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Dolezel M, Lang A, Greiter A, Miklau M, Eckerstorfer M, Heissenberger A, Willée E, Züghart W. Challenges for the Post-Market Environmental Monitoring in the European Union Imposed by Novel Applications of Genetically Modified and Genome-Edited Organisms. BIOTECH 2024; 13:14. [PMID: 38804296 PMCID: PMC11130885 DOI: 10.3390/biotech13020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Information on the state of the environment is important to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal, including the EU's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The existing regulatory provisions for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) foresee an obligatory post-market environmental monitoring (PMEM) of potential adverse effects upon release into the environment. So far, GMO monitoring activities have focused on genetically modified crops. With the advent of new genomic techniques (NGT), novel GMO applications are being developed and may be released into a range of different, non-agricultural environments with potential implications for ecosystems and biodiversity. This challenges the current monitoring concepts and requires adaptation of existing monitoring programs to meet monitoring requirements. While the incorporation of existing biodiversity monitoring programs into GMO monitoring at the national level is important, additional monitoring activities will also be required. Using case examples, we highlight that monitoring requirements for novel GMO applications differ from those of GM crop plants previously authorized for commercial use in the European Union.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Dolezel
- Land Use & Biosafety Unit, Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Spittelauer Laende 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (A.G.); (M.M.); (M.E.); (A.H.)
| | - Andreas Lang
- Büro Lang, Hoernlehof, Gresgen 108, 79669 Zell im Wiesental, Germany;
- Research Group Environmental Geosciences, Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Bernoullistr. 30, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anita Greiter
- Land Use & Biosafety Unit, Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Spittelauer Laende 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (A.G.); (M.M.); (M.E.); (A.H.)
| | - Marianne Miklau
- Land Use & Biosafety Unit, Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Spittelauer Laende 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (A.G.); (M.M.); (M.E.); (A.H.)
| | - Michael Eckerstorfer
- Land Use & Biosafety Unit, Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Spittelauer Laende 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (A.G.); (M.M.); (M.E.); (A.H.)
| | - Andreas Heissenberger
- Land Use & Biosafety Unit, Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Spittelauer Laende 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (A.G.); (M.M.); (M.E.); (A.H.)
| | - Eva Willée
- Division of Terrestrial Monitoring, Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), Konstantinstr. 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany (W.Z.)
| | - Wiebke Züghart
- Division of Terrestrial Monitoring, Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), Konstantinstr. 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany (W.Z.)
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2
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Eckerstorfer MF, Dolezel M, Miklau M, Greiter A, Heissenberger A, Engelhard M. Scanning the Horizon for Environmental Applications of Genetically Modified Viruses Reveals Challenges for Their Environmental Risk Assessment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1507. [PMID: 38338787 PMCID: PMC10855828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The release of novel genetically modified (GM) virus applications into the environment for agricultural, veterinary, and nature-conservation purposes poses a number of significant challenges for risk assessors and regulatory authorities. Continuous efforts to scan the horizon for emerging applications are needed to gain an overview of new GM virus applications. In addition, appropriate approaches for risk assessment and management have to be developed. These approaches need to address pertinent challenges, in particular with regard to the environmental release of GM virus applications with a high probability for transmission and spreading, including transboundary movements and a high potential to result in adverse environmental effects. However, the current preparedness at the EU and international level to assess such GM virus application is limited. This study addresses some of the challenges associated with the current situation, firstly, by conducting a horizon scan to identify emerging GM virus applications with relevance for the environment. Secondly, outstanding issues regarding the environmental risk assessment (ERA) of GM virus applications are identified based on an evaluation of case study examples. Specifically, the limited scientific information available for the ERA of some applications and the lack of detailed and appropriate guidance for ERA are discussed. Furthermore, considerations are provided for future work that is needed to establish adequate risk assessment and management approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F. Eckerstorfer
- Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.D.); (M.M.); (A.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Marion Dolezel
- Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.D.); (M.M.); (A.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Marianne Miklau
- Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.D.); (M.M.); (A.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Anita Greiter
- Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.D.); (M.M.); (A.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Andreas Heissenberger
- Umweltbundesamt–Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.D.); (M.M.); (A.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Margret Engelhard
- Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Division Assessment Synthetic Biology, Enforcement Genetic Engineering Act, Konstantinstr. 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany;
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3
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Koller F, Cieslak M. A perspective from the EU: unintended genetic changes in plants caused by NGT-their relevance for a comprehensive molecular characterisation and risk assessment. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1276226. [PMID: 37965049 PMCID: PMC10641861 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1276226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Several regions in the world are currently holding discussions in regard to the regulation of new genomic techniques (NGTs) and their application in agriculture. The European Commission, for instance, is proposing the introduction of specific regulation for NGT plants. Various questions need to be answered including e.g., the extent to which NGT-induced intended and unintended genetic modifications must be subjected to a mandatory risk assessment as part of an approval procedure. This review mostly focuses on findings in regard to unintended genetic changes that can be caused by the application of NGTs. More specifically, the review deals with the application of the nuclease CRISPR/Cas, which is currently the most important tool for developing NGT plants, and its potential to introduce double strand breaks (DSBs) at a targeted DNA sequence. For this purpose, we identified the differences in comparison to non-targeted mutagenesis methods used in conventional breeding. The review concludes that unintended genetic changes caused by NGT processes are relevant to risk assessment. Due to the technical characteristics of NGTs, the sites of the unintended changes, their genomic context and their frequency (in regard to specific sites) mean that the resulting gene combinations (intended or unintended) may be unlikely to occur with conventional methods. This, in turn, implies that the biological effects (phenotypes) can also be different and may cause risks to health and the environment. Therefore, we conclude that the assessment of intended as well as unintended genetic changes should be part of a mandatory comprehensive molecular characterisation and risk assessment of NGT plants that are meant for environmental releases or for market authorisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Koller
- Fachstelle Gentechnik und Umwelt (FGU), Munich, Bavaria, Germany
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4
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KhokharVoytas A, Shahbaz M, Maqsood MF, Zulfiqar U, Naz N, Iqbal UZ, Sara M, Aqeel M, Khalid N, Noman A, Zulfiqar F, Al Syaad KM, AlShaqhaa MA. Genetic modification strategies for enhancing plant resilience to abiotic stresses in the context of climate change. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:283. [PMID: 37642792 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01202-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Enhancing the resilience of plants to abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, heat, and cold, is crucial for ensuring global food security challenge in the context of climate change. The adverse effects of climate change, characterized by rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events, pose significant threats to agricultural systems worldwide. Genetic modification strategies offer promising approaches to develop crops with improved abiotic stress tolerance. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of various genetic modification techniques employed to enhance plant resilience. These strategies include the introduction of stress-responsive genes, transcription factors, and regulatory elements to enhance stress signaling pathways. Additionally, the manipulation of hormone signaling pathways, osmoprotectant accumulation, and antioxidant defense mechanisms is discussed. The use of genome editing tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9, for precise modification of target genes related to stress tolerance is also explored. Furthermore, the challenges and future prospects of genetic modification for abiotic stress tolerance are highlighted. Understanding and harnessing the potential of genetic modification strategies can contribute to the development of resilient crop varieties capable of withstanding adverse environmental conditions caused by climate change, thereby ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity and food security.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muhammad Shahbaz
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | | | - Usman Zulfiqar
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Pakistan.
