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1: Bull Acad Natl Med. 2007 Apr-May;191(4-5):807-14; discussion 814.

[Allergic risk and role of the Allergy Vigilance Network]

[Article in French]

Moneret-Vautrin DA.

Mö©decine interne, immunologie clinique et allergologique, Hö´pital Central, 54035
Nancy cedex.

The recent increase in the incidence of severe anaphylaxis calls for continual
assessment of risk factor and dangers associated with food allergy, keeping
abreast of changes in the food industry. Allergologists, regulatory bodies and
the food industry are all responsible for food safety. The Allergy Vigilance
Network, founded by a university research team and comprising 398 French and
Belgian allergologists, has developed a three-point strategy. First, reporting
cases of severe anaphylaxis of document allergic origin makes it possible to
monitor the prevalence of food allergens and to evaluate the quality of
management of allergy-related emergencies, thus providing data suitable for
estimating the economic burden of anaphylaxis. The second objective of the
network is to set up multicenter trials to determine the prevalence of
sensitization to risk allergens, such as peanut, lupin and plant pollen, of which
transgenic varieties will soon emerge. The third objective is screening and
long-term monitoring of dangers related to new foods, ingredients and adjuvant
sensitizing factors. Post-marketing monitoring of potential allergic risks
arising from genetically modified food is another aim of the network, together
with the establishment of a serum bank, following WHO/FAO recommendations. The
Allergy Vigilance Network, together with the French National Institute for Food
Safety (AFSSA), the Ministry of Consumer Affairs (DGCCRF) and various patient
associations, is striving to analyse and deal with dangers related to the
allergenicity of natural and modified food proteins.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 18225435 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

2: Nat Biotechnol. 2008 Jan;26(1):73-81.

Allergenicity assessment of genetically modified crops--what makes sense?

Goodman RE, Vieths S, Sampson HA, Hill D, Ebisawa M, Taylor SL, van Ree R.

Department of Food Science & Technology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln,
Nebraska, 68583-0955, USA. rgoodman2@unlnotes.unl.edu

GM crops have great potential to improve food quality, increase harvest yields
and decrease dependency on certain chemical pesticides. Before entering the
market their safety needs to be scrutinized. This includes a detailed analysis of
allergenic risks, as the safety of allergic consumers has high priority. However,
not all tests currently being applied to assessing allergenicity have a sound
scientific basis. Recent events with transgenic crops reveal the fallacy of
applying such tests to GM crops.

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
Review

PMID: 18183024 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

3: Nature. 2007 Dec 13;450(7172):928-9.

Showdown for Europe.

Abbott A, Schiermeier Q.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 18075535 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

4: Nature. 2007 Dec 13;450(7172):921.

Directive action required.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 18075528 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

5: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1356; author reply 1359-60.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

GM soybeans--revisiting a controversial format.

Cummins J.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 18066023 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

6: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1356-8.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

Response to GM soybeans-revisiting a controversial format.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Comment

PMID: 18066022 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

7: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1355; author reply 1359-60.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

GM soybeans--revisiting a controversial format.

Ho MW, Saunders PT.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 18066021 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

8: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1355; author reply 1359-60.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

GM soybeans--revisiting a controversial format.

Leifert C.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 18066020 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

9: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1355-6; author reply 1359-60.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

GM soybeans--revisiting a controversial format.

Heinemann JA, Traavik T.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 18066019 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

10: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1354-5; author reply 1359-60.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

GM soybeans--revisiting a controversial format.

John B.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 18066018 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

11: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1351-4; author reply 1359-60.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

GM soybeans--revisiting a controversial format.

Ermakova IV.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 18066017 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

12: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1330.

Another inconvenient truth. In Europe, no one apparently wants to listen if you
have good news about genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 18066008 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

13: Toxicol Sci. 2008 Mar;102(1):100-9. Epub 2007 Nov 21.

Differences in Allergenic Potential of Food Extracts following Oral Exposure in
Mice Reflect Differences in Digestibility: Potential Approaches to Safety
Assessment.

Bowman CC, Selgrade MK.

Immunotoxicology Branch, Experimental Toxicology Division, National Health and
Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711.

An animal model for food allergy is needed to assess genetically modified food
crops for potential allergenicity. The ideal model must produce allergic antibody
(IgE) to proteins differentially according to known allergenicity before being
used to accurately identify potential allergens among novel proteins. The oral
route is the most relevant for exposure to food antigens, and a protein's
stability to digestion is a current risk assessment tool based on this natural
route. However, normal laboratory animals do not mount allergic responses to
proteins administered orally due to oral tolerance, an immunologic mechanism
which specifically suppresses IgE. To circumvent oral tolerance and evoke
differential IgE responses to a panel of allergenic and nonallergenic food
extracts, female C3H/HeJ mice were exposed subcutaneously or orally with cholera
toxin as an adjuvant. All foods elicited IgE by the subcutaneous route. Oral
exposure, however, resulted in IgE to allergens (peanut, Brazil nut, and egg
white) but not to nonallergens (spinach and turkey), provided that the dose and
exposures were limited. Additionally, in vitro digestibility assays demonstrated
the presence of digestion-stable proteins in the allergenic food extracts but not
in the nonallergenic foods. Our results suggest that the subcutaneous route is
inadequate to distinguish allergens from nonallergens, but oral exposure under
the appropriate experimental conditions will result in differential allergic
responses in accordance with known allergenicity. Moreover, those foods
containing digestion-resistant proteins provoke allergic responses in this model,
supporting the current use of pepsin resistance in the decision tree for
potential allergenicity assessment.

PMID: 18033772 [PubMed - in process]

14: Toxicol Lett. 2007 Dec 10;175(1-3):118-35. Epub 2007 Oct 10.

Zero tolerances in food and animal feed -- are there any scientific alternatives?
A European point of view on an international controversy.

Heberer T, Lahrssen-Wiederholt M, Schafft H, Abraham K, Pzyrembel H, Henning KJ,
Schauzu M, Braeunig J, Goetz M, Niemann L, Gundert-Remy U, Luch A, Appel B,
Banasiak U, Bö¶l GF, Lampen A, Wittkowski R, Hensel A.

Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Section 55, - Residues of Medicinal
Products, Diedersdorfer Weg 1, 12277 Berlin, Germany. bfr@bfr.bund.de

A number of zero tolerance provisions are contained in both food and animal feed
law, e.g. for chemical substances whose occurrence is not permitted or is
directly prohibited in food or animal feed. In the European Union, bans of this
kind were introduced to give consumers and animals the greatest possible
protection from substances with a possible hazard potential within the intendment
of the hazard prevention principles and current precautionary measures. This also
applies to substances for which an acceptable daily intake cannot be derived and
a maximum residue limit cannot, therefore, be established, e.g. due to missing or
inadequate toxicological data. Zero tolerances are also under discussion as trade
barriers because their use has triggered numerous legal disputes. This paper
draws together the results of an evaluation of alternative risk assessment
methods to be used for the risk assessment of substances to which currently only
zero tolerances apply. It will demonstrate that, depending on the available
toxicological data, a scientifically sound risk assessment may still be possible.
In this context, the two concepts - margin of exposure and threshold of
toxicological concern - are very promising approaches. Until the scientific and
sociopolitical discussions have been completed, it is essential that the
principle of zero tolerances be upheld, especially for those substances which may
be genotoxic carcinogens. In microbiology, there is no legal room for manoeuvre
with regard to food safety criteria established for reasons of consumer health
protection on the basis of scientific assessments.

PMID: 18024010 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

15: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2008 Jan;390(1):377-87. Epub 2007 Nov 11.

Detection and characterization of recombinant DNA expressing vip3A-type
insecticidal gene in GMOs--standard single, multiplex and construct-specific PCR
assays.

Singh CK, Ojha A, Bhatanagar RK, Kachru DN.

Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, Post Box No. 80, M. G. Marg, Lucknow,
226001, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Vegetative insecticidal protein (Vip), a unique class of insecticidal protein, is
now part of transgenic plants for conferring resistance against lepidopteron
pests. In order to address the imminent regulatory need for detection and
labeling of vip3A carrying genetically modified (GM) products, we have developed
a standard single PCR and a multiplex PCR assay. As far as we are aware, this is
the first report on PCR-based detection of a vip3A-type gene (vip-s) in
transgenic cotton and tobacco. Our assay involves amplification of a 284-bp
region of the vip-s gene. This assay can possibly detect as many as 20 natural
wild-type isolates bearing a vip3A-like gene and two synthetic genes of vip3A in
transgenic plants. The limit of detection as established by our assay for GM
trait (vip-s) is 0.1%. Spiking with nontarget DNA originating from diverse plant
sources had no inhibitory effect on vip-s detection. Since autoclaving of vip-s
bearing GM leaf samples showed no deterioration/interference in detection
efficacy, the assay seems to be suitable for processed food products as well. The
vip-s amplicon identity was reconfirmed by restriction endonuclease assay. The
primer set for vip-s was equally effective in a multiplex PCR assay format
(duplex, triplex and quadruplex), used in conjunction with the primer sets for
the npt-II selectable marker gene, Cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter and
nopaline synthetase terminator, enabling concurrent detection of the transgene,
regulatory sequences and marker gene. Further, the entire transgene construct was
amplified using the forward primer of the promoter and the reverse primer of the
terminator. The resultant amplicon served as a template for nested PCR to confirm
the construct integrity. The method is suitable for screening any vip3A-carrying
GM plant and food. The availability of a reliable PCR assay method prior to
commercial release of vip3A-based transgenic crops and food would facilitate
rapid and efficient regulatory compliance.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17994293 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

16: Mol Cells. 2007 Oct 31;24(2):301-6.

Overexpression of Arabidopsis homogentisate phytyltransferase or tocopherol
cyclase elevates vitamin E content by increasing gamma-tocopherol level in
lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.).

Lee K, Lee SM, Park SR, Jung J, Moon JK, Cheong JJ, Kim M.

School of Agricultural Biotechnology and Center for Agricultural Biomaterials,
Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Korea.

Tocopherols, essential components of the human diet, are synthesized exclusively
by photosynthetic organisms. To increase tocopherol content by increasing total
flux to the tocopherol biosynthetic pathway, genes encoding Arabidopsis
homogentisate phytyltransferase (HPT/V-TE2) and tocopherol cyclase (TC/VTE1) were
constitutively overexpressed in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). Total tocopherol
content of the transgenic plants overexpressing either of the genes was increased
by more than 2-fold mainly due to an increase in gamma-tocopherol. However,
chlorophyll content in the HPT/VTE2 and TC/VTE1 transgenic lines decreased by up
to 20% and increased by up to 35%, respectively (P < 0.01). These results
demonstrate that manipulation of the tocopherol biosynthetic pathway can increase
or decrease chlorophyll content depending on the gene introduced.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17978586 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

17: Ecol Appl. 2007 Oct;17(7):2123-35.

Effect of pollinator abundance on self-fertilization and gene flow: application
to GM Canola.

Hoyle M, Hayter K, Cresswell JE.

PenTAG, Peninsula Medical School, University of Plymouth, Noy Scott House,
Barrack Road, Exeter EX2 5DW, United Kingdom. m.w.hoyle@exeter.ac.uk

Cross-pollination from fields of transgenic crops is of great public concern.
Although cross-pollination in commercial canola (Brassica napus) fields has been
empirically measured, field trials are expensive and do not identify the causes
of cross-pollination. Therefore, theoretical models can be valuable because they
can provide estimates of cross-pollination at any given site and time. We present
a general analytical model of field-to-field gene flow due to the following
competing mechanisms: the wind, bees, and autonomous pollination. We parameterize
the model for the particular case of field-to-field cross-pollination of
genetically modified (GM) canola via the wind and via bumble bees (Bombus spp.)
and honey bees (Apis mellifera). We make extensive use of the large data set of
bee densities collected during the recent U.K. Farm Scale Evaluations. We predict
that canola approaches almost full seed set without pollinators and that
autonomous pollination is responsible for > or = 25% of seed set, irrespective of
pollinator abundance. We do not predict the relative contribution of bees vs. the
wind in landscape-scale gene flow in canola. However, under model assumptions, we
predict that the maximum field-to-field gene flow due to bumble bees is 0.04% and
0.13% below the current EU limit for adventitious GM presence for winter- and
spring-sown canola, respectively. We predict that gene flow due to bees is
approximately 3.1 times higher at 20% compared to 100% male-fertility, and due to
the wind, 1.3 times higher at 20% compared to 100% male-fertility, for both
winter- and spring-sown canola. Bumble bee-mediated gene flow is approximately
2.7 times higher and wind-mediated gene flow approximately 1.7 times lower in
spring-sown than in winter-sown canola, regardless of the degree of
male-sterility. The model of cross-pollination due to the wind most closely
predicted three previously published observations: field-to-field gene flow is
low; gene flow increases with the proportion of plants that are male-sterile; and
gene flow is higher in winter- than in spring-sown canola. Our results therefore
suggest that the wind, not bees, is the main vector of long-distance gene flow in
canola.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17974346 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

18: Int J Toxicol. 2007 Sep-Oct;26(5):389-99.

Strategies to evaluate the safety of bioengineered foods.

Delaney B.

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., DuPont Agriculture and Nutrition, Johnston,
Iowa 50131-0550, USA. bryan.delaney@pioneer.com

A number of genetically modified (GM) crops bioengineered to express agronomic
traits including herbicide resistance and insect tolerance have been
commercialized. Safety studies conducted for the whole grains and food and feed
fractions obtained from GM crops (i.e., bioengineered foods) bear similarities to
and distinctive differences from those applied to substances intentionally added
to foods (e.g., food ingredients). Similarities are apparent in common animal
models, route of exposure, duration, and response variables typically assessed in
toxicology studies. However, because of differences in the nutritional and
physical properties of food ingredients and bioengineered foods and in the
fundamental goals of the overall safety assessment strategies for these different
classes of substances, there are recognizable differences in the individual
components of the safety assessment process. The fundamental strategic difference
is that the process for food ingredients is structured toward quantitative risk
assessment whereas that for bioengineered foods is structured for the purpose of
qualitative risk assessment. The strategy for safety assessment of bioengineered
foods focuses on evaluating the safety of the transgenic proteins used to impart
the desired trait or traits and to demonstrate compositional similarity between
the grains of GM and non-GM comparator crops using analytical chemistry and, in
some cases, feeding studies. Despite these differences, the similarities in the
design of safety studies conducted with bioengineered foods should be recognized
by toxicologists. The current paper reviews the basic principles of safety
assessment for bioengineered foods and compares them with the testing strategies
applied to typical food ingredients. From this comparison it can be seen that the
strategies used to assess the safety of bioengineered foods are at least as
robust as that used to assess the safety of typical food ingredients.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17963126 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

19: Risk Anal. 2007 Aug;27(4):935-46.

An empirical test of competing theories of hazard-related trust: the case of GM
food.

Allum N.

Department of Sociology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
n.allum@surrey.ac.uk

Few scholars doubt the importance of trust in explaining variation in public
perception of technological risk. Relatively little, however, is known about the
particular types of judgments that people use in granting or withholding trust.
This article presents findings from an empirical study that explores several
dimensions of trust relevant for citizens' judgments of scientists involved in
the development of GM food. The relationship between particular dimensions of
trust and perceptions of GM food risk is also explored, using structural equation
modeling. Results suggest that trust judgments based on the perception of shared
values are most important in relation to GM food risk, but that judgments about
scientists' technical competence are also important.

PMID: 17958502 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

20: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1513-6.

Development of agricultural biotechnology and biosafety regulations used to
assess the safety of genetically modified crops in Iran.

Mousavi A, Malboobi MA, Esmailzadeh NS.

National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, P.O. Box 14155-6343,
Tehran, 1417863171, Iran. m-amir@nrcgeb.ac.ir

Rapid progress in the application of biotechnological methodologies and
development of genetically modified crops in Iran necessitated intensive efforts
to establish proper organizations and prepare required rules and regulations at
the national level to ensure safe application of biotechnology in all pertinent
aspects. Practically, preparation of a national biotechnology strategic plan in
the country coincided with development of a national biosafety framework that was
the basis for the drafted biosafety law. Although biosafety measures were
observed by researchers voluntarily, the establishment of national biosafety
organizations since the year 2000 built a great capacity to deal with biosafety
issues in the present and future time, particularly with respect to food and
agricultural biotechnology.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17956001 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

21: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1500-7.

Development of agriculture biotechnology in Pakistan.

Zafar Y.

Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission, Agriculture and Biotechnology Division, PO Box
No. 1114, Islamabad, Pakistan. y_zafar@yahoo.com

Agriculture plays an important role in the national economy of Pakistan, where
most of the rapidly increasing population resides in rural areas and depends on
agriculture for subsistence. Biotechnology has considerable potential for
promoting the efficiency of crop improvement, food production, and poverty
reduction. Use of modern biotechnology started in Pakistan since 1985. Currently,
there are 29 biotech centers/institutes in the country. However, few centers have
appropriate physical facilities and trained manpower to develop genetically
modified (GM) crops. Most of the activities have been on rice and cotton, which
are among the top 5 crops of Pakistan. Biotic (virus/bacterial/insect) and
abiotic (salt) resistant and quality (male sterility) genes have already been
incorporated in some crop plants. Despite acquiring capacity to produce
transgenic plants, no GM crops, either produced locally or imported, have been
released in the country. Pakistan is signatory to the World Trade Organization,
Convention on Biological Diversity, and Cartagena protocols. Several legislations
under the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights have
been promulgated in the country. National Biosafety Guidelines have been
promulgated in April 2005. The Plant Breeders Rights Act, Amendment in Seed
Act-1976, and Geographical Indication for Goods are still passing through
discussion, evaluation, and analysis phases. Meanwhile, an illegal GM crop
(cotton) has already sneaked into farmer's field. Concerted and coordinated
efforts are needed among various ministries for implementation of regulation and
capacity building for import/export and local handling of GM crops. Pakistan
could easily benefit from the experience of Asian countries, especially China and
India, where conditions are similar and the agriculture sector is almost like
that of Pakistan. Thus, the exchange of information and experiences is important
among these nations.

PMID: 17955999 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

22: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1492-9.

Application of current allergy assessment guidelines to next-generation
biotechnology-derived crops.

Bannon GA, Martino-Catt S.

Monsanto Co., Global Regulatory Sciences, 800 N. Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO
63167, USA. gary.a.bannan@monsanto.com

In any single day, our immune systems are exposed to thousands of different
proteins from the environment and the food we eat. In a portion of the human
population, some of those proteins will stimulate the immune systems to
synthesize immunoglobulin E in an allergenic response. The discrepancy between
the vast numbers of proteins we encounter and the limited number of proteins that
actually become allergens have led scientists on a quest to discover what unique
features exist that make proteins destined to be allergens. The information
gained from these studies has led to an allergy assessment strategy that
characterizes the potential allergenicity of biotechnology products prior to
their commercialization. This testing strategy appears to be effective as shown
by the fact that there have been no clinically documented food allergic reactions
to any of the biotechnology proteins introduced into food crops, to date. The
next generation of biotechnology products will most likely contain more complex
traits, including nutritionally enhanced food crops, and the question arises as
to whether the current allergy assessment strategy will be sufficient to protect
the health of the consuming public. In this paper, we discuss general allergen
characteristics in order to better understand how proteins become allergens,
summarize the current allergy assessment process, evaluate the different aspects
of this process for their adequacy in determining the allergenic potential of
engineered functional foods, and, finally, we assess the possibility of new
technologies having a positive impact on the allergy assessment of nutritionally
enhanced crops.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17955998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

23: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1480-91.

An overview of methods for assessment of iron bioavailability from foods
nutritionally enhanced through biotechnology.

Cockell KA.

Health Canada, Nutrition Research Division, Food Directorate, 2203C Banting
Research Centre, 251 Sir Frederick Banting Driveway, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
kevin_cockell@hc-sc.gc.ca

Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia continue to be significant public
health problems worldwide. While supplementation and fortification have been
viable means to improve iron nutriture of the population in developed countries,
they may be less successful in developing regions for a number of reasons,
including complexities in distribution and consumer compliance. Biofortification
of staple crops, through conventional plant breeding strategies or modern methods
of biotechnology, provides an alternative approach that may be more sustainable
once initial investments have been made. Three types of biofortification
strategies are being essayed, singly or in combination: increasing the total iron
content of edible portions of the plant, decreasing the levels of inhibitors of
iron absorption, and increasing the levels of factors that enhance iron
absorption. Bioavailability is a key concept in iron nutrition, particularly for
nonheme iron such as is found in these biofortified foods. An overview is
presented of methods for evaluation of iron bioavailability from foods
nutritionally enhanced through biotechnology.

PMID: 17955997 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

24: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1470-9.

Nutritional and safety assessments of foods and feeds nutritionally improved
through biotechnology: lysine maize as a case study.

Glenn KC.

Monsanto Co., 800 North Lindbergh Blvd, E3NB, St. Louis, MO 63167, USA.
kevin.c.glenn@monsanto.com

During the last decade, the area of biotech crops modified for agronomic input
traits (e.g., herbicide tolerance and insect protection) has increased to 90
million halyear, grown by over 8 million farmers in a total of 17 countries. As
adoption of these improved agronomic trait biotech crops has grown, so has
interest in biotech crops that have improved nutritional characteristics for use
as feed and food. A previous publication by the International Life Sciences
Institute (ILSI) reported on the principles and concepts proposed for the
nutritional and safety assessments of foods and feeds nutritionally improved
through biotechnology. In this paper, the guidelines and principles recommended
in the earlier publication are discussed relative to a specific case study,
Lysine maize. Lysine maize is a feed ingredient with enhanced nutritional
characteristics for poultry and swine and provides an alternative to the need for
addition of supplemental lysine to some diets for these animals. The 2004 Task
Force of the ILSI has also applied the concepts from that report to 4 other case
studies: sweet potato enriched in provitamin A (2 examples, one using
biotechnology and one using conventional breeding); Golden Rice 2; double-embryo
maize; and ASP-1 enhanced protein sweet potato.

PMID: 17955996 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

25: Appl Environ Microbiol. 2007 Dec;73(24):8012-7. Epub 2007 Oct 12.

Effect of feeding cows genetically modified maize on the bacterial community in
the bovine rumen.

Wiedemann S, Gö¼rtler P, Albrecht C.

Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Buehlstr.
28, CH-3012 Bern, Switzerland. christiane.albrecht@mci.unibe.ch

Rumen-cannulated cows (n = 4) were fed successively silage made from either
conventional or genetically modified (GM) maize. Results revealed no effects of
GM maize on the dynamics of six ruminal bacterial strains (investigated by
real-time PCR) compared to the conventional maize silage.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17933942 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

26: Vet Res Commun. 2007 Aug;31 Suppl 1:385-8.

Detection of genetically modified organisms in food: comparison among three
different DNA extraction methods.

Vodret B, Milia M, Orani MG, Serratrice G, Mancuso MR.

Zooprofilattic Institute of Sardinia, Feed Hygiene Unit, Sassari, Italy.
bruna.vodret@izs-sardegna.it

PMID: 17682920 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

27: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Oct;25(10):1065-6.

Europe's anti-GM stance to presage animal feed shortage?

Mitchell P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 17921975 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

28: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Nov;45(11):2073-85. Epub 2007 Aug 30.

Report of an Expert Panel on the reanalysis by of a 90-day study conducted by
Monsanto in support of the safety of a genetically modified corn variety (MON
863).

Doull J, Gaylor D, Greim HA, Lovell DP, Lynch B, Munro IC.

Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, Division of Toxicology, Department of
Pharmacology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 1018A Briedenthal
Building, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160-7417, USA.

MON 863, a genetically engineered corn variety that contains the gene for
modified Bacillus thuringiensis Cry3Bb1 protein to protect against corn rootworm,
was tested in a 90-day toxicity study as part of the process to gain regulatory
approval. This study was reanalyzed by Sö©ralini et al. who contended that the
study showed possible hepatorenal effects of MON 863. An Expert Panel was
convened to assess the original study results as analyzed by the Monsanto Company
and the reanalysis conducted by Sö©ralini et al. The Expert Panel concludes that
the Sö©ralini et al. reanalysis provided no evidence to indicate that MON 863 was
associated with adverse effects in the 90-day rat study. In each case,
statistical findings reported by both Monsanto and Sö©ralini et al. were
considered to be unrelated to treatment or of no biological or clinical
importance because they failed to demonstrate a dose-response relationship,
reproducibility over time, association with other relevant changes (e.g.,
histopathology), occurrence in both sexes, difference outside the normal range of
variation, or biological plausibility with respect to cause-and-effect. The
Sö©ralini et al. reanalysis does not advance any new scientific data to indicate
that MON 863 caused adverse effects in the 90-day rat study.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 17900781 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

29: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):981-7.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1351-4; author reply 1359-60. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1354-5; author reply 1359-60. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1355-6; author reply 1359-60. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1355; author reply 1359-60. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1355; author reply 1359-60. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1356-8. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Dec;25(12):1356; author reply 1359-60.

GM soybeans and health safety--a controversy reexamined.

Marshall A.

PMID: 17846624 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

30: Nature. 2007 Sep 6;449(7158):9.

Biotech crop rules get rewrite.

Marris E.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 17805261 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

31: Ir Med J. 2007 May;100(5):475-6.

Genetically modified food and health--a cause for concern?

Cullen E.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 17727126 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

32: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2007 Oct;49(1):53-62.

Comparative safety testing of genetically modified foods in a 90-day rat feeding
study design allowing the distinction between primary and secondary effects of
the new genetic event.

Knudsen I, Poulsen M.

Department of Toxicology and Risk Assessment, National Food Institute, Technical
University of Denmark, 19 Moerkhoej Bygade, DK-2860 Soeborg, Denmark.

This article discusses the wider experiences regarding the usefulness of the
90-day rat feeding study for the testing of whole foods from genetically modified
(GM) plant based on data from a recent EU-project [Poulsen, M., Schrö¸der, M.,
Wilcks, A., Kroghsbo, S., Lindecrona, R.H., Miller, A., Frenzel, T., Danier, J.,
Rychlik, M., Shu, Q., Emami, K., Taylor, M., Gatehouse, A., Engel, K.-H.,
Knudsen, I., 2007a. Safety testing of GM-rice expressing PHA-E lectin using a new
animal test design. Food Chem. Toxicol. 45, 364-377; Poulsen, M., Kroghsbo, S.,
Schrö¸der, M., Wilcks, A., Jacobsen, H., Miller, A., Frenzel, T., Danier, J.,
Rychlik, M., Shu, Q., Emami, K., Sudhakar, D., Gatehouse, A., Engel, K.-H.,
Knudsen, I., 2007b. A 90-day safety in Wistar rats fed genetically modified rice
expressing snowdrop lectin Galanthus nivalis (GNA). Food Chem. Toxicol. 45,
350-363; Schrö¸der, M., Poulsen, M., Wilcks, A., Kroghsbo, S., Miller, A.,
Frenzel, T., Danier, J., Rychlik, M., Emami, K., Gatehouse, A., Shu, Q., Engel,
K.-H., Knudsen, I., 2007. A 90-day safety study of genetically modified rice
expressing Cry1Ab protein (Bacillus thuringiensis toxin) in Wistar rats. Food
Chem. Toxicol. 45, 339-349]. The overall objective of the project has been to
develop and validate the scientific methodology necessary for assessing the
safety of foods from genetically modified plants in accordance with the present
EU regulation. The safety assessment in the project is combining the results of
the 90-day rat feeding study on the GM food with and without spiking with the
pure novel gene product, with the knowledge about the identity of the genetic
change, the compositional data of the GM food, the results from in-vitro/ex-vivo
studies as well as the results from the preceding 28-day toxicity study with the
novel gene product, before the hazard characterisation is concluded. The results
demonstrated the ability of the 90-day rat feeding study to detect the
biological/toxicological effects of the new gene product in the GM food. The
authors consider on this basis that the 90-day, rodent feeding study with one
high dose level and a dietary design based upon compositional data on the GM food
and toxicity data on the gene product is sensitive and specific enough to verify
the presence/absence of the biological/nutritional/toxicological effects of the
novel gene insert and further by the use of spiking able to separate potentially
unintended effects of the novel gene product from other unintended effects at the
level of intake defined in the test and within the remit of the test.
Recommendations for further work necessary in the field are given.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17719159 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

33: Sci Eng Ethics. 2007 Mar;13(1):69-82.

A case for a duty to feed the hungry: GM plants and the third world.

Carter L.

The School of History, Philosophy, Religion and Classics, The University of
Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. l.carter@uq.edu.au

This article is concerned with a discussion of the plausibility of the claim that
GM technology has the potential to provide the hungry with sufficient food for
subsistence. Following a brief outline of the potential applications of GM in
this context, a history of the green revolution and its impact will be discussed
in relation to the current developing world agriculture situation. Following a
contemporary analysis of malnutrition, the claim that GM technology has the
potential to provide the hungry with sufficient nourishment will be discussed
within the domain of moral philosophy to determine whether there exists a moral
obligation to pursue this end if and only if the technology proves to be
relatively safe and effective. By using Peter Singer's duty of moral rescue, I
argue that we have a moral duty to assist the third world through the
distribution of such GM plants. I conclude the paper by demonstrating that my
argument can be supported by applying a version of the Precautionary Principle on
the grounds that doing nothing might be worse for the current situation.

PMID: 17703610 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

34: Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;2(9):1086-7.

The difficulty of structuring and focusing the co-existence debate in Europe.

Custers R.

VIB, Gent, Belgium. Rene.Custers@vib.be

The co-existence debate in Europe is wide and difficult. In this paper some
recommendations are given on how to make progress in the debate. Not with the
goal of pushing GMOs, but with the goal of achieving genuine freedom of choice.

PMID: 17703493 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

35: Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;2(9):1141-6.

Transparent communication strategy on GMOs: will it change public opinion?

Sinemus K, Egelhofer M.

Genius Gmbh, Darmstadt, Germany. Kristina.Sinemus@genius.de

Innovations are central for the economic growth; however, the use of new
technologies needs to be widely accepted in the general public and the society as
a whole. Biotechnology in general, and the use of genetic engineering in food
production in particular are seen critically by the European public and perceived
as "risky", and a transatlantic divide between European and US citizens has been
observed. This review investigates the reasons for those differing perceptions
and proposes new strategies to communicate the benefits of biotechnology in
agriculture to a broader public. When analyzing the dialogue process that has
taken place between public, scientists, governmental organizations and industry,
questions arise on what has been done differently in Europe, in order to propose
new, more successful and efficient communication strategies for the future.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17703492 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

36: Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;2(9):1088-92.

Intellectual property, genetically modified crops and bioethics.

Adcock M.

Department of Law, Durham University, Durham, UK. mike.adcock@durham.ac.uk

The implementation of a new technology is almost always surrounded by a debate on
the moral and social implications that may arise. The debate with regard to
genetically modified (GM) crops has been one of the longest and most
controversial. However, one area of the debate that receives less attention is
the role that intellectual property can play. The introduction of an effective
and yet appropriate intellectual property system addressing society's particular
needs can eliminate some of these issues. This paper looks at whether the
situation in Europe is meeting our current needs and also addresses the role
intellectual property can play in the debate over the introduction of GM crops in
developing countries.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17703487 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

37: Transgenic Res. 2007 Dec;16(6):675-88. Epub 2007 Aug 14.

Genetically modified crops for the bioeconomy: meeting public and regulatory
expectations.

Chapotin SM, Wolt JD.

US Agency for International Development, Washington, DC 20523, USA.

As the United States moves toward a plant-based bioeconomy, a large research and
development effort is focused on creating new feedstocks to meet biomass demand
for biofuels, bioenergy, and specialized bioproducts, such as industrial
compounds and biomaterial precursors. Most bioeconomy projections assume the
widespread deployment of novel feedstocks developed through the use of modern
molecular breeding techniques, but rarely consider the challenges involved with
the use of genetically modified crops, which can include hurdles due to
regulatory approvals, market adoption, and public acceptance. In this paper we
consider the implications of various transgenic crops and traits under
development for the bioeconomy that highlight these challenges. We believe that
an awareness of the issues in crop and trait selection will allow developers to
design crops with maximum stakeholder appeal and with the greatest potential for
widespread adoption, while avoiding applications unlikely to meet regulatory
approval or gain market and public acceptance.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17701080 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

38: Nature. 2007 Aug 16;448(7155):736.

Geneticist trades plants for politics. Nina Fedoroff interviewed by Emma Marris.

Fedoroff N.

Publication Types:
Interview

PMID: 17700665 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

39: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Dec;45(12):2513-25. Epub 2007 Jun 21.

History of safe use as applied to the safety assessment of novel foods and foods
derived from genetically modified organisms.

Constable A, Jonas D, Cockburn A, Davi A, Edwards G, Hepburn P, Herouet-Guicheney
C, Knowles M, Moseley B, Oberdö¶rfer R, Samuels F.

Nestlö© Research Centre, Vers-Chez-les-blanc 1000, Lausanne 26, Switzerland.

Very few traditional foods that are consumed have been subjected to systematic
toxicological and nutritional assessment, yet because of their long history and
customary preparation and use and absence of evidence of harm, they are generally
regarded as safe to eat. This 'history of safe use' of traditional foods forms
the benchmark for the comparative safety assessment of novel foods, and of foods
derived from genetically modified organisms. However, the concept is hard to
define, since it relates to an existing body of information which describes the
safety profile of a food, rather than a precise checklist of criteria. The term
should be regarded as a working concept used to assist the safety assessment of a
food product. Important factors in establishing a history of safe use include:
the period over which the traditional food has been consumed; the way in which it
has been prepared and used and at what intake levels; its composition and the
results of animal studies and observations from human exposure. This paper is
aimed to assist food safety professionals in the safety evaluation and regulation
of novel foods and foods derived from genetically modified organisms, by
describing the practical application and use of the concept of 'history of safe
use'.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17692450 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

40: Duke Law J. 2007 Apr;56(6):1581-6.

Beyond food and evil.

Chen J.

University of Louisville, Louis D. Brandeis School of Law.

PMID: 17679180 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

41: Trends Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):376-84. Epub 2007 Jul 30.

Humanizing infant milk formula to decrease postnatal HIV transmission.

Blais DR, Altosaar I.

Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine,
University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada.

There are currently no safe methods for feeding babies born from the 16 million
HIV-infected women living in resource-constrained countries. Breast milk can
transmit HIV, and formula feeding can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses owing to
unsanitary conditions and the composition of milk formulations. There is
therefore a need to ensure that breast milk substitutes provide optimal health
outcomes. Given that the immune properties of several breast milk proteins are
known, transgenic food crops could facilitate inexpensive and safe reconstitution
of the beneficial breast milk proteome in infant formulae, while keeping the HIV
virus at bay. At least seven breast milk immune proteins have already been
produced in food crops, and dozens more proteins could potentially be produced if
fortified formula proves effective in nursing newborns born to HIV-infected
mothers.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 17659799 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

42: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2007 Jun;48(3):41-50.

[A 52-week feeding study of genetically modified soybeans in F344 rats]

[Article in Japanese]

Sakamoto Y, Tada Y, Fukumori N, Tayama K, Ando H, Takahashi H, Kubo Y, Nagasawa
A, Yano N, Yuzawa K, Ogata A, Kamimura H.

Department of Environmental Health and Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute
of Public Health: 3-24-1 Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 169-0073, Japan.

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.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 17657996 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

43: Plant Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;5(5):555-69. Epub 2007 Jul 21.

Improving containment strategies in biopharming.

Murphy DJ.

Biotechnology Unit, Division of Biological Sciences, University of Glamorgan,
Treforest, CF37 1DL, UK. dmurphy2@glam.ac.uk

This review examines the challenges of segregating biopharmed crops expressing
pharmaceutical or veterinary agents from mainstream crops, particularly those
destined for food or feed use. The strategy of using major food crops as
production vehicles for the expression of pharmaceutical or veterinary agents is
critically analysed in the light of several recent episodes of contamination of
the human food chain by non-approved crop varieties. Commercially viable
strategies to limit or avoid biopharming intrusion into the human food chain
require the more rigorous segregation of food and non-food varieties of the same
crop species via a range of either physical or biological methods. Even more
secure segregation is possible by the use of non-food crops, non-crop plants or
in vitro plant cultures as production platforms for biopharming. Such platforms
already under development range from outdoor-grown Nicotiana spp. to
glasshouse-grown Arabidopsis, lotus and moss. Amongst the more effective methods
for biocontainment are the plastid expression of transgenes, inducible and
transient expression systems, and physical containment of plants or cell
cultures. In the current atmosphere of heightened concerns over food safety and
biosecurity, the future of biopharming may be largely determined by the extent to
which the sector is able to maintain public confidence via a more considered
approach to containment and security of its plant production systems.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17645439 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

44: Environ Biosafety Res. 2006 Oct-Dec;5(4):237-8. Epub 2007 Jul 20.

The Japanese experience with the Blue Book and subsequent activities in
environmental biosafety of GM crops.

Hayashi K.

Society for Techno-Innovation of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Sankaido
Bldg. 7F, 1-9-13 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan. hayashi@staff.or.jp

The Blue Book made a big contribution to the development of the Japanese Ministry
of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) guidelines established in 1991 for
almost all of the basic issues. However, the MAFF guidelines could not
sufficiently cover some important areas that the Blue Book addressed well, such
as potential consequences. This gap has been recovered substantially by a new law
established in 2003. Japan still faces several important issues, including
assessment of stacked products, potential consequences, comparative assessment,
assessment of imported GM commodities and movement of concerned groups.

PMID: 17640516 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

45: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jul;25(7):717-8.

The status of GM rice R&D in China.

Wang Y, Johnston S.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 17621287 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

46: Nature. 2007 Jun 28;447(7148):1042.

Uganda hosts banana trial.

Dauwers A.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 17597729 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

47: Br J Soc Psychol. 2007 Jun;46(Pt 2):437-57.

