policy. The experts question the methodology used in these studies, particularly one claiming Bt corn kills monarch butterfly larvae in laboratory tests.
The article explores how biotechnology is changing agriculture, including the use of transgenic crops and genetic engineering. While these technologies offer benefits like effective pest control, they also raise concerns about patenting life forms and potential problems with pest resistance.
Researchers at Purdue University have successfully modified yeast to ferment both glucose and xylose from plant matter, producing more ethanol from the same amount of material. This breakthrough could make ethanol production cheaper and more sustainable.
Scientists found that genetically-engineered oilseed rape produces hybrid, transgenic weeds resistant to herbicides, which reproduce as prolifically as unaltered weeds. These weeds may carry beneficial traits from the crop parent and still exhibit weed-like characteristics.