| | - Nargis Naz
- Department of Botany, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Usama Zafar Iqbal
- Department of Botany, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Maheen Sara
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Government College Women University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Aqeel
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems (SKLHIGA), College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Noreen Khalid
- Department of Botany, Government College Women University Sialkot, Sialkot, Pakistan
| | - Ali Noman
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Faisal Zulfiqar
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Pakistan
| | - Khalid M Al Syaad
- Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Saudi Arabia
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Furgurson J, Loschin N, Butoto E, Abugu M, Gillespie CJ, Brown R, Ferraro G, Speicher N, Stokes R, Budnick A, Geist K, Alirigia R, Andrews A, Mainello A. Seizing the policy moment in crop biotech regulation: an interdisciplinary response to the Executive Order on biotechnology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1241537. [PMID: 37609116 PMCID: PMC10441231 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1241537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jill Furgurson
- North Carolina State University Forestry and Environmental Resources, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Nick Loschin
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Applied Ecology, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Eric Butoto
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Crop and Soil Sciences, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Modesta Abugu
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Horticultural Science, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Christopher J. Gillespie
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Entomology and Plant Pathology, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Rebekah Brown
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Greg Ferraro
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Agricultural and Resource Economics, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Nolan Speicher
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Communication, Rhetoric, and Digital Media, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Ruthie Stokes
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Biochemistry, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Asa Budnick
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Plant Biology, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Katrina Geist
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Anthropology, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Rex Alirigia
- North Carolina State University Forestry and Environmental Resources, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Amaja Andrews
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Anthropology, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Amanda Mainello
- North Carolina State University Genetic Engineering and Society Center, Raleigh, NC, United States
- North Carolina State University Entomology and Plant Pathology, Raleigh, NC, United States
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Eckerstorfer MF, Dolezel M, Engelhard M, Giovannelli V, Grabowski M, Heissenberger A, Lener M, Reichenbecher W, Simon S, Staiano G, Wüst Saucy AG, Zünd J, Lüthi C. Recommendations for the Assessment of Potential Environmental Effects of Genome-Editing Applications in Plants in the EU. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12091764. [PMID: 37176822 PMCID: PMC10180588 DOI: 10.3390/plants12091764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The current initiative of the European Commission (EC) concerning plants produced using certain new genomic techniques, in particular, targeted mutagenesis and cisgenesis, underlines that a high level of protection for human and animal health and the environment needs to be maintained when using such applications. The current EU biosafety regulation framework ensures a high level of protection with a mandatory environmental risk assessment (ERA) of genetically modified (GM) products prior to the authorization of individual GMOs for environmental release or marketing. However, the guidance available from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for conducting such an ERA is not specific enough regarding the techniques under discussion and needs to be further developed to support the policy goals towards ERA, i.e., a case-by-case assessment approach proportionate to the respective risks, currently put forward by the EC. This review identifies important elements for the case-by-case approach for the ERA that need to be taken into account in the framework for a risk-oriented regulatory approach. We also discuss that the comparison of genome-edited plants with plants developed using conventional breeding methods should be conducted at the level of a scientific case-by-case assessment of individual applications rather than at a general, technology-based level. Our considerations aim to support the development of further specific guidance for the ERA of genome-edited plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Eckerstorfer
- Umweltbundesamt-Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marion Dolezel
- Umweltbundesamt-Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Margret Engelhard
- Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Division of Assessment of GMOs/Enforcement of Genetic Engineering Act, Konstantinstr. 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany
| | - Valeria Giovannelli
- ISPRA (Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research), Department for Environmental Monitoring and Protection and for Biodiversity Conservation, Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Marcin Grabowski
- Ministry of Climate and Environment, Department Nature Conservation, GMO Unit, Wawelska 52/54, 00-922 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andreas Heissenberger
- Umweltbundesamt-Environment Agency Austria (EAA), Landuse and Biosafety Unit, Spittelauer Lände 5, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Matteo Lener
- ISPRA (Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research), Department for Environmental Monitoring and Protection and for Biodiversity Conservation, Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Wolfram Reichenbecher
- Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Division of Assessment of GMOs/Enforcement of Genetic Engineering Act, Konstantinstr. 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany
| | - Samson Simon
- Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Division of Assessment of GMOs/Enforcement of Genetic Engineering Act, Konstantinstr. 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany
| | - Giovanni Staiano
- ISPRA (Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research), Department for Environmental Monitoring and Protection and for Biodiversity Conservation, Via Vitaliano Brancati, 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Anne Gabrielle Wüst Saucy
- Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), Biotechnology Section, Soil and Biotechnology Division, 3003 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jan Zünd
- Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), Biotechnology Section, Soil and Biotechnology Division, 3003 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Lüthi
- Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), Biotechnology Section, Soil and Biotechnology Division, 3003 Bern, Switzerland
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Abstract
In contrast to traditional breeding, which relies on the identification of mutants, metabolic engineering provides a new platform to modify the oil composition in oil crops for improved nutrition. By altering endogenous genes involved in the biosynthesis pathways, it is possible to modify edible plant oils to increase the content of desired components or reduce the content of undesirable components. However, introduction of novel nutritional components such as omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids needs transgenic expression of novel genes in crops. Despite formidable challenges, significant progress in engineering nutritionally improved edible plant oils has recently been achieved, with some commercial products now on the market.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qing Liu
- CSIRO Agriculture & Food, Canberra, Australia;
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8
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Forbes E, Wulff-Vester AK, Hvoslef-Eide T(A. Will genetically modified late blight resistant potatoes be the first GM crops to be approved for commercial growing in Norway? FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1137598. [PMID: 36938038 PMCID: PMC10014530 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1137598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Last decade's advances in biotechnology, with the introduction of CRISPR, have challenged the regulatory framework for competent authorities all over the world. Hence, regulatory issues related to gene editing are currently high on the agenda both in the EU and in the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement country of Norway, particularly with regards to sustainable agriculture. During the negotiations on the EEA Agreement, Norway was allowed to retain three extra aims in the Gene Technology Act: "That the production and use of GMO happens in an ethical way, is beneficial to society and is in accordance with the principle of sustainable development". We argue the case that taking sustainability into the decisions on regulating gene edited products could be easier in Norway than in the EU because of these extra aims. Late blight is our chosen example, as a devastating disease in potato that is controlled in Norway primarily by high levels of fungicide use. Also, many of these fungicides are being banned due to negative environmental and health effects. The costs of controlling late blight in Norway were calculated in 2006, and since then there have been new cultivars developed, inflation and an outbreak of war in Europe increasing farm input costs. A genetically modified (GM) cisgenic late blight resistant (LBR) potato presents a possible solution that could reduce fungicide use, but this could still be controversial. This paper aims to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of approving the commercial use of a GM LBR potato cultivar in Norway and compare these against currently used late blight management methods and conventional potato resistance breeding. We argue that a possible route for future regulatory framework could build upon the proposal by the Norwegian Biotechnology Advisory Board from 2019, also taking sustainability goals into account. This could favour a positive response from the Competent Authorities without breeching the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement. Perhaps the EU could adopt a similar approach to fulfil their obligations towards a more sustainable agriculture?