Predicting behaviour towards genetically modified food using implicit and
explicit attitudes.

Spence A, Townsend E.

RASPH, School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, UK. spenceAl@cardiff.ac.uk

The predictive validity of implicit and explicit attitudes is a central question
in social psychological research with important theoretical and empirical
ramifications. Three main patterns of combining implicit and explicit attitudes
to predict behaviour have been postulated. They are, double dissociation (in
which implicit and explicit attitudes predict spontaneous and deliberate
behaviour respectively), additive (in which implicit and explicit attitudes both
predict variance in behaviour) and interactive (in which implicit and explicit
attitudes combine to predict behaviour). These models were tested in this study
using a structural equation modelling approach utilising three different measures
of behaviour (of varying spontaneity) towards genetically modified (GM) food. The
additive pattern, in which implicit and explicit attitudes both predict variance
in behaviour, was found to best fit the data. In addition, all behaviour measures
indicated that the majority of participants were willing to try GM food in some
situations.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17565791 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

48: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jun;25(6):624-6.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2006 May;24(5):498; author reply 499.

Trends in GM crop, food and feed safety literature.

Vain P.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17557092 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

49: Food Nutr Bull. 2006 Sep;27(3):265-6.

Quality protein maize.

Scrimshaw NS.

PMID: 17542118 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

50: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2007;107:57-68.

Genetically modified organisms in the United States: implementation, concerns,
and public perception.

Oeschger MP, Silva CE.

Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State
University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA. moesch@lsuhsc.edu

We examine the state of biotechnology with respect to genetically modified (GM)
organisms in agriculture. Our focus is on the USA, where there has been
significant progress and implementation but where, to date, the matter has drawn
little attention. GM organisms are the result of lateral gene transfers, the
transfer of genes from one species to another, or sometimes, from one kingdom to
another. The introduction of foreign genes makes some people very uncomfortable,
and a small group of activists have grave concerns about the technology. Attempts
by activists to build concern in the general public have garnered little
attention; however, the producers of GM organisms have responded to their
concerns and established extensive testing programs to be applied to each
candidate organism that is produced. In the meantime, GM varieties of corn,
cotton, soybean and rapeseed have been put into agricultural production and are
now extensively planted. These crops, and the other, newer GM crops, have
produced no problems and have pioneered a silent agricultural revolution in the
USA.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17522820 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

51: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2007;107:1-11.

The gap between science and perception: the case of plant biotechnology in
Europe.

Einsele A.

Internutrition, Postfach, 8035, Zurich, Switzerland.
arthur.einsele@internutrition.ch

Although the global area of biotech crops continues to climb for the tenth
consecutive year at a sustainable double-digit growth rate, the acceptance of
biotech products from agriculture in Europe is still low. There is a gap between
science and perception. It is a strong belief that the public turning against
science and against GM food has been encouraged by the negative activities of NGO
groups. Scientists have to overcome the purely risk-based discussion, and the
benefits of plant biotechnology have to be made literally visible. GM food should
be available, the benefits should be tangible and the consumer should have fun
with such novel food. The gap could be reduced if genetically modified plants and
the products thereof were regulated in the same way as classical products.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17522817 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

52: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Jun 13;55(12):4728-34. Epub 2007 May 18.

Development of a certified reference material for genetically modified potato
with altered starch composition.

Broothaerts W, Corbisier P, Emons H, Emteborg H, Linsinger TP, Trapmann S.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium.
Wim.Broothaerts@ec.europa.eu

The presence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feed products
is subject to regulation in the European Union (EU) and elsewhere. As part of the
EU authorization procedure for GMOs intended for food and feed use, reference
materials must be produced for the quality control of measurements to quantify
the GMOs. Certified reference materials (CRMs) are available for a range of
herbicide- and insect-resistant genetically modified crops such as corn, soybean,
and cotton. Here the development of the first CRM for a GMO that differs from its
non-GMO counterpart in a major compositional constituent, that is, starch, is
described. It is shown that the modification of the starch composition of potato
(Solanum tuberosum L.) tubers, together with other characteristics of the
delivered materials, have important consequences for the certification strategy.
Moreover, the processing and characterization of the EH92-527-1 potato material
required both new and modified procedures, different from those used routinely
for CRMs produced from genetically modified seeds.

PMID: 17508757 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

53: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Jun 13;55(12):4670-7. Epub 2007 May 10.

Recombinant porcine lactoferrin expressed in the milk of transgenic mice enhances
offspring growth performance.

Wu SC, Chen HL, Yen CC, Kuo MF, Yang TS, Wang SR, Weng CN, Chen CM, Cheng WT.

Department of Animal Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei
106, Taiwan.

The European Commission has proposed a permanent ban on the use of antibiotics as
an ingredient in animal feed to promote growth. Lactoferrin is a globular
multifunctional protein that has been shown to play a role in iron absorption and
to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, lactoferrin
may serve as a nontherapeutic alternative to antibiotics in livestock husbandry.
As a pilot study toward this goal, transgenic mice have been generated harboring
a porcine lactoferrin (pLF) gene driven by the mammary gland-specific promoter of
the bovine alpha-lactalbumin (alphaLA) gene. The alphaLA-pLF hybrid gene was
confirmed to have been successfully integrated and transmitted stably through the
germ-line in 9 (5 females and 4 males) of 14 transgenic founders. In the female
progenies of six lines analyzed, the transgene copy numbers ranged from 1 to 20
with 1-4 integration sites. Significant levels of pLF protein in milk ranging
from 40 to 106 microg/mL with physical characteristics similar to those of native
pLF in sow's milk were achieved in three of the transgenic lines obtained.
Tissue- and stage-specific pLF expressions were restricted to the mammary gland
of the transgenic female mice during lactation. It was further demonstrated that
the growth performance of animal pups is enhanced by directly feeding the
genetically engineered milk containing enriched pLF protein in transgenic mice.
Furthermore, this enhanced growth performance in suckling mice was proportional
to the concentration of pLF present in milk.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17489602 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

54: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 May;25(5):525-31.

Functional foods from biotech--an unappetizing prospect?

Powell K.

kendall2@nasw.org

In the early 1990s, functional foods promised to solve global malnutrition and
put palatable options for treating ailments on grocery shelves. Since then, a
meager number of products have ripened while the rest have turned sour.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17483833 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

55: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 May;25(5):507-8.

Acceptance of GM food--an experiment in six countries.

Knight JG, Mather DW, Holdsworth DK, Ermen DF.

Publication Types:
Letter
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17483829 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

56: J Invertebr Pathol. 2007 Jul;95(3):175-80. Epub 2007 Mar 31.

Microbial control and biotechnology research on Bacillus thuringiensis in China.

Huang DF, Zhang J, Song FP, Lang ZH.

Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences,
Beijing 100081, China. dfhuang@mail.caas.net.cn

The current status of production and application of biopesticides for pest
control in China is briefly reviewed, with a focus on research advances in
microbial control with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). These have led to
improvements in Bt production, exploitation of Bt gene resources, and development
of engineered Bt insecticides and transgenic Bt crops that have expanded host
ranges and increased efficacy against target pests. Both conventional and
biotechnology approaches need to be employed to achieve further progress in
discovery, production technology, formulation processing, development of quality
standards and recommended use patterns.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17481651 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

57: J Anim Sci. 2007 Aug;85(8):1946-52. Epub 2007 Apr 27.

Corn expressing an Escherichia coli-derived phytase gene: a proof-of-concept
nutritional study in pigs.

Nyannor EK, Williams P, Bedford MR, Adeola O.

Department of Animal Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2054,
USA.

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the concept that the addition of
corn expressing an Escherichia coli-derived gene (corn-based phytase; CBP) to a
P-deficient diet would improve growth performance and P utilization in pigs. An
E. coli-derived microbial phytase (expressed in Pichia pastoris) sprayed onto a
wheat carrier (Quantum) was included for comparison. In Exp. 1, forty-eight 10-kg
pigs were blocked by BW into 6 blocks and allotted to 8 dietary treatments such
that the BW among dietary treatments was similar and given free access to feed
for 28 d. The dietary treatments were a negative control (NC) with no inorganic P
supplementation; NC + 2, 4, or 6 g of monosodium phosphate/kg; NC + 16,500,
33,000, or 49,500 phytase units (FTU) of CBP/kg; and NC + 16,500 FTU of
Quantum/kg. In Exp. 2, twenty-four 13-kg barrows were assigned to the NC, NC +
16,500 or 33,000 FTU of CBP/kg, or NC + 16,500 FTU of Quantum/kg, in a nutrient-
and energy-balance study consisting of 5 d of adjustment and 5-d collection
periods. The total collection method was used to determine nutrient and energy
balance. Addition of CBP to the low-P NC diet linearly increased (P < 0.01) ADG,
G:F, and plasma P concentration of pigs during the 28-d study. There was no
difference in ADG, G:F, or plasma P concentration between pigs fed the CBP or
Quantum phytase at 16,500 FTU/kg. Weight gain, G:F, and plasma P concentration of
pigs increased (P < 0.01) with monosodium phosphate supplementation, confirming P
deficiency of the NC diet. Linear improvements (P < 0.05) in DM digestibility and
energy retention were observed with CBP supplementation of the NC diet. Although
there were linear (P < 0.01) and quadratic (P < 0.05) increases in N
digestibility, N retention was unaffected by CBP supplementation of the NC diet
in growing pigs. Phosphorus and Ca digestibilities and retentions improved
linearly and quadratically (P < 0.01) with the addition of CBP to the NC diet.
There was no difference in digestive utilization of P or Ca between pigs fed CBP
and Quantum phytase at 16,500 FTU/kg. The data showed that the addition of a corn
expressing an E. coli-derived gene to a P-deficient diet improved growth
performance and indices of P utilization in pigs, and corn expressing phytase was
as efficacious as Quantum phytase when supplemented in P-deficient diets for
weanling pigs.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 17468432 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

58: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2007;16(2):375-80.

Attitudes of agricultural scientists in Indonesia towards genetically modified
foods.

Februhartanty J, Widyastuti TN, Iswarawanti DN.

SEAMEO-TROPMED, RCCN, University of Indonesia, Campus of UI Salemba, Salemba Raya
no. 6, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia. jfebruhartanty@seameo-rccn.org

Conflicting arguments and partial truths on genetically modified (GM) foods have
left confusion. Although studies of consumer acceptance of GM foods are numerous,
the study of scientists is limited. Therefore, the main objective of this study
was to assess the attitudes of scientists towards GM foods. The study was a cross
sectional study. A total of 400 scientists (involved in at least one of teaching,
research and consultancy) in the Bogor Agricultural Institute, Indonesia were
selected randomly from its faculties of agriculture, veterinary, fishery, animal
husbandry, forestry, agricultural technology, mathematics and science, and the
post graduate department. Data collection was done by face-to-face interview
using a structured questionnaire and self-administered questionnaire. The result
showed that the majority (72.8%) of the respondents were favorably disposed
towards GM foods, 14.8% were neutral, and only 12.5% were against them. The
majority (78.3%) stated that they would try GM food if offered. Most (71%)
reported that they were aware of the term "GM foods". Only half of the
respondents felt that they had a basic understanding about GM foods. However,
based on a knowledge test, 69.8% had a good knowledge score. Nearly 50% indicated
that they were more exposed to news which supported GM foods. Over 90% said that
there should be some form of labeling to distinguish food containing GM
ingredients from non-GM foods. Attitudes were significantly associated with
willingness to try GM foods if offered, restrictions on GM foods, and exposure to
media reports about the pros and cons of GM foods.

PMID: 17468097 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

59: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(4):335-61.

The politics and science behind GMO acceptance.

Varzakas TH, Arvanitoyannis IS, Baltas H.

T. H. Varzakas Technological Educational Institute of Kalamata, School of
Agricultural Sciences, Department of Processing of Agricultural Products, Hellas,
Greece.

The question of nutritional quality has arisen in the International Community
over the last few years along with other important issues such as population
aging, multipopulation societies, and political conflicts. The nutritional issue
is questioned both quantitatively and qualitatively. It is well known that the
planet faces enormous problems with food that is available. Nowadays 20% of the
population consumes approximately 80% of the produced energy and natural
resources. During the last 15 years, a series of food scares and crises (BSE,
dioxin, foot and mouth disease, bird flu) have seriously undermined public
confidence in food producers and operators and their capacity to produce safe
food. As a result, food safety has become a top priority of the European
legislative authorities. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) is the new food
safety concern which despite the intense reactions from Non Governmental
Organizations and consumer organizations have entered our lives with inadequate
legislative measures to protect consumers from their consumption. The GMO issue
will be the issue for discussion in the long run not only for the European
Community but also for the international community as far as scientific,
economical, political, ideological, ethical, and human issues are concerned.
These issues are discussed in this paper along with a case of study of GM fish.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17457721 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

60: J Sep Sci. 2007 Mar;30(4):579-85.

A simple capillary gel electrophoresis approach for efficient and reproducible
DNA separations. Analysis of genetically modified soy and maize.

Sö¡nchez L, Gonzö¡lez R, Crego AL, Cifuentes A.

Institute of Industrial Fermentations (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, Madrid, Spain.

It is generally assumed that in order to achieve suitable separations of DNA
fragments, capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE)-coated capillaries should be used.
In this work, a new method is presented that allows to obtain reproducible CGE
separations of DNA fragments using bare fused-silica capillaries without any
previous coating step. The proposed method only requires: (i) a capillary washing
with 0.1 M hydrochloric acid between injections and (ii) a running buffer
composed of Tris-phosphate-ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) and 4.5% of
2-hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) as sieving polymer. The use of this new CGE
procedure gives highly resolved and reproducible separations of DNA fragments
ranging from 50 to 750 bp. The separation of these DNA fragments is accomplished
in less than 30 min with efficiencies up to 1.7 x 10(6) plates/m. Reproducibility
values of migration times (given as %RSD) for the analyzed DNA fragments are
better than 1.0% (n = 4) for the same day, 2.2% (n = 16) for four different days,
and 2.3% (n = 16) for four different capillaries. The usefulness of this
separation method is demonstrated by detecting genetically modified maize and
genetically modified soy after DNA amplification by PCR. This new CGE procedure
together with LIF as detector provides sensitive analysis of 0.9% of Bt11 maize,
Mon810 maize, and Roundup Ready soy in flours with S/ N up to 542. These results
demonstrate the usefulness of this procedure to fulfill the European regulation
on detection of genetically modified organisms in foods.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17444227 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

61: Trends Biotechnol. 2007 Jun;25(6):239-41. Epub 2007 Apr 12.

Reduced terpene levels in cottonseed add food to fiber.

Townsend BJ, Llewellyn DJ.

CSIRO Plant Industry, GPO Box 1600, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
belinda.townsend@bbsrc.ac.uk

Using RNA interference (RNAi) technology, the levels of a toxic phytoprotectant
have recently been reduced specifically in the seeds of cotton to generate a
novel dual-purpose crop. By engineering an endogenous terpene pathway, there is
now the exciting potential for an added-value, genetically modified crop with the
cash value of the fiber supported by the improved nutritional value and expanded
food and feed use for the cottonseed, which is normally a low-value by-product.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17433845 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

62: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 May 2;55(9):3268-74. Epub 2007 Apr 4.

Toward metrological traceability for DNA fragment ratios in GM quantification. 3.
Suitability of DNA calibrants studied with a MON 810 corn model.

Charels D, Broeders S, Corbisier P, Trapmann S, Schimmel H, Emons H.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements, IRMM, Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium.
diana.charels@ec.europa.eu

The quantification of GMOs by real-time PCR relies on an external calibrant. In
this paper the suitability of two DNA calibrants, genomic DNA from plant leaves
and plasmidic DNA, was investigated. The PCR efficiencies, the correlation
coefficients of the calibration curves, and the ratios between PCR efficiencies
of transgenic and endogenous sequences were compared for both calibrants using 59
data sets produced by 43 laboratories. There were no significant differences
between plasmidic and genomic DNA except for the PCR efficiencies of the
calibration curves for the transgene of the construct-specific real-time PCR
method. In the GM system investigated, PCR efficiencies of plasmidic calibrants
were slightly closer to the PCR efficiencies observed for the unknowns than those
of the genomic DNA calibrant. Therefore, plasmidic DNA was the more suitable
calibrant for the PCR measurements on genomic DNA extracted from MON 810 seeds.
It is shown that plasmidic DNA is an appropriate choice for the calibration of
measurements of MON 810 corn with respect to the DNA copy number ratio.

PMID: 17407307 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

63: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 May 2;55(9):3258-67. Epub 2007 Apr 4.

Toward metrological traceability for DNA fragment ratios in GM quantification. 2.
Systematic study of parameters influencing the quantitative determination of MON
810 corn by real-time PCR.

Charels D, Broeders S, Corbisier P, Trapmann S, Schimmel H, Linsinger T, Emons H.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium.
diana.charels@ec.europa.eu

This paper is part of a set of three papers investigating metrological
traceability of the quantification of DNA fragments as, for instance, used for
quantification of genetic modifications. This paper evaluates the possible impact
of several factors on results of real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
measurements. It was found that the particle size of the powder samples does not
have an influence, whereas the nature of the calibrant (plasmidic or genomic DNA)
has a significant effect. Moreover, two real-time PCR detection methods
(construct-specific and event-specific) for MON 810 corn were compared. The
results obtained in a specifically designed interlaboratory study revealed a
significant influence of the DNA extraction method on measurement results when
the MON 810 construct-specific real-time PCR detection method was applied.
Statistical analyses confirmed the importance of validating DNA extraction
methods in conjunction with real-time PCR methods.

PMID: 17407306 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

64: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 May 2;55(9):3249-57. Epub 2007 Apr 4.

Toward metrological traceability for DNA fragment ratios in GM quantification. 1.
Effect of DNA extraction methods on the quantitative determination of Bt176 corn
by real-time PCR.

Corbisier P, Broothaerts W, Gioria S, Schimmel H, Burns M, Baoutina A, Emslie KR,
Furui S, Kurosawa Y, Holden MJ, Kim HH, Lee YM, Kawaharasaki M, Sin D, Wang J.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, 2440 Geel, Belgium.
philippe.corbisier@ec.europa.edu.

An international CCQM-P60 pilot study involving eight national metrological
institutes was organized to investigate if the quantification of genetically
modified (GM) corn powder by real-time PCR was affected by the DNA extraction
method applied. Four commonly used extraction methods were compared for the
extraction of DNA from a GM Bt176 corn powder. The CTAB-based method yielded the
highest DNA template quantity and quality. A difference in the 260 nm/230 nm
absorbance ratio was observed among the different extraction methods. Real-time
amplification of sequences specific for endogenous genes zein and hmg as well as
transgenic sequences within the cryIA(b) gene and a fragment covering the
junction between the transformed DNA and the plant genome were used to determine
the GM percentage. The detection of the transgenic gene was affected by the
quantity and quality of template used for the PCR reaction. The Bt176 percentages
measured on diluted or purified templates were statistically different depending
on the extraction method applied.

PMID: 17407305 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

65: EMBO Rep. 2007 Apr;8(4):305-8.

Comment in:
EMBO Rep. 2007 Apr;8(4):309-15. EMBO Rep. 2007 Jul;8(7):612-3.

The precautionary principle should not be used as a basis for decision-making.
Talking point on the precautionary principle.

Peterson M.

Department of History and Philosophy of Science, University of Cambridge, UK.
mbp24@cam.ac.uk

PMID: 17401402 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

66: J Fish Dis. 2007 Apr;30(4):201-12.

Evaluation of stress- and immune-response biomarkers in Atlantic salmon, Salmo
salar L., fed different levels of genetically modified maize (Bt maize), compared
with its near-isogenic parental line and a commercial suprex maize.

Sagstad A, Sanden M, Haugland ö˜, Hansen AC, Olsvik PA, Hemre GI.

National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research, NIFES, Bergen, Norway.

The present study was designed to evaluate if genetically modified (GM) maize (Bt
maize, event MON810) compared with the near-isogenic non-modified (nGM) maize
variety, added as a starch source at low or high inclusions, affected fish health
of post-smolt Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L. To evaluate the health impact,
selected stress- and immune-response biomarkers were quantified at the gene
transcript (mRNA) level, and some also at the protein level. The diets with low
or high inclusions of GM maize, and its near-isogenic nGM parental line, were
compared to a control diet containing GM-free suprex maize (reference diet) as
the only starch source. Total superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in liver and
distal intestine was significantly higher in fish fed GM maize compared with fish
fed nGM maize and with the reference diet group. Fish fed GM maize showed
significantly lower catalase (CAT) activity in liver compared with fish fed nGM
maize and to the reference diet group. In contrast, CAT activity in distal
intestine was significantly higher for fish fed GM maize compared with fish fed
reference diet. Protein level of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in liver was
significantly higher in fish fed GM maize compared with fish fed the reference
diet. No diet-related differences were found in normalized gene expression of
SOD, CAT or HSP70 in liver or distal intestine. Normalized gene expression of
interleukin-1 beta in spleen and head-kidney did not vary significantly between
diet groups. Interestingly, fish fed high GM maize showed a significantly larger
proportion of plasma granulocytes, a significantly larger sum of plasma
granulocyte and monocyte proportions, but a significantly smaller proportion of
plasma lymphocytes, compared with fish fed high nGM maize. In conclusion,
Atlantic salmon fed GM maize showed some small changes in stress protein levels
and activities, but none of these changes were comparable to the normalized gene
expression levels analysed for these stress proteins. GM maize seemed to induce
significant changes in white blood cell populations which are associated with an
immune response.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 17394522 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

67: Appetite. 2007 Jul;49(1):1-17. Epub 2007 Feb 24.

Consumer acceptance of technology-based food innovations: lessons for the future
of nutrigenomics.

Ronteltap A, van Trijp JC, Renes RJ, Frewer LJ.

Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group, Wageningen University and Research
Centre, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The Netherlands.
amber.ronteltap@wur.nl

Determinants of consumer adoption of innovations have been studied from different
angles and from the perspectives of various disciplines. In the food area, the
literature is dominated by a focus on consumer concern. This paper reviews
previous research into acceptance of technology-based innovation from both inside
and outside the food domain, extracts key learnings from this literature and
integrates them into a new conceptual framework for consumer acceptance of
technology-based food innovations. The framework distinguishes 'distal' and
'proximal' determinants of acceptance. Distal factors (characteristics of the
innovation, the consumer and the social system) influence consumers' intention to
accept an innovation through proximal factors (perceived cost/benefit
considerations, perceptions of risk and uncertainty, social norm and perceived
behavioural control). The framework's application as a tool to anticipate
consumer reaction to future innovations is illustrated for an actual
technology-based innovation in food science, nutrigenomics (the interaction
between nutrition and human genetics).

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 17382433 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

68: Trends Biotechnol. 2007 May;25(5):201-3. Epub 2007 Mar 19.

Food from cloned animals is part of our brave old world.

Miller HI.

The Hoover Institution, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-6010, USA.
miller@hoover.stanford.edu

When confronted by pressure from activists and Congress, the US Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) has not always adopted policies and made decisions about
individual products that accord with the scientific evidence. An example was the
unnecessarily and markedly prolonged review of the veterinary drug bovine
somatotropin (bST), or bovine growth hormone, during the 1980s. The FDA now faces
a similar situation surrounding the question of whether meat and milk from cloned
animals and their offspring are safe for human consumption. Having made a
preliminary decision in the affirmative - based on an exhaustive analysis of
scientific articles, health records, blood samples and studies of the composition
of meat and milk - the agency has been beleaguered by criticisms. It remains to
be seen whether, ultimately, science will trump anti-technology, anti-consumer
activism.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17374411 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

69: Rev Biol Trop. 2004 Sep;52(3):727-32.

[Relationship of genetically modified crops with the environment and health of
the Costa Rican human population]

[Article in Spanish]

Espinoza AM, Arrieta-Espinoza G, Sittenfeld A.

Centro de Investigaciö¨n en Biologö­a Celular y Molecular, Universidad de Costa
Rica, Ciudad Universitaria Rodrigo Facio, San Josö©, Costa Rica.
amespino@racsa.co.cr

Genetic engineering and the food derived from genetically modified crops (GMCs)
have been the center of debate worldwide, as has occurred historically with the
advent of new technologies. Questions are derived from the potential impact of
GMCs to the environment and the safety of the products to the consumers. In
relation to the first inquiry, practice has been oriented to a
case-by-case-study, according to the own characteristics of the GMC, in order to
minimize its impact in the environment. Scientific studies in diverse latitudes
of the world have demonstrated that GMCs in the market showed no adverse effects
related to this issue. In relation to food derived from the GMCs, rigorous
evaluation protocols have been developed and approved by FAO and WHO to guarantee
the innocuousness of these products. Up to the moment, no contraindications for
human health have been pointed out for the products that are available today in
the market. In the particular case of Costa Rica, the country has established
since the 90s a regulatory biosafety framework for the management of the GMCs,
safeguarding the biodiversity of the country and the health of consumers. At the
same time the country has made significant public and private investments in the
field that allowed the country to obtain a leading position in biosafety in the
region and genetic engineering research at national research centers. Any attempt
to restrict or prohibit these activities in the country, will put in risk the
previously described investment, will affect the generation of new knowledge for
decision making and the leadership in the field, preventing the benefits derived
from this promising technology.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 17361565 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

70: Sci Am. 2007 Mar;296(3):8.

The beef with cloned meat.

[No authors listed]

PMID: 17348147 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

71: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Mar;25(3):282-3.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):1.

Two views of the emperor's new clones.

Schubert D.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17344873 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

72: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Mar;25(3):281.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):1.

Two views of the emperor's new clones.

Miller HI.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17344872 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

73: Toxicol Sci. 2007 May;97(1):27-31. Epub 2007 Mar 3.

The utility of an international sera bank for use in evaluating the potential
human allergenicity of novel proteins.

Thomas K, Bannon G, Herouet-Guicheney C, Ladics G, Lee L, Lee SI, Privalle L,
Ballmer-Weber B, Vieths S.

International Life Sciences Institute Health and Environmental Sciences
Institute, Washington, District of Columbia 20005, USA. kthomas@ilsi.org

In the safety assessment of novel foods produced through biotechnology, careful
consideration is given to determining the allergenic potential of newly
introduced proteins. IgE serum screening is one tool for evaluating whether the
protein in question has sequence identity to a known allergen or if the source of
the gene encoding the protein is a known allergenic food. A "specific" serum
screen involves testing a gene product with sera from patients with documented
clinical allergy to a specific allergen to confirm that the gene product of
interest is not the same protein to which the patient produces IgE antibodies. A
"targeted" serum screen involves testing the gene product of interest with sera
from patients sensitive to food or aeroallergens from the same broad group. The
concept of a global sera bank with accessible, well-characterized sera for use in
such assays is an appealing option. This paper summarizes the consensus elements
from a workshop to evaluate the potential utility of an international sera bank
for evaluating the allergenicity of novel proteins. Areas of agreement following
the workshop included the following: (1) specific sera screens are appropriate
for exploring potentially cross-reactive proteins that have been identified
through bioinformatics analyses; however, additional validation is needed,
particularly for targeted sera screens, (2) practical and ethical considerations
may preclude the formation of a global sera bank, and therefore, (3) a regional
network of clinicians who could serve as sources of patient sera or be approached
to conduct sera studies would be the most practical alternative.

Publication Types:
Congresses
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17337755 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

74: Vopr Pitan. 2006;75(6):55-60.

[The comparative characteristic of detection methods for genetically modified
organisms phytogenous]

[Article in Russian]

Anisimova OV, Kashina NA, Chernysheva ON, Tutel'ian VA.

In the article given description, comparative characteristic and used in practice
detection methods for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food using chip
and electrophoreses. By means of these methods fined research results 704 foods
that had GM analogue on the food world market. The both methods showed to
identical results of research. These methods were not discovered essential
distinctions in the sensibility and reliability.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 17313048 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

75: J Fish Dis. 2007 Feb;30(2):65-79.

Histological, digestive, metabolic, hormonal and some immune factor responses in
Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., fed genetically modified soybeans.

Bakke-McKellep AM, Koppang EO, Gunnes G, Sanden M, Hemre GI, Landsverk T,
Krogdahl A.

Aquaculture Protein Centre, CoE, Norway. anne.mckellep@veths.no

The paper reports the second and final part of an experiment aiming to study
physiological and health-related effects of genetically modified (GM) soybean
meal (SBM) type Roundup Ready soybean (RRS) in diets for post-smolt Atlantic
salmon. For 3 months salmon were fed diets containing 172 g kg(-1) full-fat SBM
from RRS (GM-soy) or an unmodified, non-isogenic line (nGM-soy), or a reference
diet with fishmeal as the sole protein source (FM). Slight differences in
anti-nutrient levels were observed between the GM and nGM-soy. Histological
changes were observed only in the distal intestine of the soy-fed fish. The
incidence of moderate inflammation was higher in the GM-soy group (9 of 10
sampled fish) compared with the nGM-soy group (7 of 10). However, no differences
in the concomitant decreases in activities of digestive enzymes located in the
brush border (leucine aminopeptidase and maltase) and apical cytoplasm (acid
phosphatase) of enterocytes or in the number of major histocompatibility complex
class II+ cells, lysozyme activity, or total IgM of the distal intestine were
observed. GM compared with nGM-soy fed fish had higher head kidney lysozyme
(11,856 vs. 10,456 units g(-1) tissue) and a tendency towards higher acid
phosphatase (0.45 vs. 0.39 micromol h(-1) kg(-1) body mass in whole tissue)
activities, respectively. Plasma insulin and thyroxin levels, and hepatic
fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase and ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activities were not
significantly affected. It is not possible, however, to conclude whether the
differences in responses to GM-soy were due to the genetic modification or to
differences in soy cultivars in the soy-containing diets. Results from studies
using non-modified, parental line soybeans as the control group are necessary to
evaluate whether genetic modification of soybeans in diets poses any risk to
farmed Atlantic salmon.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17298562 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

76: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Feb;25(2):165; discussion 165-6.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Oct;24(10):1177.

Blame factory farming, not organic food.

Holdrege C.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17287741 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

77: Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2007 Feb;27(1):105-27.

New perspectives for use of native and engineered recombinant food proteins in
treatment of food allergy.

Nowak-Wegrzyn A.

Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of
Pediatrics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Box 1198, One G. Levy Place, NY
10029, USA. anna.nowak-wegrzyn@mssm.edu

Food allergy has emerged as an important target for research on curative
treatment and prevention, with most efforts focusing on peanut, cow's milk, and
egg allergy. This article reviews the recent developments in the potential
treatments for IgE-mediated food allergy using native and engineered recombinant
food proteins.

Publication Types:
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Review

PMID: 17276882 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

78: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Apr;45(4):530-42. Epub 2006 Aug 25.

Approaches in the risk assessment of genetically modified foods by the Hellenic
Food Safety Authority.

Varzakas TH, Chryssochoidis G, Argyropoulos D.

Hellenic Food Safety Authority (EFET), Directorate of Nutritional Policy and
Research, Karystou 5, 115 23 Ampelokipoi, Greece. theovarzakas@yahoo.gr

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.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17275157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

79: Nature. 2007 Jan 11;445(7124):132-3.

Out of bounds.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 17215811 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

80: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):77-83.

Risk assessment of meat and milk from cloned animals.

Yang X, Tian XC, Kubota C, Page R, Xu J, Cibelli J, Seidel G Jr.

Center for Regenerative Biology and Department of Animal Science, University of
Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269-4243, USA. xiangzhong.yang@uconn.edu

Research on, and commercialization of, cloned cattle has been conducted for more
than 20 years. Early techniques relied on the physical splitting of embryos or
using embryo cells for nuclear transfer to generate cloned animals. Milk and meat
from these animals entered into the human food market with no evidence of
problems. With the advent of nuclear transfer, which enables the direct
transference and preservation of high-value meat- and milk-producing genotypes to
offspring, concerns have been raised about whether the products from somatic cell
nuclear transfer-produced animals are safe for human consumption. Studies on the
biochemical properties of food products from cloned and noncloned animals have
thus far not detected any differences. All data to date indicate no significant
differences in the measured parameters between animals created by nuclear
transfer and normally bred animals. Public acceptance of cloned animal products
depends upon forthcoming US Food and Drug Administration approval along with
convincing safety data.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17211406 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

81: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):47-53.

Dolly for dinner? Assessing commercial and regulatory trends in cloned livestock.

Suk J, Bruce A, Gertz R, Warkup C, Whitelaw CB, Braun A, Oram C, Rodrö­guez-Cerezo
E, Papatryfon I.

ESRC Genomics Policy & Research Forum, University of Edinburgh, St. John's Land,
Edinburgh, Scotland.

As cloning technologies become more widely established, will products enter the
food chain sooner than regulatory agencies and the public might be prepared for?

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17211395 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

82: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):39-43.

Animal cloning and the FDA--the risk assessment paradigm under public scrutiny.

Rudenko L, Matheson JC, Sundlof SF.

Center for Veterinary Medicine, US Food and Drug Administration, Department of
Health and Human Services, 7500 Standish Place, Rockville, Maryland 20855, USA.
larisa.rudenko@fda.hhs.gov

The evidence gathered thus far--ultimately to be published in the Draft Risk
Assessment on Animal Cloning--indicates that there are no unique risks associated
with animal cloning.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17211392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

83: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):35-6; author reply 36-7.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Dec;23(12):1475-6. Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Jan;24(1):63-71.

Early-tier tests insufficient for GMO risk assessment.

Lang A, Lauber E, Darvas B.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17211390 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

84: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):33-4.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Oct;24(10):1178.

Parallel biopolitical universes.

Morris SH.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17211389 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

85: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):7-8. Epub 2007 Jan 5.

FDA's cloning report bypasses ethics, exposes European dilemma.

Vermij P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 17211377 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

86: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):1.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Mar;25(3):281. Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Mar;25(3):282-3.

The emperor's new clones.

[No authors listed]

If regulators conclude that food from clones poses no more risk than food from
other animals, the US and Europe could be on course for another biotech trade
war.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 17211372 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

87: Ig Sanita Pubbl. 2005 Sep-Oct;61(5):475-96.

[Genetically modified organisms: European and Italian legislation to protect
citizens' health]

[Article in Italian]

Sotgiu A, Tala M, Sardu G, Coroneo V, Dessi S, Contu P.

Dipartimento di Sanitö  Pubblica, Universitö  di Cagliari.

The development of GM foods and organisms has concentrated everyone's attention
on the importance of food safety and on protecting citizens' health, and
inevitably influenced healthcare policies regarding food safety. Personal ethical
beliefs regarding food and in particular, the consumption of foods derived from
biotechnology should be taken into account when deciding healthcare policy. AIM:
The aim of this study was to analyse whether European, Italian and Regional
legislation meets basic human rights regarding health and the right to choose,
based on the precautionary principle. METHODS: European and Italian laws
regarding the production and marketing of GM foods were analysed and compared to
food safety legislation, in order to evaluate how and to what degree existing
legislation protects consumers' right to choose. Results show that existing
legislation protects consumers from possible foodborne diseases, but the right to
informed consent and to free choice is not warranted. Existing laws do not attach
enough importance to consumers' right to information; arbitrary threshold levels
set for labeling and clauses concerning technical causes allow food businesses to
avoid labeling and do not give consumers the possibility of making an informed
choice.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 17206218 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

88: Risk Anal. 2006 Dec;26(6):1707-19.

Exploring the structure of attitudes toward genetically modified food.

Poortinga W, Pidgeon NF.

Cardiff University, Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
PoortingaW@Cardiff.ac.uk

Although it is often thought that the British public is opposed to genetically
modified (GM) food, recent qualitative work suggests that most people are
ambivalent about GM food and crops. In this article we explore the structure of
attitudes in order to examine whether attitudinal ambivalence can be captured by
more quantitative methods. Based on the finding that the perceived risks and
benefits of GM food can be treated as independent dimensions, we propose a
four-way typology of attitudes, consisting of a positive, negative, indifferent,
and ambivalent group. This study showed that the differences between the four
groups could best be described by three main dimensions: (1) a general evaluative
dimension, (2) an involvement dimension, and (3) an attitudinal certainty
dimension. While these different attitudinal dimensions have generally been
studied in isolation, we argue that they should be studied collectively.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17184407 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

89: Plant Biotechnol J. 2006 Mar;4(2):263-73.

Characterization of a higher plant herbicide-resistant phytoene desaturase and
its use as a selectable marker.

Arias RS, Dayan FE, Michel A, Howell J, Scheffler BE.

USDA-ARS, Natural Products Utilization Research Unit, PO Box 8048, University, MS
38677, USA.

Three natural somatic mutations at codon 304 of the phytoene desaturase gene
(pds) of Hydrilla verticillata (L. f. Royle) have been reported to provide
resistance to the herbicide fluridone. We substituted the arginine 304 present in
the wild-type H. verticillata phytoene desaturase (PDS) with all 19 other natural
amino acids and tested PDS against fluridone. In in vitro assays, the threonine
(Thr), cysteine (Cys), alanine (Ala) and glutamine (Gln) mutations imparted the
highest resistance to fluridone. Thr, the three natural mutations [Cys, serine
(Ser), histidine (His)] and the wild-type PDS protein were tested in vitro
against seven inhibitors of PDS representing several classes of herbicides. These
mutations conferred cross-resistance to norflurazon and overall negative
cross-resistance to beflubutamid, picolinafen and diflufenican. The T3 generation
of transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana plants harbouring the four selected mutations
and wild-type pds had similar patterns of cross-resistance to the herbicides as
observed in the in vitro assays. The Thr304 Hydrilla pds mutant proved to be an
excellent marker for the selection of transgenic plants. Seedlings harbouring
Thr304 pds had a maximum resistance to sensitivity (R/S) ratio of 57 and 14 times
higher than that of the wild-type for treatments with norflurazon and fluridone,
respectively. These plants exhibited normal growth and development, even after
long-term exposure to herbicide. As Thr304 pds is of plant origin, it could
become more acceptable than other selectable markers for use in genetically
modified food.

