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Dunn SE, Vicini JL, Glenn KC, Fleischer DM, Greenhawt MJ. The allergenicity of genetically modified foods from genetically engineered crops: A narrative and systematic review. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2017; 119:214-222.e3. [PMID: 28890018 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S Eliza Dunn
- Medical Sciences and Outreach Lead, Monsanto Company, St Louis, Missouri; Division of Emergency Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, Missouri
| | - John L Vicini
- Food and Feed Safety Scientific Affairs Lead, Monsanto Company, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Kevin C Glenn
- Allergenicity/Pipeline Issues Management Lead, Monsanto Company, St Louis, Missouri
| | - David M Fleischer
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Matthew J Greenhawt
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy and Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado.
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Koch MS, DeSesso JM, Williams AL, Michalek S, Hammond B. Adaptation of the ToxRTool to Assess the Reliability of Toxicology Studies Conducted with Genetically Modified Crops and Implications for Future Safety Testing. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2016; 56:512-26. [PMID: 25208336 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2013.788994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
To determine the reliability of food safety studies carried out in rodents with genetically modified (GM) crops, a Food Safety Study Reliability Tool (FSSRTool) was adapted from the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods' (ECVAM) ToxRTool. Reliability was defined as the inherent quality of the study with regard to use of standardized testing methodology, full documentation of experimental procedures and results, and the plausibility of the findings. Codex guidelines for GM crop safety evaluations indicate toxicology studies are not needed when comparability of the GM crop to its conventional counterpart has been demonstrated. This guidance notwithstanding, animal feeding studies have routinely been conducted with GM crops, but their conclusions on safety are not always consistent. To accurately evaluate potential risks from GM crops, risk assessors need clearly interpretable results from reliable studies. The development of the FSSRTool, which provides the user with a means of assessing the reliability of a toxicology study to inform risk assessment, is discussed. Its application to the body of literature on GM crop food safety studies demonstrates that reliable studies report no toxicologically relevant differences between rodents fed GM crops or their non-GM comparators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Koch
- a Monsanto Company, Product Safety Center , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
| | | | | | - Suzanne Michalek
- c Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Bruce Hammond
- a Monsanto Company, Product Safety Center , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
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Rubio-Infante N, Moreno-Fierros L. An overview of the safety and biological effects of Bacillus thuringiensis Cry toxins in mammals. J Appl Toxicol 2015; 36:630-48. [PMID: 26537666 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Crystal proteins (Cry) produced during the growth and sporulation phases of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacterium are known as delta endotoxins. These toxins are being used worldwide as bioinsecticides to control pests in agriculture, and some Cry toxins are used against mosquitoes to control vector transmission. This review summarizes the relevant information currently available regarding the biosafety and biological effects that Bt and its insecticidal Cry proteins elicit in mammals. This work was performed because of concerns regarding the possible health impact of Cry toxins on vertebrates, particularly because Bt toxins might be associated with immune-activating or allergic responses. The controversial data published to date are discussed in this review considering earlier toxicological studies of B. thuringiensis, spores, toxins and Bt crops. We discussed the experimental studies performed in humans, mice, rats and sheep as well as in diverse mammalian cell lines. Although the term 'toxic' is not appropriate for defining the effects these toxins have on mammals, they cannot be considered innocuous, as they have some physiological effects that may become pathological; thus, trials that are more comprehensive are necessary to determine their effects on mammals because knowledge in this field remains limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Néstor Rubio-Infante
- Laboratorio de Inmunidad en Mucosas, Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla, 54090, Estado de México, México
| | - Leticia Moreno-Fierros
- Laboratorio de Inmunidad en Mucosas, Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de los Barrios 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla, 54090, Estado de México, México
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Zdziarski IM, Edwards JW, Carman JA, Haynes JI. GM crops and the rat digestive tract: a critical review. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 73:423-433. [PMID: 25244705 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2014] [Revised: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to examine the relationship between genetically modified (GM) crops and health, based on histopathological investigations of the digestive tract in rats. We reviewed published long-term feeding studies of crops containing one or more of three specific traits: herbicide tolerance via the EPSPS gene and insect resistance via cry1Ab or cry3Bb1 genes. These genes are commonly found in commercialised GM crops. Our search found 21 studies for nine (19%) out of the 47 crops approved for human and/or animal consumption. We could find no studies on the other 38 (81%) approved crops. Fourteen out of the 21 studies (67%) were general health assessments of the GM crop on rat health. Most of these studies (76%) were performed after the crop had been approved for human and/or animal consumption, with half of these being published at least nine years after approval. Our review also discovered an inconsistency in methodology and a lack of defined criteria for outcomes that would be considered toxicologically or pathologically significant. In addition, there was a lack of transparency in the methods and results, which made comparisons between the studies difficult. The evidence reviewed here demonstrates an incomplete picture regarding the toxicity (and safety) of GM products consumed by humans and animals. Therefore, each GM product should be assessed on merit, with appropriate studies performed to indicate the level of safety associated with them. Detailed guidelines should be developed which will allow for the generation of comparable and reproducible studies. This will establish a foundation for evidence-based guidelines, to better determine if GM food is safe for human and animal consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- I M Zdziarski
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - J W Edwards
- Health and the Environment, School of the Environment, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - J A Carman
- Health and the Environment, School of the Environment, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia; Institute of Health and Environmental Research (IHER), P.O. Box 155, Kensington Park, SA 5068, Australia.
