1
|
Diaz-Silveira GL, Deutsch J, Little DP. DNA Barcode Authentication of Devil's Claw Herbal Dietary Supplements. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:plants10102005. [PMID: 34685813 PMCID: PMC8540935 DOI: 10.3390/plants10102005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Devil's claw is the vernacular name for a genus of medicinal plants that occur in the Kalahari Desert and Namibia Steppes. The genus comprises two distinct species: Harpagophytum procumbens and H. zeyheri. Although the European pharmacopeia considers the species interchangeable, recent studies have demonstrated that H. procumbens and H. zeyheri are chemically distinct and should not be treated as the same species. Further, the sale of H. zeyheri as an herbal supplement is not legal in the United States. Four markers were tested for their ability to distinguish H. procumbens from H. zeyheri: rbcL, matK, nrITS2, and psbA-trnH. Of these, only psbA-trnH was successful. A novel DNA mini-barcode assay that produces a 178-base amplicon in Harpagophytum (specificity = 1.00 [95% confidence interval = 0.80-1.00]; sensitivity = 1.00 [95% confidence interval = 0.75-1.00]) was used to estimate mislabeling frequency in a sample of 23 devil's claw supplements purchased in the United States. PCR amplification failed in 13% of cases. Among the 20 fully-analyzable supplements: H. procumbens was not detected in 75%; 25% contained both H. procumbens and H. zeyheri; none contained only H. procumbens. We recommend this novel mini-barcode region as a standard method of quality control in the manufacture of devil's claw supplements.
Collapse
|
2
|
Sattarzadeh A, Rahnama H, Nikmard M, Ghareyazie B. Detection of genetically modified food in digesta and organs of rats fed transgenic potato. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND FEED SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.22358/jafs/86717/2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
3
|
Çatalbaş T, Savaş HB, Gültekin F. Genetiği Değiştirilmiş Gıdalar ve İnsan Sağlığına Etkileri. ACTA MEDICA ALANYA 2017. [DOI: 10.30565/medalanya.288741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
|
4
|
Nadal A, De Giacomo M, Einspanier R, Kleter G, Kok E, McFarland S, Onori R, Paris A, Toldrà M, van Dijk J, Wal JM, Pla M. Exposure of livestock to GM feeds: Detectability and measurement. Food Chem Toxicol 2017; 117:13-35. [PMID: 28847764 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2017.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This review explores the possibilities to determine livestock consumption of genetically modified (GM) feeds/ingredients including detection of genetically modified organism (GMO)-related DNA or proteins in animal samples, and the documentary system that is in place for GM feeds under EU legislation. The presence and level of GMO-related DNA and proteins can generally be readily measured in feeds, using established analytical methods such as polymerase chain reaction and immuno-assays, respectively. Various technical challenges remain, such as the simultaneous detection of multiple GMOs and the identification of unauthorized GMOs for which incomplete data on the inserted DNA may exist. Given that transfer of specific GMO-related DNA or protein from consumed feed to the animal had seldom been observed, this cannot serve as an indicator of the individual animal's prior exposure to GM feeds. To explore whether common practices, information exchange and the specific GM feed traceability system in the EU would allow to record GM feed consumption, the dairy chain in Catalonia, where GM maize is widely grown, was taken as an example. It was thus found that this system would neither enable determination of an animal's consumption of specific GM crops, nor would it allow for quantitation of the exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Nadal
- Institute for Food and Agricultural Technology (INTEA), University of Girona, Campus Montilivi (EPS-1), 17003 Girona, Spain.
| | - Marzia De Giacomo
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, GMO and Mycotoxins Unit, Italian National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ralf Einspanier
- Institute of Veterinary Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19b, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Gijs Kleter
- RIKILT Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708WB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Kok
- RIKILT Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708WB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah McFarland
- Institute of Veterinary Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19b, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Roberta Onori
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, GMO and Mycotoxins Unit, Italian National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alain Paris
- Sorbonne Universités, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, UMR7245 MCAM, Paris, France
| | - Mònica Toldrà
- Institute for Food and Agricultural Technology (INTEA), University of Girona, Campus Montilivi (EPS-1), 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Jeroen van Dijk
- RIKILT Wageningen University & Research, Akkermaalsbos 2, 6708WB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jean-Michel Wal
- AgroParisTech, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), Paris, France
| | - Maria Pla
- Institute for Food and Agricultural Technology (INTEA), University of Girona, Campus Montilivi (EPS-1), 17003 Girona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
|
6
|