PMID: 17177802 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

90: An Acad Bras Cienc. 2006 Dec;78(4):667-86.

GMOs: building the future on the basis of past experience.

Reis LF, Van Sluys MA, Garratt RC, Pereira HM, Teixeira MM.

Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Sö¸o Paulo, SP, Brazil. lreis@ludwig.org.br

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.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17143405 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

91: Biotechnol J. 2006 Dec;1(12):1433-4.

Consumer acceptance of ingenic foods.

Lusk JL, Rozan A.

Department of Agricultural Economics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK,
USA. jayson.lusk@okstate.edu

Recent advances in plant molecular biology offer a means of reaping the benefits
of biotechnology, while potentially assuaging consumer concerns by re-inserting
native DNA back into plants. Results are presented from nationwide surveys in the
U.S. and France, indicating that more consumers would accept ingenic plants than
transgenic plants, with twice as many U.S. than French consumers considering food
produced through biotechnology eatable.

PMID: 17124706 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

92: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Nov 29;54(24):8984-94.

Applications of metabolomics in agriculture.

Dixon RA, Gang DR, Charlton AJ, Fiehn O, Kuiper HA, Reynolds TL, Tjeerdema RS,
Jeffery EH, German JB, Ridley WP, Seiber JN.

Plant Biology Division, Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, 2510 Sam Noble Parkway,
Ardmore, OK 73401, USA.

Biological systems are exceedingly complex. The unraveling of the genome in
plants and humans revealed fewer than the anticipated number of genes. Therefore,
other processes such as the regulation of gene expression, the action of gene
products, and the metabolic networks resulting from catalytic proteins must make
fundamental contributions to the remarkable diversity inherent in living systems.
Metabolomics is a relatively new approach aimed at improved understanding of
these metabolic networks and the subsequent biochemical composition of plants and
other biological organisms. Analytical tools within metabolomics including mass
spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can profile
the impact of time, stress, nutritional status, and environmental perturbation on
hundreds of metabolites simultaneously resulting in massive, complex data sets.
This information, in combination with transcriptomics and proteomics, has the
potential to generate a more complete picture of the composition of food and feed
products, to optimize crop trait development, and to enhance diet and health.
Selected presentations from an American Chemical Society symposium held in March
2005 have been assembled to highlight the emerging application of metabolomics in
agriculture.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17117782 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

93: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Nov;24(11):1329; author reply 1331-3.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Jul;24(7):753.

'Cisgenic' as a product designation.

Giddings LV.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17093471 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

94: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Nov;24(11):1329-31; author reply 1331-3.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Jul;24(7):753.

'Cisgenic' as a product designation.

de Cock Buning T, Lammerts van Bueren ET, Haring MA, de Vriend HC, Struik PC.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17093470 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

95: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Nov;24(11):1327-9; author reply 1331-3.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Jul;24(7):753.

'Cisgenic' as a product designation.

Schubert D, Williams D.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 17093469 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

96: Nature. 2006 Nov 9;444(7116):137.

A breed apart.

[No authors listed]

PMID: 17093424 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

97: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2006 Nov;118(5):1176-83. Epub 2006 Sep 8.

Reduced allergenicity of tomato fruits harvested from Lyc e 1-silenced transgenic
tomato plants.

Le LQ, Mahler V, Lorenz Y, Scheurer S, Biemelt S, Vieths S, Sonnewald U.

Department of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg,
Erlangen, Germany.

BACKGROUND: Profilin is a small actin-binding protein that contributes to the
allergenic potency of many fruits and vegetables, including tomato. Two highly
similar genes encoding tomato profilin have been isolated and designated as
allergen Lyc e 1.01 and Lyc e 1.02. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to
generate profilin-reduced hypoallergenic tomato fruits by silencing of both genes
in transgenic tomato plants by means of RNA interference (RNAi). METHODS: The
efficiency of gene silencing was documented by means of Northern blotting,
immunoblotting, and skin prick testing. RESULTS: Quantification of the remaining
protein revealed that profilin accumulation in transgenic fruits was decreased
10-fold compared with that seen in untransformed controls. This decrease was
sufficient to cause a reduced allergenic reactivity in patients with tomato
allergy, as determined with skin prick tests. Because most patients with tomato
allergy are not monosensitized to profilin, the IgE reactivity to the
profilin-silenced tomato fruits in vivo varied widely between individuals tested.
CONCLUSION: We could demonstrate the efficient silencing of both profilin genes
in transgenic tomato plants using RNAi. This resulted in Lyc e 1-diminished
tomato fruits, providing proof of concept and demonstrating that RNAi can be used
to design allergen-reduced food. However, simultaneous silencing of multiple
allergens will be required to design hypoallergenic tomatoes. CLINICAL
IMPLICATIONS: Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of creating low-allergenic
food by using RNAi. This concept constitutes a novel approach to allergen
avoidance.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17088146 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

98: J Vet Med Sci. 2006 Oct;68(10):1113-5.

Effects of feeding calves genetically modified corn bt11: a clinico-biochemical
study.

Shimada N, Murata H, Mikami O, Yoshioka M, Guruge KS, Yamanaka N, Nakajima Y,
Miyazaki S.

Safety Research Team, National Institute of Animal Health, Ibaraki, Japan.

Genetically modified corn Bt11 is insect-resistant and expresses Cry1Ab toxin, an
insecticidal protein, in kernels. Although Bt11 corn is considered safe based on
animal performance, there are no reports available on the clinico-biochemical
effects of feeding it to cattle. In this study, we evaluated the effects of
feeding Bt11 to calves, using blood and ruminal clinico-biochemical parameters.
Our three-month-long feeding experiment demonstrated that calves (n=6), fed with
a ration containing 43.3% of Bt11 corn kernels as dry matter, did not develop any
discernible clinical, hematological, biochemical, or ruminal abnormalities as
compared with control calves (n=6) fed non-Bt11 corn. The results suggest that
the transgenic Bt11 has no negative clinico-biochemical effects on calves.

Publication Types:
Randomized Controlled Trial
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 17085894 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

99: Med Law. 2006 Sep;25(3):491-502.

Biotechnology entrepreneurship and ethics: principles, paradigms, and products.

Kuszler PC.

University of Washington School of Law, William H Gates Hall, Seattle, USA.

Biotechnology, whether in the context of new drugs derived from DNA and genetic
technology, genetically modified food, or biologics making use of living cells,
raises ethical concerns at a variety of different levels. At the research level,
there is concern that the very nature of research is being subverted, rather than
enhanced, by entrepreneurship. This area of ethical concern has intensified in
the United States as a result of the conflicts of interests resulting from the
growing alliance between University academia and private industry in the research
enterprise. As we travel down the research path into development of a drug or
technology, ethical questions arise with respect to protecting human subjects and
society from danger and exploitation by researchers. As development gives way to
marketing and dissemination of a new product, government regulators are pressed
to get drugs and biologics through the regulatory pipeline into the market
faster, walking an ethical tightrope between speed and safety. As new
biotechnology products enter the market place, doctors and patients traverse yet
another tightrope, that between unknown risk and the promise of benefit. And
finally, patent protection is increasingly viewed as a unethical culprit in
keeping prices high and depriving the global poor from lifesaving drugs and
biologics. Bioethics has, to date, been largely a creation of Western research
and medicine. As such it is wholly inadequate to respond to the cascade of
ethical issues that flow from a vibrant biotechnology industry. And if
biotechnology is in its infancy, as most believe, it is crucial that scientists,
entrepreneurs and governments engage in dialogue about the ethical and societal
questions raised on the road of scientific progress.

PMID: 17078522 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

100: Gig Sanit. 2006 Jul-Aug;(4):7-11.

[Hygienic characteristics of foodstuffs containing genetically modified
components]

[Article in Russian]

Beliaev EN, Ivanov AA, Fokin MV.

The paper analyzes the results of the investigations of raw foods, foodstuffs for
genetically modified components, conducted by the state sanitary and
epidemiological service of the Russian Federation during its current sanitary
inspection. The presented materials cover 2003-2004. The findings suggest that
there is a great deal of foods containing genetically modified sources on the
market and show the priority groups of foodstuffs and the distribution of these
foods on the territory of the Russian Federation.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 17078283 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

101: Annu Rev Plant Biol. 2007;58:1-19.

From analysis of mutants to genetic engineering.

von Wettstein D.

Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, School of Molecular Biosciences and Center
for Integrated Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
99164-6420, USA. diter@wsu.edu

This chapter describes the research of developing transgenic barley for synthesis
of recombinant proteins with practical significance and of metabolic engineering
of proanthocyanidin-free barley. The results were obtained by graduate students,
postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scientists at the Carlsberg Laboratory
from 1972-1996 and during the past ten years at Washington State University. It
is written in appreciation of their enthusiasm, skill, and perseverance.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17067283 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

102: J Biotechnol. 2007 Jan 30;128(1):194-203. Epub 2006 Sep 23.

Effect of storage and processing on plasmid, yeast and plant genomic DNA
stability in juice from genetically modified oranges.

Weiss J, Ros-Chumillas M, Peö±a L, Egea-Cortines M.

Agricultural Science and Technology Department, Genetics, Universidad Politö©cnica
de Cartagena, 30203 Cartagena, Spain. julia.weiss@upct.es

Recombinant DNA technology is an important tool in the development of plant
varieties with new favourable features. There is strong opposition towards this
technology due to the potential risk of horizontal gene transfer between
genetically modified plant material and food-associated bacteria, especially if
genes for antibiotic resistance are involved. Since horizontal transfer
efficiency depends on size and length of homologous sequences, we investigated
the effect of conditions required for orange juice processing on the stability of
DNA from three different origins: plasmid DNA, yeast genomic DNA and endogenous
genomic DNA from transgenic sweet orange (C. sinensis L. Osb.). Acidic orange
juice matrix had a strong degrading effect on plasmid DNA which becomes apparent
in a conformation change from supercoiled structure to nicked, linear structure
within 5h of storage at 4 degrees C. Genomic yeast DNA was degraded during
exposure to acidic orange juice matrix within 4 days, and also the genomic DNA of
C. sinensis suffered degradation within 2 days of storage as indicated by
amplification results from transgene markers. Standard pasteurization procedures
affected DNA integrity depending on the method and time used. Our data show that
the current standard industrial procedures to pasteurize orange juice as well as
its acidic nature causes a strong degradation of both yeast and endogenous
genomic DNA below sizes reported to be suitable for horizontal gene transfer.

PMID: 17064805 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

103: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Nov 1;54(22):8640-7.

Safety assessment of cre recombinase.

Hileman RE, Bonner HK, Kaempfe TA, Hammond BG, Glenn KC.

Monsanto Company, St. Louis, Missouri 63167, USA. ronald.e.hileman@monsanto.com

Cre recombinase, when used as a tool in agricultural biotechnology, can precisely
excise DNA sequences that may be useful in the introduction of a new trait but
are not needed in the commercial product. Although the cre genetic material would
not be present in the final product, the present studies were performed to assess
the safety of Cre recombinase to provide confirmatory evidence of the safe use of
Cre-lox technology in agricultural biotechnology. Cre recombinase shares no
relevant sequence similarity to known allergens or toxins. When Cre recombinase
was exposed to a pH 1.2 solution of simulated gastric fluid lacking pepsin, CD
spectroscopy showed that there was a loss of secondary structure and that the
protein was no longer active in a functional assay. Cre recombinase was degraded
rapidly when exposed to pepsin in a standardized gastric digestion model;
therefore, Cre recombinase would not survive the harsh gastric environment. When
orally administered to mice as an acute dosage of 53 mg/kg of body weight, no
treatment-related adverse findings were observed. These data support the
conclusion that human and animal dietary exposure to Cre recombinase pose no
known safety concerns; consistent with the fact that bacteriophage P1, the source
of the cre gene and expressed protein, is commonly encountered in the environment
and in normal enteric bacteria without reports of adverse consequences.

PMID: 17061845 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

104: J Agric Environ Ethics. 2006;19(3):253-67.

Including public perspectives in industrial biotechnology and the biobased
economy.

Paula L, Birrer F.

Institute of Biology, Biology and Society, Leiden University, PO Box 9516, 2300
RA Leiden, The Netherlands. lepaula@rulsfb.leidenuniv.nl

Industrial ("white") biotechnology promises to contribute to a more sustainable
future. Compared to current production processes, cases have been identified
where industrial biotechnology can decrease the amount of energy and raw
materials used to make products and also reduce the amount of emissions and waste
produced during production. However, switching from products based on chemical
production processes and fossil fuels towards "biobased" products is at present
not necessarily economically viable. This is especially true for bulk products,
for example ethanol production from biomass. Therefore, scientists are also
turning to genetic modification as a means to develop organisms that can produce
at lower costs. These include not only micro-organisms, but also organisms used
in agriculture for food and feed. The use of genetic modification for "deliberate
release" purposes, in particular, has met great opposition in Europe. Many
industrial biotechnology applications may, due to their scale, entail deliberate
releases of GM organisms. Thus, the biobased economy brings back a familiar
question; is it ethically justifiable, and acceptable to citizens, to expose the
environment and society to the risks associated with GM, in order to protect that
same environment and to sustain our affluent way of life? For a successful
innovation towards a biobased economy, its proponents, especially producers, need
to take into account (take responsibility for) such issues when developing new
products and processes. These issues, and how scientists can interact with
citizens about them in a timely way, are further explored in projects at Delft
University and Leiden University, also in collaboration with Utrecht University.

PMID: 17061382 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

105: J Agric Environ Ethics. 2006;19(3):225-38.

The moral difference between intragenic and transgenic modification of plants.

Myskja BK.

Department of Philosophy, NTNU Trondheim, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway.
bjorn.myskja@hf.ntnu.no

Public policy on the development and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
has mainly been concerned with defining proper strategies of risk management.
However, surveys and focus group interviews show that although lay people are
concerned with risks, they also emphasize that genetic modification is ethically
questionable in itself. Many people feel that this technology "tampers with
nature" in an unacceptable manner. This is often identified as an objection to
the crossing of species borders in producing transgenic organisms. Most
scientists reject these opinions as based on insufficient knowledge about
biotechnology, the concept of species, and nature in general. Some recent
projects of genetic modification aim to accommodate the above mentioned concerns
by altering the expression of endogenous genes rather than introducing genes from
other species. There can be good scientific reasons for this approach, in
addition to strategic reasons related to greater public acceptability. But are
there also moral reasons for choosing intragenic rather than transgenic
modification? I suggest three interrelated moral reasons for giving priority to
intragenic modification. First, we should respect the opinions of lay people even
when their view is contrary to scientific consensus; they express an alternative
world-view, not scientific ignorance. Second, staying within species borders by
strengthening endogenous traits reduces the risks and scientific uncertainty.
Third, we should show respect for nature as a complex system of laws and
interconnections that we cannot fully control. The main moral reason for
intragenic modification, in our view, is the need to respect the "otherness" of
nature.

PMID: 17061380 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

106: Dev Biol (Basel). 2006;126:79-86; discussion 324-5.

In-house validation and quality control of real-time PCR methods for GMO
detection: a practical approach.

Ciabatti I, Froiio A, Gatto F, Amaddeo D, Marchesi U.

Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Lazio e Toscana, National Reference Center
for GMO Analysis, Rome, Italy. iciabatti@rm.izs.it

GMO detection and quantification methods in the EU are mainly based on real-time
PCR. The analytical methods in use must be validated, first on an
intra-laboratory scale and through a collaborative trial thereafter. Since a
consensual protocol for intra-laboratory validation of real-time PCR methods is
lacking, we provide a practical approach for the in-house validation of
quantitative real-time PCR methods, establishing acceptability criteria and
quality controls for PCR runs. Parameters such as limit of detection, limit of
quantification, precision, trueness, linear dynamic range, PCR efficiency,
robustness and specificity are considered. The protocol is sufficiently detailed
to be directly applicable, increases the reliability of results and their
harmonization among different laboratories, and represents a necessary
preliminary step before proceeding to a time-consuming and costly full validation
study.

PMID: 17058483 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

107: Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2007 Feb;17(2):74-81. Epub 2006 Oct 13.

Assessment of usual dietary intake in population studies of gene-diet
interaction.

Tucker KL.

Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, 711
Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, USA. katherine.tucker@tufts.edu


AIMS: Dietary intake is a critical environmental exposure when considering the
effect of many genetic factors on disease risk. However, dietary intake is a
complex and changing measure that requires particular care in assessment. DATA
SYNTHESIS: Although weighed diet records can theoretically provide the most
accurate assessment of intake, they are usually not realistic in large population
studies due to heavy respondent burden, likelihood of poor compliance, and the
cost of data entry. Multiple 24-h dietary recalls can provide excellent detail,
allowing for diverse dietary practices, but they are costly and require multiple
contacts with participants. Food frequency questionnaires are the most
cost-effective tool for assessing usual intake, particularly for micronutrients
with high day-to-day variability. However, they have limitations for diverse
populations and recent studies have questioned their ability to measure
macronutrient intakes for assessing diet and disease relationships. CONCLUSION:
At the present time, food frequencies remain the most cost-effective tool for
large population studies. However, their limitations must be fully appreciated
and demonstration of validity for nutrients of concern in the populations under
study is essential. When macronutrients are of key interest, consideration should
be given to the use of multiple recalls. Records may be used only in educated and
compliant populations. Continued efforts to improve dietary assessment
methodology must be investigated.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17046222 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

108: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Oct;24(10):1178.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):33-4.

Parallel universes?

[No authors listed]

An EU Commissioner has a meeting of minds with an antibiotech agitator.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 17033639 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

109: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Oct;24(10):1177.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Feb;25(2):165; discussion 165-6.

Why silence is not an option.

[No authors listed]

GM products will continue to be marginalized in Europe as long as industry
remains silent.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 17033637 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

110: Biotechnol Lett. 2006 Dec;28(23):1877-88. Epub 2006 Sep 22.

IgE binding to proteins from sesame and assessment of allergenicity: implications
for biotechnology?

Orruö±o E, Morgan MR.

Procter Department of Food Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK,
prceo@leeds.ac.uk

Successful prediction of the potential allergenicity of a protein may be a key
factor in the development of novel, genetically modified foods. The use of the
decision tree approach for the prediction of allergenicity is discussed. The
methods currently used for identifying allergenic proteins (including use of IgE
from patient sera for recognition of proteins) are reviewed. Finally, a specific
review of the literature concerning identification of allergens from sesame leads
to the conclusion that in the absence of validated animal models, identification
of allergenicity (and, consequently, prediction of allergenicity) may be
problematic.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 17028779 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

111: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2007 Feb;47(1):37-47. Epub 2006 Oct 5.

Compositional assessment of event DAS-59122-7 maize using substantial
equivalence.

Herman RA, Storer NP, Phillips AM, Prochaska LM, Windels P.

Dow AgroSciences LLC, Indianapolis, IN 46268, USA. raherman@dow.com

Event DAS-59122-7 (Herculex RW) maize (Zea mays L.) plants were transformed to
express the Cry34Ab1 and Cry35Ab1 binary insecticidal crystal proteins originally
isolated from Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) strain PS149B1. These proteins
protect maize roots from attack by corn rootworms, Diabrotica spp. DAS-59122-7
maize also contains the pat gene, originally isolated from Streptomyces
viridochromogenes, which confers tolerance to glufosinate-ammonium herbicides
(e.g. Liberty). We assessed the composition of these transgenic plants (with and
without Liberty herbicide treatment), grown at a total of eight fields sites over
2 years, by applying the principle of substantial equivalence. Forage and grain
samples were analyzed for proximates, fiber and minerals, and grain was further
analyzed for amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, secondary metabolites and
anti-nutrients. Data plots were prepared that allow for efficient investigation
of equivalency between event DAS-59122-7 maize and a non-transgenic near-isogenic
maize line grown contemporaneously. Results demonstrated that DAS-59122-7 maize
is equivalent to non-transgenic maize with respect to these important
constituents.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 17027131 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

112: Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol. 2006 Jul-Aug;42(4):485-8.

[Accuracy of a real-time polymerase-chain-reaction assay for a quantitative
estimation of genetically modified sources in food products]

[Article in Russian]

Abramov DD, Trofimov DIu, Rebrikov DV.

The accuracy of a real-time polymerase-chain-reaction assay for genetically
modified sources in food products was determined using two official test systems
(kits) of primers and samples. These kits were recommended by the Federal Center
of State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance (Russian Ministry of Health)
and the European Commission. We used the following three models of thermocyclers:
iCycler iQ (BioRad, United States), Rotor-Gene 3000 (Corbett Research,
Australia), and DT-322 (DNA-Technology, Russia). Studies of samples that
contained 1% genetically modified sources showed that the error of a quantitative
assay for genetically modified sources in food products corresponds to 20-30% and
does not depend on the kit type and the thermocycler model used.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 17022461 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

113: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 2004;21:325-67.

Design of safe and biologically contained transgenic plants: tools and
technologies for controlled transgene flow and expression.

Gleba Y, Marillonnet S, Klimyuk V.

Icon Genetics AG, Biozentrum Halle, Weinbergweg 22, D-06120 Halle/Saale, Germany.
gleba@icongenetics.de

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17017039 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

114: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 2004;21:299-324.

Safety testing and regulation of genetically engineered foods.

Freese W, Schubert D.

Friends of the Earth U.S., 1717 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC
20036, USA.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 17017038 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

115: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2006 Aug;47(4):146-50.

Detection method for genetically modified papaya using duplex PCR.

Yamaguchi A, Shimizu K, Mishima T, Aoki N, Hattori H, Sato H, Ueda N, Watanabe T,
Hino A, Akiyama H, Maitani T.

Japan Food Research Laboratories, Chitose: 2-3, Bunkyo, Chitose-shi, Hokkaido
066-0052, Japan.

A simple and rapid method for the identification of genetically modified (GM)
papaya, derived from Line 55-1, was developed by modifying the Japanese official
PCR method. Genomic DNA was directly extracted from the fresh fruit without the
lyophilization step, using a commercial silica-based kit. To develop a duplex PCR
method which simultaneously detects the GM papaya-specific gene and the intrinsic
papain gene, the papain 2-5'/3' (amplicon size; 184 bp) primer pair for the
detection of the papain gene was newly designed within the region of the products
(211 bp) amplified using the papain 1-5'/-3' primer pair adopted in the Japanese
official PCR method. To detect the GM papaya-specific gene, the primer pair Nos
C-5'/CaM N-3' described in the Japanese official method was used. The DNA
sequences of the GM papaya gene and the intrinsic papain gene were co-amplified
using the PCR method in a single tube. The developed duplex PCR method allows the
simultaneous detection of the products by means of agarose gel electrophoresis or
microchip electrophoresis. The proposed method for GM papaya identification is
simple and rapid.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16984033 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

116: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2007 Feb;47(1):90-5. Epub 2006 Sep 18.

ELISA method for monitoring human serum IgE specific for Cry1Ab introduced into
genetically modified corn.

Nakajima O, Teshima R, Takagi K, Okunuki H, Sawada J.

National Institute of Health Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and
Immunochemistry, 1-18-1 Kamiyoga, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan. onakajim@nihs.go.jp

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is the most convenient method of
monitoring the occurrence of IgE antibodies specific for novel proteins in
genetically modified (GM) foods. The levels of IgE specific for a recombinant
protein, Cry1Ab, were determined using an ELISA method. A soluble form of the
Cry1Ab protein purified from pCold1 vector-transformed Escherichia coli
pTf16/BL21 was used as the ELISA coating antigen, and 1M NaCl was used as the
washing buffer to remove IgE non-specifically bound to the coated antigen. Sera
from 44 patients allergic to major food allergens were obtained, diluted 20-fold,
tested, and found no identifiable IgE above background levels. We also tested
sera from patients with corn allergy against whole extracts of non-GM and GM-corn
(MON 810) using immunoblotting. The staining patterns were similar for the two
types of corn. These results indicate that significant levels of IgE antibodies
specific to Cry1Ab were not found in the sera of Japanese patients with food
allergies.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16982119 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

117: Curr Biol. 2006 Aug 8;16(15):R563-4.

GMOs still rankle in Europe.

Williamson N.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 16953534 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

118: Public Health Nutr. 2006 Aug;9(5):662-3.

Comment on:
Public Health Nutr. 2005 Sep;8(6A):673-94.

How far should nutrition reach?

Kent G.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16923303 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

119: J AOAC Int. 2006 Jul-Aug;89(4):913-28.

Immunoassay as an analytical tool in agricultural biotechnology.

Grothaus GD, Bandla M, Currier T, Giroux R, Jenkins GR, Lipp M, Shan G, Stave JW,
Pantella V.

EnviroLogix Inc, 500 Riverside Industrial Pkwy, Portland, ME 04103, USA.
davidgrothaus@envirologix.com

Immunoassays for biotechnology engineered proteins are used by AgBiotech
companies at numerous points in product development and by feed and food
suppliers for compliance and contractual purposes. Although AgBiotech companies
use the technology during product development and seed production, other
stakeholders from the food and feed supply chains, such as commodity, food, and
feed companies, as well as third-party diagnostic testing companies, also rely on
immunoassays for a number of purposes. The primary use of immunoassays is to
verify the presence or absence of genetically modified (GM) material in a product
or to quantify the amount of GM material present in a product. This article
describes the fundamental elements of GM analysis using immunoassays and
especially its application to the testing of grains. The 2 most commonly used
formats are lateral flow devices (LFD) and plate-based enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The main applications of both formats are discussed
in general, and the benefits and drawbacks are discussed in detail. The document
highlights the many areas to which attention must be paid in order to produce
reliable test results. These include sample preparation, method validation,
choice of appropriate reference materials, and biological and instrumental
sources of error. The article also discusses issues related to the analysis of
different matrixes and the effects they may have on the accuracy of the
immunoassays.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 16915826 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

120: Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2006 Jul-Aug;10(4):197-206.

Benefits and concerns associated with biotechnology-derived foods: can additional
research reduce children health risks?

Cantani A.

Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Pediatric Department, La Sapienza
University, Rome, Italy.

The development of techniques devised for the genetic manipulation of foods poses
new risks for children with food allergy (FA). The introduction of foreign
allergenic proteins from different foods into previously tolerated foods may
trigger allergic reactions, often complicating with anaphylactic shock in a
subset of allergic babies. Children with FA, even if subjected to preventative
diets, always challenge the risk of developing allergic manifestations after
unintentional intake of a non tolerated food in restaurant settings, with
relatives or schoolmates, etc, where product labelling is necessarily lacking.
The introduction of potentially allergenic proteins into foods generally
considered safe for allergic children can be done deliberately, by either
substantially altering the food ingredients, or by genetic manipulation which
change the composition or transfer allergens, or unintentionally by
quality-control failures, due to contaminations in the production process, or to
genetic mismanipulation. There is a controversy between multinationals often
favored by governments and consumer association resistance, thus an equidistant
analysis poses some unprecedented impediments. The importance of FA and the
potential of transgenic plants to bring food allergens into the food supply
should not be disregarded. The expression in soybeans of a Brazil nut protein
resulted in a food allergen expressed in widely used infant formulas, so paving
the way to an often reported multinational debacle. Genetic engineering poses
innovative ethical and social concerns, as well as serious challenges to the
environment, human health, animal welfare, and the future of agriculture. In this
paper will be emphasized practical concepts more crucial for pediatricians.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16910351 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

121: J Environ Health. 2006 Jul-Aug;69(1):33-4.

The ethical dilemma of genetically modified food.

Jefferson V.

National Capital Area Environmental Health Association, Clinton, MD 20735, USA.
Val.Jefferson@verizon.net

PMID: 16910106 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

122: Food Drug Law J. 2006;61(2):197-235.

Health and food safety: the benefits of Bt-corn.

Kershen DL.

University of Oklahoma College of Law, Norman, Okla., USA.

PMID: 16903029 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

123: Food Drug Law J. 2006;61(2):167-96.

The international regulation of genetically modified organisms: importing caution
into the U.S. food supply.

Strauss DM.

Fairfield University, Charles F. Dolan School of Business, Fairfield, Conn., USA.

PMID: 16903028 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

124: Environ Health Perspect. 2006 Aug;114(8):1154-7.

Digestion assays in allergenicity assessment of transgenic proteins.

Herman RA, Storer NP, Gao Y.

Dow AgroSciences LLC, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268, USA. raherman@dow.com

The food-allergy risk assessment for transgenic proteins expressed in crops is
currently based on a weight-of-evidence approach that holistically considers
multiple lines of evidence. This approach recognizes that no single test or
property is known to distinguish allergens from nonallergens. The stability of a
protein to digestion, as predicted by an in vitro simulated gastric fluid assay,
currently is used as one element in the risk assessment process. A review of the
literature on the use of the simulated gastric fluid assay to predict the
allergenic status of proteins suggests that more extensive kinetic studies with
well-characterized reference proteins are required before the predictive value of
this assay can be adequately judged.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16882518 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

125: EMBO Rep. 2006 Aug;7(8):750-3.

Cisgenic plants are similar to traditionally bred plants: international
regulations for genetically modified organisms should be altered to exempt
cisgenesis.

Schouten HJ, Krens FA, Jacobsen E.

Plant Research International, Wageningen University and Research Centre in the
Netherlands. henk.schouten@wur.nl

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16880817 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

126: Postepy Biochem. 2006;52(1):7-9.

[Biochemistry as a background of modern biotechnology]

[Article in Polish]

Twardowski T.

Instytut Chemii Bioorganicznej PAN i Politechnika Lö¨dzka, ul. Noskowskiego 12/14,
61-704, Poznaå„. twardows@ibch.poznan.pl

PMID: 16869296 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

127: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2006 Jun;47(3):111-4.

A detection method of CryIAc protein for identifying genetically modified rice
using the lateral flow strip assay.

Akiyama H, Watanabe T, Kikuchi H, Sakata K, Tokishita S, Hayashi Y, Hino A,
Teshima R, Sawada J, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

We examined the lateral flow strip assay for identifying unauthorized genetically
modified (GM) rice. The GM rice expresses the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) toxin,
CryIAc protein, which confers tolerance to insects. The recombinant CryIAc
protein was prepared from the inclusion bodies of an E. coli. strain into which
the CryIAc gene had been inserted, using gel filtration chromatography. The
lateral flow strip assay for the identification of GM cotton which also expresses
CryIAc protein, was applied to unpolished rice and polished rice spiked with
recombinant CryIAc protein. The spiked recombinant CryIAc protein was clearly
detected at the level of 0.012 microg/g in both the unpolished and polished rice.
After loading of the extract on the strip, a 60 -minute stand time is necessary
to clearly detect CryIAc protein. The detection limit was approximately 12 ng
CryIAc protein per gram of rice. These results suggest that the lateral flow
strip assay for GM cotton can be used to detect CryIAc protein expressed in GM
rice.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16862988 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

128: J Biotechnol. 2006 Dec 15;127(1):161-6. Epub 2006 Jun 12.

Random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis of genetically modified organisms.

Yoke-Kqueen C, Radu S.

Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
ykcheah@medic.upm.edu.my

Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was used to analyzed 78 samples
comprises of certified reference materials (soya and maize powder), raw seeds
(soybean and maize), processed food and animal feed. Combination assay of two
arbitrary primers in the RAPD analysis enable to distinguish genetically modified
organism (GMO) reference materials from the samples tested. Dendrogram analysis
revealed 13 clusters at 45% similarity from the RAPD. RAPD analysis showed that
the maize and soybean samples were clustered differently besides the GMO and
non-GMO products.

PMID: 16860900 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

129: Annu Rev Nutr. 2006;26:75-103.

Innovative dietary sources of n-3 fatty acids.

Whelan J, Rust C.

Department of Nutrition, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
37996-1920, USA. jwhelan@utk.edu

It is now established that dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are
involved in health promotion and disease prevention, particularly those
traditionally derived from marine sources (e.g., eicosapentaenoic acid and
docosahexaenoic acid). A number of organizations have made specific
recommendations for the general population to increase their intakes of these
nutrients. In response to and along with these recommendations, n-3 PUFAs are
being incorporated into nontraditional food sources because of advances in the
technology to safely enrich/fortify our food supply. Fatty acid compositions of
traditional oils (e.g., canola and soybean) are being genetically modified to
deliver more highly concentrated sources of n-3 PUFA. The advent of algal sources
of docosahexaenoic acid provides one of the few terrestrial sources of this fatty
acid in a concentrated form. All of this is possible because of newer
technologies (microencapsulation) and improved processing techniques that ensure
stability and preserve the integrity of these unstable fatty acids.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16848701 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

130: S Afr Med J. 2006 Jun;96(6):509-10.

Genetically modified crops--playing a positive role in sustainable development in
Africa.

Thomson JA.

Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, South Africa.
jat@science.uct.ac.za

PMID: 16841131 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

131: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Jul;24(7):735.

Elliot Entis.

Powell K.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 16841044 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

132: Risk Anal. 2006 Jun;26(3):657-70.

Examining consumer behavior toward genetically modified (GM) food in Britain.

Spence A, Townsend E.

RASPH, School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
lpxas@psychology.nottingham.ac.uk

This study examined behavior toward genetically modified (GM) food in a British
community-based sample. We used an equivalent gain task in which participants
actually received the options they chose to encourage truthful responding. In
conjunction with this, theory of planned behavior (TPB) components were evaluated
so as to examine the relative importance of behavioral influences in this domain.
Here, the TPB was extended to include additional components to measure
self-identity, moral norms, and emotional involvement. Results indicated that the
monetary amounts participants accepted in preference to GM food were
significantly lower than those accepted in preference to non-GM food. However,
the vast majority of participants were indifferent between GM and non-GM food
options. All TPB components significantly predicted behavioral intentions to try
GM food, with attitudes toward GM being the strongest predictor. Self-identity
and emotional involvement were also found to be significant predictors of
behavioral intentions but moral norms were not. In addition, behavioral
intentions significantly predicted behavior; however, PBC did not. An additional
measure of participants' propensity to respond in a socially desirable manner
indicated that our results were not influenced by self-presentation issues,
giving confidence to our findings. Overall, it appears that the majority of
participants (74.5%) would purchase GM food at some price.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16834625 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

133: Sci Technol Human Values. 2006 Jan;31(1):8-28.

Genetic technologies meet the public: the discourses of concern.

Lassen J, Jamison A.

Department of Human Nutrition, Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University,
Copenhagen, Denmark. jlas@kvl.dk

To clarify concerns that the public has with genetic technologies, the article
presents the results of focus group interviews conducted in Denmark in 2000. The
concerns of the public are divided into three ideal-typical categories: social
(dealing with environmental and health risks), economic (dealing with both the
threats and opportunities of the new technologies), and cultural (taking up
ethical and moral concerns). Following a general discussion of why it is
important to take these discourses of concern seriously, each discursive category
is discussed with examples taken from the focus group interviews.

PMID: 16832965 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

134: Public Aff Q. 2006 Apr;20(2):135-61.

Gene patents and Lockean constraints.

Shrader-Frechette K.

University of Notre Dame, USA.

PMID: 16832963 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

135: J AOAC Int. 2006 May-Jun;89(3):893-7.

Surface plasmon resonance for detection of genetically modified organisms in the
food supply.

Gambari R, Feriotto G.

Ferrara University, Biotechnology Center, 44100, Ferrara, Italy. gam@dns.unife.it

A review is presented demonstrating that biospecific interaction analysis, using
surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and biosensor technologies is a simple, rapid,
and automatable approach to detect genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Using
SPR, we were able to monitor in real-time the hybridization between
oligonucleotide or polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-generated probes and target
single-stranded PCR products obtained by using as substrates DNA isolated from
normal or transgenic soybean and maize. This procedure allows a one-step,
nonradioactive detection of GMOs. PCR-generated probes are far more efficient in
detecting GMOs than are oligodeoxyribonucleotide probes. This is expected to be a
very important parameter, because information on low percentage of GMOs is of
great value. Determination of the ability of SPR-based analysis to quantify GMOs
should be considered a major research field for future studies, especially for
the analyses of food supplies.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 16792091 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

136: Food Nutr Bull. 2006 Jun;27(2):167-79.

Agricultural biodiversity, nutrition, and health: making a difference to hunger
and nutrition in the developing world.

Frison EA, Smith IF, Johns T, Cherfas J, Eyzaguirre PB.

International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome, Italy. e.frison@cgiar.org

BACKGROUND: In spite of the strides made globally in reducing hunger, the
problems of micronutrient deficiencies and coexisting obesity and related
cardiovascular and degenerative diseases constitute a formidable challenge for
the future. Attempts to reverse this trend with single-nutrient intervention
strategies have met with limited success, resulting in renewed calls for
food-based approaches. The deployment of agricultural biodiversity is an approach
that entails greater use of local biodiversity to ensure dietary diversity.
OBJECTIVE: To outline a new strategy proposed by the International Plant Genetic
Resources Institute (IPGRI) that employs agricultural biodiversity as the primary
resource for food security and health. METHODS: The authors carried out a
meta-analysis to review and assemble existing information on the nutritional and
healthful properties of traditional foods based on a diverse set of case studies
and food composition and nutritional analysis studies. The methods highlight
particular examples of foods where analysis of nutrient and non-nutrient
composition reveals important traits to address the growing problems of
malnutrition associated with the rise of chronic diseases. Finally, the authors
analyze social, economic, and cultural changes that undermine the healthful
components of traditional diets. RESULTS: Based on this multidisciplinary and
comparative approach, the authors suggest a holistic food-based approach that
combines research to assess and document nutritional and healthful properties of
traditional foods, investigating options in which nutritionally valuable
traditional foods can contribute to better livelihoods, and ways that awareness
and promotional campaigns can identify healthful components of traditional diets
that fit the needs of urban and market-oriented consumers. CONCLUSIONS: There is
an urgent need for agricultural research centers, national agricultural research
systems, universities, and community-based organizations to work together under a
shared policy framework with the aim of developing a strong evidence base linking
biodiversity, nutrition, and health. Although these initiatives are still
ongoing, the gains realized in small-scale and local pilot efforts have
encouraged IPGRI to work with local partners toward the implementation of
scale-up efforts in various regions.