| | - J I Haynes
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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Abdo EM, Barbary OM, Shaltout OES. Feeding Study with Bt Corn (MON810: Ajeeb YG) on Rats: Biochemical Analysis and Liver Histopathology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.4236/fns.2014.52024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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6
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Bartholomaeus A, Parrott W, Bondy G, Walker K. The use of whole food animal studies in the safety assessment of genetically modified crops: limitations and recommendations. Crit Rev Toxicol 2013; 43 Suppl 2:1-24. [PMID: 24164514 PMCID: PMC3833814 DOI: 10.3109/10408444.2013.842955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Revised: 08/26/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
There is disagreement internationally across major regulatory jurisdictions on the relevance and utility of whole food (WF) toxicity studies on GM crops, with no harmonization of data or regulatory requirements. The scientific value, and therefore animal ethics, of WF studies on GM crops is a matter addressable from the wealth of data available on commercialized GM crops and WF studies on irradiated foods. We reviewed available GM crop WF studies and considered the extent to which they add to the information from agronomic and compositional analyses. No WF toxicity study was identified that convincingly demonstrated toxicological concern or that called into question the adequacy, sufficiency, and reliability of safety assessments based on crop molecular characterization, transgene source, agronomic characteristics, and/or compositional analysis of the GM crop and its near-isogenic line. Predictions of safety based on crop genetics and compositional analyses have provided complete concordance with the results of well-conducted animal testing. However, this concordance is primarily due to the improbability of de novo generation of toxic substances in crop plants using genetic engineering practices and due to the weakness of WF toxicity studies in general. Thus, based on the comparative robustness and reliability of compositional and agronomic considerations and on the absence of any scientific basis for a significant potential for de novo generation of toxicologically significant compositional alterations as a sole result of transgene insertion, the conclusion of this review is that WF animal toxicity studies are unnecessary and scientifically unjustifiable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Bartholomaeus
- Therapeutics Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of QueenslandQueenslandAustralia
- Faculty of Health, School of Pharmacy, Canberra UniversityCanberraAustralia
| | - Wayne Parrott
- Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, University of GeorgiaAthens, GAUSA
| | - Genevieve Bondy
- Bureau of Chemical Safety, Food Directorate, Health CanadaOttawa, OntarioCanada
| | - Kate Walker
- ILSI International Food Biotechnology CommitteeWashington, DCUSA
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8
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Genetically modified foods: safety, risks and public concerns-a review. Journal of Food Science and Technology 2012; 50:1035-46. [PMID: 24426015 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-012-0899-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 11/16/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Genetic modification is a special set of gene technology that alters the genetic machinery of such living organisms as animals, plants or microorganisms. Combining genes from different organisms is known as recombinant DNA technology and the resulting organism is said to be 'Genetically modified (GM)', 'Genetically engineered' or 'Transgenic'. The principal transgenic crops grown commercially in field are herbicide and insecticide resistant soybeans, corn, cotton and canola. Other crops grown commercially and/or field-tested are sweet potato resistant to a virus that could destroy most of the African harvest, rice with increased iron and vitamins that may alleviate chronic malnutrition in Asian countries and a variety of plants that are able to survive weather extremes. There are bananas that produce human vaccines against infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, fish that mature more quickly, fruit and nut trees that yield years earlier and plants that produce new plastics with unique properties. Technologies for genetically modifying foods offer dramatic promise for meeting some areas of greatest challenge for the 21st century. Like all new technologies, they also pose some risks, both known and unknown. Controversies and public concern surrounding GM foods and crops commonly focus on human and environmental safety, labelling and consumer choice, intellectual property rights, ethics, food security, poverty reduction and environmental conservation. With this new technology on gene manipulation what are the risks of "tampering with Mother Nature"?, what effects will this have on the environment?, what are the health concerns that consumers should be aware of? and is recombinant technology really beneficial? This review will also address some major concerns about the safety, environmental and ecological risks and health hazards involved with GM foods and recombinant technology.
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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
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Scientific Opinion on applications (EFSA‐GMO‐RX‐40‐3‐2[8‐1a/20‐1a], EFSA‐GMO‐RX‐40‐3‐2) for renewal of authorisation for the continued marketing of (1) food containing, consisting of, or produced from genetically modified soybean 40‐3‐2; (2) feed containing, consisting of, or produced from soybean 40‐3‐2; (3) other products containing or consisting of soybean 40‐3‐2 with the exception of cultivation, all under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 from Monsanto. EFSA J 2010. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2010.1908] [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
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Hagiwara A, Imai N, Numano T, Nakashima H, Tamano S, Sakaue K, Tanaka K, Yasuhara K, Hayashi SM. A twenty eight-day repeated dose toxicity study of black soybean extract in Sprague-Dawley rats. J Toxicol Sci 2010; 35:87-96. [PMID: 20118628 DOI: 10.2131/jts.35.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate any adverse effect of a hot water extract of black soybeans (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), when administered to both sexes of Crj:CD(SD)IGS rats at dietary levels of 0 (control), 0.5, 1.5 and 5.0% (6 rats/sex/group). During the study, the treatment had no adverse effects on clinical signs, survival, body weights, and food and water consumption, or on findings of ophthalmology, urinalysis, hematology, or blood biochemistry. Organ weights, gross pathology and histopathology exhibited no differences of toxicological significance between control and treated rats. Thus, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of black soybean extract was concluded to be 5.0% (3,618 mg/kg body weight/day for males and 4,066 mg/kg body weight/day for females) from the present study.