Cook D, Pfister JA, Constantino JR, Roper JM, Gardner DR, Welch KD, Hammond ZJ, Green BT. Development of a PCR-Based Method for Detection of Delphinium Species in Poisoned Cattle. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2015; 63:1220-1225. [PMID: 25569292 DOI: 10.1021/jf5053496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Toxic plants such as Delphinium spp. (i.e., larkspur) are a significant cause of livestock losses worldwide. Correctly determining the causative agent responsible for the death of an animal, whether by disease, poisonous plant, or other means, is critical in developing strategies to prevent future losses. The objective of this study was to develop an alternative diagnostic tool to microscopy and analytical chemistry to determine whether a particular poisonous plant was ingested. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a tool that may allow detection of the genetic material from a specific plant within a complex matrix such as rumen contents. A pair of oligonucleotide primers specific to Delphinium spp. (i.e., larkspur) was developed; using these primers, a PCR product was detected in samples from an in vivo, in vitro, and in vivo/in vitro coupled digestion of Delphinium occidentale. Lastly, larkspur was detected in a matrix of ruminal material where the amount of larkspur was far less than what one would expect to find in the rumen contents of a poisoned animal. The PCR-based technique holds promise to diagnose larkspur and perhaps other toxic plant caused losses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cook
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - James A Pfister
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - John R Constantino
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - Jessie M Roper
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - Dale R Gardner
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - Kevin D Welch
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - Zachary J Hammond
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| | - Benedict T Green
- USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory , 1150 East 1400 North, Logan, Utah 84341, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Scientific Opinion on applications (EFSA-GMO-UK-2008-57 and EFSA-GMO-RX-MON15985) for the placing on the market of insect-resistant genetically modified cotton MON 15985 for food and feed uses, import and processing, and for the renewal of authorisation o. EFSA J 2014. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
8
|
Little DP. A DNA mini-barcode for land plants. Mol Ecol Resour 2013; 14:437-46. [PMID: 24286499 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.12194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Revised: 10/11/2013] [Accepted: 10/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Small portions of the barcode region - mini-barcodes - may be used in place of full-length barcodes to overcome DNA degradation for samples with poor DNA preservation. 591,491,286 rbcL mini-barcode primer combinations were electronically evaluated for PCR universality, and two novel highly universal sets of priming sites were identified. Novel and published rbcL mini-barcode primers were evaluated for PCR amplification [determined with a validated electronic simulation (n = 2765) and empirically (n = 188)], Sanger sequence quality [determined empirically (n = 188)], and taxonomic discrimination [determined empirically (n = 30,472)]. PCR amplification for all mini-barcodes, as estimated by validated electronic simulation, was successful for 90.2-99.8% of species. Overall Sanger sequence quality for mini-barcodes was very low - the best mini-barcode tested produced sequences of adequate quality (B20 ≥ 0.5) for 74.5% of samples. The majority of mini-barcodes provide correct identifications of families in excess of 70.1% of the time. Discriminatory power noticeably decreased at lower taxonomic levels. At the species level, the discriminatory power of the best mini-barcode was less than 38.2%. For samples believed to contain DNA from only one species, an investigator should attempt to sequence, in decreasing order of utility and probability of success, mini-barcodes F (rbcL1/rbcLB), D (F52/R193) and K (F517/R604). For samples believed to contain DNA from more than one species, an investigator should amplify and sequence mini-barcode D (F52/R193).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damon P Little
- Cullman Program for Molecular Systematics, The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY, 10458, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
|
10
|
Scientific Opinion on an application from Pioneer Hi‐Bred International and Dow AgroSciences LLC (EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2005‐23) for placing on the market of genetically modified maize 59122 for food and feed uses, import, processing and cultivation under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003. EFSA J 2013. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2013.3135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
|
11
|
Fate of transgenic DNA and evaluation of metabolic effects in goats fed genetically modified soybean and in their offsprings. Animal 2012; 4:1662-71. [PMID: 22445119 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731110000728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of DNA fragments in blood and milk from goats fed conventional (control) or Roundup Ready® soybean meal solvent extracted (s.e.; treated) was investigated by using a polymerase chain reaction approach. The same investigation was carried out on blood, skeletal muscle and organs from kids of both groups fed only dams' milk until weaning. Moreover, the possible effects on cell metabolism were evaluated by determination of several specific enzymes in serum, heart, skeletal muscle, liver and kidney. Fragments of the multicopy chloroplast (trnL) gene were found in blood and milk samples from goats of both groups. In kids, the chloroplast fragments were found in samples of both groups. In samples, which proved positive for the presence of chloroplast DNA, fragments of the specific soybean single copy gene (lectin) were detected in several blood and milk samples. The same fragment was also found in control and treated groups of kids. Transgenic fragments were not found in those samples, which were found positive for chloroplast fragments of control groups of either goats or kids. On the contrary, in blood and milk of treated goats, fragments both of the 35S promoter and the CP4 epsps gene were detected. These fragments were also found in treated kids with a significant detection of the 35S promoter in liver, kidney and blood, and of the CP4 epsps gene fragment in liver, kidney, heart and muscle. A significant increase in lactic dehydrogenase, mainly concerning the lactic dehydrogenase-1 isoenzyme was found in heart, skeletal muscle and kidney of treated kids, thus suggesting a change in the local production of the enzyme. Finally, no significant differences were detected concerning kid body and organ weight.