Publication Types:
Meta-Analysis
Review

PMID: 16786983 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

137: Plant Mol Biol. 2006 May;61(1-2):123-39.

A microarray-based detection system for genetically modified (GM) food
ingredients.

Leimanis S, Hernö¡ndez M, Fernö¡ndez S, Boyer F, Burns M, Bruderer S, Glouden T,
Harris N, Kaeppeli O, Philipp P, Pla M, Puigdomö¨nech P, Vaitilingom M, Bertheau
Y, Remacle J.

Unitö© de Recherche en Biologie Cellulaire (URBC), Facultö© Universitaire Notre
Dame de la Paix, Namur, Belgium.

A multiplex DNA microarray chip was developed for simultaneous identification of
nine genetically modified organisms (GMOs), five plant species and three GMO
screening elements, i.e. the 35S promoter, the nos terminator and the nptII gene.
The chips also include several controls, such as that for the possible presence
of CaMV. The on-chip detection was performed directly with PCR amplified
products. Particular emphasis was placed on the reduction of the number of PCR
reactions required and on the number of primers present per amplification tube.
The targets were biotin labelled and the arrays were detected using a
colorimetric methodology. Specificity was provided by specific capture probes
designed for each GMO and for the common screening elements. The sensitivity of
the assay was tested by experiments carried out in five different laboratories.
The limit of detection was lower than 0.3% GMO for all tests and in general
around 0.1% for most GMOs. The chip detection system complies with the
requirements of current EU regulations and other countries where thresholds are
established for the labelling of GMO.

Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16786296 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

138: Transgenic Res. 2006 Jun;15(3):277-89.

Mycotoxin reduction in Bt corn: potential economic, health, and regulatory
impacts.

Wu F.

Environmental, Occupational Health, Graduate School of Public Health, University
of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto St., Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA. fwu@eoh.pitt.edu

Genetically modified (GM) Bt corn, through the pest protection that it confers,
has lower levels of mycotoxins: toxic and carcinogenic chemicals produced as
secondary metabolites of fungi that colonize crops. In some cases, the reduction
of mycotoxins afforded by Bt corn is significant enough to have an economic
impact, both in terms of domestic markets and international trade. In less
developed countries where certain mycotoxins are significant contaminants of
food, Bt corn adoption, by virtue of its mycotoxin reduction, may even improve
human and animal health. This paper describes an integrated assessment model that
analyzes the economic and health impacts of two mycotoxins in corn: fumonisin and
aflatoxin. It was found that excessively strict standards of these two mycotoxins
could result in global trade losses in the hundreds of millions US dollars
annually, with the US, China, and Argentina suffering the greatest losses. The
paper then discusses the evidence for Bt corn's lower levels of contamination of
fumonisin and aflatoxin, and estimates economic impacts in the United States. A
total benefit of Bt corn's reduction of fumonisin and aflatoxin in the US was
estimated at 23 million dollars annually. Finally, the paper examines the
potential policy impacts of Bt corn's mycotoxin reduction, on nations that are
making a decision on whether to allow commercialization of this genetically
modified crop.

PMID: 16779644 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

139: Foodborne Pathog Dis. 2006 Summer;3(2):157-62.

Food safety--who is responsible?

Rollin BE.

Department of Philosophy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
80523-1781, USA. Bernard.Rollin@colostate.edu

Though scientists believe that issues of risk can be handled without appeal to
values in general or ethics in particular, this is demonstrably false. The very
notion of risk is enmeshed in a complex of social ethics. This is clearly true
with regard to food safety. With this in mind, it is plausible to affirm that
responsibility for food safety at a given point in the chain from producer to
consumer rests with the person or entity under whose control the management of
that risk most plausibly lies. This principle is illustrated with various
examples and with clear cases of industry shouldering and avoiding
responsibility. An additional ethical concern relevant to food safety arises from
genetically modified foods. Given that the situation here is uncertain and risk
unknown, it is hard to see who is responsible for managing such risks. It is
arguable that this situation militates in favor of labeling, since consumers are
in effect research subjects. The reasonable moral approach to risk we have
outlined is jeopardized by the societal tendency towards "victimology" and
abrogation of personal responsibility. In such a world, it is incumbent on
industry to educate the public with regard to consumer minimization of food
safety risks, the impossibility of zero-risk situations, and the economic costs
to freedom of protectionism.

PMID: 16761941 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

140: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2006 Jul;50(7):604-9.

Review of the development of methodology for evaluating the human allergenic
potential of novel proteins.

Taylor SL.

University of Nebraska, Food Allergy Research & Resource Program, Lincoln,
Nebraska 68583, USA. staylor2@unl.edu

Safety assessment of novel proteins in genetic-engineered foods is a key
component of the overall safety evaluation for these products. Since allergens
are typically proteins, assessment of the potential allergenicity of the novel
proteins in genetically engineered foods is critical. This article reviews
methods available to assess the potential allergenicity of novel proteins, as
well as problems and deficiencies in the existing methods. The role of
bioinformatics and knowledge of allergenic epitopes in developing new approaches
to this problem is discussed.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Review

PMID: 16736463 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

141: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2006 Apr;47(2):J185-8.

[Codex ad hoc Intergovernmental Task Force on Foods Derived from Biotechnology]

[Article in Japanese]

Umeda T.

Department of Food Safety, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Tokyo, Japan.

PMID: 16729673 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

142: Nature. 2006 May 11;441(7090):149.

Challengers in the field.

Macilwain C.

PMID: 16688145 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

143: Trends Biotechnol. 2006 Jul;24(7):305-11. Epub 2006 May 6.

Genetic engineering of wheat--current challenges and opportunities.

Bhalla PL.

Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Australian Research Council
Centre of Excellence for Integrative Legume Research, The University of
Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia. premlb@unimelb.edu.au

Wheat is one of the major staple food crops grown worldwide; however,
productivity in cereal crops has not kept pace with the world population growth.
A significant increase in wheat production (>40% by 2020) is needed simply to
keep up with the growing demand. This increase is unlikely to be achieved by
conventional plant breeding methods because of the limited gene pool available.
The application of recombinant techniques to improve wheat quality and yield is
not only desirable but also has potential to open up new opportunities. Although
there has been significant progress in developing gene-transformation
technologies for improving these traits, this remains an important challenge for
plant biotechnology. Obstacles to translate the full potential of the genomic era
to wheat breeding include the need to develop elite wheat varieties without
selectable markers, introducing minimal or nil intergenic DNA and social and
market issues concerning genetically engineered food products.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 16682090 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

144: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 May;24(5):498; author reply 499.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jun;25(6):624-6.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Nov;23(11):1348-9.

Transgenic plant science priorities.

Pelletier D.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16680123 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

145: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 May;24(5):481.

US-Indian agbiotech deal under scrutiny.

Jayaraman KS.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 16680115 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

146: J Am Diet Assoc. 2006 May;106(5):719-27.

Use of a risk communication model to evaluate dietetics professionals' viewpoints
on genetically engineered foods and crops.

Roberts KS, Struble MB, McCullum-Gomez C, Wilkins JL.

Hunterdon Medical Center, Flemington, NJ, USA. KRoberts@cse.edu

The complex issues surrounding the application of genetic engineering to food and
agriculture have generated a contentious debate among diverse interest groups.
One pervasive dimension in the resultant discourse is the varying perceptions of
the risks and benefits of genetically engineered foods and crops. In the risk
communication model, technical information is evaluated within the context of an
individual's values and perceptions. The purpose of this study was to explore how
dietetics professionals respond to a complex set of interrelated issues
associated with genetically engineered foods and crops and to identify what
varying viewpoints may exist. Participants were asked to sort a total of 48
statements distributed across eight issue areas according to level of agreement
and disagreement. Using Q methodology, a total of 256 sortings were analyzed
using the centroid method and varimax rotation in factor analysis. Three distinct
viewpoints emerged: Precautionary (R(2)=43%), Discerning Supporter (R(2)=11%),
and Promoting (R(2)=5%). Across all viewpoints, respondents agreed that dietetics
professionals should employ critical thinking skills to communicate the social,
economic, environmental, ethical, and technical aspects of genetically engineered
foods and crops. The findings have implications for how dietetics professionals
can foster an open interchange of information among diverse groups.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16647331 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

147: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2006 Aug;71(5):598-607. Epub 2006 Apr 26.

Genetically modified crops: success, safety assessment, and public concern.

Singh OV, Ghai S, Paul D, Jain RK.

Department of Pediatrics, The John Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
21287, USA. osingh1@jhmi.edu

With the emergence of transgenic technologies, new ways to improve the agronomic
performance of crops for food, feed, and processing applications have been
devised. In addition, ability to express foreign genes using transgenic
technologies has opened up options for producing large quantities of commercially
important industrial or pharmaceutical products in plants. Despite this high
adoption rate and future promises, there is a multitude of concerns about the
impact of genetically modified (GM) crops on the environment. Potential
contamination of the environment and food chains has prompted detailed
consideration of how such crops and the molecules that they produce can be
effectively isolated and contained. One of the reasonable steps after creating a
transgenic plant is to evaluate its potential benefits and risks to the
environment and these should be compared to those generated by traditional
agricultural practices. The precautionary approach in risk management of GM
plants may make it necessary to monitor significant wild and weed populations
that might be affected by transgene escape. Effective risk assessment and
monitoring mechanisms are the basic prerequisites of any legal framework to
adequately address the risks and watch out for new risks. Several agencies in
different countries monitor the release of GM organisms or frame guidelines for
the appropriate application of recombinant organisms in agro-industries so as to
assure the safe use of recombinant organisms and to achieve sound overall
development. We feel that it is important to establish an internationally
harmonized framework for the safe handling of recombinant DNA organisms within a
few years.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16639559 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

148: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 May 3;54(9):3173-80.

Need for an "integrated safety assessment" of GMOs, linking food safety and
environmental considerations.

Haslberger AG.

Vienna Ecology Center, Department for Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna,
Althanstrasse 2, A-1090 Vienna, Austria. alexander.haslberger@univie.ac.at

Evidence for substantial environmental influences on health and food safety comes
from work with environmental health indicators which show that agroenvironmental
practices have direct and indirect effects on human health, concluding that "the
quality of the environment influences the quality and safety of foods" [Fennema,
O. Environ. Health Perspect. 1990, 86, 229-232). In the field of genetically
modified organisms (GMOs), Codex principles have been established for the
assessment of GM food safety and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety outlines
international principles for an environmental assessment of living modified
organisms. Both concepts also contain starting points for an assessment of
health/food safety effects of GMOs in cases when the environment is involved in
the chain of events that could lead to hazards. The environment can act as a
route of unintentional entry of GMOs into the food supply, such as in the case of
gene flow via pollen or seeds from GM crops, but the environment can also be
involved in changes of GMO-induced agricultural practices with relevance for
health/food safety. Examples for this include potential regional changes of
pesticide uses and reduction in pesticide poisonings resulting from the use of Bt
crops or influences on immune responses via cross-reactivity. Clearly, modern
methods of biotechnology in breeding are involved in the reasons behind the rapid
reduction of local varieties in agrodiversity, which constitute an identified
hazard for food safety and food security. The health/food safety assessment of GM
foods in cases when the environment is involved needs to be informed by data from
environmental assessment. Such data might be especially important for hazard
identification and exposure assessment. International organizations working in
these areas will very likely be needed to initiate and enable cooperation between
those institutions responsible for the different assessments, as well as for
exchange and analysis of information. An integrated assessment might help to
focus and save capacities in highly technical areas such as molecular
characterization or profiling, which are often necessary for both assessments. In
the area of establishing international standards for traded foods, such as for
the newly created Standards in Trade and Development Facility (STDF), an
integrated assessment might help in the consideration of important environmental
aspects involved in health and food safety. Furthermore, an established
integrated view on GMOs may create greater consumer confidence in the technology.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16637668 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

149: Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2006 Apr;70(4):821-7.

Quantification of genetically modified soybeans using a combination of a
capillary-type real-time PCR system and a plasmid reference standard.

Toyota A, Akiyama H, Sugimura M, Watanabe T, Kikuchi H, Kanamori H, Hino A, Esaka
M, Maitani T.

Hiroshima Prefectural Institute of Public Health and Environment, Minami-ku,
Hiroshima, Japan.

Because the labeling of grains and feed- and foodstuffs is mandatory if the
genetically modified organism (GMO) content exceeds a certain level of approved
genetically modified varieties in many countries, there is a need for a rapid and
useful method of GMO quantification in food samples. In this study, a rapid
detection system was developed for Roundup Ready Soybean (RRS) quantification
using a combination of a capillary-type real-time PCR system, a LightCycler
real-time PCR system, and plasmid DNA as the reference standard. In addition, we
showed for the first time that the plasmid and genomic DNA should be similar in
the established detection system because the PCR efficiencies of using plasmid
DNA and using genomic DNA were not significantly different. The conversion factor
(Cf) to calculate RRS content (%) was further determined from the average value
analyzed in three laboratories. The accuracy and reproducibility of this system
for RRS quantification at a level of 5.0% were within a range from 4.46 to 5.07%
for RRS content and within a range from 2.0% to 7.0% for the relative standard
deviation (RSD) value, respectively. This system rapidly monitored the labeling
system and had allowable levels of accuracy and precision.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16636447 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

150: Environ Biosafety Res. 2005 Jul-Sep;4(3):179-88.

Potential adoption and management of insect-resistant potato in Peru, and
implications for genetically engineered potato.

Buijs J, Martinet M, de Mendiburu F, Ghislain M.

International Potato Center, Apartado 1558, Lima 12, Peru.
jasper_buijs25@yahoo.com

This paper analyzes some important issues surrounding possible deployment of
genetically engineered (GE) insect-resistant potato in Peru, based on a large
farmer survey held in Peru in 2003. We found that the formal seed system plays a
limited role compared with the informal seed system, especially for smallholder
farmers. Although 97% of smallholder farmers would buy seed of an
insect-resistant variety, a majority would buy it only once every 2 to 4 years.
Survey data show that farmers would be willing to pay a premium of 50% on seed
cost for insect resistant varieties. Paying price premiums of 25% to 50%, farmers
would still increase their net income, assuming insect resistance is high and
pesticide use will be strongly reduced. Of all farmers, 55% indicated preference
for insect-resistant potato in varieties other than their current varieties. The
survey indicates that smallholder farmers are interested to experiment with new
varieties and have a positive perception of improved varieties. Based on these
findings, and considering the difficulties implementing existing biosafety
regulatory systems such as those in place in the U.S. and E.U., we propose to
develop a variety-based segregation system to separate GE from conventionally
bred potatoes. In such a system, which would embrace the spread of GE potatoes
through informal seed systems, only a limited number of sterile varieties would
be introduced that are easily distinguishable from conventional varieties.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16634223 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

151: Sci Cult (Lond). 2005 Dec;14(4):393-410.

Asilomar's legacy in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Rogers-Hayden T.

Centre for Environmental Risk, Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglis,
Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK. T.Rogers-Hayden@uea.ac.uk

Publication Types:
Historical Article
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16622954 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

152: Sci Cult (Lond). 2005 Dec;14(4):373-92.

Genetic engineering regulation in Australia: an 'archaeology' of expertise and
power.

Hindmarsh R.

Australian School of Environmental Sciences, Griffith University, Nathan,
Brisbane, 4111, Australia. r.hindmarsh@griffith.edu.au

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16622953 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

153: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2006 Feb;47(1):15-27.

[Laboratory-performance study of quantitative PCR methods to analyze an approved
genetically modified maize (Mon810 Line)]

[Article in Japanese]

Watanabe T, Kasama K, Kikuchi H, Suzuki T, Tokishita S, Sakata K, Matsuki A, Hino
A, Akiyama H, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

A laboratory-performance study was carried out to investigate factors affecting
the reliability of the quantitative PCR method to analyze an approved genetically
modified (GM) maize (Mon810 line). Test maize powdered samples were prepared as
blind samples containing a high (assigned value; 5.45%) or low (assigned value;
0.35%) concentration of the Mon810 line. After confirmation of their homogeneity,
they were provided to 27 laboratories participating in the collaborative study.
The data were collected from all laboratories and statistically analyzed. Two
laboratories, which used a Roche LightCycler (LC), reported significantly high
test values. A further examination showed that the LC method is greatly affected
by the equipment itself or PCR reagents, resulting in poor repeatability. On the
other hand, some laboratories, which used ABI quantitative PCR equipment,
reported erroneous test values. In these laboratories, the errors appeared to
have been due to inadequate quality and/or yield of DNA. To identify factors
affecting the test values, analysis of the measured values for the taxon-specific
gene will be useful. Furthermore, the modified silica-gel membrane DNA extraction
method made it possible to extract the required amounts of DNA more easily and in
a shorter time than before.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16619852 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

154: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2006 Feb;47(1):9-14.

Investigation of false-positive reactions for CBH351 maize in screening PCR
analysis.

Monma K, Moriuchi R, Sagi N, Ichikawa H, Satoh K, Tobe T, Kamata K.

Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health, 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku,
Tokyo 169-0073, Japan.

Examination for CBH351 maize was conducted by the qualitative polymerase chain
reaction (PCR) method in maize grain and maize processed foods obtained in the
Tokyo area. The numbers of samples possibly positive in the screening test were 7
of 22 (31.8%) for maize grain samples, 4 of 14 (28.6%) for semi-processed foods,
11 of 30 (36.7%) for canned products, 3 of 30 (10.0%) for maize snacks, 3 of 4
(75%) for tacos and 1 of 3 (33.3%) for tortillas. However, CBH351 maize was not
detected in the confirmation test. Therefore, the results of the screening test
were false-positive. Since the reaction might have been caused by the base
sequences of the 3'-end of primers CaM03-5' and CBH02-3' used in the screening
test, a new primer pair was designed. The PCR products obtained with the new
primer pair TMC2-5'--TMS2-3' were specific for CBH351 and were not obtained with
barley, wheat, rice, RRS, Bt11, or Event176. Thus, the new primer pair shows high
specificity. CBH351 maize was detected from samples containing at least 0.05% CBH
351 maize DNA by using this primer pair.

PMID: 16619851 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

155: Sci Cult (Lond). 2005 Dec;14(4):355-72.

Genetically modified survival: red and green biotechnology in Israel.

Prainsack B, Firestine O.

Department of Political Science, University of Vienna, Universitaetsstrasse 7,
A-1010 Wein, Austria. barbara.prainsack@univie.ac.at

PMID: 16619470 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

156: Sci Cult (Lond). 2005 Dec;14(4):339-53.

The long and winding road from Asilomar to Brussels: science, politics and the
public in biotechnology and regulation.

Abels G.

Institute for Science and Technology Studies, Bielefeld University, P.O. Box 10
01 31, D-33501 Bielefeld, Germany. abels@iwt.uni-bielefeld.de

Publication Types:
Historical Article

PMID: 16619469 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

157: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):403-52.

Proceedings of the Symposium and Workshop on Biotechnology Derived Nutritious
Foods: Challenges and Opportunities in Asia. February 29-March 1, 2004, Bali,
Indonesia.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Congresses
Overall

PMID: 16619434 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

158: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Apr 19;54(8):2799-809.

Coherence between legal requirements and approaches for detection of genetically
modified organisms (GMOs) and their derived products.

Holst-Jensen A, De Loose M, Van den Eede G.

National Veterinary Institute, Ullevaalsveien 68, P.O. Box 8156 Dep., 0033 Oslo,
Norway. arne.holst-jensen@vetinst.no

Analytical methods for the qualitative and quantitative detection of genetically
modified (GM) products may serve multiple purposes. Legal requirements differ
among jurisdictions, ranging from no requirements to mandatory use of
event-specific quantitation and implementation of production chain traceability.
Although efforts have been taken to harmonize the analytical methodology at
national, regional, and international levels, no normative international
standards have yet been established. Lack of coherence between analytical
methodologies and their applicabilities, on the one hand, and legislation, on the
other hand, is a major problem. Here, key points where coherence is lacking are
discussed. These include the definition of units of measurements, expression of
GM material quantities, terminology, and inconsistent legal status of products
derived from related but slightly different transformation routes. Finally,
recommendations to improve the coherence are brought forward, including guidance
to stakeholders for prediction of product-specific GM material quantities from
gene ratios in the originating seed.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16608192 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

159: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2006 Mar;96(3 Suppl 2):S1-68.

Food allergy: a practice parameter.

American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.

Publication Types:
Practice Guideline

PMID: 16597066 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

160: Risk Anal. 2006 Apr;26(2):455-70.

Loss of agro-biodiversity, uncertainty, and perceived control: a comparative risk
perception study in Austria and China.

Schmidt MR, Wei W.

University of Vienna, Institute of Risk Research, Vienna, Austria.
ms@irf.univie.ac.at

The biogeographical centers of origin of important food crops-called Vavilov
centers-are considered to be crucial sources of genetic diversity for present and
future crop-breeding programs and thus for human food safety worldwide. Global
environmental change and more intensified modes of crop production may cause
genetic erosion (loss of traditional crop varieties and loss of crop wild
relatives), especially in Vavilov centers. The present study focused on how the
risk of genetic erosion (or loss of agro-biodiversity) is perceived in comparison
to 16 other risk topics by experts and lay people in Austria and China. The most
striking result was that genetic erosion was perceived to be an exceptionally
unknown and uncertain risk topic, given that only genetically modified organisms
(GMOs) were perceived as being even more uncertain. As a consequence of the high
uncertainty, the idea of applying the precautionary principle to further prevent
genetic erosion is discussed. An unprecedented finding-one that differs from
Austrian participants-is that the Chinese have a higher perceived control over
all risk topics. The increased perception of controllability in China is
discussed in light of the theory of reflexive modernization. This theory strives
to explain the increased critical attitude in Western countries such as Austria
toward scientific innovations and toward the idea that everything can be
calculated and mastered at will. By revealing different notions of risk
perception, this research also provides additional scientific input to risk
communication efforts for public education.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16573633 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

161: Trends Biotechnol. 2006 May;24(5):206-11. Epub 2006 Mar 29.

Global trends in plant transgenic science and technology (1973-2003).

Vain P.

John Innes Centre, Crop Genetics Department, Norwich Research Park, UK, NR4 7UH.
philippe.vain@bbsrc.ac.uk

Transgenic science and technology are fundamental to state-of-the-art plant
molecular genetics and GM crop improvement. Monitoring the scale and growth of
this area of science is important to scientists, national and international
research organizations, funding bodies, policy makers and, because of the GM
debate, to society as a whole. Literature statistics covering the past 30 years
reveal a dramatic increase in plant transgenic science in Asia during the past
decade, a sustained expansion in North America and, recently, a slow down in the
rest of the world. With the exception of the output of China and India,
publications focusing on the development of transgenic technology have been
slowing down, worldwide, since the early mid-1990s, a trend that contrasts with
the increase in GM crop-related studies.

PMID: 16569453 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

162: New Genet Soc. 2005;24(2):139-55.

In the democracies of DNA: ontological uncertainty and political order in three
states.

Jasanoff S.

Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government, 79 JFK Street,
Cambridge, MA 02138, USA. sheila_jasanoff@harvard.edu

This paper compares the regulation of biotechnology in Britain, Germany and the
United States and shows that systematic differences have developed around four
issues: abortion, assisted reproduction, stem cells, and genetically modified
crops and foods. Policy choices with respect to these issues reflect the capacity
of each nation's regulatory institutions to deal with the scientific, social and
ethical uncertainties around biotechnology. National regulatory frameworks
constitute an apparatus of collective sense-making through which governments and
publics interpret biotechnology's risks and promises. Specifically, regulatory
choices position the novel ontologies created by biotechnology either on the side
of the familiar and manageable or on the side of the unknown and insupportably
risky. The comparison shows that public responses to biotechnology are embedded
within robust and coherent political cultures and are not ad hoc expressions of
concern that very unpredictably from issue to issue.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 16552932 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

163: New Genet Soc. 2005 Apr;24(1):31-56.

Attitudes to biotechnology: estimating the opinions of a better-informed public.

Sturgis P, Cooper H, Fife-Schaw C.

Department of Sociology, School of Human Sciences, University of Surrey,
Guildford, GU2 7XH, UK. p.sturgis@surrey.ac.uk

Public familiarity with basic scientific concepts and principles has been
proposed as essential for effective democratic decision-making (Miller, 1998).
Empirical research, however, finds that public 'scientific literacy' is generally
low, falling well short of what normative criteria would consider 'acceptable.'
This has prompted calls to better engage, educate and inform the public on
scientific matters, with the additional, usually implicit assumption that a
knowledgeable citizenry should express more supportive and favourable attitudes
toward science. Research investigating the notion that 'to know science is to
love it' has provided only weak empirical support and has itself been criticised
for representing science and technology as a unified and homogenous entity. In
practice, it is argued, how knowledge impacts on the favourability of attitudes
will depend on a multiplicity of actors, not the least of which is the particular
area of science in question and the technologies to which it gives rise (Evans &
Durant, 1992). This article uses a new method for examining the
knowledge-attitude nexus on a prominent area of 21st century
science--biotechnology. The idea that greater scientific knowledge can engender
change in the favourability of attitudes toward specific areas of science is
investigated using data from the 2000 British Social Attitudes Survey and the
1999 Wellcome Consultative Panel on Gene Therapy. Together the surveys measure
public opinion on particular applications of genetic technologies, including gene
therapy and the use of genetic data, as well as more general attitudes towards
genetic research. We focus our analysis on how two different measures of
knowledge impact on these attitudes; one a more general measure of scientific
knowledge, the other relating specifically to knowledge of modern genetic
science. We investigate what impact these knowledge domains have on attitudes
toward biotechnology using a regression-based modelling technique (Bartels, 1996;
Althaus, 1998; Sturgis, 2003). Controlling for a range of socio-demographic
characteristics, we provide estimates of what collective and individual opinion
would look like if everyone were as knowledgeable as the currently best-informed
members of the general public on the knowledge domains in question. Our findings
demonstrate that scientific knowledge does appear to have an important role in
determining individual and group attitudes to genetic science. However, we find
no support for a simple 'deficit model' of public understanding, as the nature of
the relationship itself depends on the application of biotechnology in question
and the social location of the individual.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16552916 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

164: Appetite. 2006 May;46(3):324-31. Epub 2006 Mar 20.

Attitudes towards genetically modified and organic foods.

Saher M, Lindeman M, Hursti UK.

Department of Psychology, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 9, 00014 Helsinki,
Finland. marieke.saher@helsinke.fi

Finnish students (N=3261) filled out a questionnaire on attitudes towards
genetically modified and organic food, plus the rational-experiential inventory,
the magical thinking about food and health scale, Schwartz's value survey and the
behavioural inhibition scale. In addition, they reported their eating of meat.
Structural equation modelling of these measures had greater explanatory power for
attitudes towards genetically modified (GM) foods than for attitudes towards
organic foods (OF). GM attitudes were best predicted by natural science education
and magical food and health beliefs, which mediated the influence of thinking
styles. Positive attitudes towards organic food, on the other hand, were more
directly related to such individual differences as thinking styles and set of
values. The results of the study indicate that OF attitudes are rooted in more
fundamental personal attributes than GM attitudes, which are embedded in a more
complex but also in a more modifiable network of characteristics.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16546293 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

165: Kokuritsu Iyakuhin Shokuhin Eisei Kenkyusho Hokoku. 2005;(123):1-11.

[Establishment of standards and specifications for chemical substances in foods
and evaluation of exposure to maintain food safety]

[Article in Japanese]

Maitani T.

Division of Foods, National Institute of Health Sciences. maitani@nihs.go.jp

Currently, consumers are very anxious about many chemical substances contained in
foods. To maintain food safety, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of
Japan establishes standards and specifications on toxic chemical substances in
foods, establishes analytical methods for surveillance, and investigates the
daily dietary intake of food contaminants every year. This paper describes what
sorts of standards and specifications for toxic chemical substances in foods have
been established and what kinds of research on daily dietary intake have been
performed. As the subjects for description, pesticide residues, toxic metals,
dioxins, acrylamide, food additives, genetically modified food products,
so-called health foods, and food allergens are included.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 16541744 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

166: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):179-82. Epub 2006 Mar 15.

Molecular advances and novel directions in food biotechnology innovation.

Kleerebezem M.

Publication Types:
Editorial
Review

PMID: 16540309 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

167: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2006 Mar 7;103(10):3546-51. Epub 2006 Feb 28.

High-amylose wheat generated by RNA interference improves indices of large-bowel
health in rats.

Regina A, Bird A, Topping D, Bowden S, Freeman J, Barsby T, Kosar-Hashemi B, Li
Z, Rahman S, Morell M.

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Food Futures
National Research Flagship, P.O. Box 93, North Ryde 1670, NSW, Australia.

Foods high in resistant starch have the potential to improve human health and
lower the risk of serious noninfectious diseases. RNA interference was used to
down-regulate the two different isoforms of starch-branching enzyme (SBE) II
(SBEIIa and SBEIIb) in wheat endosperm to raise its amylose content. Suppression
of SBEIIb expression alone had no effect on amylose content; however, suppression
of both SBEIIa and SBEIIb expression resulted in starch containing >70% amylose.
When the >70% amylose wheat grain was fed to rats in a diet as a wholemeal,
several indices of large-bowel function, including short-chain fatty acids, were
improved relative to standard wholemeal wheat. These results indicate that this
high-amylose wheat has a significant potential to improve human health through
its resistant starch content.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16537443 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

168: J Zhejiang Univ Sci B. 2006 Apr;7(4):257-66.

Chinese public understanding of the use of agricultural biotechnology--a case
study from Zhejiang Province of China.

Lö¼ L.

Department of Social Sciences, School of Humanities, Hangzhou Dianzi University,
Hangzhou 310018, China. lulandk27@yahoo.com

This study explores the Chinese public's perceptions of, and attitudes to,
agriculture and food applications of biotechnology; and investigates the effect
of socio-demographic factors on attitudes. A questionnaire survey and interviews
were used in an attempt to combine quantitative analysis with qualitative review.
The main finding of this study is that the Chinese population has a superficial,
optimistic attitude to agricultural biotechnology; and that, in accordance with
public attitudes, a cautious policy, with obligatory labelling, should be
adopted. The study reveals that education is the factor among socio-demographic
variables with the strongest impact on public attitudes. Higher education leads
to a more positive evaluation of GM (genetically modified) foods and applications
of biotechnology with respect to usefulness, moral acceptability, and suitability
for encouragement. In addition, public attitudinal differences depend
significantly on area of residence. Compared with their more urban compatriots,
members of the public in less developed areas of China have more optimistic
attitudes, perceive more benefits, and are more risk tolerant in relation to GM
foods and agricultural biotechnology. Finally we obtained a very high rate of
"don't know" answers to our survey questions. This suggests that many people do
not have settled attitudes, and correspondingly, that the overall public attitude
to agricultural biotechnology and GM foods in China is at present somewhat
unstable.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16532526 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

169: McGeorge Law Rev. 2000;32(1):89-110.

Biotechnology and the creation of ethics.

Coletta RR.

University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, USA.

PMID: 16523579 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

170: Allergy. 2006 Apr;61(4):491-7.

Allergenicity assessment of transgenic mustard (Brassica juncea) expressing
bacterial codA gene.

Singh AK, Mehta AK, Sridhara S, Gaur SN, Singh BP, Sarma PU, Arora N.

Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Delhi, India.

BACKGROUND: Assessing the allergenicity and toxicity of genetically modified (GM)
crops is essential before they become a regular part of our food supply. The
present study aimed to assess the allergenicity of Brassica juncea (mustard)
expressing choline oxidase (codA) gene from Arthrobacter globiformis that
provides resistance against abiotic stresses. METHODS: SDAP, Farrp, and
Swiss-Prot databases were used to study allergenicity of choline oxidase.
Digestibility of choline oxidase was assessed in simulated gastric fluid (SGF).
Specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity of native and GM mustard was compared
by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and skin tests in
respiratory-allergic patients. Allergenicity of GM and native mustard proteins
was compared in Balb/c mice. RESULTS: Choline oxidase showed no significant
homology with allergenic proteins in SDAP and Farrp databases. Cross-reactive
epitope search showed a stretch similar to Hev b 6 having some antigenic
properties. Purified choline oxidase showed complete degradation with SGF. Skin
prick test of native and GM mustard extract on respiratory allergic patients
showed significant correlation (P < 0.05). ELISA with 96 patients' sera showed
comparable IgE reactivity. Balb/c mice immunized with native and GM mustard
proteins showed low IgE response. Presensitized mice on intravenous challenge
with Brassica extract showed no anaphylactic symptoms unlike ovalbumin (OVA)
sensitization that showed anaphylactic reaction in mice. Lung histology of
OVA-sensitized mice showed narrowing of airway and large eosinophilic
infiltration, whereas native and GM Brassica extract showed normal airway.
CONCLUSION: Genetically modified mustard with the codA gene possessed
allergenicity similar to that of native mustard and no enhancement of IgE binding
was observed due to genetic manipulation.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16512812 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

171: J AOAC Int. 2006 Jan-Feb;89(1):232-9.

Scoring in genetically modified organism proficiency tests based on
log-transformed results.

Thompson M, Ellison SL, Owen L, Mathieson K, Powell J, Key P, Wood R, Damant AP.

University of London, Birkbeck College, School of Biological and Chemical
Sciences, Malet St, London, United Kingdom.

The study considers data from 2 UK-based proficiency schemes and includes data
from a total of 29 rounds and 43 test materials over a period of 3 years. The
results from the 2 schemes are similar and reinforce each other. The
amplification process used in quantitative polymerase chain reaction
determinations predicts a mixture of normal, binomial, and lognormal
distributions dominated by the latter 2. As predicted, the study results
consistently follow a positively skewed distribution. Log-transformation prior to
calculating z-scores is effective in establishing near-symmetric distributions
that are sufficiently close to normal to justify interpretation on the basis of
the normal distribution.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16512253 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

172: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):130-8. Epub 2006 Feb 28.

Metabolic engineering in plants for human health and nutrition.

Kinney AJ.

Crop Genetics Research, DuPont Experimental Station, Wilmington, DE 19880-0353,
USA. anthony.kinney@cgr.dupont.com

In many cases, multiple pathway enzymes need to be upregulated to produce a
significant yield of a desired product. Technical advances in simultaneously
manipulating multiple steps in plant metabolic pathways include the use of
transcription factors, such as MYB12. By upregulating the genes of an entire
pathway, these factors can greatly simplify multienzyme engineering. Furthermore,
synthetic zinc-finger protein transcription factors can now be designed to target
specific pathway enzymes, such as tocopherol methyltransferases. When multiple
steps in a pathway are upregulated, previously unsuspected facets of the pathway
might be revealed, such as the newly uncovered bifunctional substrate preference
of the key regulatory enzyme in tocopherol (vitamin E) biosynthesis,
homogentisate phytyltransferase. The engineering of desired traits, such as
long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, can require entirely new pathways
to be introduced into a plant. Recent advances in genomics and gene expression
technology have made this type of complex metabolic engineering highly feasible.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16510274 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

173: Environ Health Perspect. 2006 Mar;114(3):A146-7.

Comment on:
Environ Health Perspect. 2005 Aug;113(8):A526-33.

The hazards of genetically engineered foods.

Margulis C.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16507441 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

174: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):198-203. Epub 2006 Feb 14.

Food products and allergy development, prevention and treatment.

Zuercher AW, Fritschö© R, Corthö©sy B, Mercenier A.

Allergy Group, Nutrition and Health Department, Nestlö© Research Center,
Vers-chez-les-Blanc, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland.

In westernized countries allergic diseases have reached epidemic proportions.
Food is frequently a perpetrator of allergy but, in turn, modified food and
selected food ingredients can become valuable intervention tools in the fight
against allergy. There are two basic approaches towards mitigation of food
allergy through nutrition: to reduce the allergenicity of raw food materials by
physical, chemical or genetic methods or to influence host immunity towards a
non-allergic state using various food ingredients. Dietary intervention for the
prevention and therapy of allergy is an emerging field where initial findings
from animal studies are now being validated in human trials. Nevertheless, to
consolidate the utility of such interventions, more pre-clinical and clinical
studies remain necessary.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16481157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

175: Appetite. 2006 Mar;46(2):144-51. Epub 2006 Feb 15.

Awareness, acceptance of and willingness to buy genetically modified foods in
Urban China.

Huang J, Qiu H, Bai J, Pray C.

Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resource Research (IGSNRR),
Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Center for Chinese Agricultural Policy, Jia
11, Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China. jkhuang.ccap@igsnrr.ac.cn

There is concern about the extent to which consumers will accept genetically
modified (GM) foods if they are commercialized in China. The evidence from the
existing literature is mixed and sometimes confusing. The objective of this study
is to conduct a large in-depth face-to-face in-house survey that examines the
consumers' awareness, acceptance of and willingness to buy GM foods in China. To
achieve this objective, a well-designed consumer survey was conducted in 11
cities of five provinces in Eastern China in 2002 and 2003. The results indicate
that despite much less information on GM foods available publicly in China, more
than two thirds of consumers in urban areas have heard of GM foods. But their
knowledge on biotechnology was limited. Chinese consumers' acceptance of and
willingness to buy GM foods was much higher than in other countries. Chinese
consumers also demonstrated great variance in their acceptance of different GM
foods. Information and prices of GM foods were two important factors affecting
consumers' attitudes toward GM foods. Based on the findings of this study and
given that our sample is in the more developed eastern Urban China, we conclude
that the commercialization of GM foods is not likely to receive great resistance
from the consumers in China.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16469414 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

176: Toxicology. 2006 Apr 3;221(1):128-33. Epub 2006 Feb 8.

cDNA microarray screening in food safety.