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Shakir S, Zaidi SSEA, Hashemi FSG, Nyirakanani C, Vanderschuren H. Harnessing plant viruses in the metagenomics era: from the development of infectious clones to applications. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 28:297-311. [PMID: 36379846 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Recent metagenomic studies which focused on virus characterization in the entire plant environment have revealed a remarkable viral diversity in plants. The exponential discovery of viruses also requires the concomitant implementation of high-throughput methods to perform their functional characterization. Despite several limitations, the development of viral infectious clones remains a method of choice to understand virus biology, their role in the phytobiome, and plant resilience. Here, we review the latest approaches for efficient characterization of plant viruses and technical advances built on high-throughput sequencing and synthetic biology to streamline assembly of viral infectious clones. We then discuss the applications of plant viral vectors in fundamental and applied plant research as well as their technical and regulatory limitations, and we propose strategies for their safer field applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Shakir
- Plant Genetics and Rhizosphere Processes Laboratory, TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium.
| | - Syed Shan-E-Ali Zaidi
- Plant Genetics and Rhizosphere Processes Laboratory, TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Farahnaz Sadat Golestan Hashemi
- Plant Genetics and Rhizosphere Processes Laboratory, TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Chantal Nyirakanani
- Plant Genetics and Rhizosphere Processes Laboratory, TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium; Department of Crop Science, School of Agriculture, University of Rwanda, Musanze, Rwanda
| | - Hervé Vanderschuren
- Plant Genetics and Rhizosphere Processes Laboratory, TERRA Teaching and Research Center, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium; Laboratory of Tropical Crop Improvement, Division of Crop Biotechnics, Biosystems Department, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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10
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Heinemann JA, Clark K, Hiscox TC, McCabe AW, Agapito-Tenfen SZ. Are null segregants new combinations of heritable material and should they be regulated? Front Genome Ed 2023; 4:1064103. [PMID: 36704579 PMCID: PMC9871356 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2022.1064103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Through genome editing and other techniques of gene technology, it is possible to create a class of organism called null segregants. These genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are products of gene technology but are argued to have no lingering vestige of the technology after the segregation of chromosomes or deletion of insertions. From that viewpoint regulations are redundant because any unique potential for the use of gene technology to cause harm has also been removed. We tackle this question of international interest by reviewing the early history of the purpose of gene technology regulation. The active ingredients of techniques used for guided mutagenesis, e.g., site-directed nucleases, such as CRISPR/Cas, are promoted for having a lower potential per reaction to create a hazard. However, others see this as a desirable industrial property of the reagents that will lead to genome editing being used more and nullifying the promised hazard mitigation. The contest between views revolves around whether regulations could alter the risks in the responsible use of gene technology. We conclude that gene technology, even when used to make null segregants, has characteristics that make regulation a reasonable option for mitigating potential harm. Those characteristics are that it allows people to create more harm faster, even if it creates benefits as well; the potential for harm increases with increased use of the technique, but safety does not; and regulations can control harm scaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack A. Heinemann
- Centre for Integrated Research in Biosafety and School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Katrin Clark
- Centre for Integrated Research in Biosafety and School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Tessa C. Hiscox
- Centre for Integrated Research in Biosafety and School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Andrew W. McCabe
- Centre for Integrated Research in Biosafety and School of Biological Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Z. Agapito-Tenfen
- Climate and Environment Division, NORCE Norwegian Research Centre AS, Tromsø, Norway,*Correspondence: Sarah Z. Agapito-Tenfen,
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Pascher K, Hainz-Renetzeder C, Jagersberger M, Kneissl K, Gollmann G, Schneeweiss GM. Contamination of imported kernels by unapproved genome-edited varieties poses a major challenge for monitoring and traceability during transport and handling on a global scale: inferences from a study on feral oilseed rape in Austria. Front Genome Ed 2023; 5:1176290. [PMID: 37153078 PMCID: PMC10156978 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2023.1176290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Novel techniques such as CRISPR/Cas are increasingly being applied for the development of modern crops. However, the regulatory framework for production, labelling and handling of genome-edited organisms varies worldwide. Currently, the European Commission is raising the question whether genome-edited organisms should still be regulated as genetically modified organisms in the future or whether a deregulation should be implemented. In our paper, based on the outcome of a 2-year case study on oilseed rape in Austria, we show that seed spillage during import and subsequent transport and handling activities is a key factor for the unintended dispersal of seeds into the environment, the subsequent emergence of feral oilseed rape populations and their establishment and long-term persistence in natural habitats. These facts must likewise be considered in case of genome-edited oilseed rape contaminants that might be accidentally introduced with conventional kernels. We provide evidence that in Austria a high diversity of oilseed rape genotypes, including some with alleles not known from cultivated oilseed rape in Austria, exists at sites with high seed spillage and low weed management, rendering these sites of primary concern with respect to possible escape of genome-edited oilseed rape varieties into the environment. Since appropriate detection methods for single genome-edited oilseed rape events have only recently started to be successfully developed and the adverse effects of these artificial punctate DNA exchanges remain largely unknown, tracing the transmission and spread of these genetic modifications places high requirements on their monitoring, identification, and traceability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Pascher
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Zoology, Department of Integrative Biology and Biodiversity Research, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Kathrin Pascher,
| | - Christa Hainz-Renetzeder
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Landscape Development, Recreation and Conservation Planning (ILEN), Department of Landscape, Spatial and Infrastructure Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michaela Jagersberger
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Kneissl
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Günter Gollmann
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, Unit for Theoretical Biology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerald M. Schneeweiss
- Department of Botany and Biodiversity Research, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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12
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Chu P, Agapito-Tenfen SZ. Unintended Genomic Outcomes in Current and Next Generation GM Techniques: A Systematic Review. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11212997. [PMID: 36365450 PMCID: PMC9655061 DOI: 10.3390/plants11212997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Classical genetic engineering and new genome editing techniques, especially the CRISPR/Cas technology, increase the possibilities for modifying the genetic material in organisms. These technologies have the potential to provide novel agricultural traits, including modified microorganisms and environmental applications. However, legitimate safety concerns arise from the unintended genetic modifications (GM) that have been reported as side-effects of such techniques. Here, we systematically review the scientific literature for studies that have investigated unintended genomic alterations in plants modified by the following GM techniques: Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated gene transfer, biolistic bombardment, and CRISPR-Cas9 delivered via Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfer (DNA-based), biolistic bombardment (DNA-based) and as ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs). The results of our literature review show that the impact of such techniques in host genomes varies from small nucleotide polymorphisms to large genomic variation, such as segmental duplication, chromosome truncation, trisomy, chromothripsis, breakage fusion bridge, including large rearrangements of DNA vector-backbone sequences. We have also reviewed the type of analytical method applied to investigate the genomic alterations and found that only five articles used whole genome sequencing in their analysis methods. In addition, larger structural variations detected in some studies would not be possible without long-read sequencing strategies, which shows a potential underestimation of such effects in the literature. As new technologies are constantly evolving, a more thorough examination of prospective analytical methods should be conducted in the future. This will provide regulators working in the field of genetically modified and gene-edited organisms with valuable information on the ability to detect and identify genomic interventions.