Collapse
|
12
|
Scientific Opinion on an application (EFSA‐GMO‐NL‐2005‐24) for the placing on the market of the herbicide tolerant genetically modified soybean 40‐3‐2 for cultivation under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto. EFSA J 2012. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2012.2753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
|
13
|
Nordgård L, Brusetti L, Raddadi N, Traavik T, Averhoff B, Nielsen KM. An investigation of horizontal transfer of feed introduced DNA to the aerobic microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract of rats. BMC Res Notes 2012; 5:170. [PMID: 22463741 PMCID: PMC3364145 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-5-170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 04/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Horizontal gene transfer through natural transformation of members of the microbiota of the lower gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of mammals has not yet been described. Insufficient DNA sequence similarity for homologous recombination to occur has been identified as the major barrier to interspecies transfer of chromosomal DNA in bacteria. In this study we determined if regions of high DNA similarity between the genomes of the indigenous bacteria in the GIT of rats and feed introduced DNA could lead to homologous recombination and acquisition of antibiotic resistance genes. RESULTS Plasmid DNA with two resistance genes (nptI and aadA) and regions of high DNA similarity to 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA genes present in a broad range of bacterial species present in the GIT, were constructed and added to standard rat feed. Six rats, with a normal microbiota, were fed DNA containing pellets daily over four days before sampling of the microbiota from the different GI compartments (stomach, small intestine, cecum and colon). In addition, two rats were included as negative controls. Antibiotic resistant colonies growing on selective media were screened for recombination with feed introduced DNA by PCR targeting unique sites in the putatively recombined regions. No transformants were identified among 441 tested isolates. CONCLUSIONS The analyses showed that extensive ingestion of DNA (100 μg plasmid) per day did not lead to increased proportions of kanamycin resistant bacteria, nor did it produce detectable transformants among the aerobic microbiota examined for 6 rats (detection limit < 1 transformant per 1,1 × 10(8) cultured bacteria). The key methodological challenges to HGT detection in animal feedings trials are identified and discussed. This study is consistent with other studies suggesting natural transformation is not detectable in the GIT of mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lise Nordgård
- GenØk, Centre for Biosafety, Science Park, 9294 Tromsø, Norway
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Scientific Opinion on applications EFSA‐GMO‐UK‐2005‐09 and EFSA‐GMO‐RX‐MON531×MON1445 for the placing on the market of food and feed produced from or containing ingredients produced from insect‐resistant and herbicide‐tolerant genetically modified cotton MON 531 × MON 1445, and for the renewal of authorisation of existing products produced from cotton MON 531 × MON 1445, both under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto. EFSA J 2012. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2012.2608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
15
|
Rizzi A, Raddadi N, Sorlini C, Nordgrd L, Nielsen KM, Daffonchio D. The Stability and Degradation of Dietary DNA in the Gastrointestinal Tract of Mammals: Implications for Horizontal Gene Transfer and the Biosafety of GMOs. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2012; 52:142-61. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2010.499480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
16
|
Scientific Opinion on application (EFSA-GMO-UK-2008-60) for placing on the market of genetically modified herbicide tolerant maize GA21 for food and feed uses, import, processing and cultivation under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Syngenta Seeds. EFSA J 2011. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2011.2480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
|
17
|
Scientific Opinion on application EFSA-GMO-RX-MON1445 for renewal of the authorisation for continued marketing of cottonseed oil, food additives, feed materials and feed additives produced from cotton MON 1445 that were notified as existing products under. EFSA J 2011. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2011.2479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
18
|
Scientific Opinion on application (EFSA-GMO-CZ-2008-54) for placing on the market of genetically modified insect resistant and herbicide tolerant maize MON 88017 for cultivation under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto. EFSA J 2011. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2011.2428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
|
19
|
Scientific Opinion on application EFSA‐GMO‐RX‐MON531 for renewal of the authorisation for continued marketing of existing cottonseed oil, food additives, feed materials and feed additives produced from MON 531 cotton that were notified under Articles 8(1)(a), 8(1)(b) and 20(1)(b) of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto. EFSA J 2011. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2011.2373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
20
|
Influence of transgenic Bt176 and non-transgenic corn silage on the structure of rumen bacterial communities. ANN MICROBIOL 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s13213-011-0215-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
|
21
|
Tudisco R, Calabrò S, Bovera F, Cutrignelli M, Nizza A, Piccolo V, Infascelli F. Detection of plant species-specific dna (barley and soybean) in blood, muscle tissue, organs and gastrointestinal contents of rabbit. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2010. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2010.18.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to detect plant DNA sequences from low copy number genes of barley grain and soybean meal, the latter being subjected to solvent extraction process, in blood, liver, kidney, spleen, muscle tissue and digesta (duodenum, caecum and faeces from rectal ampulla) of rabbits. For fattening, Hyla rabbits (20 males and 20 females) were fed a diet including barley grain (15%) and soybean meal (12%). Animals were slaughtered at 74 d of age (2 ± 0.2 kg live weight) and samples collected from each animal. The quality of each DNA sample was verified using the UNIV P/Q primers used to amplify a mammalian specifi c portion of mtDNA 16S rRNA gene. The presence of plant DNA was subsequently ascertained on the same DNA samples, as well as on barley and soybean (control). Two classes of plant DNA sequences were monitored via real-time PCR, using SYBR® Green I Dye: a high copy number chloroplast gene (trnl) and a low copy number specific for barley (metal-dependent hydrolase-like protein) and soybean (lectin) genes. Melting curve analysis was used to identify the PCR products. The chloroplast fragment detection frequency was higher (P<0.01) in muscle (90%), liver (80%), kidney (80%) and spleen (80%) than in blood (40%) and digesta samples. In the latter, chloroplast DNA was found in 40 and 30% of duodenum and caecum contents respectively, and in 30% of faeces. The specificity of the amplicons obtained was checked by sequencing and annotation. In the samples positive for chloroplast fragments, the frequency of detection of barley specific sequence was higher (P<0.01) in liver (62.5%), kidney (62.5%), spleen (62.5%) and digesta (100%) than in blood (25%) and muscle (22.2%) samples. The soybean lectin gene was not detected in animal samples, although it was seen in plant samples. Results confirm that, except for gastrointestinal tract (GIT), plant single copy genes are more difficult to identify in animal samples.