Roy S, Sen CK.

Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and DNA Microarray & Genetics Facility, Dorothy
M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State
University Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.

The cDNA microarray technology and related bioinformatics tools presents a wide
range of novel application opportunities. The technology may be productively
applied to address food safety. In this mini-review article, we present an update
highlighting the late breaking discoveries that demonstrate the vitality of cDNA
microarray technology as a tool to analyze food safety with reference to
microbial pathogens and genetically modified foods. In order to bring the
microarray technology to mainstream food safety, it is important to develop
robust user-friendly tools that may be applied in a field setting. In addition,
there needs to be a standardized process for regulatory agencies to interpret and
act upon microarray-based data. The cDNA microarray approach is an emergent
technology in diagnostics. Its values lie in being able to provide complimentary
molecular insight when employed in addition to traditional tests for food safety,
as part of a more comprehensive battery of tests.

Publication Types:
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Review

PMID: 16466843 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

177: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):443-4.

Food biotechnology and consumer perceptions in Asia.

Cairns G.

Asian Food Information Network, Bangkok, Thailand. gcairns@afic.org

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16465994 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

178: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):436-42.

Nutritional and safety assessments of foods and feeds nutritionally improved
through biotechnology.

Chassy B, Hlywka JJ, Kleter GA, Kok EJ, Kuiper HA, McGloughlin M, Munro IC,
Phipps RH, Reid JE, Stein J, Zabik J; Task Force for the International Life
Sciences Institutue International Food Biotechnology Committee.

University of Illinois, Urbana, USA.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16465993 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

179: Trends Biotechnol. 2006 Mar;24(3):102-4. Epub 2006 Feb 7.

Unintended effects in genetically modified crops: revealed by metabolomics?

Rischer H, Oksman-Caldentey KM.

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, VTT Biotechnology, Tietotie 2, Espoo,
FIN-02044 VTT, Finland.

In Europe the commercialization of food derived from genetically modified plants
has been slow because of the complex regulatory process and the concerns of
consumers. Risk assessment is focused on potential adverse effects on humans and
the environment, which could result from unintended effects of genetic
modifications: unintended effects are connected to changes in metabolite levels
in the plants. One of the major challenges is how to analyze the overall
metabolite composition of GM plants in comparison to conventional cultivars, and
one possible solution is offered by metabolomics. The ultimate aim of
metabolomics is the identification and quantification of all small molecules in
an organism; however, a single method enabling complete metabolome analysis does
not exist. Given a comprehensive extraction method, a hierarchical
strategy--starting with global fingerprinting and followed by complementary
profiling attempts--is the most logical and economic approach to detect
unintended effects in GM crops.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16460820 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

180: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Dec;46(6):270-6.

[Laboratory performance study of the quantitative detection method for
genetically modified soybeans (roundup ready soybeans 40-3-2)]

[Article in Japanese]

Kasama K, Watanabe T, Kikuchi H, Suzuki T, Tokishita S, Sakata K, Matsuki A, Hino
A, Akiyama H, Maitani T.

Hatano Research Institute, Food and Drug Safety Center, 729-5, Ochiai, Hadano,
Kanagawa 257-8523, Japan.

To investigate important factors affecting the analytical results, a
laboratory-performance study was attempted for the Japanese official methods to
detect genetically modified (GM) soybeans (40-3-2). Test samples containing 0, 1
and 5% GM soya powder in non-GM soya powder was prepared. A set of 3 test samples
was sent to the participating laboratories along with the protocol. The data were
collected from all laboratories and statistically analyzed. In the real-time PCR
detection method, the average values of the GM 1% and 5% samples were both much
lower than the spiked value because the laboratories using a silica-membrane DNA
extraction method underestimated the GM value. On the other hand, the
laboratories using other extraction methods, such as the CTAB method obtained
values close to the spiked value. These results suggest that use of the
silica-membrane DNA extraction method may result in underestimation of the GM
content in the real-time PCR method. In the ELISA method, the average value of 5%
spiked samples appears to be slightly higher than the fortified value. But,
overall, it was considered that reported values were close to the spiked level.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16440788 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

181: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2006 Mar;44(2):136-43. Epub 2006 Jan 9.

Lack of cross-reactivity between the Bacillus thuringiensis derived protein Cry1F
in maize grain and dust mite Der p7 protein with human sera positive for Der
p7-IgE.

Ladics GS, Bardina L, Cressman RF, Mattsson JL, Sampson HA.

DuPont/Pioneer Crop Genetics Regulatory Science and Registration, Wilmington, DE,
USA. gregory.s.ladics@usa.dupont.com

Cry1F protein, derived from Bacillus thuringiensis, is effective at controlling
lepidopteran pests and a synthetic Cry1F transgene was transferred into maize.
For the safety assessment of genetically modified food crops, the allergenic
potential of the introduced novel trait(s) is evaluated. Because no single
parameter is currently predictive of allergic potential, a 'weight of evidence'
approach has been proposed. As part of this assessment, the amino acid (aa)
sequence of the Cry1F protein was compared to a database of known allergens using
recommended criteria. The Cry1F protein did not show significant similarity or a
match of eight contiguous identical aa with any allergen. However, a single six
contiguous aa match was identified between Cry1F and the Der p7 protein of the
dust mite, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. To investigate whether Cry1F was
cross-reactive with Der p7, sera from 10 dust mite allergic patients containing
Der p 7-specific IgE antibody were used to compare IgE-specific binding. No
evidence of cross-reactivity was observed between Cry1F and Der p7. This study
provides in vitro IgE sera screening data, that when considered in the context of
other bioinformatic data [Hileman R.E., Silvanovich, A., Goodman R.E., Rice E.A.,
Holleschak G., Astwood J.D., Hefle S.L., 2002. Bioinformatic methods for
allergenicity assessment using a comprehensive allergen database. Int. Arch.
Allergy Immunol. 128, 280-291; Stadler, M.B., Stadler, B.M., 2003. Allergenicity
prediction by protein sequence. FASEB J. 17, 1141-1143.], adds further evidence
arguing against the use of a six contiguous identical amino acid search to
identify potential cross-reactive allergens. Cry1F is heat labile, rapidly
hydrolyzed in an in vitro pepsin resistance assay, not glycosylated and not from
an allergenic source. Taken together, these data indicate a lack of allergenic
concern for Cry1F.

PMID: 16406630 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

182: Fitoterapia. 2006 Feb;77(2):67-82. Epub 2006 Jan 6.

Grain legume proteins and nutraceutical properties.

Duranti M.

Department of AgriFood Molecular Sciences, Universitö  degli Studi di Milano,
Italy. marcello.duranti@unimi.it

Grain legumes are a valuable source of food proteins. Their exploitation is
expected to grow in relation of a growing world's food needs. Moreover, it is
currently taking place a reappraisal of the beneficial effects of legume seed
dietary intake, which are the basis for various health claims. Proteins and
peptides concur to the observed biological activities of legume seeds, but their
effect(s) has(ve) not completely been disclosed. Aims of this review are: to
report the most relevant putative positive effects of grain legumes on human
health and to give an account of the current knowledge on the demonstrated legume
seed protein biological activities. Specific effects on the prevention and
treatment of various diseases, mostly of which are typical of the affluent
countries, are reported. Examples of studies at molecular level aimed at
elucidating of the underlying mechanism(s) are given. The prospects on targeted
legume protein exploitation in the nutraceutical area, including the
biotechnological approaches, are also considered.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16406359 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

183: Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Jan;24(1):2.

Genetically modified mush.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 16404374 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

184: Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Jan;83(1):59-64.

Zinc absorption in Guatemalan schoolchildren fed normal or low-phytate maize.

Mazariegos M, Hambidge KM, Krebs NF, Westcott JE, Lei S, Grunwald GK, Campos R,
Barahona B, Raboy V, Solomons NW.

Center for Studies of Sensory Impairments, Aging, and Metabolism, Guatemala City,
Guatemala. manolomazariegos@yahoo.es

BACKGROUND: Poor bioavailability of zinc from high-phytate diets is an important
contributory factor to zinc deficiency in low-income populations. OBJECTIVE: The
objective of this study was to determine the effect of low-phytate maize
consumption on zinc absorption. DESIGN: The participants were apparently healthy
children from the Central Highlands of Guatemala. Sixty children (20 per group)
were randomly assigned to be fed only the low-phytate maize or 1 of 2 control
maizes, the isohybrid wild-type maize or a local maize, for a 10-wk period.
During the final week, the fractional absorption of zinc for all meals was
measured during 1 d with the use of zinc stable isotopes and a dual isotope ratio
technique based on urine enrichment data. RESULTS: Mean (+/-SD) phytate intakes
for the low-phytate, wild-type, and local maize groups were 1536 +/- 563, 2056
+/- 517, and 2253 +/- 687 mg/d, respectively. Corresponding zinc intakes were 8.6
+/- 2.5, 8.1 +/- 2.0, and 9.7 +/- 2.6 mg/d, and the dietary phytate:zinc molar
ratios were 18 +/- 5, 26 +/- 6, and 23 +/- 5. Corresponding fractional
absorptions of zinc were 0.32 +/- 0.07, 0.28 +/- 0.07, and 0.29 +/- 0.06. The
respective values for total absorbed zinc were 2.72 +/- 0.88, 2.30 +/- 0.96, and
2.78 +/- 1.04 mg/d. No significant differences in either the fractional
absorption of zinc or total absorbed zinc were seen between the maize groups.
CONCLUSION: Under the conditions of the present study, zinc absorption was not
increased by the long-term use of low-phytate maize in children whose major
dietary staple is maize.

Publication Types:
Randomized Controlled Trial
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16400050 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

185: Clin Exp Allergy. 2005 Dec;35(12):1638-44.

A mutant of the major apple allergen, Mal d 1, demonstrating hypo-allergenicity
in the target organ by double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge.

Bolhaar ST, Zuidmeer L, Ma Y, Ferreira F, Bruijnzeel-Koomen CA,
Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, van Ree R, Knulst AC.

Department of Dermatology/Allergology, University Medical Center Utrecht,
Utrecht, The Netherlands. s.bolhaar@azu.nl

BACKGROUND: Allergen-specific immunotherapy for food allergy has been hindered by
severe side-effects in the past. Well-characterized hypo-allergenic recombinant
food allergens potentially offer a safe solution. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate
hypo-allergenicity of a mutated major food allergen from apple, Mal d 1, in vitro
and in vivo. METHODS: A mutant of the major apple allergen, Mal d 1, was obtained
by site-directed mutagenesis exchanging five amino acid residues. Fourteen
patients with combined birch pollen-related apple allergy were included in the
study. Hypo-allergenicity of the mutant rMal d 1 (rMal d 1mut) compared with rMal
d 1 was assessed by in vitro methods, i.e. RAST (inhibition), immunoblotting and
basophil histamine release (BHR) and in vivo by skin prick test and double-blind
placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC). RESULTS: RAST analysis (n = 14)
revealed that IgE reactivity to rMal d 1mut was twofold lower than that of the
wild-type molecule (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7-2.4). RAST inhibition (n =
6) showed a 7.8-fold decrease in IgE-binding potency (95% CI: 3.0-12.6). In
contrast to this moderate decrease in IgE-binding potency, the biological
activity of rMal d 1mut assessed by SPT and BHR decreased 10-200-fold.
Hypo-allergenicity was confirmed by DBPCFC (n = 2) with both recombinant
molecules. CONCLUSION: A moderate decrease in IgE-binding potency translates into
a potent inhibition of biological activity. This is the first study that confirms
by DBPCFC that a mutated recombinant major food allergen is clinically
hypo-allergenic. This paves the way towards safer immunotherapy for the treatment
of food-allergic patients.

Publication Types:
Randomized Controlled Trial
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16393331 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

186: Science. 2005 Dec 23;310(5756):1908-9.

Erratum in:
Science. 2006 Mar 3;311(5765):1242.

Communication. Social values and the governance of science.

Gaskell G, Einsiedel E, Hallman W, Priest SH, Jackson J, Olsthoorn J.

Methodology Institute, London School of Economics and Political Science, London
WC2A 2AE, UK. g.gaskell@lse.ac.uk

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16373561 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

187: Int J Hyg Environ Health. 2006 Jan;209(1):81-8. Epub 2005 Sep 29.

Detection of genetically modified DNA sequences in milk from the Italian market.

Agodi A, Barchitta M, Grillo A, Sciacca S.

Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia n. 87,
95123 Catania, Italy. agodia@unict.it

The possible transfer and accumulation of novel DNA and/or proteins in food for
human consumption derived from animals receiving genetically modified (GM) feed
is at present the object of scientific dispute. A number of studies failed to
identify GM DNA in milk, meat, or eggs derived from livestock receiving GM feed
ingredients. The present study was performed in order to: (i) develop a valid
protocol by PCR and multicomponent analysis for the detection of specific DNA
sequences in milk, focused on GM maize and GM soybean; (ii) assess the stability
of transgenic DNA after pasteurization treatment and (iii) determine the presence
of GM DNA sequences in milk samples collected from the Italian market. Results
from the screening of 60 samples of 12 different milk brands demonstrated the
presence of GM maize sequences in 15 (25%) and of GM soybean sequences in 7
samples (11.7%). Our screening methodology shows a very high sensitivity and the
use of an automatic identification of the amplified products increases its
specificity and reliability. Moreover, we demonstrated that the pasteurization
process is not able to degrade the DNA sequences in spiked milk samples. The
detection of GM DNA in milk can be interpreted as an indicator of fecal or
airborne contamination, respectively, with feed DNA or feed particles, although
an alternative source of contamination, possibly recognizable in the natural
environment can be suggested. Further studies, performed on a larger number of
milk samples, are needed to understand the likely source of contamination of milk
collected from the Italian market.

PMID: 16373205 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

188: Mar Biotechnol (NY). 2006 Mar-Apr;8(2):103-9. Epub 2006 Jan 1.

Production of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid-containing oils in
transgenic land plants for human and aquaculture nutrition.

Robert SS.

Food Futures National Research Flagship Division of Marine and Atmospheric
Research, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO),
Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia. stan.robert@csiro.au

A large body of evidence suggests that there is a significant underconsumption of
omega-3, long-chain, polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) and that this is the
cause of multiple chronic diseases and developmental aberrations. The scope for
increasing omega-3 LC-PUFA consumption from seafood is limited because global
wild fisheries are unable to increase their harvests, and aquaculture fisheries
currently rely on wild fisheries as a source of LC-PUFAs. Agricultural production
of oils is highly efficient and has the potential to be sustainable. The transfer
of genes from marine microalgae and other microorganisms into oilseed crops has
shown that the production of terrestrial omega-3 LC-PUFA oils is indeed possible.
The specifications of these oils or whole seeds for use in human and Atlantic
salmon (Salmo salar) aquaculture nutrition are discussed.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16372159 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

189: Biomed Environ Sci. 2005 Oct;18(5):321-5.

Preparation of monoclonal antibody against HPT and its application to detecting
marker protein in genetically modified rice.

Yang LC, Zhang SX, Pi GH, Li YH, Zhu Z, Yang XG.

National Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease
Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China.

OBJECTIVE: To produce the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against hygromycin B
phosphotransferase (HPT) and to develop immunoassay based on mAbs for biosafety
assessment of HPT in genetically modified rice (GM rice). METHODS: BALB/c mice
were immunized with purified recombinant 6His. HPT protein, and the conventional
hybridoma technology was used to generate the monoclonal hybridoma cells. ELISA
and Western blot were used to analyze the specificity of mAbs recognizing HPT and
the cross reaction with other proteins. A double-Ab sandwich ELISA method was
established to detect HPT expression level in the sck gene-modified rice plants.
RESULTS: Four hybridomas, named F1, D4-2, D4-4, and D4-5, producing the mAbs
against HPT were successfully obtained with the titer of ascetic mAbs ranging
from 1x10(-4) to 1x10(-5). Identification of subclass showed that all the
produced mAbs belonged to IgG1. Western blot showed specific binding reaction
between the mAbs to the HPT proteins expressed in the GM rice. A double sandwich
ELISA coated with anti-HPT polyclonal antibody was established with mAbs as
sandwich antibody, which showed a sensitivity of 30ng/mL and did not crossreact
with other proteins. The expression level of HPT in the leaves of sck-transformed
lines was detected (80-150ng/mL). But HPT protein in the grain and seed of GM
rice could not be detected using this ELISA assay. CONCLUSION: Anti-HPT mAbs
prepared herein have a high specificity and can be used for rapid assay of HPT
antigen. The expression level of HPT in the GM rice grain and seed is lower than
our ELISA detection limit.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16370315 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

190: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Dec 28;53(26):9971-9.

Distortion of genetically modified organism quantification in processed foods:
influence of particle size compositions and heat-induced DNA degradation.

Moreano F, Busch U, Engel KH.

Center of Food and Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Am Forum 2,
85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany.

Milling fractions from conventional and transgenic corn were prepared at
laboratory scale and used to study the influence of sample composition and
heat-induced DNA degradation on the relative quantification of genetically
modified organisms (GMO) in food products. Particle size distributions of the
obtained fractions (coarse grits, regular grits, meal, and flour) were
characterized using a laser diffraction system. The application of two DNA
isolation protocols revealed a strong correlation between the degree of
comminution of the milling fractions and the DNA yield in the extracts. Mixtures
of milling fractions from conventional and transgenic material (1%) were prepared
and analyzed via real-time polymerase chain reaction. Accurate quantification of
the adjusted GMO content was only possible in mixtures containing conventional
and transgenic material in the form of analogous milling fractions, whereas
mixtures of fractions exhibiting different particle size distributions delivered
significantly over- and underestimated GMO contents depending on their
compositions. The process of heat-induced nucleic acid degradation was followed
by applying two established quantitative assays showing differences between the
lengths of the recombinant and reference target sequences (A, deltal(A) = -25 bp;
B, deltal(B) = +16 bp; values related to the amplicon length of the reference
gene). Data obtained by the application of method A resulted in underestimated
recoveries of GMO contents in the samples of heat-treated products, reflecting
the favored degradation of the longer target sequence used for the detection of
the transgene. In contrast, data yielded by the application of method B resulted
in increasingly overestimated recoveries of GMO contents. The results show how
commonly used food technological processes may lead to distortions in the results
of quantitative GMO analyses.

PMID: 16366682 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

191: Pharmacol Ther. 2006 Aug;111(2):374-83. Epub 2005 Dec 20.

Genetically modified plants and food hypersensitivity diseases: usage and
implications of experimental models for risk assessment.

Prescott VE, Hogan SP.

Division of Molecular Bioscience, The John Curtin School of Medical Research,
Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.

The recent advances in biotechnology in the plant industry have led to increasing
crop production and yield that in turn has increased the usage of genetically
modified (GM) food in the human food chain. The usage of GM foods for human
consumption has raised a number of fundamental questions including the ability of
GM foods to elicit potentially harmful immunological responses, including
allergic hypersensitivity. To assess the safety of foods derived from GM plants
including allergenic potential, the US FDA, Food and Agriculture Organization of
the United Nations (FAO)/World Health Organization (WHO), and the EU have
developed approaches for evaluation assessment. One assessment approach that has
been a very active area of research and debate is the development and usage of
animal models to assess the potential allergenicity of GM foods. A number of
specific animal models employing rodents, pigs, and dogs have been developed for
allergenicity assessment. However, validation of these models is needed and
consideration of the criteria for an appropriate animal model for the assessment
of allergenicity in GM plants is required. We have recently employed a BALB/c
mouse model to assess the potential allergenicity of GM plants. We have been able
to demonstrate that this model is able to detect differences in antigenicity and
identify aspects of protein post-translational modifications that can alter
antigenicity. Furthermore, this model has also enabled us to examine the usage of
GM plants as a therapeutic approach for the treatment of allergic diseases. This
review discusses the current approaches to assess the allergenic potential of GM
food and particularly focusing on the usage of animal models to determine the
potential allergenicity of GM foods and gives an overview of our recent findings
and implications of these studies.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 16364445 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

192: Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Dec;23(12):1475-6.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):35-6; author reply 36-7.

Reassessing the environmental risks of GM crops.

Firbank L, Lonsdale M, Poppy G.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 16333281 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

193: J Toxicol Environ Health A. 2005 Dec 10;68(23-24):2263-76.

Multigeneration reproductive and developmental toxicity study of bar gene
inserted into genetically modified potato on rats.

Rhee GS, Cho DH, Won YH, Seok JH, Kim SS, Kwack SJ, Lee RD, Chae SY, Kim JW, Lee
BM, Park KL, Choi KS.

Department of Toxicology, National Institute of Toxicological Research, Korea
Food and Drug Administration, Seoul.

Each specific protein has an individual gene encoding it, and a foreign gene
introduced to a plant can be used to synthesize a new protein. The identification
of potential reproductive and developmental toxicity from novel proteins produced
by genetically modified (GM) crops is a difficult task. A science-based risk
assessment is needed in order to use GM crops as a conventional foodstuff. In
this study, the specific characteristics of GM food and low-level chronic
exposure were examined using a five-generation animal study. In each generation,
rats were fed a solid pellet containing 5% GM potato and non-GM potato for 10 wk
prior to mating in order to assess the potential reproductive and developmental
toxic effects. In the multigeneration animal study, there were no GM
potato-related changes in body weight, food consumption, reproductive
performance, and organ weight. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was carried out
using extracted genomic DNA to examine the possibility of gene persistence in the
organ tissues after a long-term exposure to low levels of GM feed. In each
generation, the gene responsible for bar was not found in any of the reproductive
organs of the GM potato-treated male and female rats, and the litter-related
indexes did not show any genetically modified organism (GMO)-related changes. The
results suggest that genetically modified crops have no adverse effects on the
multigeneration reproductive-developmental ability.

PMID: 16326439 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

194: Altern Ther Health Med. 2005 Nov-Dec;11(6):14-7.

The world according to Codex.

Levy AR.

PMID: 16320855 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

195: Vestn Ross Akad Med Nauk. 2005;(10):30-7.

[Principles of production of genetically modified food sources]

[Article in Russian]

Kirpichnikov MP, Tyshko NV.

Methods of genetic engineering have given a powerful impulse to the development
of fundamental and applied biology and biotechnology of plants. Methods of
genetic plant transformation, such as agrobacterium-mediated and microprojectile
bombardment-mediated transformation have been used for a long time. These methods
allow production of transgenic plants which express the genes of interest. Dozens
of transgenic plants have been obtained by now, and their number is steadily
increasing.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 16320704 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

196: J Health Commun. 2005 Dec;10(8):751-67.

Gene cuisine or Frankenfood? The theory of reasoned action as an audience
segmentation strategy for messages about genetically modified foods.

Silk KJ, Weiner J, Parrott RL.

Department of Communication, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
48824, USA.

Genetically modified (GM) foods are currently a controversial topic about which
the lay public in the United States knows little. Formative research has
demonstrated that the lay public is uncertain and concerned about GM foods. This
study (N = 858) extends focus group research by using the Theory of Reasoned
Action (TRA) to examine attitudes and subjective norms related to GM foods as a
theoretical strategy for audience segmentation. A hierarchical cluster analysis
revealed four unique audiences based on their attitude and subjective norm toward
GM foods (ambivalent-biotech, antibiotech, biotech-normer, and biotech
individual). Results are discussed in terms of the theoretical and practical
significance for audience segmentation.

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

PMID: 16316937 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

197: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):487-90.

Allergenic potential of novel foods.

Meredith C.

BIBRA International Ltd, Carshalton, Surrey, UK. clivemeredith@btinternet.com

Concerns have been expressed that the introduction of novel foods into the diet
might lead to the development of new food allergies in consumers. Novel foods can
be conveniently divided into GM and non-GM categories. Decision-tree approaches
(e.g. International Life Sciences Institute-International Food Biotechnology
Council and WHO/FAO) to assess the allergenic potential of GM foods were
developed following the discovery, during product development, of the allergenic
potential of GM soyabean expressing a gene encoding a storage protein from Brazil
nut (Bertolletia excelsa). Within these decision trees considerations include:
the source of the transgene; amino acid homology with known allergens;
cross-reactivity with IgE from food-allergic individuals; resistance to
proteolysis; prediction using animal models of food allergy. Such decision trees
are under constant review as new knowledge and improved models emerge, but they
provide a useful framework for the assessment of the allergenic potential of GM
foods. For novel non-GM foods the assessment of allergenic potential is more
subjective; some foods or food ingredients will need no assessment other than a
robust protein assay to demonstrate the absence of protein. Where protein is
present in the novel non-GM food, hazard and risk assessments need to be made in
terms of the quantity of protein that might be consumed, the identity of
individual protein components and their relationships to known food allergens.
Where necessary, this assessment would extend to serum screening for potential
cross-reactivities, skin-prick tests in previously-sensitised individuals and
double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16313692 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

198: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):481-6.

GM organisms and the EU regulatory environment: allergenicity as a risk
component.

Davies HV.

Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee, UK. hdavie@scri.ac.uk

The European Food Safety Authority, following a request from the European
Commission, has published a guidance document for the risk assessment of GM
plants and derived food and feed to assist in the implementation of provisions of
Regulation (EC) 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and Council on GM food and
feed. This regulation has applied since 18 April 2004. In principle, hazard
identification and characterisation of GM crops is conducted in four steps:
characterisation of the parent crop and any hazards associated with it;
characterisation of the transformation process and of the inserted recombinant
DNA, including an assessment of the possible production of new fusion proteins or
allergens; assessment of the introduced proteins (toxicity, allergenicity) and
metabolites; identification of any other targetted and unexpected alterations in
the GM crop, including changes in the plant metabolism resulting in compositional
changes and assessment of their toxicological, allergenic or nutritional impact.
In relation to allergenicity specifically, it is clear that this property of a
given protein is not intrinsic and fully predictable but is a biological activity
requiring an interaction with individuals with a predisposed genetic background.
Allergenicity, therefore, depends on the genetic diversity and variability in
atopic human subjects. Given this lack of complete predictability it is necessary
to obtain, from several steps in the risk-assessment process, a cumulative body
of evidence that minimises any uncertainty about the protein(s) in question.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16313691 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

199: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):470-4.

Industrial dimensions of food allergy.

Crevel R.

SEAC Toxicology Laboratory, Unilever Research, Sharnbrook, Bedford, UK.
rene.crevel@unilever.com

Serious attempts to estimate the impact of allergic reactions to foods on public
health did not begin until the 1980s. Until about 15 years ago food allergy was
considered a minor aspect of food safety. Two developments probably prompted a
radical re-appraisal of that situation. The first was the apparently inexorable
rise in the prevalence of atopic diseases, of which food allergy forms a part,
with its possible consequences highlighted by some well-publicised severe
reactions. The second was the growth of genetic modification technology,
manifested by the commercialisation of transgenic crops. Each of these
developments impacted on the food industry in distinct ways. On the one hand,
consumers with food allergies had to be enabled to avoid specific allergens in
products formulated with existing ingredients. Food manufacturers therefore had
to identify those specific allergens down to trace amounts in all the ingredients
forming the product and label or remove them. On the other hand, the introduction
of products using ingredients from novel sources required an assessment of the
allergenicity of these ingredients as an integral part of safety assurance. The
approaches used by the food industry to protect existing consumers who have food
allergies and those at potential risk of sensitisation from novel proteins will
be illustrated, emphasising how they need to be built into every stage of the
life cycle of a product.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16313689 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

200: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Oct;46(5):J286-8.

[Safety assessment of genetically modified foods]

[Article in Japanese]

Hayakawa T.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan.

PMID: 16305183 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

201: Biomed Pharmacother. 2005 Dec;59(10):531-40. Epub 2005 Oct 21.

Biological and biomedical aspects of genetically modified food.

Celec P, Kukuckovö¡ M, Renczö©sovö¡ V, Natarajan S, Pö¡lffy R, Gardlö­k R, Hodosy J,
Behuliak M, Vlkovö¡ B, Minö¡rik G, Szemes T, Stuchlö­k S, Turna J.

Biomed Research and Publishing Group, Bratislava, Slovakia. petercelec@gmail.com

Genetically modified (GM) foods are the product of one of the most progressive
fields of science-biotechnology. There are major concerns about GM foods in the
public; some of them are reasonable, some of them are not. Biomedical risks of GM
foods include problems regarding the potential allergenicity, horizontal gene
transfer, but environmental side effects on biodiversity must also be recognized.
Numerous methods have been developed to assess the potential risk of every GM
food type. Benefits of the first generation of GM foods were oriented towards the
production process and companies, the second generation of GM foods offers, on
contrary, various advantages and added value for the consumer. This includes
improved nutritional composition or even therapeutic effects. Recombinant
probiotics and the principle of alternative gene therapy represent the latest
approach of using GM organisms for biomedical applications. This article tries to
summarize and to explain the problematic topic of GM food.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 16298508 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

202: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2006 Mar;44(2):125-35. Epub 2005 Nov 18.

Statistical analysis used in the nutritional assessment of novel food using the
proof of safety.

Hothorn LA, Oberdoerfer R.

University of Hannover, LG Biostatistics, Herrenhaeuser Str. 2, D-30419 Hannover,
Germany.

The safety assessment of Novel Food, including GM biotechnology-derived crops,
starts with the comparison of the Novel Food with a traditional counterpart that
is generally accepted as safe based on a history of human food use. Substantial
equivalence is established if no meaningful difference from the conventional
counterpart was found, leading to the conclusion that the Novel Food is as safe
and nutritious as its traditional counterpart. In general, the non-significance
of p value is used for the proof of safety. From a statistical perspective, the
problems connected with such an approach are demonstrated, namely that quite
different component-specific false negative error rates result. As an
alternative, the proof of safety is discussed with the inherently related
definition of safety thresholds. Moreover, parametric and non-parametric
confidence intervals for the difference and the ratio to control (conventional
line) are described in detail. Finally, the treatment of multiple components for
a global proof of safety is explained.

PMID: 16298467 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

203: Appetite. 2006 Jan;46(1):67-74. Epub 2005 Nov 17.

Implicit attitudes towards genetically modified (GM) foods: a comparison of
context-free and context-dependent evaluations.

Spence A, Townsend E.

RASPH group, School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, University Park,
Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK. lpxas@psychology.nottingham.ac.uk

Past research on attitudes towards GM food has focused on measuring explicit
attitudes. Here we compared implicit attitudes towards GM foods with explicit
attitudes towards GM foods. We used the Go No-Go task to investigate context-free
implicit evaluations of GM foods and compared these with evaluations made in the
context of ordinary and organic foods. Semantic differential scales were used to
evaluate explicit attitudes towards GM foods. As expected, explicit attitudes
towards GM foods were found to be neutral. However, contrary to our hypotheses,
participants were found to hold positive, rather than neutral, implicit attitudes
towards GM foods when these were assessed in a context free manner. In addition,
neutral implicit attitudes were found when attitudes were assessed in the context
of ordinary or organic foods, again contrasting with our hypotheses. These
results imply that implicit attitudes towards GM food are more positive than
anticipated and may lead to approach behaviour towards such products. Thus, given
the choice, consumers are likely to accept GM food although other incentives may
be needed if alternative foods are available.

Publication Types:
Randomized Controlled Trial
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16298018 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

204: Risk Anal. 2005 Oct;25(5):1241-52.

Who does the public trust? The case of genetically modified food in the United
States.

Lang JT, Hallman WK.

Department of Sociology and the Food Policy Institute, Rutgers University, New
Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA. John@Coolclass.com

Trust is important for the perception of many types of risk, including those
relating to genetically modified (GM) food. Who the public trusts in any given
circumstance, however, is not well understood. In this study of public trust
regarding GM food, an exploratory factor analysis with Promax rotation reveals
public classification of three common institutional types-evaluators, watchdogs,
and merchants. The structure of relationships among these stakeholders can act to
enable or constrain public support for this new technology.
Evaluators-scientists, universities, and medical professionals-are the most
trusted. Watchdogs-consumer advocacy organizations, environmental organizations,
and media sources-are moderately trusted. Merchants-grocers and grocery stores,
industry, and farmers-are least trusted. While the federal government is seen as
closest to being an evaluator, it is not highly correlated with any of the
factors. The lack of trust in the organizations with the greatest resources and
responsibilities for ensuring the safety of GM food should be seen as an
important obstacle to the adoption of the technology.

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

PMID: 16297228 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

205: Genewatch. 2005 May-Jun;18(3):3-5, 16.

Without a trace: how a lack of U.S. domestic LMO regulations is undermining
international control.

Bereano P.

University of Washington, USA

PMID: 16285121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

206: Transgenic Res. 2005 Oct;14(5):775-84.

Assessing the transfer of genetically modified DNA from feed to animal tissues.

Mazza R, Soave M, Morlacchini M, Piva G, Marocco A.

Instituto di Agronomia generale e Coltivazioni erbacee, Universitö  Cattolica S.
Cuore, Via E. Parmense, 84, Piacenza 29100, Italy. mazza.raffaele@virgilio.it

In Europe, public and scientific concerns about the environmental and food safety
of GM (Genetically Modified) crops overshadow the potential benefits offered by
crop biotechnology to improve food quality. One of the concerns regarding the use
of GM food in human and animal nutrition is the effect that newly introduced
sequences may have on the organism. In this paper, we assess the potential
transfer of diet-derived DNA to animal tissues after consumption of GM plants.
Blood, spleen, liver, kidney and muscle tissues from piglets fed for 35 days with
diets containing either GM (MON810) or a conventional maize were investigated for
the presence of plant DNA. Only fragments of specific maize genes (Zein, Sh-2)
could be detected with different frequencies in all the examined tissues except
muscle. A small fragment of the Cry1A(b) transgene was detected in blood, liver,
spleen and kidney of the animals raised with the transgenic feed. The intact
Cry1A(b) gene or its minimal functional unit were never detected. Statistical
analysis of the results showed no difference in recovery of positives for the
presence of plant DNA between animals raised with the transgenic feed and animals
raised with the conventional feed, indicating that DNA transfer may occur
independently from the source and the type of the gene. From the data obtained,
we consider it unlikely that the occurrence of genetic transfer associated with
GM plants is higher than that from conventional plants.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16245168 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

207: Transgenic Res. 2005 Oct;14(5):749-59.

Crop-to-crop gene flow using farm scale sites of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) in
the UK.

Weekes R, Deppe C, Allnutt T, Boffey C, Morgan D, Morgan S, Bilton M, Daniels R,
Henry C.

Central Science Laboratory, YO41 1LZ Sand Hutton, York, UK.

From 2000-2003 a range of Farm Scale Evaluation (FSE) trials were established in
the UK to assess the effect of the release and management of herbicide tolerant
(HT) crops on the abundance and diversity of farmland wildlife compared with
their conventionally managed non-GM-equivalents. The objective of this research
project was to investigate gene flow within the winter (WOSR) and spring oilseed
rape (SOSR) FSE trials and to develop a statistical model for the prediction of
cross-pollination frequency that can be used to evaluate current separation
distance guidelines. Seed samples were collected from the non-GM half of the
trial sites and were tested for evidence of cross-pollination from the GM HT
halves using a quantitative PCR assay specific to the HT (bar) gene. Rates of
cross-pollination were found to decrease rapidly with increasing distance from
the GM source. The quantitative data were subjected to statistical analysis and a
two-step model was found to provide the best fit for the data. Significant
differences were found between the results for WOSR, SOSR and varietal
association (VA) crops. The model predicted that the %GM content (including upper
95% confidence limits) of a sample taken at a distance of 50 m away from the GM
source would be 0.04% (0.84%) for WOSR, 0.02% (0.39%) for SOSR, 0.77% (21.72%)
for WOSR VA and 0.37% (5.18%) for SOSR VA. The data and models presented here are
discussed in the context of necessary separation distances to meet various
possible thresholds for adventitious presence of GM in OSR.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16245166 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

208: Vet Res Commun. 2005 Aug;29 Suppl 2:31-4.

Role of the "National Reference Centre for Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)
detection" in the official control of food and feed.

Ciabatti I, Marchesi U, Froiio A, Paternö² A, Ruggeri M, Amaddeo D.

Department of Virology and Biotechnology, National Reference Centre for
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) detection, Istituto Zooprofilattico
Sperimentale Lazio e Toscana, via Appia Nuvoa 1411, 00178, Rome, Italy.
iciabatti@rm.izs.it

The National Reference Centre for Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) detection
was established in 2002 within the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale Lazio e
Toscana, with the aim of providing scientific and technical support to the
National Health System and to the Ministry of Health within the scope of the
regulation of GMO use in food and feed.The recently adopted EU legislation on
GMOs (Regulation CE no. 1829/2003 and no. 1830/2003) introduced more rigorous
procedures for the authorisation, labelling and analytical control of food and
feed consisting, containing or derived from GMOs. The National Reference Centre,
besides its institutional tasks as one of the laboratories of the Italian
National Health System, collects and analyses data and results of the national
official control of GMOs; carries out scientific research aimed at developing,
improving, validating and harmonising detection and quantification methods, in
cooperation with other scientific institutions, the Community Reference
Laboratory and within the European Network of GMOs laboratories (ENGL);
collaborates with the Ministry of Health in the definition of control programmes
and promotes educational and training initiatives. Objectives defined for
2004-2006, activities in progress and goals already achieved are presented.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16244921 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

209: Vet Res Commun. 2005 Aug;29 Suppl 2:19-26.

Aspects connected with the enforcement of the EU provisions on genetically
modified organisms.

Marabelli R.

General Directorate for Veterinary Health and Food, Ministry of Health, Rome,
Italy. alimentivet@sanita.it

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16244919 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

210: Vet Res Commun. 2005 Aug;29 Suppl 2:7-11.

GMO: human health risk assessment.

D'Agnolo G.

Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscienzes, Istituto Superiore di Sanitö , Viale
Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy. dagnolo@iss.it

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16244917 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

211: Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):231-3; author reply 231-3.

Comment on:
Science. 2005 Apr 29;308(5722):688-90.

Debate over a GM rice trial in China.