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Subchronic feeding study of grain from herbicide-tolerant maize DP-Ø9814Ø-6 in Sprague-Dawley rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2009; 47:2269-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2009.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2009] [Revised: 05/22/2009] [Accepted: 06/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Singh AK, Praveen S, Singh BP, Varma A, Arora N. Safety assessment of leaf curl virus resistant tomato developed using viral derived sequences. Transgenic Res 2009; 18:877-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s11248-009-9274-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2008] [Accepted: 04/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Sakamoto Y, Tada Y, Fukumori N, Tayama K, Ando H, Takahashi H, Kubo Y, Nagasawa A, Yano N, Yuzawa K, Ogata A. [A 104-week feeding study of genetically modified soybeans in F344 rats]. SHOKUHIN EISEIGAKU ZASSHI. JOURNAL OF THE FOOD HYGIENIC SOCIETY OF JAPAN 2008; 49:272-82. [PMID: 18787312 DOI: 10.3358/shokueishi.49.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A chronic feeding study to evaluate the safety of genetically modified glyphosate-tolerant soybeans (GM soybeans) was conducted using F344 DuCrj rats. The rats were fed diet containing GM soybeans or Non-GM soybeans at the concentration of 30% in basal diet. Non-GM soybeans were a closely related strain to the GM soybeans. These two diets were adjusted to an identical nutrient level. In this study, the influence of GM soybeans in rats was compared with that of the Non-GM soybeans, and furthermore, to assess the effect of soybeans themselves, the groups of rats fed GM and Non-GM soybeans were compared with a group fed commercial diet (CE-2). General conditions were observed daily and body weight and food consumption were recorded. At the termination (104 weeks), animals were subjected to hematology, serum biochemistry, and pathological examinations. There were several differences in animal growth, food intake, organ weights and histological findings between the rats fed the GM and/or Non-GM soybeans and the rats fed CE-2. However, body weight and food intake were similar for the rats fed the GM and Non-GM soybeans. Gross necropsy findings, hematological and serum biochemical parameters, and organ weights showed no meaningful difference between rats fed the GM and Non-GM soybeans. In pathological observation, there was neither an increase in incidence nor any specific type of nonneoplastic or neoplastic lesions in the GM soybeans group in each sex. These results indicate that long-term intake of GM soybeans at the level of 30% in diet has no apparent adverse effect in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimitsu Sakamoto
- Department of Environmental Health and Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health. Tokyo, Japan
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Appenzeller LM, Munley SM, Hoban D, Sykes GP, Malley LA, Delaney B. Subchronic feeding study of herbicide-tolerant soybean DP-356Ø43-5 in Sprague-Dawley rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2008; 46:2201-13. [PMID: 18403083 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2008.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2007] [Revised: 01/29/2008] [Accepted: 02/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Optimum GAT1 soybean is a genetically modified (GM) soybean containing event DP-356Ø43-5 (356043) that was produced by integration of the coding sequences of the GAT4601 and GM-HRA proteins. In planta expression of these proteins confers tolerance to glyphosate and sulfonylurea/imidazolinone herbicides, respectively. This paper reports the results from a subchronic rat feeding study conducted with 356043 soybeans. Dehulled/defatted toasted meal and toasted ground hulls were prepared from soybeans from untreated plants (356043), herbicide-treated plants (356043+Gly/SU), non-transgenic isoline control (091), and three commercial non-transgenic reference varieties (93B86, 93B15, and 93M40). Individual diets conforming to standard certified rodent chow formulation (Purina Rodent LabDiet) 5002) were prepared with 20% meal (w/w) and 1.5% hulls (w/w). Diets were fed to young adult Sprague-Dawley rats (12/sex/group) for at least 93 days. Compared with rats fed the isoline control or conventional reference diets, no biologically-relevant, adverse effects were observed in rats fed diets containing 356043 or 356043+Gly/SU soybean with respect to body weight/gain, food consumption/efficiency, clinical signs, mortality, ophthalmology, neurobehavioral assessments (sensory response, grip strength, motor activity), clinical pathology (hematology, coagulation, serum chemistry, urinalysis), organ weights, and gross and microscopic pathology. The results from this study indicate that 356043 soybeans are as safe and nutritious as conventional non-GM soybeans.
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Bakke-McKellep AM, Sanden M, Danieli A, Acierno R, Hemre GI, Maffia M, Krogdahl A. Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) parr fed genetically modified soybeans and maize: Histological, digestive, metabolic, and immunological investigations. Res Vet Sci 2008; 84:395-408. [PMID: 18561390 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2007.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Physiological and health related responses to dietary inclusion of genetically modified (GM) full-fat soybean meal (Roundup Ready; GM-soy) and maize (MON810 Bt-maize; GM-maize), as well as non-parental, untransformed lines (nGM-soy and nGM-maize D2), were evaluated in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) parr during the first 8 months of feeding. Significant effects of dietary GM presence were only found in intestinal Na+-dependent d-glucose uptake and SGLT1 protein level in the region pyloric caeca in which the highest values were found in the GM-soy, intermediate in the nGM-soy, and lowest in the standard FM fed groups. Data from this study confirm that GM soybeans (RRS) and maize (MON810) at inclusion levels of about 6% appear to be as safe as commercially available nGM soy and maize in diets for Atlantic salmon parr. Results from studies with higher inclusion levels and with non-modified, isogenic or near-isogenic parental lines as control groups are pending.
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Safety and Nutritional Assessment of GM Plants and derived food and feed: The role of animal feeding trials. EFSA J 2008. [DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2008.1057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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Safety and nutritional assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed: the role of animal feeding trials. Food Chem Toxicol 2008; 46 Suppl 1:S2-70. [PMID: 18328408 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2008.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
In this report the various elements of the safety and nutritional assessment procedure for genetically modified (GM) plant derived food and feed are discussed, in particular the potential and limitations of animal feeding trials for the safety and nutritional testing of whole GM food and feed. The general principles for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed are followed, as described in the EFSA guidance document of the EFSA Scientific Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. In Section 1 the mandate, scope and general principles for risk assessment of GM plant derived food and feed are discussed. Products under consideration are food and feed derived from GM plants, such as maize, soybeans, oilseed rape and cotton, modified through the introduction of one or more genes coding for agronomic input traits like herbicide tolerance and/or insect resistance. Furthermore GM plant derived food and feed, which have been obtained through extensive genetic modifications targeted at specific alterations of metabolic pathways leading to improved nutritional and/or health characteristics, such as rice containing beta-carotene, soybeans with enhanced oleic acid content, or tomato with increased concentration of flavonoids, are considered. The safety assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed follows a comparative approach, i.e. the food and feed are compared with their non-GM counterparts in order to identify intended and unintended (unexpected) differences which subsequently are assessed with respect to their potential impact on the environment, safety for humans and animals, and nutritional quality. Key elements of the assessment procedure are the molecular, compositional, phenotypic and agronomic analysis in order to identify similarities and differences between the GM plant and its near isogenic counterpart. The safety assessment is focussed on (i) the presence and characteristics of newly expressed proteins and other new constituents and possible changes in the level of natural constituents beyond normal variation, and on the characteristics of the GM food and feed, and (ii) the possible occurrence of unintended (unexpected) effects