Collapse
|
22
|
Batista R, Oliveira MM. Facts and fiction of genetically engineered food. Trends Biotechnol 2009; 27:277-86. [PMID: 19324440 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2009.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2008] [Revised: 01/23/2009] [Accepted: 01/30/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The generation of genetically engineered (GE) foods has been raising several concerns and controversies that divide not only the general public but also the scientific community. The fear and importance of the new technology, as well as commercial interests, have supported many of the ongoing discussions. The recent increase in the number of GE foods approved for import into the European Union and the increasingly global commercial food trades justify revisiting the facts and fiction surrounding this technology with the aim of increasing public awareness for well-informed decisions. Techniques that have recently become available for assessing food quality and its impact on human health, as well as the wealth of scientific data previously generated, clearly support the safety of commercialized GE products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Batista
- National Institute of Health, Av. Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is the stable transfer of genetic material from one organism to another without reproduction or human intervention. Transfer occurs by the passage of donor genetic material across cellular boundaries, followed by heritable incorporation to the genome of the recipient organism. In addition to conjugation, transformation and transduction, other diverse mechanisms of DNA and RNA uptake occur in nature. The genome of almost every organism reveals the footprint of many ancient HGT events. Most commonly, HGT involves the transmission of genes on viruses or mobile genetic elements. HGT first became an issue of public concern in the 1970s through the natural spread of antibiotic resistance genes amongst pathogenic bacteria, and more recently with commercial production of genetically modified (GM) crops. However, the frequency of HGT from plants to other eukaryotes or prokaryotes is extremely low. The frequency of HGT to viruses is potentially greater, but is restricted by stringent selection pressures. In most cases the occurrence of HGT from GM crops to other organisms is expected to be lower than background rates. Therefore, HGT from GM plants poses negligible risks to human health or the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Keese
- Office of the Gene Technology Regulator, GPO Box 9848 Canberra, ACT 2601 [corrected] Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
A three-year longitudinal study on the effects of a diet containing genetically modified Bt176 maize on the health status and performance of sheep. Livest Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2007.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
25
|
Nordgård L, Nguyen T, Midtvedt T, Benno Y, Traavik T, Nielsen KM. Lack of detectable DNA uptake by bacterial gut isolates grown in vitro and by Acinetobacter baylyi colonizing rodents in vivo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 6:149-60. [PMID: 17961488 DOI: 10.1051/ebr:2007029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Biological risk assessment of food containing recombinant DNA has exposed knowledge gaps related to the general fate of DNA in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Here, a series of experiments is presented that were designed to determine if genetic transformation of the naturally competent bacterium Acinetobacter baylyi BD413 occurs in the GIT of mice and rats, with feed-introduced bacterial DNA containing a kanamycin resistance gene (nptII). Strain BD413 was found in various gut locations in germ-free mice at 10(3)-10(5) CFU per gram GIT content 24-48 h after administration. However, subsequent DNA exposure of the colonized mice did not result in detectable bacterial transformants, with a detection limit of 1 transformant per 10(3)-10(5) bacteria. Further attempts to increase the likelihood of detection by introducing weak positive selection with kanamycin of putative transformants arising in vivo during a 4-week-long feeding experiment (where the mice received DNA and the recipient cells regularly) did not yield transformants either. Moreover, the in vitro exposure of actively growing A. baylyi cells to gut contents from the stomach, small intestine, cecum or colon contents of rats (with a normal microbiota) fed either purified DNA (50 microg) or bacterial cell lysates did not produce bacterial transformants. The presence of gut content of germfree mice was also highly inhibitory to transformation of A. baylyi, indicating that microbially-produced nucleases are not responsible for the sharp 500- to 1,000,000-fold reduction of transformation frequencies seen. Finally, a range of isolates from the genera Enterococcus, Streptococcus and Bifidobacterium spp. was examined for competence expression in vitro, without yielding any transformants. In conclusion, model choice and methodological constraints severely limit the sample size and, hence, transfer frequencies that can be measured experimentally in the GIT. Our observations suggest the contents of the GIT shield or adsorb DNA, preventing detectable exposure of feed-derived DNA fragments to competent bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lise Nordgård
- Norwegian Institute of Gene Ecology, Science Park, 9294, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ferrini AM, Mannoni V, Pontieri E, Pourshaban M. Longer resistance of some DNA traits from BT176 maize to gastric juice from gastrointestinal affected patients. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2007; 20:111-8. [PMID: 17346434 DOI: 10.1177/039463200702000113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of antibiotic resistance marker genes in genetically engineered plants is one of the most controversial issues related to Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)-containing food, raising concern about the possibility that these markers could increase the pool of antibiotic resistance genes. This study investigates the in vitro survival of genes bla and cryIA(b) of maize Bt176 in human gastric juice samples. Five samples of gastric juice were collected from patients affected by gastro-esophageal reflux or celiac disease and three additional samples were obtained by pH modification with NaHCO3. DNA was extracted from maize Bt176 and incubated with samples of gastric juices at different times. The survival of the target traits (bla gene, whole 1914 bp gene cry1A(b), and its 211 bp fragment) was determined using PCR. The stability of the target genes was an inverse function of their lengths in all the samples. Survival in samples from untreated subjects was below the normal physiological time of gastric digestion. On the contrary, survival time in samples from patients under anti-acid drug treatment or in samples whose pH was modified, resulted strongly increased. Our data indicate the possibility that in particular cases the survival time could be so delayed that, as a consequence, some traits of DNA could reach the intestine. In general, this aspect must be considered for vulnerable consumers (people suffering from gastrointestinal diseases related to altered digestive functionality, physiological problems or drug side-effects) in the risk analysis usually referred to healthy subjects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A M Ferrini