Cleveland DA, Soleri D.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16231407 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

212: Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):231-3; author reply 231-3.

Comment on:
Science. 2005 Apr 29;308(5722):688-90.

Debate over a GM rice trial in China.

Sze PC, Cotter J.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16231406 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

213: Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):231-3; author reply 231-3.

Comment on:
Science. 2005 Apr 29;308(5722):688-90.

Debate over a GM rice trial in China.

Heong KL, Chen YH, Johnson DE, Jahn GC, Hossain M, Hamilton RS.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16224002 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

214: Eur J Histochem. 2005 Jul-Sep;49(3):237-42.

Reversibility of hepatocyte nuclear modifications in mice fed on genetically
modified soybean.

Malatesta M, Tiberi C, Baldelli B, Battistelli S, Manuali E, Biggiogera M.

Istituto di Istologia e Analisi di Laboratorio, University of Urbino Carlo Bo,
via Zeppi s.n., 61029 Urbino, Italy. malatesta@uniurb.it

In the literature, the reports on the effects of a genetically modified (GM) diet
are scanty and heterogeneous; in particular, no direct evidence has so far been
reported that GM food may affect human or animal health. Hepatocytes represent a
suitable model for monitoring the effects of a GM diet, the liver potentially
being a primary target. In a previous study, we demonstrated that some
modifications occur in hepatocyte nuclei of mice fed on GM soybean. In order to
elucidate whether such modifications can be reversed, in the present study, 3
months old mice fed on GM soybean since their weaning were submitted to a diet
containing wild type soybean, for one month. In parallel, to investigate the
influence of GM soybean on adult individuals, mice fed on wild type soybean were
changed to a GM diet, for the same time. Using immunoelectron microscopy, we
demonstrated that a one-month diet reversion can influence some nuclear features
in adult mice, restoring typical characteristics of controls in GM-fed animals,
and inducing in control mice modifications similar to those observed in animals
fed on GM soybean from weaning. This suggests that the modifications related to
GM soybean are potentially reversible, but also that some modifications are
inducible in adult organisms in a short time.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16216809 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

215: Environ Biosafety Res. 2005 Jan-Mar;4(1):13-27.

A conceptual framework for the design of environmental post-market monitoring of
genetically modified plants.

Sanvido O, Widmer F, Winzeler M, Bigler F.

Agroscope FAL Reckenholz, Swiss Federal Research Station for Agroecology and
Agriculture, CH-8046 Zurich, Switzerland. olivier.sanvido@fal.admin.ch

Genetically modified plants (GMPs) may soon be cultivated commercially in several
member countries of the European Union (EU). According to EU Directive
2001/18/EC, post-market monitoring (PMM) for commercial GMP cultivation must be
implemented, in order to detect and prevent adverse effects on human health and
the environment. However, no general PMM strategies for GMP cultivation have been
established so far. We present a conceptual framework for the design of
environmental PMM for GMP cultivation based on current EU legislation and common
risk analysis procedures. We have established a comprehensive structure of the
GMP approval process, consisting of pre-market risk assessment (PMRA) as well as
PMM. Both programs can be distinguished conceptually due to principles inherent
to risk analysis procedures. The design of PMM programs should take into account
the knowledge gained during approval for commercialization of a specific GMP and
the decisions made in the environmental risk assessments (ERAs). PMM is composed
of case-specific monitoring (CSM) and general surveillance. CSM focuses on
anticipated effects of a specific GMP. Selection of case-specific indicators for
detection of ecological exposure and effects, as well as definition of effect
sizes, are important for CSM. General surveillance is designed to detect
unanticipated effects on general safeguard subjects, such as natural resources,
which must not be adversely affected by human activities like GMP cultivation. We
have identified clear conceptual differences between CSM and general
surveillance, and propose to adopt separate frameworks when developing either of
the two programs. Common to both programs is the need to put a value on possible
ecological effects of GMP cultivation. The structure of PMM presented here will
be of assistance to industry, researchers, and regulators, when assessing GMPs
during commercialization.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16209133 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

216: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2006 Feb;44(1):43-8. Epub 2005 Sep 26.

Science, politics, and the GM debate in Europe.

Tencalla F.

Monsanto Europe S.A., Avenue de Tervuren 270-272, B-1150 Brussels, Belgium.
francesca.tencalla@monsanto.com

Europe today stands at a crossroad, facing challenges but also opportunities. In
its intent to make Europe a leading technology-based economy by 2010, the
European Commission has identified biotechnology and genomics as fields for
future growth, crucial for supporting the agricultural and food processing
industry. Since first commercialization in 1996, GM crop areas have grown at
double-digit rates, making this one of the most rapidly adopted technologies in
agriculture. However, in contrast to other world areas and despite European
Commission support, Europe has found itself 'bogged-down' in a polemic between
opponents and supporters of plant biotechnology. As a result, planted areas have
remained small. This stalemate is due to a lack of political leadership,
especially at the Member State level, all the more surprising in light of
European early development and competitive advantage with crop biotechnology.
This situation proves once again that, for cutting-edge innovations, a solid
science base alone is not sufficient. Acceptance or rejection of new technologies
depends on interlinked political, economic, and societal factors that create a
favorable or unfavorable situation at a given time. This article will look at GM
crops in Europe and the role science and politics have played in the introduction
of crop biotechnology.

PMID: 16188360 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

217: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Aug;46(4):J223-7.

[Polymerase chain reaction technology for detection of unapproved genetically
modified maize line (Bt10 line)]

[Article in Japanese]

Watanabe T.

National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16180689 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

218: New Sci. 2005 Jun 11-17;186(2503):21.

Making the world better?

Bruce D.

Science, Religion and Technology Project, Church of Scotland, UK.

PMID: 16178099 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

219: Anal Biochem. 2005 Nov 1;346(1):90-100. Epub 2005 Aug 25.

Multiplex polymerase chain reaction and ligation detection reaction/universal
array technology for the traceability of genetically modified organisms in foods.

Peano C, Bordoni R, Gulli M, Mezzelani A, Samson MC, Bellis GD, Marmiroli N.

Institute of Biomedical Technologies, National Research Council, Via Fratelli
Cervi 93, Segrate, Milano 20090, Italy. clelia.peano@itb.cnr.it

A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system was developed for the
simultaneous detection of target sequences in genetically modified soybean
(Roundup Ready) and maize (MON810, Bt176, Bt11, and GA21). Primer pairs were
designed to amplify the junction regions of the transgenic constructs analyzed
and the endogenous genes of soybean (lectin) and maize (zein) were included as
internal control targets to assess the efficiency of all reactions. This
multiplex PCR has constituted the basis for an efficient platform for genetically
modified organism traceability based on microarray technology. In particular, the
ligation detection reaction combined to a universal array approach, using the
multiplex PCR as target, was applied. High specificity and sensitivity were
obtained.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16169511 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

220: Appetite. 2005 Dec;45(3):242-9. Epub 2005 Sep 12.

Unpacking atitudes towards genetically modified food.

de Liver Y, van der Pligt J, Wigboldus D.

Social Psychology Program, University of Amsterdam, Roetersstraat 15, 1018 WB
Amsterdam, The Netherlands. j.n.deliver@uva.nl

The present study investigates the structure of attitudes towards genetically
modified (GM) food. A total of 431 respondents completed a questionnaire
measuring their overall attitude, cognition and affect towards GM food. A model
with distinct positive and negative, affective and cognitive components and a
separate factor for perceived risk and worry best accounted for the data.
Negative--but not positive--components directly affected behavioural intentions.
Implications of these findings for our understanding of attitudes towards GM food
and their impact on behaviour are discussed.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16154663 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

221: World J Gastroenterol. 2005 Sep 14;11(34):5381-4.

Studies on BN rats model to determine the potential allergenicity of proteins
from genetically modified foods.

Jia XD, Li N, Wu YN, Yang XG.

National Institute for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease
Control and Prevention, 29 Nanwei Road, Beijing 100050, China.

AIM: To develop a Brown Norway (BN) rat model to determine the potential
allergenicity of novel proteins in genetically modified food. METHODS: The
allergenicity of different proteins were compared, including ovalbumin (OVA), a
potent respiratory and food allergen, bovine serum albumin (BSA), a protein that
is considered to have a lesser allergenic potential, and potato acid phosphatase
(PAP), a non-allergenic protein when administered to BN rats via different routes
of exposure (intraperitoneally or by gavage). IgG and IgE antibody responses were
determined by ELISA and PCA, respectively. An immunoassay kit was used to
determine the plasma histamine level. In addition, possible systemic effect of
allergens was investigated by monitoring blood pressure. RESULTS: OVA provoked
very vigorous protein-specific IgG and IgE responses, low grade protein-specific
IgG and IgE responses were elicited by BSA, while by neither route did PAP elicit
anything. In either routes of exposure, plasma histamine level in BN rats
sensitized with OVA was higher than that of BSA or PAP. In addition, an oral
challenge with BSA and PAP did not induce any effect on blood pressure, while a
temporary drop in systolic blood pressure in few animals of each routes of
exposure was found by an oral challenge with OVA. CONCLUSION: BN rat model might
be a useful and predictive animal model to study the potential allergenicity of
novel food proteins.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16149151 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

222: Transgenic Res. 2005 Jun;14(3):261-72.

Two different Bacillus thuringiensis toxin genes confer resistance to beet
armyworm (Spodoptera exigua Hö¼bner) in transgenic Bt-shallots (Allium cepa L.).

Zheng SJ, Henken B, de Maagd RA, Purwito A, Krens FA, Kik C.

Plant Research International, Wageningen University and Research Center, P O Box
16, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands.

Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation was applied to produce beet
armyworm (Spodoptera exigua Hö¼bner) resistant tropical shallots (Allium cepa L.
group Aggregatum). A cry1Ca or a H04 hybrid gene from Bacillus thuringiensis,
driven by the chrysanthemum ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase small
subunit (Rubisco SSU) promoter, along with the hygromycin phosphotransferase gene
(hpt) driven by the CaMV 35S promoter, was employed for genetic transformation.
An average transformation frequency of 3.68% was obtained from two shallot
cultivars, Tropix and Kuning. After transfer of the in vitro plants to the
greenhouse 69% of the cry1Ca and 39% of the H04 transgenic shallots survived the
first half year. After one year of cultivation in the greenhouse the remaining
cry1Ca and H04 transgenic plants grew vigorously and had a normal bulb formation,
although the cry1Ca transgenic plants (and controls) had darker green leaves
compared to their H04 counterparts. Standard PCR, adaptor ligation PCR and
Southern analyses confirmed the integration of T-DNA into the shallot genome.
Northern blot and ELISA analyses revealed expression of the cry1Ca or H04 gene in
the transgenic plants. The amount of Cry1Ca expressed in transgenic plants was
higher than the expression levels of H04 (0.39 vs. 0.16% of the total soluble
leaf proteins, respectively). There was a good correlation between protein
expression and beet armyworm resistance. Cry1Ca or H04 gene expression of at
least 0.22 or 0.08% of the total soluble protein in shallot leaves was sufficient
to give a complete resistance against beet armyworm. This confirms earlier
observations that the H04 toxin is more toxic to S. exigua than the Cry1Ca toxin.
The results from this study suggest that the cry1Ca and H04 transgenic shallots
developed could be used for introducing resistance to beet armyworm in (sub)
tropical shallot.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16145834 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

223: Transgenic Res. 2005 Jun;14(3):237-49.

Process development and economic evaluation of recombinant human lactoferrin
expressed in rice grain.

Nandi S, Yalda D, Lu S, Nikolov Z, Misaki R, Fujiyama K, Huang N.

Ventria Bioscience, 4110 North Freeway, Sacramento, CA 95834, USA.

In this paper, we show that recombinant human lactoferrin (rhLF) has been stably
expressed at 0.5% brown rice flour weight for nine generations. Process
development indicates that rhLF can be efficiently extracted from rice flour in
20 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) containing up to 0.5 M NaCl and at a ratio of 1
kg flour to 10 L buffer. After solid/liquid separation, the extract can then be
loaded directly onto an ion-exchange column and rhLF can be eluted using 0.8 M
NaCl. The resulting rhLF is about 95% pure. A range of biochemical and
biophysical analyses were carried out and results indicated that the purified
rhLF was identical to its native human counterpart other than its glycosylation.
Economic analysis shows that at 600 kg/year scale, the cash cost to produce 1 g
of rhLF of pharmaceutical grade is US$ 5.90. Analysis also indicates that the
expression level has profound impact on costs related to planting, milling,
extraction and purification, thus high level expression of recombinant protein in
plants is one of the key parameters for the success of plant made
pharmaceuticals.

PMID: 16145832 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

224: Science. 2005 Sep 2;309(5740):1471.

European politics. Germany poised to elect first scientist-chancellor.

Vogel G.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 16141035 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

225: Allergy Asthma Proc. 2005 May-Jun;26(3):210-6.

Genetically modified and wild soybeans: an immunologic comparison.

Yum HY, Lee SY, Lee KE, Sohn MH, Kim KE.

Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Pochon CHA University, Pochon,
Korea.

Most traits introduced into genetically engineered crops result from the
expression of new proteins. As the first step toward assessing the allergenic
potential of genetically modified organism (GMO) food, immunologic and
physicochemical characterizations are needed. We prepared crude extract from GMO
soybeans, wild soybeans, curd, and soy milk and then performed sodium dodecyl
sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). After acidification with
HCl, the samples were separated to globulin and whey. To evaluate changes in
protein composition, either the samples were heated or pepsin was added.
Polymerase chain reaction with primer encoding the 35S-promotor and the
3-enol-pyruvyl-shikimat-5-phosphat-synthase gene were performed, respectively, to
detect the GMO component. SDS-PAGE results showed definite protein bands at 80
kDa in GMO soybean, 50 kDa in wild soybean, and a similar distribution of protein
bands was noticed below 40 kDa. It was difficult to observe protein distribution
because of modifications that occurred during processing in soybean-processed
products. After heating, proteins of GMO and wild soybeans showed similar
distributions and no distinct bands were detected at 50 and 80 kDa. Although
SDS-PAGE analyses of raw GMO and wild soybeans differed, the same protein bands
of 68, 37, and 20 kDa were observed in the globulin fraction after acidification.
After adding pepsin, 20- and 68-kDa bands were found preserved in GMO and wild
soybeans. The polymerase chain reaction procedures with primers specific to GMO
soybeans showed that GMO soybeans and some curd samples included a GMO component.
The skin test results of 49 patients showed 13 positive results to wild soybeans
and 8 positive results to GMO soybeans. One patient had a positive skin test
result to GMO soybeans only. Sera from nine patients with positive skin tests to
the crude extract and a positive capsulated allergen product test to the soybean
antigen were used for the immunoblotting of GMO and wild soybeans. GMO soybeans
revealed a unique strong immunoglobulin E binding band at 25 kDa in some patients
and wild soybeans showed a strong immunoglobulin E binding band at 30-36 kDa. To
assess the allergenicity of GMO food, more research, including a selection of
controlled sample materials and immunoassays of qualified sera, is needed.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16119037 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

226: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):231-42.

Traceability of biotech-derived animals: application of DNA technology.

Loftus R.

IdentiGEN Ltd, Unit 9, Trinity Enterprise Centre, Pearse Street, Dublin 02,
Ireland.

Traceability is increasingly becoming standard across the agri-food industry,
largely driven by recent food crises and the consequent demands for transparency
within the food chain. This is leading to the development of a range of
traceability concepts and technologies adapted to different industry needs.
Experience with genetically modified plants has shown that traceability can play
a role in increasing public confidence in biotechnology, and might similarly help
allay concerns relating to the development of animal biotechnology. Traceability
also forms an essential component of any risk management strategy and is a key
requirement for post-marketing surveillance. Given the diversity of traceability
concepts and technologies available, consideration needs to be given to the scope
and precision of traceability systems for animal biotechnology. Experience to
date has shown that conventional tagging and labelling systems can incorporate
levels of error and may not have sufficient precision for biotech-derived
animals. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) technology can overcome these difficulties
by tracing animals and animal by-products through their DNA code rather than an
associated label. This offers the possibility of tracing some by-products of
animal biotechnology through the supply chain back to source animals, offering
unprecedented levels of traceability. Developments in both DNA sampling and
analysis technology are making large-scale applications of DNA traceability
increasingly cost effective and feasible, and are likely to lead to a broader
uptake of DNA traceability concepts.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16110891 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

227: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):149-57.

Public perceptions of transgenic animals.

Einsiedel EF.

Communication Studies Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4,
Canada.

The field of animal biotechnology has been rapidly expanding and the development
of transgenic animals has been part of this research expansion. How the public
perceives such developments is an important component of policy considerations.
In general, biotechnology applications have been judged with evident hierarchies
of acceptability. There appearto be hierarchies in terms of the type of organism
being modified, the purpose of the application, the means to attain particular
ends, and the nature of the benefits obtained. While general awareness of
biotechnology and its specific applications remains low to moderate, this article
presents data regarding public acceptance of a variety of applications. These
range from the use of animals as disease models and as sources for tissues and
organs, to the use of transgenic animals for disease control, for food, and for
the production of pharmaceutical and industrial products. Case-by-case judgments
are evident, but at the same time, the application of criteria such as the nature
of the organism being modified, the animal welfare aspects and the ethical-moral
concerns are additional criteria for public judgments. These findings are
discussed in the context of their implications for public policy.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 16110885 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

228: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2005 Aug 30;102(35):12338-43. Epub 2005 Aug 10.

Erratum in:
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2005 Dec 13;102(50):18242.

Comment in:
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2005 Sep 13;102(37):13003-4.

Absence of detectable transgenes in local landraces of maize in Oaxaca, Mexico
(2003-2004).

Ortiz-Garcö­a S, Ezcurra E, Schoel B, Acevedo F, Soberö¨n J, Snow AA.

Instituto Nacional de Ecologö­a, Secretarö­a del Medio Ambiente y Recursos
Naturales, Colonia Insurgentes Cuicuilco, Delegaciö¨n Coyoacö¡n, 04530 Mö©xico D.F.,
Mexico.

In 2000, transgenes were detected in local maize varieties (landraces) in the
mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico [Quist, D. & Chapela, I. H. (2001) Nature 414,
541-543]. This region is part of the Mesoamerican center of origin for maize (Zea
mays L.), and the genetic diversity that is maintained in open-pollinated
landraces is recognized as an important genetic resource of great cultural value.
The presence of transgenes in landraces was significant because transgenic maize
has never been approved for cultivation in Mexico. Here we provide a systematic
survey of the frequency of transgenes in currently grown landraces. We sampled
maize seeds from 870 plants in 125 fields and 18 localities in the state of
Oaxaca during 2003 and 2004. We then screened 153,746 sampled seeds for the
presence of two transgene elements from the 35S promoter of the cauliflower
mosaic virus and the nopaline synthase gene (nopaline synthase terminator) from
Agrobacterium tumefaciens. One or both of these transgene elements are present in
all transgenic commercial varieties of maize. No transgenic sequences were
detected with highly sensitive PCR-based markers, appropriate positive and
negative controls, and duplicate samples for DNA extraction. We conclude that
transgenic maize seeds were absent or extremely rare in the sampled fields. This
study provides a much-needed preliminary baseline for understanding the
biological, socioeconomic, and ethical implications of the inadvertent dispersal
of transgenes from the United States and elsewhere to local landraces of maize in
Mexico.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16093316 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

229: Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2005 Jul;117(13-14):437-9.

[In vitro tests for the determination of allergenic potency of "novel foods' and
genetically modified organisms: relevance in vivo?]

[Article in German]

Jensen-Jarolim E, Untersmayr E.

Institut fö¼r Physiologie und Pathophysiologie, Medizinische Universitö¤t Wien,
Wien, Osterreich. erika. jensen-jarolim@meduniwien.ac.at

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16091867 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

230: Perspect Biol Med. 2005 Summer;48(3):328-43.

Ethical issues in animal cloning.

Fiester A.

University of Pennsylvania Center for Bioethics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
fiester@mail.med.upenn.edu

The issue of human reproductive cloning has recently received a great deal
attention in public discourse. Bioethicists, policy makers, and the media have
been quick to identify the key ethical issues involved in human reproductive
cloning and to argue, almost unanimously, for an international ban on such
attempts. Meanwhile, scientists have proceeded with extensive research agendas in
the cloning of animals. Despite this research, there has been little public
discussion of the ethical issues raised by animal cloning projects. Polling data
show that the public is decidedly against the cloning of animals. To understand
the public's reaction and fill the void of reasoned debate about the issue, we
need to review the possible objections to animal cloning and assess the merits of
the anti-animal cloning stance. Some objections to animal cloning (e.g., the
impact of cloning on the population of unwanted animals) can be easily addressed,
while others (e.g., the health of cloned animals) require more serious attention
by the public and policy makers.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16085991 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

231: Food Chem Toxicol. 2006 Feb;44(2):147-60. Epub 2005 Aug 9.

Results of a 90-day safety assurance study with rats fed grain from corn
rootworm-protected corn.

Hammond B, Lemen J, Dudek R, Ward D, Jiang C, Nemeth M, Burns J.

Monsanto Company, 800 North Lindbergh Blvd., St Louis, MO 63167, USA.
bruce.g.hammond@monsanto.com

The results of a 90-day rat feeding study with YieldGard (YieldGard Rootworm Corn
is a registered trademark of Monsanto Technology, LLC.) Rootworm corn (MON 863)
grain that is protected against feeding damage caused by corn rootworm larvae are
presented. Corn rootworm-protection was accomplished through the introduction of
a cry3Bb1 coding sequence into the corn genome for in planta production of a
modified Cry3Bb1 protein from Bacillus thuringiensis. Grain from MON 863 and its
near isogenic control were separately formulated into rodent diets at levels of
11% and 33% (w/w) by Purina Mills, Inc. Additionally, six groups of rats were fed
diets containing grain from different conventional (non-biotechnology-derived)
reference varieties. The responses of rats fed diets containing MON 863 were
compared to those of rats fed grain from conventional corn varieties. All diets
were nutritionally balanced and conformed to Purina Mills, Inc. specifications
for Certified LabDiet 5002. There were a total of 400 rats in the study divided
into 10 groups of 20 rats/sex/group. Overall health, body weight gain, food
consumption, clinical pathology parameters (hematology, blood chemistry,
urinalysis), organ weights, gross and microscopic appearance of tissues were
comparable between groups fed diets containing MON 863 and conventional corn
varieties. This study complements extensive agronomic, compositional and farm
animal feeding studies with MON 863 grain, confirming that it is as safe and
nutritious as existing conventional corn varieties.

PMID: 16084637 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

232: Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2005 Sep;8(5):516-22.

A perspective on DNA microarray technology in food and nutritional science.

Kato H, Saito K, Kimura T.

Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and
Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan. akatoq@mail.ecc.u-tokyo.ac.jp

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The functions of nutrients and other foods have been revealed
at the level of gene regulation. The advent of DNA microarray technology has
enabled us to analyze the body's response to these factors in a much more
holistic manner than before. This review is intended to overview the present
status of this DNA microarray technology, hoping to provide food and nutrition
scientists, especially those who are planning to introduce this technology, with
hints and suggestions. RECENT FINDINGS: The number of papers examining
transcriptomics analysis in food and nutrition science has expanded over the last
few years. The effects of some dietary conditions and administration of specific
nutrients or food factors are studied in various animal models and cultured
cells. The target food components range from macronutrients and micronutrients to
other functional food factors. Such studies have already yielded fruitful
results, which include discovery of novel functions of a food, uncovering
hitherto unknown mechanisms of action, and analyses of food safety. SUMMARY: The
potency of DNA microarray technology in food and nutrition science is broadly
recognized. This technique will surely continue to provide researchers and the
public with valuable information on the beneficial and adverse effects of food
factors. It should also be acknowledged, however, that there remain problems such
as standardization of the data and sharing of the results among researchers in
this field.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16079622 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

233: Environ Health Perspect. 2005 Aug;113(8):A526-33.

Comment in:
Environ Health Perspect. 2006 Mar;114(3):A146-7.

Genetically modified foods: breeding uncertainty.

Schmidt CW.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 16079054 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

234: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Jun;46(3):J203-7.

[Consideration of detection method and identification for genetically modified
foods]

[Article in Japanese]

Akiyama H, Matsuda R.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16042304 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

235: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Jun;46(3):J193-7.

[Standardization of the detection methods for genetically modified organisms in
ISO]

[Article in Japanese]

Futo S.

FASMAC Co., Ltd.: 5-1-3, Midorigaoka, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0041, Japan.

PMID: 16042302 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

236: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Jun;46(3):79-85.

Detection of genetically modified organisms in foreign-made processed foods
containing corn and potato.

Monma K, Araki R, Sagi N, Satoh M, Ichikawa H, Satoh K, Tobe T, Kamata K, Hino A,
Saito K.

Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health: 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku,
Tokyo, Japan.

Investigations of the validity of labeling regarding genetically modified (GM)
products were conducted using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods for
foreign-made processed foods made from corn and potato purchased in the Tokyo
area and in the USA. Several kinds of GM crops were detected in 12 of 32 samples
of processed corn samples. More than two GM events for which safety reviews have
been completed in Japan were simultaneously detected in 10 samples. GM events
MON810 and Bt11 were most frequently detected in the samples by qualitative PCR
methods. MON810 was detected in 11 of the 12 samples, and Bt11 was detected in 6
of the 12 samples. In addition, Roundup Ready soy was detected in one of the 12
samples. On the other hand, CBH351, for which the safety assessment was withdrawn
in Japan, was not detected in any of the 12 samples. A trial quantitative
analysis was performed on six of the GM maize qualitatively positive samples. The
estimated amounts of GM maize in these samples ranged from 0.2 to 2.8%, except
for one sample, which contained 24.1%. For this sample, the total amount found by
event-specific quantitative analysis was 23.8%. Additionally, Roundup Ready soy
was detected in one sample of 21 potato-processed foods, although GM potatoes
were not detected in any sample.

PMID: 16042293 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

237: Nature. 2005 Jul 21;436(7049):328.

Comment on:
Nature. 2005 Jun 2;435(7042):561.

Unlike climate science, GM is full of uncertainties.

Parr D.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16034396 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

238: Nature. 2005 Jul 21;436(7049):328.

Comment on:
Nature. 2005 Jun 2;435(7042):561.

Leave GM analysis to the relevant scientists.

Couvet D.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 16034395 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

239: Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 1):210-23.

Science, law, and politics in FDA's genetically engineered foods policy:
scientific concerns and uncertainties.

Pelletier DL.

Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, 378 MVR Hall, Ithaca, NY
14853, USA. dlp5@cornell.edu

The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) 1992 policy statement granted
genetically engineered foods presumptive GRAS (generally recognized as safe)
status. Since then, divergent views have been expressed concerning the scientific
support for this policy. This paper examines four sources to better understand
the basis for these claims: 1) internal FDA correspondence; 2) reports from the
National Academy of Sciences; 3) research funded by US Department of Agriculture
from 1981 to 2002; and 4) FDA's proposed rules issued in 2001. These sources
reveal that little research has been conducted on unintended compositional
changes from genetic engineering. Profiling techniques now make this feasible,
but the new debate centers on the functional meaning of compositional changes.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 16028565 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

240: Genet Med. 2005 Jul-Aug;7(6):454-5.

Genetic testing, biotechnology, and GMOs: A snapshot of public opinion, 2003
through 2004.

Alford RL, Morris KE, Rives CM, Scherer SE, Weinstock G, Gibbs RA, Ghonima K,
Belcher M, Valdes H, Sumners C, Law C, Reiff P.

Publication Types:
Letter
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

PMID: 16024979 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

241: Appetite. 2005 Aug;45(1):40-6.

Food and the relation between values and attitude characteristics.

Dreezens E, Martijn C, Tenbö¼lt P, Kok G, de Vries NK.

Department of Experimental Psychology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200
MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. e.dreezens@psychology.unimaas.nl

This survey showed that the values power (dominance over nature and resources)
and universalism (respect for people and for nature) are related to attitudes
toward genetically modified food (GMF) and organically grown food (OGF).
Furthermore, these values have an influence on the centrality, commitment and
ambivalence of these attitudes. Values that are positively related to an attitude
influence how central this attitude is to a person. However, values that are
negatively related to an attitude have a larger effect on the commitment of this
attitude. No such pattern of effects was found for the relationship between
ambivalence and values. These data suggest that centrality, commitment, and
ambivalence are structurally different constructs that have a distinct
relationship with specific values.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16018906 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

242: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Apr;46(2):55-7.

[Study on positive control for GM papaya (55-1) detection method by GUS
(beta-glucuronidase) assay]

[Article in Japanese]

Takahashi K, Horie M.

Saitama Institute of Public Health: 639-1 Kamiokubo, Sakura-ku, Saitama-shi,
Saitama 338-0824, Japan.

A suitable positive control was investigated for histochemical assay
(GUS-examining method) to detect genetically modified (GM) papaya (55-1),
currently undergoing a safety assessment in Japan. Six different kinds of test
papers were soaked with beta-glucuronidase solution and examined for GUS
activity. The test papers made of nylon and glass fiber turned blue, and were
stable for fifteen months at -20 degrees C. They are concluded to be useful as
positive controls in the GUS-examining method for inspection of GM papaya (55-1).

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 16018592 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

243: Rev Med Chir Soc Med Nat Iasi. 2004 Oct-Dec;108(4):838-42.

[Genetically modified foods. Advantages and human health risks]

[Article in Romanian]

Filip L, Miere D, Indrei LL.

Universitatea de Medicinäƒ åŸi Farmacie Iuliu Haå¸ieganu Cluj-Napoca Facultatea de
Farmacie, Disciplina de Chimie sanitaräƒ.

One of the most important issue with which the mankind is confronting now is
related to the quantitatively as well as qualitatively assurance of the food
supply necessary for human species existence. In this context, by means of
genetic engineering, modified genetic organisms were obtained. In the first
stage, plant crops with high productivity and resistant against diseases and
pests were obtained. After that, food products having modified organoleptic
properties and high nutrition values were produced. The main problem concerning
the long-term consumption of these products is their toxicity, which until now
was not confirmed or denied. For this reason, tests are necessary to be made in
order to stipulate and prevent these effects.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 16004228 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

244: J AOAC Int. 2005 May-Jun;88(3):814-22.

Real-time polymerase chain reaction detection of cauliflower mosaic virus to
complement the 35S screening assay for genetically modified organisms.

Cankar K, Ravnikar M, Zel J, Gruden K, Toplak N.

National Institute of Biology, Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology,
Vecna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. katja.cankar@nib.si

Labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is now in place in many
countries, including the European Union, in order to guarantee the consumer's
choice between GM and non-GM products. Screening of samples is performed by
polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of regulatory sequences frequently
introduced into genetically modified plants. Primers for the 35S promoter from
Cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) are those most frequently used. In virus-infected
plants or in samples contaminated with plant material carrying the virus,
false-positive results can consequently occur. A system for real-time PCR using a
TaqMan minor groove binder probe was designed that allows recognition of virus
coat protein in the sample, thus allowing differentiation between transgenic and
virus-infected samples. We measured the efficiency of PCR amplification, limits
of detection and quantification, range of linearity, and repeatability of the
assay in order to assess the applicability of the assay for routine analysis. The
specificity of the detection system was tested on various virus isolates and
plant species. All 8 CaMV isolates were successfully amplified using the designed
system. No cross-reactivity was detected with DNA from 3 isolates of the closely
related Carnation etched ring virus. Primers do not amplify plant DNA from
available genetically modified maize and soybean lines or from different species
of Brassicaceae or Solanaceae that are natural hosts for CaMV. We evaluated the
assay for different food matrixes by spiking CaMV DNA into DNA from food samples
and have successfully amplified CaMV from all samples. The assay was tested on
rapeseed samples from routine GMO testing that were positive in the 35S screening
assay, and the presence of the virus was confirmed.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 16001857 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

245: BMJ. 2005 Jul 2;331(7507):11.

Developing countries may not get benefits of GM food.

Brettingham M.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15994680 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

246: J Environ Health. 2005 Jun;67(10):44-9.

Health professionals hold positive attitudes toward biotechnology and genetically
engineered foods.

Schmidt J, Vickery CE, Cotugna NA, Snider OS.

Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation, Sudlersville, MD 21668, USA.
jenhans@dmv.com

Few biotechnology processes have elicited the degree of controversy that genetic
manipulation of food through recombinant DNA technology has. Research has shown
that consumers turn to health professionals for answers to questions regarding
health and nutrition. This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and
beliefs of physicians (MDs/DOs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and registered
dietitians (RDs) toward food biotechnology and genetic engineering (GE). Six
hundred three-part, self-administered surveys were sent to health professionals
holding active professional licenses. Statistical analysis included analysis of
variance with Tukey's HSD and Scheffe's post hoc tests. Attitudes toward GE were
positive. MDs held more positive attitudes than NPs or RDs (p = .000). MDs and
NPs supported the use of GE to improve plant resistance to pests; RDs tended to
support nutritional-improvement technology. All groups supported the use of GE to
produce human medicines and the current Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
labeling policy. No profession was more knowledgeable than another. Biotechnology
holds the potential to positively affect human health. All health professionals
can facilitate or diminish this process through their understanding of the
technology and their ability to communicate effectively about the science and
issues associated with biotechnology.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15991684 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

247: Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2005 Sep 1;207(2 Suppl):19-27.

What determines the acceptability of genetically modified food that can improve
human nutrition?

Purchase IF.

University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK.

It has been predicted that by 2025 there will be an annual shortfall of cereals
for feeding the human population of 68.5 million tonnes. One possible solution is
the use of genetically modified (GM) crops, which are already grown extensively
(59 million ha of GM crops were planted in 2002) in the USA, South America,
Africa and China. Nevertheless, there is considerable disagreement about the
advisability of using such crops, particularly in Europe. Obviously, the safety
of the food derived from the GM crops is a primary consideration. Safety
assessment relies on establishing that the food is substantially equivalent to
its non-GM counterpart and specific testing for allergenicity of proteins and
toxicity of metabolites and the whole food. There appears to be international
agreement on the principles of safety assessment. Safety to the environment is
equally important, but will not be covered in this presentation. The public's
perception of the risk of new technology is critical to its acceptance.
Perception of risk, in turn, depends on the credibility of the source of the
information and trust in the regulatory process. In many countries, the public
appears to have lost its trust in the scientists and government dealing with GM
food, making the acceptability of GM crops uncertain. Of equal importance are the
socio-economic factors that impinge on the viability of GM produce. These include
intellectual property protection, trade liberalisation (through subsidy and
tariff barriers in developed countries) and the intensity of bio safety
regulations. The socio-economic interests of developed and developing countries
may diverge and may even be contradictory in any one country. Acceptance of GM
crops will thus depend on detailed issues surrounding particular crops and
economies.

PMID: 15982686 [PubMed - in process]

248: Nutr Rev. 2005 May;63(5):171-81.

Science, law, and politics in the Food and Drug Administration's genetically
engineered foods policy: FDA's 1992 policy statement.

Pelletier DL.

Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, 378 MVR Hall, Ithaca, NY
14853, USA. dlp5@cornell.edu

The US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) 1992 policy statement was developed
in the context of critical gaps in scientific knowledge concerning the
compositional effects of genetic transformation and severe limitations in methods
for safety testing. FDA acknowledged that pleiotropy and insertional mutagenesis
may cause unintended changes, but it was unknown whether this happens to a
greater extent in genetic engineering compared with traditional breeding.
Moreover, the agency was not able to identify methods by which producers could
screen for unintended allergens and toxicants. Despite these uncertainties, FDA
granted genetically engineered foods the presumption of GRAS (Generally
Recognized As Safe) and recommended that producers use voluntary consultations
before marketing them.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15971412 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

249: Sci Cult (Lond). 2002 Dec;11(4):459-79.

Selling the life sciences: promises of a better future in biotechnology
advertisements.

Hellstein I.

Universiteit van Amsterdam, ASCoR (Amsterdam School of Communications Research),
Kloveniersburgwal 48, NL-1012CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. hellsten@pscw.uva.nl

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15971365 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

250: Sci Cult (Lond). 2001 Dec;10(4):445-81.

Creating public alienation: expert cultures of risk and ethics on GMOs.

Wynne B.

CSEC, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1, UK. B.Wynne@Lancaster.ac.uk

PMID: 15971363 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

251: J Fish Dis. 2005 Jun;28(6):317-30.

An examination of the intestinal tract of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., parr
fed different varieties of soy and maize.

Sanden M, Berntssen MH, Krogdahl A, Hemre GI, Bakke-McKellep AM.

National Institute of Nutrition and Seafood Research (NIFES), Bergen, Norway.
monica.sanden@nifes.no

This study was conducted to investigate the long-term effects of feeding plant
products from both traditional breeding and from biotechnology on intestinal
somatic indices, histology and cell proliferation in first-feeding Atlantic
salmon, Salmo salar L. (initial weight 0.21 +/- 0.02 g). A standard fishmeal diet
(standard fishmeal) was formulated to contain fishmeal as the sole protein source
and suprex maize as the main starch source. Six experimental diets were then
developed: two in which some of the fishmeal was replaced with commercially
available, genetically modified Roundup Ready full-fat soybean meal (GM-soy) or
commercially available, non-GM full-fat soybean meal (nGM-soy) at a level of
12.5% of the total diet, and four diets in which the suprex maize was replaced
with two lines of GM-maize (Dekalb 1; D1 and Pioneer 1; P1), both products of
event MON810, and their half-sibling non-GM counterparts (Dekalb 2; D2 and
Pioneer 2; P2), at a level of 12.1% of total diet. Each diet was fed to fish in
triplicate tanks and the experiment lasted for 8 months, during which the fish
reached a final weight of 101-116 g. There was no significant effect of diet on
the intestinal indices, nor were histological changes observed in the pyloric
caeca or mid intestine. In the distal intestine, one of nine sampled fish fed
nGM-soy showed moderate changes, two of nine sampled fish fed GM-soy showed
changes, one with moderate and one with severe changes, and two of nine fish fed
nGM-maize D2 had moderate changes. Using a monoclonal antibody against
proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cell proliferative responses to the
experimental diets were assessed. In fish fed both soy diets, a significantly
higher (P < 0.05) cell proliferation response was observed in the distal
intestine concomitant with an increased localization of PCNA positive cells along
the whole distal intestinal folds. The PCNA response among the nGM-soy group was
significantly higher compared with all the other diet groups. In contrast, for
fish exposed to dietary maize (type D) compared with fish fed the standard
fishmeal, the soy-diets (GM-soy and nGM-soy) and maize (type P), a significantly
lower (P < 0.05) cell proliferation response was observed in the distal
intestine. Results indicated that the GM plant products investigated in this
study, at about 12% inclusion level, were as safe as commercially available
non-GM products, at least in terms of their effect on indices and histological
parameters of the Atlantic salmon intestinal tract.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 15960655 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

252: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(3b):631-4.