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13
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A paired-end whole-genome sequencing approach enables comprehensive characterization of transgene integration in rice. Commun Biol 2022; 5:667. [PMID: 35790849 PMCID: PMC9256713 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03608-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Efficient, accurate molecular characterization of genetically modified (GM) organisms is challenging, especially for those transgenic events transferred with genes/elements of recipient species. Herein, we decipher the comprehensive molecular characterization of one novel GM rice event G281 which was transferred with native promoters and an RNA interference (RNAi) expression cassette using paired-end whole genome sequencing (PE-WGS) and modified TranSeq approach. Our results show that transgenes integrate at rice chromosome 3 locus 16,439,674 included a 36 bp deletion of rice genomic DNA, and the whole integration contains two copies of the complete transfer DNA (T-DNA) in a head-to-head arrangement. No unintended insertion or backbone sequence of the transformed plasmid is observed at the whole genome level. Molecular characterization of the G281 event will assist risk assessment and application for a commercial license. In addition, we speculate that our approach could be further used for identifying the transgene integration of cisgenesis/intragenesis crops since both ends of T-DNA in G281 rice were from native gene or elements which is similar with that of cisgenesis/intrasgenesis. Our results from the in silico mimicking cisgenesis event confirm that the mimic rice Gt1 gene insertion and its flanking sequences are successfully identified, demonstrating the applicability of PE-WGS for molecular characterization of cisgenesis/intragenesis crops. Coupling paired-end whole-genome sequencing with droplet digital PCR enabled precise identification of a transgene insertion in the genetically modified rice event G281 on chromosome 3 and the potential for exploring the native gene integration.
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14
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The socio-economic factors affecting the emergence and impacts of new genomic techniques in agriculture: A scoping review. Trends Food Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2022.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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15
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Hamdan MF, Mohd Noor SN, Abd-Aziz N, Pua TL, Tan BC. Green Revolution to Gene Revolution: Technological Advances in Agriculture to Feed the World. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:1297. [PMID: 35631721 PMCID: PMC9146367 DOI: 10.3390/plants11101297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Technological applications in agriculture have evolved substantially to increase crop yields and quality to meet global food demand. Conventional techniques, such as seed saving, selective breeding, and mutation breeding (variation breeding), have dramatically increased crop production, especially during the 'Green Revolution' in the 1990s. However, newer issues, such as limited arable lands, climate change, and ever-increasing food demand, pose challenges to agricultural production and threaten food security. In the following 'Gene Revolution' era, rapid innovations in the biotechnology field provide alternative strategies to further improve crop yield, quality, and resilience towards biotic and abiotic stresses. These innovations include the introduction of DNA recombinant technology and applications of genome editing techniques, such as transcription activator-like effector (TALEN), zinc-finger nucleases (ZFN), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR associated (CRISPR/Cas) systems. However, the acceptance and future of these modern tools rely on the regulatory frameworks governing their development and production in various countries. Herein, we examine the evolution of technological applications in agriculture, focusing on the motivations for their introduction, technical challenges, possible benefits and concerns, and regulatory frameworks governing genetically engineered product development and production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Fadhli Hamdan
- Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Siti Nurfadhlina Mohd Noor
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia;
| | - Nazrin Abd-Aziz
- Innovation Centre in Agritechnology for Advanced Bioprocessing (ICA), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Pagoh 84600, Malaysia;
| | - Teen-Lee Pua
- Topplant Laboratories Sdn. Bhd., Jalan Ulu Beranang, Negeri Sembilan 71750, Malaysia;
| | - Boon Chin Tan
- Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
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16
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Hüdig M, Laibach N, Hein AC. Genome Editing in Crop Plant Research-Alignment of Expectations and Current Developments. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:212. [PMID: 35050100 PMCID: PMC8778883 DOI: 10.3390/plants11020212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The rapid development of genome editing and other new genomic techniques (NGT) has evoked manifold expectations on purposes of the application of these techniques to crop plants. In this study, we identify and align these expectations with current scientific development. We apply a semi-quantitative text analysis approach on political, economic, and scientific opinion papers to disentangle and extract expectations towards the application of NGT-based plants. Using the sustainable development goals (SDG) of the 2030 agenda as categories, we identify contributions to food security or adaptation to climatic changes as the most frequently mentioned expectations, accompanied by the notion of sustainable agriculture and food systems. We then link SDG with relevant plant traits and review existing research and commercial field trials for genome-edited crop plants. For a detailed analysis we pick as representative traits drought tolerance and resistance against fungal pathogens. Diverse genetic setscrews for both traits have been identified, modified, and tested under laboratory conditions, although there are only a few in the field. All in all, NGT-plants that can withstand more than one stressor or different environments are not documented in advanced development states. We further conclude that developing new plants with modified traits will not be sufficient to reach food security or adaption to climatic changes in a short time frame. Further scientific development of sustainable agricultural systems will need to play an important role to tackle SDG challenges, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Hüdig
- Molecular Plant Physiology Division, Institute of Molecular Physiology and Biotechnology of Plants, University of Bonn, Kirschallee 1, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Natalie Laibach
- Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), Edifici CRAG-Campus UAB, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Anke-Christiane Hein
- Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Assessment of Genetically Modified Organisms, Konstantinstraße 110, 53179 Bonn, Germany
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17
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Gianoglio S, Comino C, Moglia A, Acquadro A, García-Carpintero V, Diretto G, Sevi F, Rambla JL, Dono G, Valentino D, Moreno-Giménez E, Fullana-Pericàs M, Conesa MA, Galmés J, Lanteri S, Mazzucato A, Orzáez D, Granell A. In-Depth Characterization of greenflesh Tomato Mutants Obtained by CRISPR/Cas9 Editing: A Case Study With Implications for Breeding and Regulation. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:936089. [PMID: 35898224 PMCID: PMC9309892 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.936089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Gene editing has already proved itself as an invaluable tool for the generation of mutants for crop breeding, yet its ultimate impact on agriculture will depend on how crops generated by gene editing technologies are regulated, and on our ability to characterize the impact of mutations on plant phenotype. A starting operational strategy for evaluating gene editing-based approaches to plant breeding might consist of assessing the effect of the induced mutations in a crop- and locus-specific manner: this involves the analysis of editing efficiency in different cultivars of a crop, the assessment of potential off-target mutations, and a phenotypic evaluation of edited lines carrying different mutated alleles. Here, we targeted the GREENFLESH (GF) locus in two tomato cultivars ('MoneyMaker' and 'San Marzano') and evaluated the efficiency, specificity and mutation patterns associated with CRISPR/Cas9 activity for this gene. The GF locus encodes a Mg-dechelatase responsible for initiating chlorophyll degradation; in gf mutants, ripe fruits accumulate both carotenoids and chlorophylls. Phenotypic evaluations were conducted on two transgene-free T2 'MoneyMaker' gf lines with different mutant alleles (a small insertion of 1 nucleotide and a larger deletion of 123 bp). Both lines, in addition to reduced chlorophyll degradation, showed a notable increase in carotenoid and tocopherol levels during fruit ripening. Infection of gf leaves and fruits with Botrytis cinerea resulted in a significant reduction of infected area and pathogen proliferation compared to the wild type (WT). Our data indicates that the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated mutation of the GF locus in tomato is efficient, specific and reproducible and that the resulting phenotype is robust and consistent with previously characterized greenflesh mutants obtained with different breeding techniques, while also shedding light on novel traits such as vitamin E overaccumulation and pathogen resistance. This makes GF an appealing target for breeding tomato cultivars with improved features for cultivation, as well as consumer appreciation and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Gianoglio