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Centre for Food Quality and Risk Assessment, Rome, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Murray SR, Butler RC, Hardacre AK, Timmerman-Vaughan GM. Use of quantitative real-time PCR to estimate maize endogenous DNA degradation after cooking and extrusion or in food products. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2007; 55:2231-9. [PMID: 17315886 DOI: 10.1021/jf0636061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is being used increasingly to detect DNA sequences for food quality testing for GM content, microbial contamination, and ingredient content. However, food processing often results in DNA degradation and therefore may affect the suitability of PCR or even DNA sequence detection for food quality assurance. This paper describes a novel approach using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to estimate the extent of DNA degradation. With use of two maize endogenous nuclear sequences, sets of four qPCR assays were developed to amplify target sequences ranging from<100 bp to approximately 1000 bp. The maize nuclear sequences used encode chloroplastic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and cell wall invertase. The utility of the qPCR approach for quantifying the effective concentration of maize DNA that is needed to amplify variable length DNA sequences was demonstrated using samples of maize cornmeal cooked in water for variable times, extrusion products developed using different barrel temperature and torque settings, and a range of food products from supermarket shelves. Results showed that maize DNA was substantially degraded by a number of processing procedures, including cooking for 5 min or more, extrusion at high temperatures and/or high torque settings, and in most processed foods from supermarket shelves. Processing also reduced the effective concentration of DNA sequences capable of directing amplification of the <100 bp assays as well, particularly after popping of popping corn or extrusion at a combination of high temperature and torque settings. The approach for quantifying DNA degradation described in this paper may also be of use in disciplines where understanding the extent of DNA degradation is important, such as in environmental, forensic, or historical samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Murray
- New Zealand Institute for Crop & Food Research Limited, P.O. Box 4704, Christchurch, New Zealand.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sharma R, Alexander TW, John SJ, Forster RJ, McAllister TA. Relative stability of transgene DNA fragments from GM rapeseed in mixed ruminal cultures. Br J Nutr 2007; 91:673-81. [PMID: 15137918 DOI: 10.1079/bjn20041100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The use of transgenic crops as feeds for ruminant animals has prompted study of the possible uptake of transgene fragments by ruminal micro-organisms and/or intestinal absorption of fragments surviving passage through the rumen. The persistence in buffered ruminal contents of seven different recombinant DNA fragments from GM rapeseed expressing the5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase(EPSPS) transgene was tracked using PCR. Parental and transgenic (i.e. glyphosphate-tolerant; Roundup Ready®, Monsanto Company, St Louis, MO, USA) rapeseed were incubated for 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 h as whole seeds, cracked seeds, rapeseed meal, and as pelleted, barley-based diets containing 65 g rapeseed meal/kg. The seven transgene fragments ranged from 179 to 527 bp and spanned the entire 1363 bp EPSPS transgene. A 180 bpribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase(Rubisco) small subunit fragment and a 466 bp 16S rDNA fragment were used as controls for endogenous rapeseed DNA and bacterial DNA respectively. The limit of detection of the PCR assay, established using negative controls spiked with known quantities of DNA, was 12·5 pg. Production of gas and NH3was monitored throughout the incubation and confirmed activein vitrofermentation. Bacterial DNA was detected in all sample types at all time points. Persistence patterns of endogenous (Rubisco) and recombinant (EPSPS) rapeseed DNA were inversely related to substrate digestibility (amplifiable for 48, 8 and 4 h in whole or cracked seeds, meal and diets respectively), but did not differ between parental and GM rapeseed, nor among fragments. Detection of fragments was representative of persistence of the whole transgene. NoEPSPSfragments were amplifiable in microbial DNA, suggesting that transformation had not occurred during the 48 h incubation. Uptake of transgenic DNA fragments by ruminal bacteria is probably precluded or time-limited by rapid degradation of plant DNA upon plant cell lysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana Sharma
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Center, PO Box 3000, Lethbridge, Alberta Canada T1J 4B1
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Tudisco R, Lombardi P, Bovera F, dˇAngelo D, Cutrignelli MI, Mastellone V, Terzi V, Avallone L, Infascelli F. Genetically modified soya bean in rabbit feeding: detection of DNA fragments and evaluation of metabolic effects by enzymatic analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1079/asc200530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe presence of DNA fragments in tissues from rabbits given genetically modified (GM) soya-bean meal (solvent extracted) was investigated by using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) approach. Moreover, the possible effects on cell metabolism were evaluated by determination of several specific enzymes in serum, heart, skeletal muscle, liver and kidney. The chloroplast sequence for tRNA Leu by using the Clor1/Clor2 primers designed on chloroplast trnL sequence was clearly detected. On the contrary, two couples of species specific primers for conventional (Le1-5/Le 1-3 which amplifies the soya bean lectin gene) and genetically modified (35S1/35S2 which amplifies the 35S CMV promoter that is present in the genomic structure of GM soya bean) soya bean were not found in all samples. No differences in enzyme levels were detected in serum, but a significant increase of lactic dehydrogenase, mainly concerning the LDH1 isoenzyme was found in particular in kidney and heart but not in the muscle, thus suggesting a potential alteration in the local production of the enzyme. Finally, no significant differences were detected concerning body weight, fresh organ weights and no sexual differences were detected.