Extraction and PCR analysis of soy DNA in chocolate.

Supli K, Gryson N, Messens K, De Loose M, Dewettinck K.

AgriFing, Centre for Applied Research and Services, Hogeschool Gent, Voskenslaan
270, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.

The manner in which to discriminate between genetically modified (GM) versus
non-modified foodstuffs is based on the presence of newly introduced genes at the
protein or DNA level. Current available methods are almost exclusively based on
the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These methods consist of three steps: DNA
isolation, amplification of the desired DNA fragment and visualisation of the
obtained amplification products. The first and crucial step is the DNA isolation.
In this study three different methods are described for the isolation of DNA from
chocolate, two of which are commercial kits. The results indicate that both kits,
in contrast with the non-commercial method, are suitable for the isolation of DNA
from chocolate, provided that the adapted PCR conditions are applied.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15954670 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

253: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(3b):469-72.

Use of cloned DNA fragments as reference materials for event specific
quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Taverniers I, Van Bockstaele E, De Loose M.

Department for Plant Genetics and Breeding, CLO-Gent, Caritasstraat 21, B-9090
Melle, Belgium.

For the quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods and
feeds, real-time PCR is currently the most widely applied technique. To obtain a
% of GMO, a GMO-specific target sequence is quantified relatively to a
species-specific sequence. The correctness and reliability of the obtained
quantitative results fully depend on the reference materials used as standards
for setting up external calibration curves. We introduced a completely new type
of standards for quantification of GMOs, based on cloned plasmid DNA solutions
with well-known amounts of the sequences of interest, expressed as copy numbers.
Moreover, the junction sequence between inserted DNA and plant DNA was used as
'unique identifier'. In this study, the model was applied for Roundup Ready
soybean.

PMID: 15954640 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

254: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(3b):435-6.

Improvement of sorghum transformation efficiency for increasing nutritional
quality.

Chakraborty R, Jacobs M, Angenon G.

Laboratory of Plant Genetics, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology,
Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Paadenstraat 65, B-1640 Genesius Rode, Belgium.

PMID: 15954630 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

255: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(3b):417-24.

Refining of soy bean oil: detection of DNA.

Gryson N, Ronsse F, Messens K, De Loose M, Verleyen T, Dewettinck K.

AgriFing, Centre for Applied Research and Services, Hogeschool Gent, Voskenslaan
270, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15954627 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

256: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(3a):31-7.

Biotechnology and the consumer.

Debeuckelaere W.

Test-Aankoop, Hollandstraat 13, 1060 Brussel, Belgium.

PMID: 15954560 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

257: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(4):335-9.

Consumers and GM food: a divergent relation.

Verdurme A.

Ghent University, Faculty of Agricultural and Applied Biological Sciences
Department of Agricultural Economics, Division of Agro-marketing, Coupure Links
653, 9000 Gent, Belgium. Annelies.Verdurme@rug.ac.be

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15954315 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

258: Trends Biotechnol. 2005 Aug;23(8):386-7.

Comment on:
Trends Biotechnol. 2004 Mar;22(3):107-9.

Consumer acceptance of biotechnology and the role of second generation
technologies in the USA and Europe.

Lusk JL, Rozan A.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15953650 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

259: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2005 Mar;34(2):244-8.

[Strategies for safety assessment of genetically modified crops: current and
future development]

[Article in Chinese]

Zhuo Q, Yang XG.

National Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Centre for Disease
Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China.

Gene recombinant technologies supply agriculture product with great vitality. But
the risk of genetically modified crops cannot be ignored. The international
organizations such as WHO, FAO and OECD have reached common agreement: the safety
of transgenic crops should be thoroughly evaluated based on "substantial
equivalence"principle. The relevant strategies including: substantial equivalent
analysis, toxic tests, protein allergenic study, nutritional assessment, etc.
With the development of new technologies, the approaches of genomic, proteomics,
metabolomics would be applied to detect the unintended effects. The EU recently
adopted legislation on the cultivation GM crops requiring the post market
surveillance for any unanticipated adverse effects in the long term. In
conclusion, the strategies of the safety assessment of GM crop are very strict
and likely development.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15952675 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

260: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):153-66. Epub 2005 Jun 8.

Comment in:
Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):151-2.

Assessing genetically modified crops to minimize the risk of increased food
allergy: a review.

Goodman RE, Hefle SL, Taylor SL, van Ree R.

Food Allergy Research and Resource Program, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE
68583-0955, USA. rgoodman2@unlnotes.unl.edu

The first genetically modified (GM) crops approved for food use (tomato and
soybean) were evaluated for safety by the United States Food and Drug
Administration prior to commercial production. Among other factors, those
products and all additional GM crops that have been grown commercially have been
evaluated for potential increases in allergenic properties using methods that are
consistent with the current understanding of food allergens and knowledge
regarding the prediction of allergenic activity. Although there have been
refinements, the key aspects of the evaluation have not changed. The allergenic
properties of the gene donor and the host (recipient) organisms are considered in
determining the appropriate testing strategy. The amino acid sequence of the
encoded protein is compared to all known allergens to determine whether the
protein is a known allergen or is sufficiently similar to any known allergen to
indicate an increased probability of allergic cross-reactivity. Stability of the
protein in the presence of acid with the stomach protease pepsin is tested as a
risk factor for food allergenicity. In vitro or in vivo human IgE binding are
tested when appropriate, if the gene donor is an allergen or the sequence of the
protein is similar to an allergen. Serum donors and skin test subjects are
selected based on their proven allergic responses to the gene donor or to
material containing the allergen that was matched in sequence. While some
scientists and regulators have suggested using animal models, performing broadly
targeted serum IgE testing or extensive pre- or post-market clinical tests,
current evidence does not support these tests as being predictive or practical.
Based on the evidence to date, the current assessment process has worked well to
prevent the unintended introduction of allergens in commercial GM crops.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15947471 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

261: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):151-2. Epub 2005 Jun 8.

Comment on:
Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):153-66. Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):167-80.

Can we predict or avoid the allergenic potential of genetically modified
organisms?

Obermeyer G, Ferreira F.

Publication Types:
Comment
Editorial

PMID: 15947470 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

262: Nature. 2005 Jun 2;435(7042):561.

Comment on:
Nature. 2005 Apr 14;434(7035):807.

Ampicillin threat leads to wider transgene concern.

Azeez G.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15931193 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

263: Nature. 2005 Jun 2;435(7042):561.

Comment in:
Nature. 2005 Jul 21;436(7049):328. Nature. 2005 Jul 21;436(7049):328.

Comment on:
Nature. 2005 Mar 31;434(7033):559.

Activists should accept mainstream view of GM.

Dennis DT.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15931192 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

264: J Environ Manage. 2005 Aug;76(3):210-20.

Regulating insect resistance management: the case of non-Bt corn refuges in the
US.

Bourguet D, Desquilbet M, Lemariö© S.

Centre de Biologie et de Gestion des Populations, UMR INRA/IRD/CIRAD/ENSA.M,
Campus International de Baillarguet, CS 30 016, 34 988 Montferrier/Lez, France.
bourguet@ensam.inra.fr

In this paper, we analyze the insect resistance management (IRM) plan put in
place by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to delay the evolution of
resistance to Bt corn in natural populations of the European corn borer, Ostrinia
nubilalis Hö¼bner. This IRM plan is the most impressive mandatory IRM system ever
developed. It forms a coherent whole and includes mandatory refuges, actions to
increase growers' compliance and a program for monitoring the evolution of
resistance. However, our analysis suggests that two components of this IRM plan
are not entirely satisfactory: growers' compliance and monitoring of the
evolution of resistance. Moreover, the implementation of these two components of
IRM has been required of the registrants, whose incentives for IRM are probably
lower than the social optimum. Our analysis suggests that alternatives to the IRM
plan currently in place could improve these two components.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15922504 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

265: Lancet Infect Dis. 2005 Jun;5(6):330.

Scoring at the wrong end.

Dixon B.

dixonadams@blueyonder.co.uk

PMID: 15919619 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

266: Rev Esp Salud Publica. 2005 Mar-Apr;79(2):271-82.

[Genetically modified organisms: a new threat to food safety]

[Article in Spanish]

Spendeler L.

Amigos de la Tierra Espaö±a, Madrid. transgenicos@tierra.org

This article analyzes all of the food safety-related aspects related to the use
of genetically modified organisms into agriculture and food. A discussion is
provided as to the uncertainties related to the insertion of foreign genes into
organisms, providing examples of unforeseen, undesirable effects and of
instabilities of the organisms thus artificially fabricated. Data is then
provided from both official agencies as well as existing literature questioning
the accuracy and reliability of the risk analyses as to these organisms being
harmless to health and discusses the almost total lack of scientific studies
analyzing the health safety/dangerousness of transgenic foods. Given all these
unknowns, other factors must be taken into account, particularly genetic
contamination of the non-genetically modified crops, which is now starting to
become widespread in some parts of the world. Not being able of reversing the
situation in the even of problems is irresponsible. Other major aspects are the
impacts on the environment (such as insects building up resistances, the loss of
biodiversity, the increase in chemical products employed) with indirect
repercussions on health and/or future food production. Lastly, thoughts for
discussion are added concerning food safety in terms of food availability and
food sovereignty, given that the transgenic seed and related agrochemicals market
is currently cornered by five large-scale transnational companies. The conclusion
entails an analysis of biotechnological agriculture's contribution to
sustainability.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 15913060 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

267: Appetite. 2005 Aug;45(1):47-50.

Perceived naturalness and acceptance of genetically modified food.

Tenbö¼lt P, de Vries NK, Dreezens E, Martijn C.

Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Maastricht University, P.O.
Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. p.tenbult@gvo.unimaas.nl

This study examines people's acceptance of genetically modified (GM) food.
Results suggest that GM acceptance depends most on how natural the genetically
modified product is perceived and not directly on how natural the non-GM product
is seen. A GM product that is perceived as more natural is more likely to be
accepted than a GM product that is perceived as less natural. The extent to which
GM affects the perceived naturalness of a product partly depends on the kind of
product.

PMID: 15896875 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

268: Kennedy Inst Ethics J. 2005 Mar;15(1):57-76.

Germ-line enhancement of humans and non-humans.

Loftis JR.

Department of Philosophy, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY, USA.

The current difference in attitude toward germ-line enhancement in humans and
nonhumans is unjustified. Society should be more cautious in modifying the genes
of nonhumans and more bold in thinking about modifying our own genome. I identify
four classes of arguments pertaining to germ-line enhancement: safety arguments,
justice arguments, trust arguments, and naturalness arguments. The first three
types are compelling, but do not distinguish between human and nonhuman cases.
The final class of argument would justify a distinction between human and
nonhuman germ-line enhancement; however, this type of argument fails and,
therefore, the discrepancy in attitude toward human and nonhuman germ-line
enhancement is unjustified.

PMID: 15881796 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

269: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Feb;46(1):J4-7.

Current status of regulation on GM food in Korea.

Park SH.

Korea Foof and Drug Administration: 5, Nokbun-dong, Eunpyung-gu, Seoul, Korea.

PMID: 15881254 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

270: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Feb;46(1):J1-3.

[The present condition and a view of the food inspection using the invader
method]

[Article in Japanese]

Hanazawa R, Yamaguchi T.

BML Food Science, Inc.: 1491, Matoba, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama 350-1101, Japan.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15881253 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

271: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Feb;46(1):21-7.

[Laboratory-performance study of the notified methods to detect genetically
modified papaya (55-1)]

[Article in Japanese]

Kikuchi H, Watanabe T, Kasama K, Wakui C, Matsuki A, Akiyama H, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

To investigate important factors affecting the reliability of the analytical
results, proficiency tests were attempted for the histochemical method (GUS
method) and the qualitative PCR method (PCR method) to detect genetically
modified papaya (55-1) in the Japanease official method. The test samples were
distributed to twenty-three laboratories that participated in the study and were
examined according to the protocol. All the data collected from participating
laboratories were statistically analyzed. In the PCR method, one negative sample
was detected as positive using detection primers in one laboratory, though the
sample was negative when checked using confirmation primers. Contamination might
have occurred in the step of the preparation of the PCR sample solution using
detection primers. In the GUS method, all the test samples were identified as
expected. Thus, all the laboratories reported correct results overall.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 15881251 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

272: Risk Anal. 2005 Apr;25(2):467-79.

Using surveys in public participation processes for risk decision making: the
case of the 2003 British GM Nation? Public debate.

Pidgeon NF, Poortinga W, Rowe G, Jones TH, Walls J, O'Riordan T.

Centre for Environmental Risk, School of Environmental Sciences, University of
East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK. n.pidgeon@uea.ac.uk

This article takes as its case study the "GM Nation?" public debate, a major
participation process on the commercialization of agricultural biotechnology,
which occurred in Britain during the summer of 2003. We investigate possible
self-selection biases in over 36,000 open questionnaire responses on the risks
and benefits of genetically modified crops and food obtained during GM Nation? A
comparison sample of equivalent responses from a statistically representative
sample (n = 1,363) of the British general public obtained shortly after the
conclusion of the debate is reported. This comparison shows that the GM Nation?
open responses were indeed not fully representative of British "public opinion"
regarding agricultural biotechnology. Rather, such opinion is not a unitary
whole, but fragmented, with considerable ambivalence coexisting alongside
outright opposition to GM agriculture. The methodological implications for
multistage participation processes are discussed: in particular, the need to
anticipate outcomes of complex design decisions, and to include representative
public surveys as standard where measures of broader public attitudes to risk are
an important objective.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15876218 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

273: Nature. 2005 May 5;435(7038):3.

Pesticide results help China edge transgenic rice towards market.

Cyranoski D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15874979 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

274: Trends Biotechnol. 2005 May;23(5):222-4.

Genetically modified organisms and the EU.

Jank B, Rath J, Spö¶k A.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 15865998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

275: J AOAC Int. 2005 Mar-Apr;88(2):654-64.

Detection of genetically modified corn (Bt176) in spiked cow blood samples by
polymerase chain reaction and immunoassay methods.

Petit L, Baraige F, Bertheau Y, Brunschwig P, Diolez A, Duhem K, Duplan MN, Fach
P, Kobilinsky A, Lamart S, Schattner A, Martin P.

Agence Franö§aise de Sö©curitö© Sanitaire des Aliments, Unitö© d'Etude Molö©culaire
des Contaminants Biologiques Alimentaires (EBA), 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
l.petit@afssa.fr

The fate of DNA and protein transgenic sequences in products derived from animals
fed transgenic crops has recently raised public interest. Sensitive molecular
tests targeting the Bt176 genetic construct and the transgenic Cry1Ab protein
were developed to determine whether plant sequences, especially transgenic
sequences, are present in animal products. A protocol for total DNA extraction
and purification from cow whole blood samples was first drawn up and assessed by
spiking with known amounts of DNA from Bt176 maize. The limit of detection for
transgenic sequences (35S promoter and Bt176-specific junction sequence) was
determined by both the polymerase chain reaction-enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay (PCR-ELISA) and the 5'-nuclease PCR assay. Four additional PCR systems were
built to substantiate the results. The first detects a mono-copy maize-specific
sequence (ADH promoter). Two others target multi-copy sequences from plant
nucleus (26S rRNA gene) and chloroplast (psaB gene). The last one, used as a
positive control, targets a mono-copy animal sequence (alpha(s1)-casein gene).
Both methods detected a minimum spiking at 25 copies of Bt176 maize/mL in 10 mL
whole blood samples. The sandwich ELISA kit used detected down to 1 ng transgenic
Cry1Ab protein/mL spiked whole blood.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15861534 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

276: Science. 2005 Apr 29;308(5722):688-90.

Comment in:
Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):231-3; author reply 231-3. Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):231-3; author reply 231-3. Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):231-3; author reply 231-3.

Insect-resistant GM rice in farmers' fields: assessing productivity and health
effects in China.

Huang J, Hu R, Rozelle S, Pray C.

Center for Chinese Agricultural Policy, Institute of Geographical Sciences and
Natural Resource Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Jia 11, Datun Road,
Beijing 100101, China. jkhuang.ccap@igsnrr.ac.cn

Although no country to date has released a major genetically modified (GM) food
grain crop, China is on the threshold of commercializing GM rice. This paper
studies two of the four GM varieties that are now in farm-level preproduction
trials, the last step before commercialization. Farm surveys of randomly selected
farm households that are cultivating the insect-resistant GM rice varieties,
without the aid of experimental station technicians, demonstrate that when
compared with households cultivating non-GM rice, small and poor farm households
benefit from adopting GM rice by both higher crop yields and reduced use of
pesticides, which also contribute to improved health.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15860626 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

277: J AOAC Int. 2005 Mar-Apr;88(2):536-46.

Characterization and event specific-detection by quantitative real-time PCR of
T25 maize insert.

Collonnier C, Schattner A, Berthier G, Boyer F, Couö©-Philippe G, Diolez A, Duplan
MN, Fernandez S, Kebdani N, Kobilinsky A, Romaniuk M, de Beuckeleer M, de Loose
M, Windels P, Bertheau Y.

Laboratoire de Mö©thodologies de la Dö©tection des OGM, Institut National de la
Recherche Agronomique, Route de Saint Cyr, Versailles, France.

T25 is one of the 4 maize transformation events from which commercial lines have
so far been authorized in Europe. It was created by polyethylene glycol-mediated
transformation using a construct bearing one copy of the synthetic pat gene
associated with both promoter and terminator of the 35S ribosomal gene from
cauliflower mosaic virus. In this article, we report the sequencing of the whole
T25 insert and the characterization of its integration site by using a genome
walking strategy. Our results confirmed that one intact copy of the initial
construct had been integrated in the plant genome. They also revealed, at the 5'
junction of the insert, the presence of a second truncated 35S promoter, probably
resulting from rearrangements which may have occurred before or during
integration of the plasmid DNA. The analysis of the junction fragments showed
that the integration site of the insert presented high homologies with the Huck
retrotransposon family. By using one primer annealing in the maize genome and the
other in the 5' end of the integrated DNA, we developed a reliable event-specific
detection system for T25 maize. To provide means to comply with the European
regulation, a real-time PCR test was designed for specific quantitation of T25
event by using Taqman chemistry.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15859082 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

278: Genewatch. 2005 Jan-Feb;18(1):12-4, 18.

The genetic bill of rights: advancing a rights platform in biotechnology.

Krimksy S, Shorett P.

Council for Responsible Genetics (CRG) Board, USA.

PMID: 15838997 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

279: Nature. 2005 Apr 14;434(7035):807.

Comment in:
Nature. 2005 Jun 2;435(7042):561.

Don't rely on Uncle Sam.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15829921 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

280: J Anim Sci. 2005 May;83(5):1068-74.

Glufosinate herbicide-tolerant (LibertyLink) rice vs. conventional rice in diets
for growing-finishing swine.

Cromwell GL, Henry BJ, Scott AL, Gerngross MF, Dusek DL, Fletcher DW.

University of Kentucky, Lexington, 40546, USA. gcromwel@uky.edu

Genetically modified (GM) rice (LibertyLink, event LLRICE62) that is tolerant to
glufosinate ammonium (Liberty) herbicide was compared with a near-isogenic (NI)
conventional medium-grain brown rice (cultivar, Bengal) and a commercially milled
long-grain brown rice in diets for growing-finishing pigs. The GM and NI rice
were grown in 2000. The GM rice was from fields treated (GM+) or not treated
(GM-) with glufosinate herbicide. The GM- and NI rice were grown using herbicide
regimens typical of southern United States rice production practices. The four
rice grains were similar in composition. Growing-finishing pigs (n = 96) were fed
fortified rice-soybean meal diets containing the four different rice grains from
25 to 106 kg BW. Diets contained 0.99% lysine initially (growing phase), with
lysine decreased to 0.80% (early finishing phase) and 0.65% (late finishing
phase), when pigs reached 51 and 77 kg, respectively. The percentage of rice in
the four diets was constant during each of the three phases (72.8, 80.0, and
85.8% for the growing, early-finishing, and late-finishing phases, respectively).
There were six pen replicates (three pens of barrows and three pens of gilts) and
four pigs per pen for each dietary treatment. All pigs were slaughtered at the
termination of the study to collect carcass data. At the end of the 98-d
experiment, BW gain, feed intake (as-fed basis), and feed:gain ratio did not
differ (P > 0.05) for pigs fed the GM+ vs. conventional rice diets, but growth
performance traits of pigs fed the GM+ rice diets were superior (P < 0.05) to
those of pigs fed the GM- rice diet (ADG = 0.86, 0.79, 0.81, and 0.85 kg/d; ADFI
= 2.41, 2.49, 2.37, and 2.45 kg/d; feed:gain = 2.80, 3.17, 2.95, and 2.89 for
GM+, GM-, NI, and commercially milled rice, respectively). Carcass traits
(adjusted for final BW) did not differ (P = 0.10) among treatments (hot carcass
yield = 73.5, 72.6, 72.6, and 73.2%; 10th-rib backfat = 23.0, 22.7, 21.3, and
23.8 mm; LM area = 38.6, 38.0, 38.2, and 38.1 cm(2); carcass fat-free lean =
50.5, 50.5, 51.2, and 50.0%). Gilts grew slower (P < 0.05) and were leaner (P <
0.05) than barrows. Responses to type of rice did not differ between barrows and
gilts, with no evidence of a diet x gender interaction (P = 0.50) for any trait.
The results indicate that the glufosinate herbicide-tolerant rice was similar in
composition and nutritional value to conventional rice for growing-finishing
pigs.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 15827252 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

281: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Apr 20;53(8):3041-52.

Event-specific plasmid standards and real-time PCR methods for transgenic Bt11,
Bt176, and GA21 maize and transgenic GT73 canola.

Taverniers I, Windels P, Vaö¯tilingom M, Milcamps A, Van Bockstaele E, Van den
Eede G, De Loose M.

Department for Plant Genetics and Breeding, Centre for Agricultural Research,
Caritasstraat 21, B-9090 Melle, Belgium. i.taverniers@clo.fgov.be

Since the 18th of April 2004, two new regulations, EC/1829/2003 on genetically
modified food and feed products and EC/1830/2003 on traceability and labeling of
GMOs, are in force in the EU. This new, comprehensive regulatory framework
emphasizes the need of an adequate tracing system. Unique identifiers, such as
the transgene genome junction region or a specific rearrangement within the
transgene DNA, should form the basis of such a tracing system. In this study, we
describe the development of event-specific tracing systems for transgenic maize
lines Bt11, Bt176, and GA21 and for canola event GT73. Molecular characterization
of the transgene loci enabled us to clone an event-specific sequence into a
plasmid vector, to be used as a marker, and to develop line-specific primers.
Primer specificity was tested through qualitative PCRs and dissociation curve
analysis in SYBR Green I real-time PCRs. The primers were then combined with
event-specific TaqMan probes in quantitative real-time PCRs. Calibration curves
were set up both with genomic DNA samples and the newly synthesized plasmid DNA
markers. It is shown that cloned plasmid GMO target sequences are perfectly
suitable as unique identifiers and quantitative calibrators. Together with an
event-specific primer pair and a highly specific TaqMan probe, the plasmid
markers form crucial components of a unique and straighforward tracing system for
Bt11, Bt176, and GA21 maize and GT73 canola events.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15826057 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

282: Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Apr;23(4):403.

Monsanto branches out into fruits and vegetables.

Herrera S.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15815653 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

283: Allergy. 2005 May;60(5):559-64.

Risks of allergic reactions to biotech proteins in foods: perception and reality.

Lehrer SB, Bannon GA.

Section of Clinical Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology, Tulane University
School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.

In recent years, significant attention has been paid to the use of biotechnology
to improve the quality and quantity of the food supply due in part to the
projected growth in the world population, plus limited options available for
increasing the amount of land under cultivation. Alterations in the food supply
induced by classical breeding and selection methods typically involve the
movement of large portions of genomic DNA between different plant varieties to
obtain the desired trait. This is in contrast to techniques of genetic
engineering which allows the selection and transfers specific genes from one
species to another. The primary allergy risk to consumers from genetically
modified crops may be placed into one of three categories. The first represents
the highest risk to the allergic consumer is the transfer of known allergen or
cross-reacting allergen into a food crop. The second category, representing an
intermediate risk to the consumer, is the potential for replacing the endogenous
allergenicity of a genetically-modified crop. The last category involves
expression of novel proteins that may become allergens in man and generally
represents a relatively low risk to the consumer, although this possibility has
received attention of late. In order to mitigate the three categories of
potential allergy risk associated with biotech crops, all genes introduced into
food crops undergo a series of tests designed to determine if the biotech protein
exhibits properties of known food allergens. The result of this risk assessment
process to date is that no biotech proteins in foods have been documented to
cause allergic reactions. These results indicate that the current assessment
process is robust, although as science of allergy and allergens evolves, new
information and new technology should help further the assessment process for
potential allergenicity.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15813800 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

284: Nature. 2005 Mar 31;434(7033):548.

Stray seeds had antibiotic-resistance genes.

Macilwain C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15800583 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

285: Nature. 2005 Mar 24;434(7032):423.

US launches probe into sales of unapproved transgenic corn.

Macilwain C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15791213 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

286: Risk Anal. 2005 Feb;25(1):199-209.

Trust in risk regulation: cause or consequence of the acceptability of GM food?

Poortinga W, Pidgeon NF.

Centre for Environmental Risk, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
w.poortinga@uea.ac.uk

Although there is ample empirical evidence that trust in risk regulation is
strongly related to the perception and acceptability of risk, it is less clear
what the direction of this relationship is. This article explores the nature of
the relationship, using three separate data sets on perceptions of genetically
modified (GM) food among the British public. The article has two discrete but
closely interrelated objectives. First, it compares two models of trust. More
specifically, it investigates whether trust is the cause (causal chain account)
or the consequence (associationist view) of the acceptability of GM food. Second,
this study explores whether the affect heuristic can be applied to a wider number
of risk-relevant concepts than just perceived risk and benefit. The results
suggest that, rather than a determinant, trust is an expression or indicator of
the acceptability of GM food. In addition, and as predicted, "affect" accounts
for a large portion of the variance between perceived risk, perceived benefit,
trust in risk regulation, and acceptability. Overall, the results support the
associationist view that specific risk judgments are driven by more general
evaluative judgments The implications of these results for risk communication and
policy are discussed.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15787769 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

287: J Chromatogr A. 2005 Feb 11;1065(1):107-13.

Detection of processed genetically modified food using CIM monolithic columns for
DNA isolation.

Jerman S, Podgornik A, Cankar K, Cadet N, Skrt M, Zel J, Raspor P.

Department of Food Science and Technology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of
Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, S-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.

The availability of sufficient quantities of DNA of adequate quality is crucial
in polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods for genetically modified food
detection. In this work, the suitability of anion-exchange CIM (Convective
Interaction Media; BIA Separations, Ljubljana, Slovenia) monolithic columns for
isolation of DNA from food was studied. Maize and its derivates corn meal and
thermally pretreated corn meal were chosen as model food. Two commercially
available CIM disk columns were tested: DEAE (diethylaminoethyl) and QA
(quaternary amine). Preliminary separations were performed with standard solution
of salmon DNA at different pH values and different NaCl concentrations in mobile
phase. DEAE groups and pH 8 were chosen for further isolations of DNA from a
complex matrix-food extract. The quality and quantity of isolated DNA were tested
on agarose gel electrophoresis, with UV-scanning spectrophotometry, and by
amplification with real-time PCR. DNA isolated in this way was of suitable
quality for further PCR analyses. The described method is also applicable for DNA
isolation from processed foods with decreased DNA content. Furthermore, it is
more effective and less time-consuming in comparison with the existing proposed
methods for isolation of DNA from plant-derived foods.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15782956 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

288: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2005;12(1):56.

Understanding Western Australian consumers' views: acceptance of food produced
using gene technology. A case of herbicide tolerant canola (Brassica napus L.).

Baumann A, Osman M, Burton M, Lumley S.

School of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of Western Australia,
Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia. eilif@gmx.net

PMID: 15768741 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

289: Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Mar;23(3):283-5.

Erratum in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Apr;23(4):488.

Clone on the range: What animal biotech is bringing to the table.

Dove AW.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15765075 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

290: Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Mar;23(3):281.

Agbio keeps on growing.

Lawrence S.

PMID: 15765074 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

291: J AOAC Int. 2005 Jan-Feb;88(1):136-55.

Polymerase chain reaction technology as analytical tool in agricultural
biotechnology.

Lipp M, Shillito R, Giroux R, Spiegelhalter F, Charlton S, Pinero D, Song P.

Monsanto Co., 800 N. Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63167, USA.
markus.lipp@monsanto.com

The agricultural biotechnology industry applies polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
technology at numerous points in product development. Commodity and food
companies as well as third-party diagnostic testing companies also rely on PCR
technology for a number of purposes. The primary use of the technology is to
verify the presence or absence of genetically modified (GM) material in a product
or to quantify the amount of GM material present in a product. This article
describes the fundamental elements of PCR analysis and its application to the
testing of grains. The document highlights the many areas to which attention must
be paid in order to produce reliable test results. These include sample
preparation, method validation, choice of appropriate reference materials, and
biological and instrumental sources of error. The article also discusses issues
related to the analysis of different matrixes and the effect they may have on the
accuracy of the PCR analytical results.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15759736 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

292: Riv Biol. 2004 Aug-Dec;97(3):379-408.

Functional dynamics of living systems and genetic engineering.

Buiatti M.

Department of Animal Biology and Genetics, Firenze (Italy).

The discussion on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's) has been centred mainly
on the nature and effects on economy, human health, environment, of the few
transgenic plant lines present in the market in the last eight years. On the
contrary, the present paper starts with a discussion of some of the relevant
changes in our basic knowledge of the structure and dynamics of living systems in
the last twenty years. Contemporary Biology is then compared with what may be
called the "modern paradigm" of life sciences on which present day GMO's are
conceptually based. Technical, environmental, social and economic problems
deriving from the unexpected, persistent prevalence of the old fashioned modern
vision of life in the "spirit of time" will be thoroughly discussed with a
particular attention to the virtualisation process of GMO's and the effects of
the prevalence over economic, social, environmental reality of their symbolic
values.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15754592 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

293: J Agric Environ Ethics. 1999;11(3):197-217.

Ethical issues in livestock cloning.

Thompson PB.

Department of Philosophy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1360, USA.
pault@purdue.edu

Although cloning may eventually become an important technology for livestock
production, four ethical issues must be addressed before the practice becomes
widespread. First, researchers must establish that the procedure is not
detrimental to the health or well-being of affected animals. Second, animal
research institutions should evaluate the net social benefits to livestock
producers by weighing the benefits to producers against the opportunity cost of
research capacity lost to biomedical projects. Third, scientists should consider
the indirect effects of cloning research on the larger ethical issues surrounding
human cloning. Finally, the market structure for products of cloned animals
should protect individual choice, and should recognize that many individuals find
the prospect of cloning (or consuming cloned animals) repugnant. Analysis of
these four issues is complicated by spurious arguments alleging that cloning will
have a negative impact on environment and genetic diversity.

PMID: 15719505 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

294: Eur J Histochem. 2004 Oct-Dec;48(4):448-54.

Ultrastructural analysis of testes from mice fed on genetically modified soybean.

Vecchio L, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Martin TE, Biggiogera M.

We have considered the possible effects of a diet containing genetically modified
(GM) soybean on mouse testis. This organ, in fact, is a well known bioindicator
and it has already been utilized, for instance, to monitor pollution by heavy
metals. In this preliminary study, we have focussed our attention on Sertoli
cells, spermatogonia and spermatocytes by means of immunoelectron microscopy. Our
results point out that the immunolabelling for Sm antigen, hnRNPs, SC35 and RNA
Polymerase II is decreased in 2 and 5 month-old GM-fed mice, and is restored to
normal at 8 months. In GM-fed mice of all ages considered, the number of
perichromatin granules is higher and the nuclear pore density lower. Moreover, we
found enlargements in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum in GM-fed mice Sertoli
cells. A possible role played by traces of the herbicide to which the soybean is
resistant is discussed.

Publication Types:
Letter
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15718213 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

295: McGeorge Law Rev. 2000 Fall;32(1):89-110.

Biotechnology and the creation of ethics.

Coletta RR.

University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, USA.

PMID: 15709268 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

296: Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Feb;23(2):170.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Dec;22(12):1503-5.

Pharmacrops and bioterror.

Wuerthele S.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15696140 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

297: Public Health. 2005 Feb;119(2):75-6.

Future imperfect.

Mackie P, Sim F.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15694953 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

298: Biotechnol Adv. 2005 Mar;23(2):93-6.

Is the battle over genetically modified foods finally over?

Saleh-Lakha S, Glick BR.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15694121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

299: Przegl Lek. 2004;61 Suppl 3:22-4.

[Genetically modified food and allergy]

[Article in Polish]

Wiackowski SK.

Katedra Ekologii i Ochrony Srodowiska, Akademia Swietokrzyska, Kielce.
skwiack@wp.pl

Author discusses both successes and threats related with introduction of new
organisms to the natural environment. Attention was sacrificed not only profits
but also different threat influencing environment and human health.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 15682936 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

300: J AOAC Int. 2004 Nov-Dec;87(6):1466-74.

Effects of chemical, physical, and technological processes on the nature of food
allergens.

Poms RE, Anklam E.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements, Retieseweg, 2440 Geel, Belgium.

A review is presented of studies of different processing techniques and their
effect on the allergenicity and antigenicity of certain allergenic foods. An
overview of investigated technologies is given with regard to their impact on the
protein structure and their potential application in the production of
hypoallergenic foods. The use of physical processes (such as heating, high
pressure, microparticulation, ultrafiltration, and irradiation), chemical
processes (such as proteolysis, fermentation, and refining by extraction), and
biotechnological approaches, as well as the effects of these processes on
individual allergenic foods, are included. Additionally, the implications of food
processing for food allergen analysis with respect to food safety assessment and
industrial quality control are briefly discussed.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15675460 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

301: J AOAC Int. 2004 Nov-Dec;87(6):1423-32.

Assessing the allergenicity of proteins introduced into genetically modified
crops using specific human IgE assays.

Goodman RE, Leach JN.

Monsanto Co, St Louis, MO 63167, USA. rgoodman2@unlnotes.unl.edu

Global commercial production of genetically modified (GM) crops has grown to over
67 million hectares annually, primarily of herbicide-tolerant and insect
protection crop varieties. GM crops are produced by the insertion of specific
genes that either encode a protein, or a regulatory RNA sequence. A comprehensive
safety evaluation is conducted for each new commercial GM crop, including an
assessment of the potential allergenicity of any newly introduced protein. If the
gene was derived from an allergenic organism, or the protein sequence is highly
similar to a known allergen, immunoassays, e.g., Western blot assays and
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay tests, are performed to identify
protein-specific IgE binding by sera of individuals allergic to the gene source,
or the source of the sequence-matched allergen. Although such assays are commonly
used to identify previously unknown allergens, criteria have not been established
to demonstrate that a protein is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. This
review discusses factors that affect the predictive value of these tests,
including clinical selection criteria for serum donors, selection of blocking
reagents to reduce nonspecific antibody binding, inhibition assays to verify
specificity of binding, and scientifically justified limits of detection
(sensitivity) in the absence of information regarding biological thresholds.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15675455 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

302: Transgenic Res. 2004 Dec;13(6):583-91.

Re-interpreting some common objections to three transgenic applications: GM
foods, xenotransplantation and germ line gene modification (GLGM).

Carter L.

Office of Public Policy and Ethics, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The
University of Queensland, Australia. l.carter@imb.uq.edu.au

Concerns about safety to the individual, the wider community and the potential
impact on the environment are typical consequentialist objections to transgenesis
that feature prominently in public debates about its ethical acceptability. I
consider some of these claims with respect to their motivation, validity and
their overall influence on public policy using three well-discussed applications
of transgenesis: GM foods, xenotransplantation and germ line gene modification
(GLGM).

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15672839 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

303: Risk Anal. 2004 Dec;24(6):1515-27.

Elicitation of expert judgments of uncertainty in the risk assessment of
herbicide-tolerant oilseed crops.

Krayer von Krauss MP, Casman EA, Small MJ.

