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MOLECULAR METHODS USED TO ASSESS THE RISKS OF TRANSGENE FLOW; BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS
Citation:
Reichman, J R. AND L S. Watrud. MOLECULAR METHODS USED TO ASSESS THE RISKS OF TRANSGENE FLOW; BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS. Presented at EPA workshop on developing EUP's for genetically modified pesticidal crops, Washington, DC, February 9-11, 2004.
Description:
The US EPA WED has initiated a gene flow project to characterize ecological risks of gene flow from GM plants to native species. Development of molecular assays for risk characterization down to gene expression level is of high interest to the EPA. Phylogenetic analyses of amplified DNA sequences help determine evolutionary relationships within genera that contain GM species and thereby improve identification of species, hybrids and potentially compatible recipients. PCR and sequencing combined with nucleic acid hybridization assays can track presence of transgenes within individuals or populations. Real-time PCR is useful for quantification of transgenes within bulk samples and for determination of differential expression of transgenes between hybrids that may influence survival under certain selective pressures. Micro-arrays can identify indirect genomic effects of transgenes such as up or down-regulation of other genes that may affect fitness. Although these methods are powerful, it is very important to understand factors that may limit their utility. The presentation will describe methods being developed at WED for genetically modified (GM) bentgrass (Agrostis spp) and for crucifers (Brassica spp) that are expected to be generally applicable to the risk assessment of gene flow from other types of GM plants to their compatible native, weedy and crop relatives.