Collapse
|
30
|
Koch M, Strobel E, Tebbe CC, Heritage J, Breves G, Huber K. Transgenic maize in the presence of ampicillin modifies the metabolic profile and microbial population structure of bovine rumen fluidin vitro. Br J Nutr 2007; 96:820-9. [PMID: 17092369 DOI: 10.1017/bjn20061889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Recently, transgenic crops have been considered as possible donors of transgenes that could be taken up by micro-organisms under appropriate conditions. In anin vitrorumen simulation system, effects of ampicillin on microbial communities growing either on rumen contents with transgenic maize carrying a gene that confers resistance to ampicillin or its isogenic counterpart as substrates were examined continuously over 13 d. Rate of production of SCFA was measured to determine functional changes in the rumen model and single-strand conformational polymorphism was used to detect alterations in structure of the microbial community. Rumen contents treated with ampicillin displayed a marked decrease in the rate of production of SCFA and diversity of the microbial community was reduced severely. In the presence of transgenic maize, however, the patterns of change of rumen micro-organisms and their metabolic profiles were different from that of rumen fluid incorporating maize bred conventionally. Recovery of propionate production was observed both in the rumen fluid fed transgenic and conventional maize after a delay of several days but recovery occurred earlier in fermenters fed transgenic maize. Alterations in the microbial population structures resulting from the ampicillin challenge were not reversed during the experimental run although there was evidence of adaptation of the microbial communities over time in the presence of the antibiotic, showing that populations with different microbial structures could resume a pre-challenge metabolic profile following the introduction of ampicillin, irrespective of the source of the plant material in the growth medium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Koch
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Bischofsholer Damm 15/102, 30273 Hannover, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kazimierczak KA, Scott KP. Antibiotics and Resistance Genes: Influencing the Microbial Ecosystem in the Gut. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2007; 62:269-92. [PMID: 17869608 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-2164(07)62009-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna A Kazimierczak
- Microbial Ecology, Gut Health Division, Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Domingo JL. Toxicity studies of genetically modified plants: a review of the published literature. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2007; 47:721-33. [PMID: 17987446 DOI: 10.1080/10408390601177670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
According to the information reported by the WHO, the genetically modified (GM) products that are currently on the international market have all passed risk assessments conducted by national authorities. These assessments have not indicated any risk to human health. In spite of this clear statement, it is quite amazing to note that the review articles published in international scientific journals during the current decade did not find, or the number was particularly small, references concerning human and animal toxicological/health risks studies on GM foods. In this paper, the scientific information concerning the potential toxicity of GM/transgenic plants using the Medline database is reviewed. Studies about the safety of the potential use of potatoes, corn, soybeans, rice, cucumber, tomatoes, sweet pepper, peas, and canola plants for food and feed were included. The number of references was surprisingly limited. Moreover, most published studies were not performed by the biotechnology companies that produce these products. This review can be concluded raising the following question: where is the scientific evidence showing that GM plants/food are toxicologically safe?
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José L Domingo
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Rovira I Virgili University, San Lorenzo, Reus, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ho MW, Cummins J, Saunders P. GM food nightmare unfolding in the regulatory sham. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY IN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/08910600701343781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mae-Wan Ho
- Institute of Science in Society, London, UK
| | - Joe Cummins
- Institute of Science in Society, London, UK
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Saunders
- Institute of Science in Society, London, UK
- Department of Mathematics, King's College, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Brinkmann N, Tebbe CC. Leaf-feeding larvae of Manduca sexta (Insecta, Lepidoptera) drastically reduce copy numbers of aadA antibiotic resistance genes from transplastomic tobacco but maintain intact aadA genes in their feces. ENVIRONMENTAL BIOSAFETY RESEARCH 2007; 6:121-33. [PMID: 17961486 DOI: 10.1051/ebr:2007028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of insect larval feeding on the fate and genetic transformability of recombinant DNA from a transplastomic plant. Leaves of tobacco plants with an aadA antibiotic resistance gene inserted into their chloroplast genome were incubated with larvae of the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta (Lepidoptera). The specifically designed Acinetobacter strain BD413 pBAB(2) was chosen to analyze the functional integrity of the aadA transgene for natural transformation after gut passages. No gene transfer was detected after simultaneous feeding of leaves and the Acinetobacter BD413 pBAB(2) as a recipient, even though 15% of ingested Acinetobacter BD413 cells could be recovered as viable cells from feces 6 h after feeding. Results with real-time PCR indicated that an average of 98.2 to 99.99% of the aadA gene was degraded during the gut passage, but the range in the number of aadA genes in feces of larvae fed with transplastomic leaves was enormous, varying from 5 x 10(6) to 1 x 10(9) copies.g(-1). DNA extracted from feces of larvae fed with transplastomic leaves was still able to transform externally added competent Acinetobacter BD413 pBAB(2) in vitro. Transformation frequencies with concentrated feces DNA were in the same range as those found with leaves (10(-4)-10(-6) transformants per recipient) or purified plasmid DNA (10(-3)-10(-7)). The presence of functionally intact DNA was also qualitatively observed after incubation of 30 mg freshly shed feces directly with competent Acinetobacter BD413 pBAB(2), demonstrating that aadA genes in feces have a potential to undergo further horizontal gene transfer under environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Brinkmann