in GM plants due to genetic modification. In order to identify these effects a comparative phenotypic and molecular analysis of the GM plant and its near isogenic counterpart is carried out, in parallel with a targeted analysis of single specific compounds, which represent important metabolic pathways in the plant like macro and micro nutrients, known anti-nutrients and toxins. Significant differences may be indicative of the occurrence of unintended effects, which require further investigation. Section 2 provides an overview of studies performed for the safety and nutritional assessment of whole food and feed. Extensive experience has been built up in recent decades from the safety and nutritional testing in animals of irradiated foods, novel foods and fruit and vegetables. These approaches are also relevant for the safety and nutritional testing of whole GM food and feed. Many feeding trials have been reported in which GM foods like maize, potatoes, rice, soybeans and tomatoes have been fed to rats or mice for prolonged periods, and parameters such as body weight, feed consumption, blood chemistry, organ weights, histopathology etc have been measured. The food and feed under investigation were derived from GM plants with improved agronomic characteristics like herbicide tolerance and/or insect resistance. The majority of these experiments did not indicate clinical effects or histopathological abnormalities in organs or tissues of exposed animals. In some cases adverse effects were noted, which were difficult to interpret due to shortcomings in the studies. Many studies have also been carried out with feed derived from GM plants with agronomic input traits in target animal species to assess the nutritive value of the feed and their performance potential. Studies in sheep, pigs, broilers, lactating dairy cows, and fish, comparing the in vivo bioavailability of nutrients from a range of GM plants with their near isogenic counterpart and commercial varieties, showed that they were comparable with those for near isogenic non-GM lines and commercial varieties. In Section 3 toxicological in vivo, in silico, and in vitro test methods are discussed which may be applied for the safety and nutritional assessment of specific compounds present in food and feed or of whole food and feed derived from GM plants. Moreover the purpose, potential and limitations of the 90-day rodent feeding trial for the safety and nutritional testing of whole food and feed have been examined. Methods for single and repeated dose toxicity testing, reproductive and developmental toxicity testing and immunotoxicity testing, as described in OECD guideline tests for single well-defined chemicals are discussed and considered to be adequate for the safety testing of single substances including new products in GM food and feed. Various in silico and in vitro methods may contribute to the safety assessment of GM plant derived food and feed and components thereof, like (i) in silico searches for sequence homology and/or structural similarity of novel proteins or their degradation products to known toxic or allergenic proteins, (ii) simulated gastric and intestinal fluids in order to study the digestive stability of newly expressed proteins and in vitro systems for analysis of the stability of the novel protein under heat or other processing conditions, and (iii) in vitro genotoxicity test methods that screen for point mutations, chromosomal aberrations and DNA damage/repair. The current performance of the safety assessment of whole foods is mainly based on the protocols for low-molecular-weight chemicals such as pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, pesticides, food additives and contaminants. However without adaptation, these protocols have limitations for testing of whole food and feed. This primarily results from the fact that defined single substances can be dosed to laboratory animals at very large multiples of the expected human exposure, thus giving a large margin of safety. In contrast foodstuffs are bulky, lead to satiation and can only be included in the diet at much lower multiples of expected human intakes. When testing whole foods, the possible highest concentration of the GM food and feed in the laboratory animal diet may be limited because of nutritional imbalance of the diet, or by the presence of compounds with a known toxicological profile. The aim of the 90-days rodent feeding study with the whole GM food and feed is to assess potential unintended effects of toxicological and/or nutritional relevance and to establish whether the GM food and feed is as safe and nutritious as its traditional comparator rather than determining qualitative and quantitative intrinsic toxicity of defined food constituents. The design of the study should be adapted from the OECD 90-day rodent toxicity study. The precise study design has to take into account the nature of the food and feed and the characteristics of the new trait(s) and their intended role in the GM food and feed. A 90-day animal feeding trial has a large capacity (sensitivity and specificity) to detect potential toxicological effects of single well defined compounds. This can be concluded from data reported on the toxicology of a wide range of industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food substances, environmental, and agricultural chemicals. It is possible to model the sensitivity of the rat subchronic feeding study for the detection of hypothetically increased amount of compounds such as anti-nutrients, toxicants or secondary metabolites. With respect to the detection of potential unintended effects in whole GM food and feed, it is unlikely that substances present in small amounts and with a low toxic potential will result in any observable (unintended) effects in a 90-day rodent feeding study, as they would be below the no-observed-effect-level and thus of unlikely impact to human health at normal intake levels. Laboratory animal feeding studies of 90-days duration appear to be sufficient to pick up adverse effects of diverse compounds that would also give adverse effects after chronic exposure. This conclusion is based on literature data from studies investigating whether toxicological effects are adequately identified in 3-month subchronic studies in rodents, by comparing findings at 3 and 24 months for a range of different chemicals. The 90-day rodent feeding study is not designed to detect effects on reproduction or development other than effects on adult reproductive organ weights and histopathology. Analyses of available data indicate that, for a wide range of substances, reproductive and developmental effects are not potentially more sensitive endpoints than those examined in subchronic toxicity tests. Should there be structural alerts for reproductive/developmental effects or other indications from data available on a GM food and feed, then these tests should be considered. By relating the estimated daily intake, or theoretical maximum daily intake per capita for a given whole food (or the sum of its individual commercial constituents) to that consumed on average per rat per day in the subchronic 90-day feeding study, it is possible to establish the margin of exposure (safety margin) for consumers. Results obtained from testing GM food and feed in rodents indicate that large (at least 100-fold) 'safety' margins exist between animal exposure levels without observed adverse effects and estimated human daily intake. Results of feeding studies with feed derived from GM plants with improved agronomic properties, carried out in a wide range of livestock species, are discussed. The studies did not show any biologically relevant differences in the parameters tested between control and test animals. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED)
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Lemaux PG. Genetically Engineered Plants and Foods: A Scientist's Analysis of the Issues (Part I). ANNUAL REVIEW OF PLANT BIOLOGY 2008; 59:771-812. [PMID: 18284373 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.arplant.58.032806.103840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Through the use of the new tools of genetic engineering, genes can be introduced into the same plant or animal species or into plants or animals that are not sexually compatible-the latter is a distinction with classical breeding. This technology has led to the commercial production of genetically engineered (GE) crops on approximately 250 million acres worldwide. These crops generally are herbicide and pest tolerant, but other GE crops in the pipeline focus on other traits. For some farmers and consumers, planting and eating foods from these crops are acceptable; for others they raise issues related to safety of the foods and the environment. In Part I of this review some general and food issues raised regarding GE crops and foods will be addressed. Responses to these issues, where possible, cite peer-reviewed scientific literature. In Part II to appear in 2009, issues related to environmental and socioeconomic aspects of GE crops and foods will be covered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peggy G Lemaux
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA.