- Departamento de Biotecnología de Cultivos, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Cinzia Comino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari (DISAFA), Plant Genetics and Breeding, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Moglia
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari (DISAFA), Plant Genetics and Breeding, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Alberto Acquadro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari (DISAFA), Plant Genetics and Breeding, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Víctor García-Carpintero
- Departamento de Biotecnología de Cultivos, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Gianfranco Diretto
- Italian Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Sevi
- Italian Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - José Luis Rambla
- Departamento de Biotecnología de Cultivos, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Valencia, Spain
- Department of Biology, Biochemistry and Natural Sciences, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - Gabriella Dono
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Danila Valentino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari (DISAFA), Plant Genetics and Breeding, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elena Moreno-Giménez
- Departamento de Biotecnología de Cultivos, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de los Alimentos (IATA-CSIC), Paterna, Spain
| | - Mateu Fullana-Pericàs
- Instituto de Investigaciones Agroambientales y de Economía del Agua (INAGEA), Research Group on Plant Biology Under Mediterranean Conditions, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Conesa
- Instituto de Investigaciones Agroambientales y de Economía del Agua (INAGEA), Research Group on Plant Biology Under Mediterranean Conditions, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain
| | - Jeroni Galmés
- Instituto de Investigaciones Agroambientales y de Economía del Agua (INAGEA), Research Group on Plant Biology Under Mediterranean Conditions, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain
| | - Sergio Lanteri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Forestali e Alimentari (DISAFA), Plant Genetics and Breeding, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Mazzucato
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), Università degli Studi della Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Diego Orzáez
- Departamento de Biotecnología de Cultivos, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Granell
- Departamento de Biotecnología de Cultivos, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (IBMCP), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) – Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia (UPV), Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Antonio Granell,
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18
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Huang C, Wang Z, Zhu P, Wang C, Wang C, Xu W, Li Z, Fu W, Zhu S. RNA Interference-Based Genetic Engineering Maize Resistant to Apolygus lucorum Does Not Manifest Unpredictable Unintended Effects Relative to Conventional Breeding: Short Interfering RNA, Transcriptome, and Metabolome Analysis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:745708. [PMID: 35283891 PMCID: PMC8908210 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.745708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of omics techniques to analyze the differences between genetic engineering organisms and their parents can identify unintended effects and explore whether such unintended effects will have negative consequences. In order to evaluate whether genetic engineering will cause changes in crops beyond the changes introduced by conventional plant breeding, we compared the extent of transcriptome and metabolome modification in the leaves of three lines developed by RNA interference (RNAi)-based genetic engineering and three lines developed by conventional breeding. The results showed that both types of plant breeding methods can manifest changes at the short interfering RNA (siRNA), transcriptomic, and metabolic levels. Relative expression analysis of potential off-target gene revealed that there was no broad gene decline in the three RNAi-based genetic engineering lines. We found that the number of DEGs and DAMs between RNAi-based genetic engineering lines and the parental line was less than that between conventional breeding lines. These unique DEGs and DAMs between RNAi-based genetic engineering lines and the parental lines were not enriched in detrimental metabolic pathways. The results suggest that RNAi-based genetic engineering do not cause unintended effects beyond those found in conventional breeding in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmeng Huang
- College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
| | - Pengyu Zhu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
| | - Chenguang Wang
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
| | - Chaonan Wang
- College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjie Xu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihong Li
- College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Fu,
| | - Shuifang Zhu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing, China
- Shuifang Zhu,
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19
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Kawall K. The Generic Risks and the Potential of SDN-1 Applications in Crop Plants. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:2259. [PMID: 34834620 PMCID: PMC8622673 DOI: 10.3390/plants10112259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The use of site-directed nucleases (SDNs) in crop plants to alter market-oriented traits is expanding rapidly. At the same time, there is an on-going debate around the safety and regulation of crops altered with the site-directed nuclease 1 (SDN-1) technology. SDN-1 applications can be used to induce a variety of genetic alterations ranging from fairly 'simple' genetic alterations to complex changes in plant genomes using, for example, multiplexing approaches. The resulting plants can contain modified alleles and associated traits, which are either known or unknown in conventionally bred plants. The European Commission recently published a study on new genomic techniques suggesting an adaption of the current GMO legislation by emphasizing that targeted mutagenesis techniques can produce genomic alterations that can also be obtained by natural mutations or conventional breeding techniques. This review highlights the need for a case-specific risk assessment of crop plants derived from SDN-1 applications considering both the characteristics of the product and the process to ensure a high level of protection of human and animal health and the environment. The published literature on so-called market-oriented traits in crop plants altered with SDN-1 applications is analyzed here to determine the types of SDN-1 application in plants, and to reflect upon the complexity and the naturalness of such products. Furthermore, it demonstrates the potential of SDN-1 applications to induce complex alterations in plant genomes that are relevant to generic SDN-associated risks. In summary, it was found that nearly half of plants with so-called market-oriented traits contain complex genomic alterations induced by SDN-1 applications, which may also pose new types of risks. It further underscores the need for data on both the process and the end-product for a case-by-case risk assessment of plants derived from SDN-1 applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Kawall
- Fachstelle Gentechnik und Umwelt, Frohschammerstr. 14, 80807 Munich, Germany
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20
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Karlson CKS, Mohd-Noor SN, Nolte N, Tan BC. CRISPR/dCas9-Based Systems: Mechanisms and Applications in Plant Sciences. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10102055. [PMID: 34685863 PMCID: PMC8540305 DOI: 10.3390/plants10102055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