- Institute of Agroecology, Federal Agricultural Research Centre (FAL), Bundesallee 50, 38116, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Fate of feed plant DNA monitored in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Livest Sci 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2006.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
36
|
Sharma R, Damgaard D, Alexander TW, Dugan MER, Aalhus JL, Stanford K, McAllister TA. Detection of transgenic and endogenous plant DNA in digesta and tissues of sheep and pigs fed Roundup Ready canola meal. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2006; 54:1699-709. [PMID: 16506822 DOI: 10.1021/jf052459o] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The persistence of plant-derived recombinant DNA in sheep and pigs fed genetically modified (Roundup Ready) canola was assessed by PCR and Southern hybridization analysis of DNA extracted from digesta, gastrointestinal (GI) tract tissues, and visceral organs. Sheep (n = 11) and pigs (n = 36) were fed to slaughter on diets containing 6.5 or 15% Roundup Ready canola. Native plant DNA (high- and low-copy-number gene fragments) and the cp4 epsps transgene that encodes 5-enolpyruvyl shikimate-3-phosphate synthase were tracked in ruminal, abomasal, and large intestinal digesta and in tissue from the esophagus, rumen, abomasum, small and large intestine, liver, and kidney of sheep and in cecal content and tissue from the duodenum, cecum, liver, spleen, and kidney of pigs. High-copy chloroplast-specific DNA (a 520-bp fragment) was detected in all digesta samples, the majority (89-100%) of intestinal tissues, and at least one of each visceral organ sample (frequencies of 3-27%) from sheep and swine. Low-copy rubisco fragments (186- and 540-bp sequences from the small subunit) were present at slightly lower, variable frequencies in digesta (18-82%) and intestinal tissues (9-27% of ovine and 17-25% of porcine samples) and infrequently in visceral organs (1 of 88 ovine samples; 3 of 216 porcine samples). Each of the five cp4 epsps transgene fragments (179-527 bp) surveyed was present in at least 27% of ovine large intestinal content samples (maximum = 64%) and at least 33% of porcine cecal content samples (maximum = 75%). In sheep, transgene fragments were more common in intestinal digesta than in ruminal or abomasal content. Transgene fragments were detected in 0 (esophagus) to 3 (large intestine) GI tract tissues from the 11 sheep and in 0-10 of the duodenal and cecal tissues collected from 36 pigs. The feed-ingested recombinant DNA was not detected in visceral tissues (liver, kidney) of lambs or in the spleen from pigs. Of note, however, one liver and one kidney sample from the pigs (different animals) were positive for a 278-bp fragment of the transgenic cp4 epsps (denoted F3). Examination of genomic libraries from these tissues yielded no conclusive information regarding integration of the fragment into porcine DNA. This study confirms that feed-ingested DNA fragments (endogenous and transgenic) do survive to the terminal GI tract and that uptake into gut epithelial tissues does occur. A very low frequency of transmittance to visceral tissue was confirmed in pigs, but not in sheep. It is recognized that the low copy number of transgenes in GM feeds is a challenge to their detection in tissues, but there was no evidence to suggest that recombinant DNA would be processed in the gut in any manner different from endogenous feed-ingested genetic material.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana Sharma
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Centres, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mazza R, Soave M, Morlacchini M, Piva G, Marocco A. Assessing the Transfer of Genetically Modified DNA from Feed to Animal Tissues. Transgenic Res 2005; 14:775-84. [PMID: 16245168 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-005-0009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2004] [Accepted: 06/17/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In Europe, public and scientific concerns about the environmental and food safety of GM (Genetically Modified) crops overshadow the potential benefits offered by crop biotechnology to improve food quality. One of the concerns regarding the use of GM food in human and animal nutrition is the effect that newly introduced sequences may have on the organism. In this paper, we assess the potential transfer of diet-derived DNA to animal tissues after consumption of GM plants. Blood, spleen, liver, kidney and muscle tissues from piglets fed for 35 days with diets containing either GM (MON810) or a conventional maize were investigated for the presence of plant DNA. Only fragments of specific maize genes (Zein, Sh-2) could be detected with different frequencies in all the examined tissues except muscle. A small fragment of the Cry1A(b) transgene was detected in blood, liver, spleen and kidney of the animals raised with the transgenic feed. The intact Cry1A(b) gene or its minimal functional unit were never detected. Statistical analysis of the results showed no difference in recovery of positives for the presence of plant DNA between animals raised with the transgenic feed and animals raised with the conventional feed, indicating that DNA transfer may occur independently from the source and the type of the gene. From the data obtained, we consider it unlikely that the occurrence of genetic transfer associated with GM plants is higher than that from conventional plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Mazza