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Kiliç A, Akay MT. A three generation study with genetically modified Bt corn in rats: Biochemical and histopathological investigation. Food Chem Toxicol 2007; 46:1164-70. [PMID: 18191319 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2007.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2007] [Revised: 06/26/2007] [Accepted: 11/21/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
For the last ten years, in accordance with the increased use of genetically modified (GM) foods for human and livestock, a large number of feeding studies have been carried out. However, the evidence is still far from proving whether the long-term consumption of GM foods poses a possible danger for human or animal health. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of transgenic corn on the rats that were fed through three generations with either GM corn or its conventional counterpart. Tissue samples of stomach, duodenum, liver and kidney were obtained for histopathological examinations. The average diameter of glomeruli, thickness of renal cortex and glomerular volume were calculated and number of affected animals/number of examined animals for liver and kidney histopathology were determined. Amounts of urea, urea nitrogen, creatinine, uric acid, total protein, albumin and globulin were determined; enzyme activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyltransferase, creatine kinase and amylase were measured in serum samples. No statistically significant differences were found in relative organ weights of rats within groups but there were some minimal histopathological changes in liver and kidney. Changes in creatinine, total protein and globulin levels were also determined in biochemical analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysun Kiliç
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Hacettepe University, Beytepe Campus, Ankara, Turkiye.
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Sakamoto Y, Tada Y, Fukumori N, Tayama K, Ando H, Takahashi H, Kubo Y, Nagasawa A, Yano N, Yuzawa K, Ogata A, Kamimura H. [A 52-week feeding study of genetically modified soybeans in F344 rats]. SHOKUHIN EISEIGAKU ZASSHI. JOURNAL OF THE FOOD HYGIENIC SOCIETY OF JAPAN 2007; 48:41-50. [PMID: 17657996 DOI: 10.3358/shokueishi.48.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A chronic feeding study to evaluate the safety of the genetically modified glyphosate-tolerant soybeans (GM soybeans) was conducted using rats. F344 DuCrj rats were fed diet containing GM soybeans or Non-GM soybeans at the concentration of 30% in basal diet. Non-GM soybeans were closely related strain of GM soybeans. These two diets were adjusted to an identical nutrient level. In this study, the influence of GM soybeans on rats was compared with that of the Non-GM soybeans, and furthermore, to assess the effect of soybeans themselves, the groups of rats fed GM and Non-GM soybeans were compared with a group fed commercial diet (CE-2). General conditions were observed daily and body weight and food consumption were recorded. At the intermediate examination (26 weeks), and at the termination (52 weeks), animals were subjected to hematology, serum biochemistry, and pathological examination. There were several differences in animal growth, food intake, serum biochemical parameters and histological findings between the rats fed the GM and/or Non-GM soybeans and the rats fed CE-2. However, body weight and food intake were similar for the rats fed the GM and Non-GM soybeans. Gross necropsy findings, hematological and serum biochemical parameters, organ weights, and pathological findings showed no meaningful difference between rats fed the GM and Non-GM soybeans. These results indicate that long-term intake of GM soybeans at the level of 30% in diet has no apparent adverse effect in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimitsu Sakamoto
- Department of Environmental Health and Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health: 3-24-1 Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0073, Japan
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Ramessar K, Peremarti A, Gómez-Galera S, Naqvi S, Moralejo M, Muñoz P, Capell T, Christou P. Biosafety and risk assessment framework for selectable marker genes in transgenic crop plants: a case of the science not supporting the politics. Transgenic Res 2007; 16:261-80. [PMID: 17436060 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-007-9083-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2006] [Accepted: 02/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Selectable marker gene systems are vital for the development of transgenic crops. Since the creation of the first transgenic plants in the early 1980s and their subsequent commercialization worldwide over almost an entire decade, antibiotic and herbicide resistance selectable marker gene systems have been an integral feature of plant genetic modification. Without them, creating transgenic crops is not feasible on purely economic and practical terms. These systems allow the relatively straightforward identification and selection of plants that have stably incorporated not only the marker genes but also genes of interest, for example herbicide tolerance and pest resistance. Bacterial antibiotic resistance genes are also crucial in molecular biology manipulations in the laboratory. An unprecedented debate has accompanied the development and commercialization of transgenic crops. Divergent policies and their implementation in the European Union on one hand and the rest of the world on the other (industrialized and developing countries alike), have resulted in disputes with serious consequences on agricultural policy, world trade and food security. A lot of research effort has been directed towards the development of marker-free transformation or systems to remove selectable markers. Such research has been in a large part motivated by perceived problems with antibiotic resistance selectable markers; however, it is not justified from a safety point of view. The aim of this review is to discuss in some detail the currently available scientific evidence that overwhelmingly argues for the safety of these marker gene systems. Our conclusion, supported by numerous studies, most of which are commissioned by some of the very parties that have taken a position against the use of antibiotic selectable marker gene systems, is that there is no scientific basis to argue against the use and presence of selectable marker genes as a class in transgenic plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koreen Ramessar
- Departament de Produccio Vegetal i Ciencia Forestal, Universitat de Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 191, Lleida 25198, Spain
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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?
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Affiliation(s)
- José L Domingo
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Rovira I Virgili University, San Lorenzo, Reus, Spain.