RNA-guided genomic transcriptional regulation tools, namely clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats interference (CRISPRi) and CRISPR-mediated gene activation (CRISPRa), are a powerful technology for gene functional studies. Deriving from the CRISPR/Cas9 system, both systems consist of a catalytically dead Cas9 (dCas9), a transcriptional effector and a single guide RNA (sgRNA). This type of dCas9 is incapable to cleave DNA but retains its ability to specifically bind to DNA. The binding of the dCas9/sgRNA complex to a target gene results in transcriptional interference. The CRISPR/dCas9 system has been explored as a tool for transcriptional modulation and genome imaging. Despite its potential applications and benefits, the challenges and limitations faced by the CRISPR/dCas9 system include the off-target effects, protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) sequence requirements, efficient delivery methods and the CRISPR/dCas9-interfered crops being labeled as genetically modified organisms in several countries. This review highlights the progression of CRISPR/dCas9 technology as well as its applications and potential challenges in crop improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chou Khai Soong Karlson
- Center for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Siti Nurfadhlina Mohd-Noor
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia;
| | - Nadja Nolte
- Department of Plant Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Boon Chin Tan
- Center for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-3-7967-7982
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21
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Ahmad S, Tang L, Shahzad R, Mawia AM, Rao GS, Jamil S, Wei C, Sheng Z, Shao G, Wei X, Hu P, Mahfouz MM, Hu S, Tang S. CRISPR-Based Crop Improvements: A Way Forward to Achieve Zero Hunger. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:8307-8323. [PMID: 34288688 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c02653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Zero hunger is one of the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations in 2015 to achieve global food security by 2030. The current harvest of crops is insufficient; feeding the world's population and meeting the goal of zero hunger by 2030 will require larger and more consistent crop production. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein (CRISPR-Cas) technology is widely used for the plant genome editing. In this review, we consider this technology as a potential tool for achieving zero hunger. We provide a comprehensive overview of CRISPR-Cas technology and its most important applications for food crops' improvement. We also conferred current and potential technological breakthroughs that will help in breeding future crops to end global hunger. The regulatory aspects of deploying this technology in commercial sectors, bioethics, and the production of transgene-free plants are also discussed. We hope that the CRISPR-Cas system will accelerate the breeding of improved crop cultivars compared with conventional breeding and pave the way toward the zero hunger goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakeel Ahmad
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Maize Research Station, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Liqun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Rahil Shahzad
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Amos Musyoki Mawia
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Gundra Sivakrishna Rao
- Laboratory for Genome Engineering and Synthetic Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, 4700 King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shakra Jamil
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Chen Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Zhonghua Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Gaoneng Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Xiangjin Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Peisong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Magdy M Mahfouz
- Laboratory for Genome Engineering and Synthetic Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, 4700 King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shikai Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Shaoqing Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, China National Center for Rice Improvement, China National Rice Research Institute, Hangzhou 310006, China
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22
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Dormatey R, Sun C, Ali K, Fiaz S, Xu D, Calderón-Urrea A, Bi Z, Zhang J, Bai J. ptxD/Phi as alternative selectable marker system for genetic transformation for bio-safety concerns: a review. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11809. [PMID: 34395075 PMCID: PMC8323600 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic and herbicide resistance genes are the most common marker genes for plant transformation to improve crop yield and food quality. However, there is public concern about the use of resistance marker genes in food crops due to the risk of potential gene flow from transgenic plants to compatible weedy relatives, leading to the possible development of “superweeds” and antibiotic resistance. Several selectable marker genes such as aph, nptII, aaC3, aadA, pat, bar, epsp and gat, which have been synthesized to generate transgenic plants by genetic transformation, have shown some limitations. These marker genes, which confer antibiotic or herbicide resistance and are introduced into crops along with economically valuable genes, have three main problems: selective agents have negative effects on plant cell proliferation and differentiation, uncertainty about the environmental effects of many selectable marker genes, and difficulty in performing recurrent transformations with the same selectable marker to pyramid desired genes. Recently, a simple, novel, and affordable method was presented for plant cells to convert non-metabolizable phosphite (Phi) to an important phosphate (Pi) for developing cells by gene expression encoding a phosphite oxidoreductase (PTXD) enzyme. The ptxD gene, in combination with a selection medium containing Phi as the sole phosphorus (P) source, can serve as an effective and efficient system for selecting transformed cells. The selection system adds nutrients to transgenic plants without potential risks to the environment. The ptxD/Phi system has been shown to be a promising transgenic selection system with several advantages in cost and safety compared to other antibiotic-based selection systems. In this review, we have summarized the development of selection markers for genetic transformation and the potential use of the ptxD/Phi scheme as an alternative selection marker system to minimize the future use of antibiotic and herbicide marker genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Dormatey
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China
| | - Chao Sun
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China
| | - Kazim Ali
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China.,National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology, National Agricultural Research Centre, Park Road, Islamabad Pakistan
| | - Sajid Fiaz
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Derong Xu
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China
| | - Alejandro Calderón-Urrea
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Mathematics, California State University, Fresno, CA, USA
| | - Zhenzhen Bi
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China
| | - Junlian Zhang
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China
| | - Jiangping Bai
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Aridland Crop Science/College of Agronomy, Gansu Agricultural University, Landzhou, China
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23
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Okoli AS, Blix T, Myhr AI, Xu W, Xu X. Sustainable use of CRISPR/Cas in fish aquaculture: the biosafety perspective. Transgenic Res 2021; 31:1-21. [PMID: 34304349 PMCID: PMC8821480 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-021-00274-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aquaculture is becoming the primary source of seafood for human diets, and farmed fish aquaculture is one of its fastest growing sectors. The industry currently faces several challenges including infectious and parasitic diseases, reduced viability, fertility reduction, slow growth, escapee fish and environmental pollution. The commercialization of the growth-enhanced AquAdvantage salmon and the CRISPR/Cas9-developed tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) proffers genetic engineering and genome editing tools, e.g. CRISPR/Cas, as potential solutions to these challenges. Future traits being developed in different fish species include disease resistance, sterility, and enhanced growth. Despite these notable advances, off-target effect and non-clarification of trait-related genes among other technical challenges hinder full realization of CRISPR/Cas potentials in fish breeding. In addition, current regulatory and risk assessment frameworks are not fit-for purpose regarding the challenges of CRISPR/Cas notwithstanding that public and regulatory acceptance are key to commercialization of products of the new technology. In this study, we discuss how CRISPR/Cas can be used to overcome some of these limitations focusing on diseases and environmental release in farmed fish aquaculture. We further present technical limitations, regulatory and risk assessment challenges of the use of CRISPR/Cas, and proffer research strategies that will provide much-needed data for regulatory decisions, risk assessments, increased public awareness and sustainable applications of CRISPR/Cas in fish aquaculture with emphasis on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arinze S Okoli