- Instituto di Agronomia generale e Coltivazioni erbacee, Università Cattolica S. Cuore, Via E. Parmense, 84, Piacenza 29100, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Rossi F, Morlacchini M, Fusconi G, Pietri A, Mazza R, Piva G. Effect of Bt corn on broiler growth performance and fate of feed-derived DNA in the digestive tract. Poult Sci 2005; 84:1022-30. [PMID: 16050119 DOI: 10.1093/ps/84.7.1022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect on broiler performance of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn containing the Cry1A(b) protein compared with the corresponding near isogenic corn and to analyze the degradation of the Cry1A(b) gene in the digestive tract. Ross male broilers (432) were fed for 42 consecutive days with diets containing Bt or isogenic corn. Diet, Bt corn, and the isogenic form of the Bt corn were analyzed for composition and aflatoxin B1, fumonisin B1, and deoxynivalenol contents. Broiler body weight and feed intake were recorded at regular intervals (d 0, 21, and 42). The presence of the Cry1A(b) gene and plant-specific genes Zein and Sh-2 in gut contents of crop, gizzard, jejunum, cecum, and samples of blood was determined in 10 animals per treatment at the end of the trial using a PCR technique. Chemical composition was not different between Bt and its isogenic form, whereas the fumonisin B1 content for Bt was lower than for isogenic corn (2,039 vs. 1,1034 ppb; P < 0.05). The results of the growth study showed no difference for average daily weight gain (129.4 vs. 126.0 g/d), feed intake (63.4 vs. 61.8 g/d), and feed conversion ratio (1.95 vs. 2.02) among the groups. No significant relationship was observed between mycotoxins content and growth performances. Feed-derived DNA is progressively degraded along the digestive tract. Detection frequency of short fragments of maize-specific high copy number Zein gene was high but significantly decreased in distal sectors. An 1,800-bp fragment of the Cry1A(b) gene, corresponding to the minimal functional unit, was detected only in crop and gizzard of birds fed Bt corn. Sh-2 showed the same detection frequency of Cry1A(b) and was also found in birds fed isogenic corn. Blood samples were positive with low frequency only for the Zein gene fragment. No significant difference in DNA detection was observed between birds fed Bt and isogenic corn, indicating that DNA derived from transgenic feed undergoes the same fate as isogenic feed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Rossi
- Istituto di Scienze degli Alimenti e della Nutrizione, Facoltà di Agraria, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Via Emilia Parmense 84, 29100, Piacenza, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Plant breeders have made and will continue to make important contributions toward meeting the need for more and better feed and food. The use of new techniques to modify the genetic makeup of plants to improve their properties has led to a new generation of crops, grains and their by-products for feed. The use of ingredients and products from genetically modified plants (GMP) in animal nutrition properly raises many questions and issues, such as the role of a nutritional assessment of the modified feed or feed additive as part of safety assessment, the possible influence of genetically modified (GM) products on animal health and product quality and the persistence of the recombinant DNA and of the 'novel' protein in the digestive tract and tissues of food-producing animals. During the last few years many studies have determined the nutrient value of GM feeds compared to their conventional counterparts and some have additionally followed the fate of DNA and novel protein. The results available to date are reassuring and reveal no significant differences in the safety and nutritional value of feedstuffs containing material derived from the so-called 1st generation of genetically modified plants (those with unchanged gross composition) in comparison with non-GM varieties. In addition, no residues of recombinant DNA or novel proteins have been found in any organ or tissue samples obtained from animals fed with GMP. These results indicate that for compositionally equivalent GMP routine-feeding studies with target species generally add little to nutritional and safety assessment. However, the strategies devised for the nutritional and safety assessment of the 1st generation products will be much more difficult to apply to 2nd generation GMP in which significant changes in constituents have been deliberately introduced (e.g., increased fatty acids or amino acids content or a reduced concentration of undesirable constituents). It is suggested that studies made with animals will play a much more important role in insuring the safety of these 2nd generation constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Flachowsky
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Federal Agricultural Research Centre (FAL), Braunschweig, Germany.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
So far, no compelling scientific evidence has been found to suggest that the consumption of transgenic or genetically modified (GM) plants by animals or humans is more likely to cause harm than is the consumption of their conventional counterparts. Despite this lack of scientific evidence, the economic prospects for GM plants are probably limited in the short term and there is public opposition to the technology. Now is a good time to address several issues concerning GM plants, including the potential for transgenes to migrate from GM plants to gut microbes or to animal or human tissues, the consequences of consuming GM crops, either as fresh plants or as silage, and the problems caused by current legislation on GM labelling and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Heritage
- School of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms on the use of antibiotic resistance genes as marker genes in genetically modified plants. EFSA J 2004. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2004.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
|
42
|
Abstract
Today's biology-based technologies have emerged from a historical imperative and as an inevitable consequence of developments in modern biology beginning in the last half-century. They can be classified into almost 30 different areas, ranging from the use of gene therapy for human beings, enzyme engineering, stem cells and cloning, to marine biotechnology, bioinformatics, nanotechnology and biological warfare among many others. Many of them have major sociopolitico-economic, moral, ethical and legal implications. They include genetic engineering, gene therapy, tissue culture, stem cell work, the new DNA technologies, commercialization of traditional plant-based drug formulations, assisted reproduction techniques, cloning technologies, organ transplantation, bioinformatics, and biological weapons. Examples of the ethical implications of several of these items will be considered. They will be assessed with special reference to ethical implications in respect of assisted reproduction techniques, of worldwide importance today, particularly for a country such as India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pushpa M Bhargava
- Anveshna, Furqan Cottage, 12-13-100, Lane No. 1, Street No. 3, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500 017, India.
| |
Collapse
|