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Reis LFL, Van Sluys MA, Garratt RC, Pereira HM, Teixeira MM. GMOs: building the future on the basis of past experience. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2006; 78:667-86. [PMID: 17143405 DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652006000400005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2006] [Accepted: 10/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Biosafety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their derivatives is still a major topic in the agenda of government and societies worldwide. The aim of this review is to bring into light that data that supported the decision taken back in 1998 as an exercise to stimulate criticism from the scientific community for upcoming discussions and to avoid emotional and senseless arguments that could jeopardize future development in the field. It must be emphasized that Roundup Ready soybean is just one example of how biotechnology can bring in significant advances for society, not only through increased productivity, but also with beneficial environmental impact, thereby allowing more rational use of agricultural pesticides for improvement of the soil conditions. The adoption of agricultural practices with higher yield will also allow better distribution of income among small farmers. New species of genetically modified plants will soon be available and society should be capable of making decisions in an objective and well-informed manner, through collegiate bodies that are qualified in all aspects of biosafety and environmental impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz F L Reis
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Cerdeira AL, Duke SO. The current status and environmental impacts of glyphosate-resistant crops: a review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2006; 35:1633-58. [PMID: 16899736 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2005.0378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2005] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate [N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine]-resistant crops (GRCs), canola (Brassica napus L.), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), maize (Zea mays L.), and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] have been commercialized and grown extensively in the Western Hemisphere and, to a lesser extent, elsewhere. Glyphosate-resistant cotton and soybean have become dominant in those countries where their planting is permitted. Effects of glyphosate on contamination of soil, water, and air are minimal, compared to some of the herbicides that they replace. No risks have been found with food or feed safety or nutritional value in products from currently available GRCs. Glyphosate-resistant crops have promoted the adoption of reduced- or no-tillage agriculture in the USA and Argentina, providing a substantial environmental benefit. Weed species in GRC fields have shifted to those that can more successfully withstand glyphosate and to those that avoid the time of its application. Three weed species have evolved resistance to glyphosate in GRCs. Glyphosate-resistant crops have greater potential to become problems as volunteer crops than do conventional crops. Glyphosate resistance transgenes have been found in fields of canola that are supposed to be non-transgenic. Under some circumstances, the largest risk of GRCs may be transgene flow (introgression) from GRCs to related species that might become problems in natural ecosystems. Glyphosate resistance transgenes themselves are highly unlikely to be a risk in wild plant populations, but when linked to transgenes that may impart fitness benefits outside of agriculture (e.g., insect resistance), natural ecosystems could be affected. The development and use of failsafe introgression barriers in crops with such linked genes is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio L Cerdeira
- Brazilian Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Embrapa/Environment, C.P. 69, Jaguariuna-SP-13820-000, Brazil
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Varzakas TH, Chryssochoidis G, Argyropoulos D. Approaches in the risk assessment of genetically modified foods by the Hellenic Food Safety Authority. Food Chem Toxicol 2006; 45:530-42. [PMID: 17275157 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2006.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2005] [Revised: 07/07/2006] [Accepted: 07/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Risk analysis has become important to assess conditions and take decisions on control procedures. In this context it is considered a prerequisite in the evaluation of GM food. Many consumers worldwide worry that food derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) may be unhealthy and hence regulations on GMO authorisations and labelling have become more stringent. Nowadays there is a higher demand for non-GM products and these products could be differentiated from GM products using the identity preservation system (IP) that could apply throughout the grain processing system. IP is the creation of a transparent communication system that encompasses HACCP, traceability and related systems in the supply chain. This process guarantees that certain characteristics of the lots of food (non-GM origin) are maintained "from farm to fork". This article examines the steps taken by the Hellenic Food Safety Authority to examine the presence of GMOs in foods. The whole integrated European legislation framework currently in place still needs to be implemented in Greece. Penalties should be enforced to those who import, process GMOs without special licence and do not label those products. Similar penalties should be enforced to those companies that issue false certificates beyond the liabilities taken by the food enterprises for farmers' compensation. We argue that Greece has no serious reasons to choose the use of GMOs due to the fact that the structural and pedologic characteristics of the Greek agriculture favour the biological and integrated cultivation more. Greece is not in favour of the politics behind coexistence of conventional and GM plants and objects to the use of GMOs in the food and the environment because the processor has a big burden in terms of money, time and will suffer a great deal in order to prove that their products are GMO free or that any contamination is adventitious or technically unavoidable. Moreover, Greece owns a large variety of genetic material that should try to protect from patenting and commercialisation. Finally, we should be aware of the requirements of movement of GMOs within borders, i.e. GMOs grown or used in other countries but which are not intended to cross into Greece, since Greece is very close to countries that are non-EU. This is where the development of a new, integrated, trustworthy and transparent food quality control system will help to satisfy the societal demands for safe and quality products. On the other hand, Greece should not be isolated from any recent scientific technological development and should assess the possible advantages for some cultivation using a case by case approach. Finally, the safety assessment of GM foods and feed has been discussed according to the risk assessment methodology applied by EFSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros H Varzakas
- Hellenic Food Safety Authority (EFET), Directorate of Nutritional Policy and Research, Karystou 5, 115 23 Ampelokipoi, Greece.