- GenØk -Centre for Biosafety, SIVA Innovation Centre, Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Torill Blix
- GenØk -Centre for Biosafety, SIVA Innovation Centre, Tromsø, Norway.,The Norwegian College of Fishery Science, The Arctic University of Norway (UiT), Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anne I Myhr
- GenØk -Centre for Biosafety, SIVA Innovation Centre, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Wenteng Xu
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- Qingdao Vland Biotech Company Group, Qingdao, 266061, China
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24
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Zanon Agapito-Tenfen S, Guerra MP, Nodari RO, Wikmark OG. Untargeted Proteomics-Based Approach to Investigate Unintended Changes in Genetically Modified Maize for Environmental Risk Assessment Purpose. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:655968. [PMID: 35295118 PMCID: PMC8915820 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.655968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Profiling technologies, such as proteomics, allow the simultaneous measurement and comparison of thousands of plant components without prior knowledge of their identity. The combination of these non-targeted methods facilitates a more comprehensive approach than targeted methods and thus provides additional opportunities to identify genotypic changes resulting from genetic modification, including new allergens or toxins. The purpose of this study was to investigate unintended changes in GM Bt maize grown in South Africa. In the present study, we used bi-dimensional gel electrophoresis based on fluorescence staining, coupled with mass spectrometry in order to compare the proteome of the field-grown transgenic hybrid (MON810) and its near-isogenic counterpart. Proteomic data showed that energy metabolism and redox homeostasis were unequally modulated in GM Bt and non-GM maize variety samples. In addition, a potential allergenic protein-pathogenesis related protein -1 has been identified in our sample set. Our data shows that the GM variety is not substantially equivalent to its non-transgenic near-isogenic variety and further studies should be conducted in order to address the biological relevance and the potential risks of such changes. These finding highlight the suitability of unbiased profiling approaches to complement current GMO risk assessment practices worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miguel Pedro Guerra
- CropScience Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Rubens Onofre Nodari
- CropScience Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
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25
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Biosafety of Genome Editing Applications in Plant Breeding: Considerations for a Focused Case-Specific Risk Assessment in the EU. BIOTECH 2021; 10:biotech10030010. [PMID: 35822764 PMCID: PMC9245463 DOI: 10.3390/biotech10030010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
An intensely debated question is whether or how a mandatory environmental risk assessment (ERA) should be conducted for plants obtained through novel genomic techniques, including genome editing (GE). Some countries have already exempted certain types of GE applications from their regulations addressing genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In the European Union, the European Court of Justice confirmed in 2018 that plants developed by novel genomic techniques for directed mutagenesis are regulated as GMOs. Thus, they have to undergo an ERA prior to deliberate release or being placed on the market. Recently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published two opinions on the relevance of the current EU ERA framework for GM plants obtained through novel genomic techniques (NGTs). Regarding GE plants, the opinions confirmed that the existing ERA framework is suitable in general and that the current ERA requirements need to be applied in a case specific manner. Since EFSA did not provide further guidance, this review addresses a couple of issues relevant for the case-specific assessment of GE plants. We discuss the suitability of general denominators of risk/safety and address characteristics of GE plants which require particular assessment approaches. We suggest integrating the following two sets of considerations into the ERA: considerations related to the traits developed by GE and considerations addressing the assessment of method-related unintended effects, e.g., due to off-target modifications. In conclusion, we recommend that further specific guidance for the ERA and monitoring should be developed to facilitate a focused assessment approach for GE plants.
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26
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From bacterial battles to CRISPR crops; progress towards agricultural applications of genome editing. Emerg Top Life Sci 2020; 3:687-693. [PMID: 32915213 DOI: 10.1042/etls20190065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Genome editing is the precise alteration of DNA in living cells by the cutting or removal of specific sequences, sometimes followed by insertion of new sequences at the cut site. CRISPR-Cas9 has become firmly established as the genome-editing method of choice, replacing the systems that had been developed and in use since the early 1990s. The CRISPR-Cas9 system has been developed from a mechanism used in prokaryotes as a defence against bacteriophage but actually functions in cells of all types of organisms. It is widely used in research as a gene knockout and editing tool; applications in veterinary medicine (such as increased resistance to disease) and human medicine (such as correction of disease-causing mutations) are under development. In agriculture and horticulture, the potential for various aspects of crop improvement is very large. Selected aspects of this potential are presented here, with particular focus on crop quality and disease resistance. The article ends with a brief discussion of the regulatory 'environment' in the USA and the EU.
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27
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Chhalliyil P, Ilves H, Kazakov SA, Howard SJ, Johnston BH, Fagan J. A Real-Time Quantitative PCR Method Specific for Detection and Quantification of the First Commercialized Genome-Edited Plant. Foods 2020; 9:foods9091245. [PMID: 32906573 PMCID: PMC7556030 DOI: 10.3390/foods9091245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Discussion regarding the regulatory status of genome-edited crops has focused on precision of editing and on doubts regarding the feasibility of analytical monitoring compliant with existing GMO regulations. Effective detection methods are important, both for regulatory enforcement and traceability in case of biosafety, environmental or socio-economic impacts. Here, we approach the analysis question for the first time in the laboratory and report the successful development of a quantitative PCR detection method for the first commercialized genome-edited crop, a canola with a single base pair edit conferring herbicide tolerance. The method is highly sensitive and specific (quantification limit, 0.05%), compatible with the standards of practice, equipment and expertise typical in GMO laboratories, and readily integrable into their analytical workflows, including use of the matrix approach. The method, validated by an independent laboratory, meets all legal requirements for GMO analytical methods in jurisdictions such as the EU, is consistent with ISO17025 accreditation standards and has been placed in the public domain. Having developed a qPCR method for the most challenging class of genome edits, single-nucleotide variants, this research suggests that qPCR-based method development may be applicable to virtually any genome-edited organism. This advance resolves doubts regarding the feasibility of extending the regulatory approach currently employed for recombinant DNA-based GMOs to genome-edited organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradheep Chhalliyil
- Health Research Institute, 505 Dimick Drive, P.O. Box 370, Fairfield, IA 52556, USA;
| | - Heini Ilves
- Somagenics, Inc., 2161 Delaware Ave, Suite E, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; (H.I.); (S.A.K.); (B.H.J.)