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Takagi K, Teshima R, Nakajima O, Okunuki H, Sawada JI. Improved ELISA method for screening human antigen-specific IgE and its application for monitoring specific IgE for novel proteins in genetically modified foods. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2006; 44:182-8. [PMID: 16364525 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2005.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
For monitoring the occurrence of IgE antibody specific for novel proteins in genetically modified (GM) foods, ELISA is the most convenient method. The levels of IgE specific for recombinant proteins, phosphinothricin-N-acetyltransferase (PAT), CP4-EPSPS, and Cry9C were determined by ELISA using the sera from patients allergic to known allergens. Ovalbumin (OVA) and OVA-positive patient sera were used as positive control. In the ELISA, 20-fold-diluted sera tested were mostly negative for the specific IgE. However, the PAT-specific, but not CP4-EPSPS- or Cry9C-specific IgE in some patients was apparently higher than that of the healthy volunteers. To clarify the binding specificity of the antibody, we pre-incubated the sera with soluble PAT, but the inhibition was marginal, suggesting that the binding was non-specific. Therefore, we used 1M NaCl as a washing buffer to remove IgE non-specifically bound to the coated PAT. This washing step efficiently decreased non-specific binding. In contrast, OVA-specific IgE binding to OVA-coated plate was not affected by the washing. Finally, in this pilot study significant levels of IgE antibodies specific for the three proteins were not detected in the sera of Japanese food-allergy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayoko Takagi
- Division of Biochemistry and Immunochemistry, National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1 Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan
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Zhu Y, Li D, Wang F, Yin J, Jin H. Nutritional assessment and fate of DNA of soybean meal from roundup ready or conventional soybeans using rats. Arch Anim Nutr 2004; 58:295-310. [PMID: 15570744 DOI: 10.1080/00039420412331273277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to compare the safety of soybean meal prepared from genetically modified (GM) glyphosate-tolerant (Roundup Ready; RR) soybeans and conventional soybeans. Eighty Sprague-Dawley rats (40 males and 40 females) were randomly allotted to one of four groups according to sex and body weight for a 13-week feeding experiment. The rats were fed corn-based diets containing 60% conventional soybean meal, a mixture of 30% conventional and 30% RR soybean meal, 60% or 90% RR soybean meal. All diets were adjusted to an identical nutrient level except the 90% RR diet. The two soybean meals were similar in chemical analysis and amino acid composition. During the 13-week growth trial, body weight (P < 0.05) and feed intake (P < 0.05) decreased only in rats fed with 90% RR soybean meal at the first week. No treatment-related deaths occurred during the experiment. Gross necropsy findings, haematological or urinalysis values and clinical serum parameters showed no meaningful differences between rats fed the control and RR soybean meals. A 145 bp of cp4 epsps gene specific for the GM constructs from RR soybean meal or a 407 bp of lec gene from endogenous soybean DNA could not be detected in investigated masseter muscle samples. No adverse effects of glyphosate-tolerant soybean meal on rats were seen even at levels as high as 90% of the diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzhao Zhu
- National Feed Engineering Technology Research Center, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Nutritional and Safety Assessments of Foods and Feeds Nutritionally Improved through Biotechnology: An Executive Summary A Task Force Report by the International Life Sciences Institute, Washington, D.C. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2004; 3:35-104. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1541-4337.2004.tb00059.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Pryme IF, Lembcke R. In vivo studies on possible health consequences of genetically modified food and feed--with particular regard to ingredients consisting of genetically modified plant materials. Nutr Health 2003; 17:1-8. [PMID: 12803276 DOI: 10.1177/026010600301700101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This synopsis reviews published in vivo studies on possible health consequences of genetically modified food and feed where the ingredients in question have consisted of genetically modified plant materials. The following, however, have not been taken into consideration:--ingredients consisting of genetically modified microorganisms or parts of animals/fish--ingredients produced by/from genetically modified organisms but without any DNA present--studies on consequences for the environment or biodiversity--in vitro studies or computer simulations. According to a Norwegian report "Gen-mat" (NOU 2000:29), and a more recent search in Medline and Citations Index, to our knowledge a total of ten studies have been published on the health effects of GM-foods and feeds. In this minireview the data made available in these published studies is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian F Pryme
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bergen, Arstadveien 19, NO-5009 Bergen, Norway.
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Okunuki H, Akiyama H, Teshima R, Hino A, Goda Y, Sawada JI, Toyoda M, Maitani T. Determination of enzymatic activity of 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase by LC/MS. SHOKUHIN EISEIGAKU ZASSHI. JOURNAL OF THE FOOD HYGIENIC SOCIETY OF JAPAN 2003; 44:77-82. [PMID: 12846153 DOI: 10.3358/shokueishi.44.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) method for determining the enzymatic activity of 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSP synthase), an enzyme of the shikimate pathway, was developed. EPSP synthase catalyzes the formation of 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate (EPSP) from shikimate-3-phosphate (S-3-P) and phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) in microorganisms and plants. The enzymatic activity of EPSP synthase was assessed by the determination of EPSP after a 30-min incubation with S-3-P and PEP using the LC/MS system. EPSP synthase activity is given in terms of the produced EPSP (pmol/min/mg protein). Glyphosate (N-phosphonomethyl glycine)-tolerant EPSP synthase from the Agrobacterium sp. strain CP4 (CP4-EPSP synthase) in genetically modified soybeans (GM-soybeans) was found to have an enzymatic activity of 736 EPSP pmol/min/mg protein in the presence of 3 nmol of S-3-P. In contrast, the enzyme activity of non-GM-soybeans was 21 EPSP pmol/min/mg protein. The EPSP synthase activity was markedly decreased in the non-GM-soybeans by the addition of glyphosate, but the enzyme activity of the GM-soybeans was only slightly decreased with this treatment. This LC/MS system could also be applicable to the measurement of EPSP synthase activity in different plant species and the detection of herbicide-tolerant EPSP synthase in GM foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruyo Okunuki
- National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan
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Teshima R, Watanabe T, Okunuki H, Isuzugawa K, Akiyama H, Onodera H, Imai T, Toyoda M, Sawada JI. Effect of subchronic feeding of genetically modified corn (CBH351) on immune system in BN rats and B10A mice. SHOKUHIN EISEIGAKU ZASSHI. JOURNAL OF THE FOOD HYGIENIC SOCIETY OF JAPAN 2002; 43:273-9. [PMID: 12607925 DOI: 10.3358/shokueishi.43.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Subchronic animal feeding studies to examine the effect on the immune system of genetically modified corn CBH351, which contains the Cry9C protein derived from Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies tolworthi, were conducted in female BN rats and B10A mice. The studies were designed to compare the effect of a line of genetically modified corn CBH351 (GM corn) with that of isoline corn (non-GM corn). Heat-treated corn meal was incorporated into the diets of the rats and mice at a concentration of 50%. The study duration was 13 weeks. Growth, food intake, and organ weights of the thymus, spleen, and liver were compared between animals fed the non-GM and GM lines. The histological findings in thymus, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes, Peyer's patches, small intestines, liver, kidney, and bone marrow, and the presence of Cry9C-specific IgE, IgG, IgG1 and IgA antibodies in serum were also compared. The results showed no significant differences in growth, feeding value, or the histological findings in immunity-related organs between the animals fed the GM and non-GM lines. Production of Cry9 C-specific IgE and IgA was not detected in the serum of either group. Production of Cry9C-specific IgG and IgG1 was slightly increased in the 50% GM groups of BN rats. No Cry9C-specific IgG or IgG1 was detected in the serum of BN rats fed the diet containing 5% GM-corn In conclusion, no immunotoxic activity was detected in the GM-corn-fed rats and mice in this subchronic dietary study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Teshima
- National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan
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Okunuki H, Teshima R, Shigeta T, Sakushima JI, Akiyama H, Goda Y, Toyoda M, Sawada JI. Increased digestibility of two products in genetically modified food (CP4-EPSPS and Cry1Ab) after preheating. SHOKUHIN EISEIGAKU ZASSHI. JOURNAL OF THE FOOD HYGIENIC SOCIETY OF JAPAN 2002; 43:68-73. [PMID: 12092415 DOI: 10.3358/shokueishi.43.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We performed experiments on in vitro digestion of newly expressed proteins by SGF (simulated gastric fluid) and SIF (simulated intestinal fluid) to assess the allergenicity of food components derived from biotechnological modification. For newly expressed proteins, we chose CP4-EPSPS (5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase from Agrobacterium sp. strain CP4) and Cry1Ab derived from Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki strain HD-1. The former is expressed in GM-soybeans and the latter is expressed in GM-corns. Firstly, we examined the digestibility of purified CP4-EPSPS and Cry1Ab by SGF. Both proteins were rapidly digested within 60 sec. After preheating, the digestibility by SGF was slightly increased. Secondly, CP4-EPSPS in GM-soybean extracts and Cry1Ab in GM-corn extracts were digested by SGF. The digestion time of both proteins by SGF was almost the same as that of the purified proteins. Thirdly, the digestibility of CP4-EPSPS and Cry1Ab by SIF was examined. The digestion time of these proteins was 240 min or more. However, digestibility of these proteins by SIF was dramatically increased by preheating, and the digestion time was less than 5 sec. Fourthly, CP4-EPSPS in GM-soybean extracts and Cry1Ab in GM-corn extracts were digested by SIF. Digestion time of both proteins by SIF was almost the same as that of the purified proteins. From these results, we concluded that the digestibility of both CP4-EPSPS and Cry1Ab by SGF and SIF was increased by preheating. Therefore, we suggest that the allergenicity of both proteins should be extremely low because of the easy digestibility of these proteins by SGF and also by SIF with preheating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruyo Okunuki
- National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan
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37
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Abstract
Nearly ten years after the introduction of GM foodcrops there are still only a handful of published studies about their safety. Independent studies are even fewer, moreover, no peer-reviewed publications exist in which the results of clinical investigations on the possible effects of GM food on human health are described. Even though the evaluation of the safety or possible toxicity of GM foodstuffs is more difficult than that of drugs or food additives, this scarcity of data and the lack of a scientific database is curious particularly as descriptions of the results of chemical, nutritional and biological testing in some early (unpublished) studies or some more recent publications demonstrate the feasibility of carrying out proper and scientifically valid health risk assessment on GM foods. In this review, after critically examining some of the basic principles, past results and possible novel methods of future health safety assessment of GM foodstuffs, the conclusion appears to be that as the tools for the recognition and indeed for the elimination of the risks GM foods may present for us are available or can be developed, it is the will and the funding for such work that needs to be found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpad Pusztai
- The Rowett Research Institute, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK.
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38
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Nair RS, Fuchs RL, Schuette SA. Current methods for assessing safety of genetically modified crops as exemplified by data on Roundup Ready soybeans. Toxicol Pathol 2002; 30:117-25. [PMID: 11890463 DOI: 10.1080/01926230252824806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Several laboratories have used recombinant DNA technology in plant breeding to improve compositional, processing, and agronomic characteristics of plants. These transformed plants have been extensively tested in field trials, have gained full regulatory approvals and are currently being marketed in a number of countries around the world. This paper briefly summarizes the approach used to assure the safety of foods and feeds derived from these genetically modified crops, as exemplified by data on Roundup Ready soybeans that has been developed by Monsanto Company using biotechnology in order to confer tolerance to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup herbicide, by the production of the CP4 enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase protein. The results of the studies demonstrate that Roundup Ready soybeans are as safe as traditional soybeans with respect to food and feed safety.
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Kuiper HA, Kleter GA, Noteborn HP, Kok EJ. Assessment of the food safety issues related to genetically modified foods. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2001; 27:503-528. [PMID: 11576435 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-313x.2001.01119.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 261] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
International consensus has been reached on the principles regarding evaluation of the food safety of genetically modified plants. The concept of substantial equivalence has been developed as part of a safety evaluation framework, based on the idea that existing foods can serve as a basis for comparing the properties of genetically modified foods with the appropriate counterpart. Application of the concept is not a safety assessment per se, but helps to identify similarities and differences between the existing food and the new product, which are then subject to further toxicological investigation. Substantial equivalence is a starting point in the safety evaluation, rather than an endpoint of the assessment. Consensus on practical application of the principle should be further elaborated. Experiences with the safety testing of newly inserted proteins and of whole genetically modified foods are reviewed, and limitations of current test methodologies are discussed. The development and validation of new profiling methods such as DNA microarray technology, proteomics, and metabolomics for the identification and characterization of unintended effects, which may occur as a result of the genetic modification, is recommended. The assessment of the allergenicity of newly inserted proteins and of marker genes is discussed. An issue that will gain importance in the near future is that of post-marketing surveillance of the foods derived from genetically modified crops. It is concluded, among others that, that application of the principle of substantial equivalence has proven adequate, and that no alternative adequate safety assessment strategies are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A Kuiper
- National Institute for Quality Control of Agricultural Products (RIKILT), Wageningen University and Research Centre, PO Box 230, NL 6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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40
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Gasson M, Burke D. Scientific perspectives on regulating the safety of genetically modified foods. Nat Rev Genet 2001; 2:217-22. [PMID: 11256073 DOI: 10.1038/35056066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Regulation is often seen as the dull end of science. The recent storm over the introduction of genetically modified foods and the calls to regulate their consumption have had a negative effect on development of the science. Assuring the safety of genetically modified foods might raise questions where existing scientific data is limited and underline the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gasson
- Food Science Division, Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK
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