| | - Sergei A. Kazakov
- Somagenics, Inc., 2161 Delaware Ave, Suite E, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; (H.I.); (S.A.K.); (B.H.J.)
| | - Stephanie J. Howard
- The Sustainability Council of New Zealand, P.O. Box 24304, Wellington 6142, New Zealand;
| | - Brian H. Johnston
- Somagenics, Inc., 2161 Delaware Ave, Suite E, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA; (H.I.); (S.A.K.); (B.H.J.)
| | - John Fagan
- Health Research Institute, 505 Dimick Drive, P.O. Box 370, Fairfield, IA 52556, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-641-451-5454
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28
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Schmidt SM, Belisle M, Frommer WB. The evolving landscape around genome editing in agriculture: Many countries have exempted or move to exempt forms of genome editing from GMO regulation of crop plants. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e50680. [PMID: 32431018 PMCID: PMC7271327 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202050680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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29
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Dolezel M, Lüthi C, Gaugitsch H. Beyond limits – the pitfalls of global gene drives for environmental risk assessment in the European Union. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.3897/biorisk.15.49297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Gene drive organisms (GDOs) have been suggested as approaches to combat some of the most pressing environmental and public health issues. No such organisms have so far been released into the environment, but it remains unclear whether the relevant regulatory provisions will be fit for purpose to cover their potential environmental, human and animal health risks if environmental releases of GDOs are envisaged. We evaluate the novel features of GDOs and outline the resulting challenges for the environmental risk assessment. These are related to the definition of the receiving environment, the use of the comparative approach, the definition of potential harm, the stepwise testing approach, the assessment of long-term and large-scale risks at population and ecosystem level and the post-release monitoring of adverse effects. Fundamental adaptations as well as the development of adequate risk assessment methodologies are needed in order to enable an operational risk assessment for globally spreading GDOs before these organisms are released into environments in the EU.
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Salonia F, Ciacciulli A, Poles L, Pappalardo HD, La Malfa S, Licciardello C. New Plant Breeding Techniques in Citrus for the Improvement of Important Agronomic Traits. A Review. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:1234. [PMID: 32922420 PMCID: PMC7456868 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.01234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
New plant breeding techniques (NPBTs) aim to overcome traditional breeding limits for fruit tree species, in order to obtain new varieties with improved organoleptic traits and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress, and to maintain fruit quality achieved over centuries by (clonal) selection. Knowledge on the gene(s) controlling a specific trait is essential for the use of NPBTs, such as genome editing and cisgenesis. In the framework of the international scientific community working on fruit tree species, including citrus, NPBTs have mainly been applied to address pathogen threats. Citrus could take advantage of NPBTs because of its complex species biology (seedlessness, apomixis, high heterozygosity, and long juvenility phase) and aptitude for in vitro manipulation. To our knowledge, genome editing in citrus via transgenesis has successful for induced resistance to Citrus bacterial canker in sweet orange and grapefruit using the resistance gene CsLOB1. In the future, NPBTs will also be used to improve fruit traits, making them healthier. The regeneration of plants following the application of NPBTs is a bottleneck, making it necessary to optimize the efficiency of current protocols. The strengths and weaknesses of using explants from young in vitro plantlets, and from mature plants, will be discussed. Other major issues addressed in this review are related to the requirement for marker-free systems and shortening the long juvenility phase. This review aims to summarize methods and approaches available in the literature that are suitable to citrus, focusing on the principles observed before the use of NPBTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Salonia
- CREA - Research Centre for Olive, Fruit and Citrus Crops, Acireale, Italy
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Angelo Ciacciulli
- CREA - Research Centre for Olive, Fruit and Citrus Crops, Acireale, Italy
| | - Lara Poles
- CREA - Research Centre for Olive, Fruit and Citrus Crops, Acireale, Italy
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Stefano La Malfa
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Stefano La Malfa, ; Concetta Licciardello,
| | - Concetta Licciardello
- CREA - Research Centre for Olive, Fruit and Citrus Crops, Acireale, Italy
- *Correspondence: Stefano La Malfa, ; Concetta Licciardello,
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31
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Environmentally applied nucleic acids and proteins for purposes of engineering changes to genes and other genetic material. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2019.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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32
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Eckerstorfer MF, Engelhard M, Heissenberger A, Simon S, Teichmann H. Plants Developed by New Genetic Modification Techniques-Comparison of Existing Regulatory Frameworks in the EU and Non-EU Countries. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:26. [PMID: 30838207 PMCID: PMC6389621 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new genetic modification techniques (nGMs), also referred to as "new (breeding) techniques" in other sources, has raised worldwide discussions regarding their regulation. Different existing regulatory frameworks for genetically modified organisms (GMO) cover nGMs to varying degrees. Coverage of nGMs depends mostly on the regulatory trigger. In general two different trigger systems can be distinguished, taking into account either the process applied during development or the characteristics of the resulting product. A key question is whether regulatory frameworks either based on process- or product-oriented triggers are more advantageous for the regulation of nGM applications. We analyzed regulatory frameworks for GMO from different countries covering both trigger systems with a focus on their applicability to plants developed by various nGMs. The study is based on a literature analysis and qualitative interviews with regulatory experts and risk assessors of GMO in the respective countries. The applied principles of risk assessment are very similar in all investigated countries independent of the applied trigger for regulation. Even though the regulatory trigger is either process- or product-oriented, both triggers systems show features of the respective other in practice. In addition our analysis shows that both trigger systems have a number of generic advantages and disadvantages, but neither system can be regarded as superior at a general level. More decisive for the regulation of organisms or products, especially nGM applications, are the variable criteria and exceptions used to implement the triggers in the different regulatory frameworks. There are discussions and consultations in some countries about whether changes in legislation are necessary to establish a desired level of regulation of nGMs. We identified five strategies for countries that desire to regulate nGM applications for biosafety-ranging from applying existing biosafety frameworks without further amendments to establishing new stand-alone legislation. Due to varying degrees of nGM regulation, international harmonization will supposedly not be achieved in the near future. In the context of international trade, transparency of the regulatory status of individual nGM products is a crucial issue. We therefore propose to introduce an international public registry listing all biotechnology products commercially used in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Samson Simon
- Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Bonn, Germany
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