Department of Environment and Resources, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby,
Denmark. mkk@er.dtu.dk

One of the lay public's concerns about genetically modified (GM) organisms (GMO)
and related emerging technologies is that not all the important risks are
evaluated or even identified yet--and that ignorance of the unanticipated risks
could lead to severe environmental or public health consequences. To some degree,
even the scientists who participated in the analysis of the risks from GMOs
(arguably the people most qualified to critique these analyses) share some of
this concern. To formally explore the uncertainty in the risk assessment of a GM
crop, we conducted detailed interviews of seven leading experts on GM oilseed
crops to obtain qualitative and quantitative information on their understanding
of the uncertainties associated with the risks to agriculture from GM oilseed
crops (canola or rapeseed). The results of these elicitations revealed three
issues of potential concern that are currently left outside the scope of risk
assessments. These are (1) the potential loss of the agronomic and environmental
benefits of glyphosate (a herbicide widely used in no-till agriculture) due to
the combined problems of glyphosate-tolerant canola and wheat volunteer plants,
(2) the growing problem of seed lot contamination, and (3) the potential market
impacts. The elicitations also identified two areas where knowledge is
insufficient. These are: the occurrence of hybridization between canola and wild
relatives and the ability of the hybrids to perpetuate themselves in nature, and
the fate of the herbicide-tolerance genes in soil and their interaction with soil
microfauna and -flora. The methodological contribution of this work is a formal
approach to analyzing the uncertainty surrounding complex problems.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15660608 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

304: Risk Anal. 2004 Dec;24(6):1475-86.

Trust, the asymmetry principle, and the role of prior beliefs.

Poortinga W, Pidgeon NF.

Centre for Environmental Risk, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
w.poortinga@uea.ac.uk

Within the risk literature there is an ongoing debate on whether trust is
vulnerable or enduring. Previous research on nuclear energy by Slovic in 1993 has
shown that negative events have much greater impact on self-reported trust than
do positive events. Slovic attributes this to the asymmetry principle:
specifically, that trust is much easier to destroy than to create. In a
questionnaire survey concerning genetically modified (GM) food in Britain (n=
396) we similarly find that negative events have a greater impact on trust than
positive events. Because public opinion in Britain is skewed in the direction of
opposition toward GM food, the pattern of results could either be caused by the
fact that negative information is more informative than positive information (a
negativity bias) or reflect the influence of people's prior attitudes toward the
issue (a confirmatory bias). The results were largely in line with the
confirmatory bias hypothesis: participants with clear positive or negative
beliefs interpreted events in line with their existing attitude position.
However, for participants with intermediate attitudes, negative items still had
greater impact than the positive. This latter finding suggests that, congruent
with the negativity bias hypothesis, negative information may still be more
informative than positive information for undecided people. The study also
identified the labeling of GM products, consulting the public, making
biotechnology companies liable for any damage, and making a test available to
detect GM produce as being particularly important preconditions for maintaining
trust in the regulation of agricultural biotechnology.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15660605 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

305: Soc Sci Med. 2005 Apr;60(7):1603-12.

Psychosocial and cultural factors affecting the perceived risk of genetically
modified food: an overview of the literature.

Finucane ML, Holup JL.

Center for Health Research, Hawai'i Kaiser Permanente Hawai'i, 501 Alakawa
Street, Suite 201, Honolulu, Hawai'i 96817, USA. melissa.l.finucane@kp.org

The rapid globalization of the world economy has increased the need for an astute
understanding of cultural differences in perceptions, values, and ways of
thinking about new food technologies. In this paper, we describe how
socio-psychological and cultural factors may affect public perceptions of the
risk of genetically modified (GM) food. We present psychological, sociological,
and anthropological research on risk perception as a framework for understanding
cross-national differences in reactions to GM food. Differences in the cultural
values and circumstances of people in the US, European countries, and the
developing world are examined. The implications of cultural theory for risk
communication and decision making about GM food are discussed and directions for
future research highlighted.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
Review

PMID: 15652691 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

306: J Anim Sci. 2005 Feb;83(2):400-7.

Nutrient digestibility in sheep fed diets containing Roundup Ready or
conventional fodder beet, sugar beet, and beet pulp.

Hartnell GF, Hvelplund T, Weisbjerg MR.

Monsanto Co., St. Louis, MO 63167, USA. gary.f.hartnell@monsanto.com


The objective of this digestibility assessment was to determine whether there are
significant differences in the digestibility of Roundup Ready
(glyphosate-tolerant) and conventional sugar beet, fodder beet, and beet pulp
produced from sugar beet varieties when fed to sheep (seven wethers per treatment
group). Three experiments were conducted in this assessment. Experiment 1 (35
wethers) compared one glyphosate-tolerant fodder beet variety with four
conventional varieties, Exp. 2 (42 wethers) compared one glyphosate-tolerant
sugar beet variety with five conventional varieties, and Exp. 3 (42 wethers)
compared beet pulp derived from glyphosate-tolerant sugar beet with beet pulp
from five European locations. The experimental phase consisted of a 2-wk
preliminary period followed by a 1-wk collection period for Exp. 1 and 2, and a
1-wk preliminary period followed by a 1-wk digestibility collection period for
Exp. 3. Diets were comprised of grass hay at 30, 30, and 20% of DM for Exp. 1, 2,
and 3, respectively, with the balance being beet components. Urea and sodium
sulfate were supplemented (8 and 2.9 g, respectively, for Exp. 1 and 2; and 6 g
and 2.16 g, respectively, for Exp. 3) to supply sufficient dietary N and S. Each
diet was fed to sheep (96 +/- 0.9 kg) in the three experiments to at or near
maintenance energy levels. Treatment differences were considered significant at P
< 0.05. Apparent digestibilities of DM, OM, CP, NDF, ADF, and DE for
glyphosate-tolerant fodder and sugar beets did not differ from those for
commercial fodder and sugar beets in Exp. 1 and 2. There were differences (P <
0.05) in DM, OM, CP, NDF, ADF, and DE digestibilities influenced by the different
varieties of beet pulp in Exp. 3, but these were not unique to just the Roundup
Ready sugar beet variety. Digestibilities and feeding values of Roundup Ready
fodder beet, sugar beet, and beet pulp produced from Roundup Ready sugar beet
varieties were not influenced by the introduction of the Roundup Ready trait
compared with conventional varieties.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15644513 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

307: J Sep Sci. 2004 Dec;27(17-18):1551-6.

DNA separation by capillary electrophoresis with hydrophilic substituted
celluloses as coating and sieving polymers. Application to the analysis of
genetically modified meals.

Giovannoli C, Anfossi L, Tozzi C, Giraudi G, Vanni A.

Department of Analytical Chemistry, Via P Giuria 5, University of Turin, 10125
Turin, Italy. cristina.giovannoli@unito.it

A coating procedure based on the physical adsorption of hydroxypropyl cellulose
onto the wall of a capillary column has been successfully used for the separation
of DNA fragments up to 500 bp. The method uses a running Tris-phosphate-EDTA
buffer containing 2-hydroxyethyl cellulose as sieving polymer. The separation
procedure shows good reproducibility (measured as RSD%) for consecutive runs
(<0.64), for different days (< 1.15) and capillaries (<2.15), short analysis
times, and a long coating lifetime. Good reproducibility and efficiency are even
achieved by performing the separation in the presence of additives such as
ethidium bromide and mannitol. The method is applied to the detection of GMOs in
soybean and maize meals with an accurate evaluation of the length of DNA
sequences, previously amplified by polymerase chain reaction.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15638166 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

308: Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Jan;23(1):27-33.

Erratum in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2005 Mar;23(3):366.

Poorer nations turn to publicly developed GM crops.

Cohen JI.

International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Environment and Production
Technology Division, 2033 K Street, NW, Washington, DC, USA. j.cohen@cgiar.org

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15637614 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

309: Trends Biotechnol. 2005 Jan;23(1):17-21.

Transgenes for tea?

Heritage J.

School of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
j.heritage@leeds.ac.uk

So far, no compelling scientific evidence has been found to suggest that the
consumption of transgenic or genetically modified (GM) plants by animals or
humans is more likely to cause harm than is the consumption of their conventional
counterparts. Despite this lack of scientific evidence, the economic prospects
for GM plants are probably limited in the short term and there is public
opposition to the technology. Now is a good time to address several issues
concerning GM plants, including the potential for transgenes to migrate from GM
plants to gut microbes or to animal or human tissues, the consequences of
consuming GM crops, either as fresh plants or as silage, and the problems caused
by current legislation on GM labelling and beyond.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15629853 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

310: Med Mal Infect. 2004 Nov;34(11):522-9.

[Impact of genetic modifications on infectious diseases]

[Article in French]

Houdebine LM.

INRA, UMR Biologie du dö©veloppement et de la reproduction, 78312 Jouy-en-Josas,
France. houdebine@jouy.inra.fr

Genetic engineering offers the theoretical possibility to transfer any natural or
modified gene into any living organism. This generates new and diverse situations
which may contribute to the spreading of infectious diseases or on the contrary
to control them. Problems may theoretically come from uncontrolled genes
providing resistance to antibiotics, from the activation of genomic retroviral
sequences, from enhanced sensitivity of the organism to pathogens, as well as
from the generation of mutated microorganisms with a higher pathogenecity. On the
contrary, various genetic modifications may create organisms resistant to
infectious diseases, generate safe and efficient recombinant vaccines, or provide
patients with proteins which stimulate their defense mechanisms. The major
impacts of genetic modifications in the development of infectious diseases or on
the contrary in their eradication are analyzed in this article.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 15620056 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

311: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2005 Jan;381(1):72-4.

Reliable GMO analysis.

Trapmann S, Emons H.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements (IRMM), Retieseweg 111, Geel 2440, Belgium.
stefanie.trapmann@cec.eu.int

PMID: 15616785 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

312: Genet Mol Res. 2004 Sep 30;3(3):432-40.

Reduction of non-digestible oligosaccharides in soymilk: application of
engineered lactic acid bacteria that produce alpha-galactosidase.

LeBlanc JG, Silvestroni A, Connes C, Juillard V, de Giori GS, Piard JC, Sesma F.

Centro de Referencias para Lactobacilos (CERELA - CONICET), Chacabuco 145, (4000)
Tucumö¡n, Argentina.

Human consumption of soy-derived products has been limited by the presence of
non-digestible oligosaccharides (NDO), such as the alpha-galactooligosaccharides
raffinose and stachyose. Most mammals, including man, lack pancreatic
alpha-galactosidase (alpha-Gal), which is necessary for the hydrolysis of these
sugars. However, such NDO can be fermented by gas-producing microorganisms
present in the cecum and large intestine, which in turn can induce flatulence and
other gastrointestinal disorders in sensitive individuals.The use of
microorganisms expressing alpha-Gal is a promising solution to the elimination of
NDO before they reach the large intestine. In the present study, lactic acid
bacteria engineered to degrade NDO have been constructed and are being used as a
tool to evaluate this solution. The alpha-Gal structural genes from Lactobacillus
plantarum ATCC8014 (previously characterized in our laboratory) and from guar
have been cloned and expressed in Lactococcus lactis. The gene products were
directed to different bacterial compartments to optimize their possible
applications. The alpha-Gal-producing strains are being evaluated for their
efficiency in degrading raffinose and stachyose: i) in soymilk fermentation when
used as starters and ii) in situ in the upper gastrointestinal tract when
administered to animals orally, as probiotic preparations. The expected outcomes
and possible complications of this project are discussed.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15614733 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

313: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2004 Sep;33(5):565-9.

[Safety assessment of GM yeast feed additive with cecropin CAD gene]

[Article in Chinese]

Deng P, Fang S, Yang D, Jiang L, Yu X, Huang Y, Huang Z.

Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518020, China.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety of GM yeast feed additive with cecropin CAD and
to study and set up a model of Safety assessment for GM feed and detecting
method. METHODS: To ensure the safety of the GM products, it has been done that
to detect and value the safety of receptor organisms and expression products of
extrinsic gene, the genetic stability of biologic properties of genomic modified
yeast feed and condition of transfer and cumulation of anti-bacterial peptide and
its products in circumstance and the feeded animals. RESULT AND CONCLUSION: The
receptor animals and expression products of extrinic gene are safe, and the
genomic modified products have steady genetic characters. The cectopin CAD
neither cumulates in feeded animal nor releases into environment. The genomic
modified feed additive is safe.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15612481 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

314: Appetite. 2005 Feb;44(1):115-22.

Food and values: an examination of values underlying attitudes toward genetically
modified- and organically grown food products.

Dreezens E, Martijn C, Tenbö¼lt P, Kok G, de Vries NK.

Department of Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Maastricht
University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands.
e.dreezens@psychology.unimaas.nl

This study addresses which specific values play a role in predicting
participants' attitudes toward genetically modified food (GMF) and organically
grown food (OGF). The first central question is whether the attitudes towards GMF
and OGF are influenced by specific values and beliefs. The second central
question is whether the attitudes towards GMF and OGF are related to each other,
and whether the specific values underlying these two attitudes are also related
to each other. A total of 100 participants responded to the Schwartz Value Survey
and two questionnaires about GMF and organically grown food. When respondents
scored high on the value power (dominance, submission), they rated GMF positively
and OGF more negatively. Respondents who rated the value universalism (welfare
for all people and protection of nature) high, rated OGF as positive.
Furthermore, the relationship between attitudes and values was mediated by
beliefs. These findings imply a meaningful relationship between specific values,
beliefs, and these food-related attitudes, and suggest that values might play a
role in explaining attitudes toward GMF and OGF products.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15604038 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

315: Nature. 2004 Dec 16;432(7019):799.

Comment on:
Nature. 2004 Oct 21;431(7011):883.

Media affect opinions less than they would like.

Melchett P.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15602522 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

316: J Polit Philos. 2000 Jun;8(2):154-75.

Rights to life? On nature, property and biotechnology.

Meyer JM.

Goverment and Politics, Humboldt State University, USA.

PMID: 15586933 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

317: Sci Eng Ethics. 2004 Oct;10(4):705-16.

How Japanese students reason about agricultural biotechnology.

Maekawa F, Macer D.

Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Japan.

Many have claimed that education of the ethical issues raised by biotechnology is
essential in universities, but there is little knowledge of its effectiveness.
The focus of this paper is to investigate how university students assess the
information given in class to make their own value judgments and decisions
relating to issues of agricultural biotechnology, especially over genetically
modified organisms (GMOs). Analysis of homework reports related with agricultural
biotechnology after identification of key concepts and ideas in each student
report is presented. The ideas were sorted into different categories. The ideas
were compared with those in the reading materials using the same categories.
These categories included: concern about affects on humans, affects on the
environment, developing countries and starvation, trust in industry,
responsibility of scientists, risk perception, media influence, need for
(international) organizations or third parties, and information dissemination.
What was consistent through the different years was that more than half of the
students took a "neutral" position. A report was scored as "neutral" when the
report included both the positive and negative side of an issue, or when the
student could not make a definite decision about the use of GMOs and GM food.
While it may be more difficult to defend a strong ''for" or "against" position,
some students used logical arguments successfully in doing so. Sample comments
are presented to depict how Japanese students see agricultural technology, and
how they value its application, with comparisons to the general social attitudes
towards biotechnology.

PMID: 15586729 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

318: Arh Hig Rada Toksikol. 2004 Nov;55(4):301-12.

[Genetically modified organisms in food--production, detection and risks]

[Article in Croatian]

Zeljeziä‡ D.

Institut za medicinska istrazivanja i medicinu rada, Zagreb. dzeljezi@imi.hr

The first genetically modified plant (GMP) was a tobacco resistant to antibiotics
in 1983. In 1996, the first genetically altered crop, a delayed-ripening tomato
was commercially released. In the year 2003, the estimated global area of GM
crops for was 67.7 million hectares. To produce such a plant a gene of interest
has to be isolated from the donor. Together with a promoter, terminator sequence
and marker gene it has to be introduced into the plant cell which is then
stimulated to generate a whole GMP expressing new characteristics
(herbicide/insect resistance, delayed ripening). The last few months have seen a
strong public debate over genetically modified organisms which has raised
scientific, economic, political, and ethical issues. Some questions concerning
the safety of GMPs are still to be answered, and decisions about their future
should be based on scientifically validated information.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 15584557 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

319: Med Ethics (Burlingt, Mass). 2001 Fall;:6-7.

Reason and repugnance.

Callahan D, Magnus D.

The Hastings Center, Garrison, NY, USA.

PMID: 15584188 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

320: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Dec;22(12):1501; discussion 1501.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Sep;22(9):1055.

No Munich on GM crops.

Malvoisin P, Grausz JD.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15583648 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

321: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2004 Aug;45(4):207-11.

[Examination of DNA extract from kernels and processed foods using silica-base
resin]

[Article in Japanese]

Nakama A, Morishita F.

Nutrition College, Osaka Institute of Public Health and Environmental Sciences:
8-34, Tojo-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka 543-0026, Japan.

A rapid and simple DNA extraction method is needed to detect genetically modified
recombinant DNA in soybean kernels and processed foods. However, since various
kernels and processed foods differ greatly in form, a uniform DNA extraction
method has proved elusive. The silica-base resin DNA extraction method does not
use any organic solvent, and the operation is simple and the cost per extraction
is low, although the frequency of its use is very low and few domestic reports
exist. We therefore studied suitable conditions for a silica-base resin method.
We also developed the method to get more pure DNA from soybean kernels. The
silica-base resin method was found to be adequate for extracting DNA from various
processed foods for PCR amplification with endogenous gene primers. In the case
of DNA extraction from soybean kernels, pure DNA could be efficiently extracted
after pre-heating the soybean suspension in TNE buffer. The extracted DNA showed
higher ratios of absorption at 260 nm/280 nm and 260 nm/230 nm than those for
samples obtained with previous methods. Moreover, our observations suggested that
the extraction time could be reduced to within 30 min for processed foods such as
tofu.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 15568472 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

322: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2004 Aug;45(4):184-90.

[Detection of genetically modified organisms obtained from food samples ]

[Article in Japanese]

Monma K, Araki R, Ichikawa H, Sato M, Uno N, Sato K, Tobe T, Kuribara H, Matsuoka
T, Hino A, Saito K.

Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Public Health: 3-24-1, Hyakunin-cho, Shinjuku-ku,
Tokyo 169-0073, Japan.

Genetially modified organisms (GMOs) were explored in food samples obtained from
November 2000 to March 2003 in the Tokyo area by using PCR and real-time PCR
techniques. The existence of Roundup Ready Soybean (RRS) was surveyed in
processed foods derived from soybeans, such as tofu, boiled soybean, kinako,
nama-age, abura-age, natto, miso, soymilk and yuba. RRS was detected in 3 of 37
tofu, 2 of 3 nama-age, 2 of 3 yuba and 3 of 3 abura-age samples. The CBH351 in 70
processed corn foods, NewLeaf Plus and NewLeaf Y in 50 processed potato foods,
and 55-1 papaya in 16 papayas were surveyed. These GMOs were not detected among
the samples. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of RRS and genetically
modified (GM) corn were performed in soybean, corn and semi-processed corn
products such as corn meal, corn flour and corn grits. RRS was detected in 42 of
178 soybean samples, and the amount of RRS in RRS-positive samples was
determined. The content was in the range of 0.1-1.4% in identity-preserved
soybeans (non-GMO), and 49.8-78.8% in non-segregated soybeans. On the other hand,
GM corns were detected in 8 of 26 samples. The amount of GM corn in GM
corn-positive samples was in the range of 0.1-2.0%.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 15568468 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

323: Science. 2004 Nov 26;306(5701):1458-9.

Agriculture. China could be first nation to approve sale of GM rice.

Lei X.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15567824 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

324: Risk Anal. 2004 Oct;24(5):1385-93.

Psychological determinants of willingness to taste and purchase genetically
modified food.

Townsend E, Campbell S.

Institute for the Study of Genetics, Biorisks and Society and Department of
Philosophy, University of Nottingham, UK. Ellen.Townsend@nottingham.ac.uk

Decreasing acceptance of biotechnologies over time has been reported in Europe.
Studies claim that attitudes are negative, even hostile, and that people are very
worried about genetic engineering in food and medicine. However, such studies are
mostly based on surveys and these have significant methodological problems, such
as low response rates, which may indicate that only those with strong views
respond, thus biasing the sample. Here an alternative method, involving
"topic-blind" recruitment of participants and a behavioral measure (food
tasting), was used. We show that in a topic-blind sample of 100 individuals, 93%
willingly tasted and ate what they believed to be genetically modified (GM) food
in an experimental setting, and 48% said they would buy GM food in the future,
results that are surprising in the context of other reports about attitudes and
intentions toward GM food. Purchasers and nonpurchasers differed in their
attitudes toward GM food on key risk-related scales (particularly on a dread-not
dread scale--a measure of integral affect--and an ethical-unethical scale).
Despite these differences, however, and despite their negative attitude, most
nonpurchasers (85.7%) still tasted the GM apple. Incidental affect (state stress
and trait worry) was not found to influence risk-related judgments about GM food.
Integral affect (dread of GM plants and animals used for food) and concerns about
the future risks of GM animals in food were found to be key predictors of
willingness to purchase GM food.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15563302 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

325: Risk Anal. 2004 Oct;24(5):1369-84.

Effects of context and feelings on perceptions of genetically modified food.

Townsend E, Clarke DD, Travis B.

Institute of Genetics, Biorisks and Society and School of Psychology, University
of Nottingham, UK. Ellen.Townsend@nottingham.ac.uk

Recently, there has been a surge of interest in the role of feelings in framing
perceptions and decisions about risk, yet no study has specifically examined the
impact of feelings on perceptions/judgments about biotechnology. This exploratory
study investigated current perceptions of genetically modified (GM) food to
examine (1) the effects of context (making judgments about GM food at the same
time as rating other current areas of concern), and (2) the effect of feelings of
dread (integral affect) and background feelings of stress (negative incidental
affect) on risk judgments about GM food. An established psychometric method
(semantic differential task) used with a sample of 126 adults (recruited
"topic-blind," mostly from a student population) showed that, when rated in the
context of other current concerns such as human cloning and Creutzfeldt-Jakob
disease (CJD), there was less concern about GM food than might have been
anticipated. Participants were recruited "topic-blind" in order to ensure that
they were unaware that the focus of the research was on GM food specifically (and
thus preventing biased recruitment to the study). Relative to 19 other current
concerns GM food was "not dreaded," not viewed as "unethical," was judged as
"controllable," and was seen as the least "risky" of all the issues studied. GM
food was viewed as a "hot topic," a new risk, and as relatively unnatural
(although it was not the highest rated concern on this scale). Ratings of risks
across concerns by individuals experiencing high levels of negative incidental
affect (stress) did not differ significantly from those reporting low stress.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15563301 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

326: Risk Anal. 2004 Oct;24(5):1311-21.

Reactions to genetically modified food crops and how perception of risks and
benefits influences consumers' information gathering.

Wilson C, Evans G, Leppard P, Syrette J.

CSIRO, Health Sciences and Nutrition, PO Box 10041, Adelaide BC SA 5000.
Carlene.Wilson@csiro.au

Previous research has reported strong consumer perception that genetically
modified (GM) food crops may lead to adverse outcomes in a number of different
areas. This is despite the widespread promulgation of the potential benefits and
opportunities ascribed to the same technology by many scientists and other
experts. A computer-based information gathering and evaluation task was completed
by 198 adults to assess the extent to which their initial focus on the dangers or
opportunities of genetic modification, or both, could be ascribed to the manner
in which they gathered information on the topic (heuristically vs.
systematically). Results did not confirm the hypothesis that initial focus
(risks, benefits, or both) predicted ongoing information gathering and evaluation
behavior. Moreover, also contrary to prediction, most participants primarily used
systematic strategies when deriving their initial position, regardless of that
opinion. Participants found it difficult to achieve a balanced perspective on GM
food crop, even though balanced argument, as measured by order of story selection
and time spent reading, was preferred as the source of information. Perceived
importance is probably the most influential variable determining information
gathering about issues or events to which a level of risk is attached.

PMID: 15563297 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

327: Risk Anal. 2004 Oct;24(5):1289-99.

Expert and public perception of risk from biotechnology.

Savadori L, Savio S, Nicotra E, Rumiati R, Finucane M, Slovic P.

Dipartimento di Scienze della Cognizione e della Formazione, University of
Trento, Italy. savadori@form.unitn.it

Risk perceptions of a series of biotechnology applications were examined in a
public (nonexpert) sample and an expert sample. Compared with the experts, the
public perceived all biotechnology applications as more risky. Both groups
perceived food-related applications to be riskier than medical applications.
Compared with the public, experts perceived both food and medical applications as
less harmful and more useful. Experts also judged the risks posed from medical
biotechnology applications as more familiar and acknowledged by people and
science. Lay estimates of the risk of food applications were predicted by
potential harm, potential benefits, science knowledge, and familiarity; experts'
estimates were predicted only by harm and benefits. Lay estimates of the risk of
medical applications were predicted by potential harm; experts' estimates were
predicted by potential benefits, number and type of people exposed, and science
knowledge. We discuss the implications of the results for risk communication
about and management of different types of biotechnologies.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 15563295 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

328: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2004 Nov;93(5 Suppl 3):S19-25.

Genetic modification of food allergens.

Lehrer SB.

Department of Medicine, Section of Clinical Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology,
Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112, USA.
sblehrer@tulane.edu

OBJECTIVE: To review allergen risk evaluation for genetically modified foods and
our ability to predict protein allergenicity, methods that are being used to
develop foods with reduced allergenic activity, and clinical aspects relative to
assessing potentially allergic patients. DATA SOURCES: Information was identified
using the MEDLINE database for governmental, international, and industry
organizations that have considered possible unintended health effects such as
food allergy and how they can be avoided. DATA SELECTION: The author's knowledge
of the field was used to select articles for inclusion in this review. RESULTS:
Organizations have created a decision process that has generally been successful
in avoiding development of products that cause allergic reactions. Since some
proteins expressed do not have any history of human exposure, risk evaluation may
be more of a challenge for them. Biotechnology has also been used to try to
develop foods with reduced allergenicity, and in future years such products
should yield safer foods. CONCLUSIONS: Allergy risk evaluation for known
allergens and genetically modified foods appears to be reasonable and provides
assurance of food safety. Allergenicity evaluation of novel proteins is a more
complicated process that needs to be and will be improved as our knowledge of
food allergens increases. Biotechnology can be used to produce safer and
healthier foods; for example, allergenicity of some foods may be reduced through
biotechnology. The role of the health care professional in assessing allergic
reactions to genetically modified foods is essential and should play a greater
role in the interaction of consumers, industry, and regulators.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15562870 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

329: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2004;44(5):361-7.

Health benefits of soy isoflavonoids and strategies for enhancement: a review.

McCue P, Shetty K.

Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst,
Massachusetts 01003, USA.

Soybean consumption has been linked to a reduced risk for certain cancers and
diseases of old age. The health benefits associated with soybean consumption have
been linked to the action of isoflavonoids, the major phenolic phytochemicals
found in soybean. Isoflavonoids possess numerous biological activities that may
support chemoprevention through the promotion of apoptosis in diseased cells. In
this study, we discuss the current state of knowledge concerning soybean
isoflavonoids, their chemopreventive actions against postmenopausal health
problems, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, and also biotechnology approaches
toward the enrichment of soybean for isoflavonoid content.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15540649 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

330: Science. 2004 Nov 12;306(5699):1101.

What's on the label?

Krebs J.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15539567 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

331: Nature. 2004 Nov 11;432(7014):222-5.

Environmental biosafety and transgenic potato in a centre of diversity for this
crop.

Celis C, Scurrah M, Cowgill S, Chumbiauca S, Green J, Franco J, Main G,
Kiezebrink D, Visser RG, Atkinson HJ.

Laboratory of Plant Breeding, Wageningen University, PO Box 386, 6700 AJ,
Wageningen, The Netherlands.

The Nuffield Council on Bioethics suggests that introgression of genetic material
into related species in centres of crop biodiversity is an insufficient
justification to bar the use of genetically modified crops in the developing
world. They consider that a precautionary approach to forgo the possible benefits
invokes the fallacy of thinking that doing nothing is itself without risk to the
poor. Here we report findings relevant to this and other aspects of environmental
biosafety for genetically modified potato in its main centre of biodiversity, the
central Andes. We studied genetically modified potato clones that provide
resistance to nematodes, principal pests of Andean potato crops. We show that
there is no harm to many non-target organisms, but gene flow occurs to wild
relatives growing near potato crops. If stable introgression were to result, the
fitness of these wild species could be altered. We therefore transformed the male
sterile cultivar Revolucion to provide a genetically modified nematode-resistant
potato to evaluate the benefits that this provides until the possibility of
stable introgression to wild relatives is determined. Thus, scientific progress
is possible without compromise to the precautionary principle.

Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15538370 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

332: EMBO Rep. 2004 Nov;5(11):1031-4.

GM plants for your health. The acceptance of GM crops in Europe might grow as
soon as the first products to offer direct benefits for consumer health become
available.

Breithaupt H.

PMID: 15520803 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

333: Int J Toxicol. 2004;23(5):279-80.

Genetically modified foods: why the public frenzy? Role of mainstream news media.

Mehendale HM.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15513828 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

334: J Med Philos. 2004 Jun;29(3):333-50.

The precautionary principle and the regulation of U.S. food and drug safety.

Soule E.

The McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057,
USA. ed.soule@msb.edu

This article probes the advisability of regulating U.S. food and drug safety
according to the precautionary principle. To do so, a precautionary regulatory
regime is formulated on the basis of the beliefs that motivate most proponents of
this initiative. That hypothetical regime is critically analyzed on the basis of
an actual instantiation of a similarly stylized initiative. It will be argued
that the precautionary principle entails regulatory constraints that are apt to
violate basis tenets of political legitimacy. The modifications that would change
this finding would also change precautionary regulation to the point that it
would be indistinguishable from orthodox safety protocols. It is concluded on the
basis of its impoverished content that the precautionary principle should not be
taken seriously as a formal approach to the regulation of U.S. food and drug
safety.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15512976 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

335: Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2004;10:85-122.

Public health issues related with the consumption of food obtained from
genetically modified organisms.

Paparini A, Romano-Spica V.

University of Rome Foro Italico (IUSM), Rome, Italy.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are a fact of modern agriculture and a
major field of discussion in biotechnology. As science incessantly achieves
innovative and unexpected breakthroughs, new medical, political, ethical and
religious debates arise over the production and consumption of transgenic
organisms. Despite no described medical condition being directly associated with
a diet including approved GM crops in large exposed populations such as
300,000,000 Americans and a billion Chinese, public opinion seems to look at this
new technology with either growing concern or even disapproval. It is generally
recognized that a high level of vigilance is necessary and highly desirable, but
it should also be considered that GMOs are a promising new challenge for the III
Millennium societies, with remarkable impact on many disciplines and fields
related to biotechnology. To acquire a basic knowledge on GMO production, GM-food
consumption, GMO interaction with humans and environment is of primary importance
for risk assessment. It requires availability of clear data and results from
rigorous experiments. This review will focus on public health risks related with
a GMO-containing diet. The objective is to summarize state of the art research,
provide fundamental technical information, point out problems and perspectives,
and make available essential tools for further research. Are GMO based industries
and GMO-derived foods safe to human health? Can we consider both social, ethical
and public health issues by means of a constant and effective monitoring of the
food chain and by a clear, informative labeling of the products? Which are the so
far characterized or alleged hazards of GMOs? And, most importantly, are these
hazards actual, potential or merely contrived? Several questions remain open;
answers and solutions belong to science, to politics and to the personal opinion
of each social subject.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15504704 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

336: Nurs Outlook. 2004 Sep-Oct;52(5):262-6.

"This food may contain ..." What nurses should know about genetically engineered
foods.

Whitney SL, Maltby HJ, Carr JM.

College of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, 220 Rowell,
Burlington, VT 05405, USA. Stuart.Whitney@uvm.edu

Genetic engineering has been in existence since 1973. The process involves
placing genetic DNA from one organism into another. Genetically engineered
organisms (GEOs) are the name given to such new species of plants created through
this process. Proponents of GEOs assert that foods we are now able to produce
have greater nutritional value, longer shelf life, better appearance, taste and
smell. There are positive benefits to genetic engineering of plants and animals.
A growing concern for the health safety of genetically engineered plants and
foods is developing among the cautious. The purpose of this article is to define
genetic engineering, present benefits and risks, describe the impact on human
health, and address implications for nursing.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15499316 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

337: Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2004 Nov;6(6):468-76.

Dietary fats and oils: technologies for improving cardiovascular health.

Flickinger BD, Huth PJ.

ADM Reserach, James R. Randall Research Center, Decatur, IL 62521, USA.
flickinger@admworld.com

The role of dietary lipids in the etiology of coronary heart disease (CHD)
continues to evolve as we gain a better understanding of the metabolic effects of
individual fatty acids and their impact on surrogate markers of risk. A recent
meta-analysis of 60 human studies suggests that for each 1% energy replacement of
carbohydrates in the diet with saturated fat or trans fat, serum low-density
lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations increase by 0.032 (1.23 mg/dL) and 0.04
mmol/L (1.54 mg/dL), respectively. Current dietary recommendations to keep
saturated fat and trans fat intake as low as possible, and to increase the intake
of cis mono-unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as growing
recognition of these recommendations by consumers and food regulatory agencies in
the United States, have been major driving forces for the edible oil industry and
food manufacturers to develop alternative fats and oils with nutritionally
improved fatty acid compositions. As solutions for use of trans fatty acids are
being sought, oilseeds with modified fatty acid compositions are being viewed as
a means to provide such solutions. Additionally, oilseeds with modified fatty
acid composition, such as enhanced content of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids or
conjugated linoleic acid, have been developed as a way to increase delivery of
these fatty acids directly into the food supply or indirectly as use for feed
ingredients for livestock. New processing technologies are being utilized around
the world to create dietary fats and oils with specific physiologic functions
relevant to risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15485593 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

338: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Oct;22(10):1207-8.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jul;22(7):811-2.

Putting Cartagena into practice.

Watanabe KN, Taeb M, Okusu H.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15470448 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

339: Tradition. 2003 Summer;37(2):66-87.

Survey of recent halakhic periodical literature: genetic engineering.

Bleich JD.

PMID: 15468505 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

340: Not Polit. 2001;17(62):51-76.

Expert discourses of risk and ethics on genetically manipulated organisms: the
weaving of public alienation.

Wynne B.

CSEC, Lancaster University, UK.

PMID: 15468486 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

341: Not Polit. 2001;17(62):22-33.

Knowledge and the governance of biotechnology.

Doubleday R.

Harvard University, USA.

PMID: 15468484 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

342: Tijdschr Diergeneeskd. 2004 Sep 1;129(17):553.

[Do consumers trust their food?]

[Article in Dutch]

[No authors listed]

PMID: 15461373 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

343: Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz. 2004
Sep;47(9):826-33.

[Genetically modified plants and food safety. State of the art and discussion in
the European Union]

[Article in German]

Schauzu M.

Bundesinstitut fö¼r Risikobewertung, Berlin. m.schauzu@bfr.bund.de

Placing genetically modified (GM) plants and derived products on the European
Union's (EU) market has been regulated by a Community Directive since 1990. This
directive was complemented by a regulation specific for genetically modified and
other novel foods in 1997. Specific labelling requirements have been applicable
for GM foods since 1998. The law requires a pre-market safety assessment for
which criteria have been elaborated and continuously adapted in accordance with
the state of the art by national and international bodies and organisations.
Consequently, only genetically modified products that have been demonstrated to
be as safe as their conventional counterparts can be commercialized. However, the
poor acceptance of genetically modified foods has led to a de facto moratorium
since 1998. It is based on the lack of a qualified majority of EU member states
necessary for authorization to place genetically modified plants and derived
foods on the market. New Community Regulations are intended to end this
moratorium by providing a harmonized and transparent safety assessment, a
centralised authorization procedure, extended labelling provisions and a
traceability system for genetically modified organisms (GMO) and derived food and
feed.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 15378169 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

344: Zhonghua Yu Fang Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2003 Mar;37(2):133-5.

[Assessment of the allergenic potential of genetically modified food]

[Article in Chinese]

Xu M.

School of Food and Biologic engineering, Hangzhou Collage of Commercial, Hangzhou
310035, China

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15376370 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

345: BMC Bioinformatics. 2004 Sep 16;5:133.

Allermatch, a webtool for the prediction of potential allergenicity according to
current FAO/WHO Codex alimentarius guidelines.

Fiers MW, Kleter GA, Nijland H, Peijnenburg AA, Nap JP, van Ham RC.

BACKGROUND: Novel proteins entering the food chain, for example by genetic
modification of plants, have to be tested for allergenicity. Allermatch
http://allermatch.org is a webtool for the efficient and standardized prediction
of potential allergenicity of proteins and peptides according to the current
recommendations of the FAO/WHO Expert Consultation, as outlined in the Codex
alimentarius. DESCRIPTION: A query amino acid sequence is compared with all known
allergenic proteins retrieved from the protein databases using a sliding window
approach. This identifies stretches of 80 amino acids with more than 35%
similarity or small identical stretches of at least six amino acids. The outcome
of the analysis is presented in a concise format. The predictive performance of
the FAO/WHO criteria is evaluated by screening sets of allergens and
non-allergens against the Allermatch databases. Besides correct predictions, both
methods are shown to generate false positive and false negative hits and the
outcomes should therefore be combined with other methods of allergenicity
assessment, as advised by the FAO/WHO. CONCLUSIONS: Allermatch provides an
accessible, efficient, and useful webtool for analysis of potential allergenicity
of proteins introduced in genetically modified food prior to market release that
complies with current FAO/WHO guidelines.

PMID: 15373946 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

346: Nature. 2004 Sep 16;431(7006):238-43.

Comment in:
Nature. 2004 Nov 25;432(7016):439.

Head to head: Bush vs Kerry.

Macilwain C, Bush GW, Kerry J.

Publication Types:
Interview
News

PMID: 15372001 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

347: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Sep;22(9):1062.

NAS issues mixed message on unintended effects of GM food.

Fox JL.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15340456 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

348: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Sep;22(9):1055.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Dec;22(12):1501; discussion 1501.

Orphans at the window.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15340451 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

349: Ceylon Med J. 2004 Jun;49(2):44-6.

Genetically modified food: friend or foe?

Perera BJ.

Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Sri Lanka. bjcp@sltnet.lk

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15334797 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

350: Indian J Dent Res. 2003 Oct-Dec;14(4):284-8.

Genetic engineering and dental caries.

Agarwal S, Pandit IK, Srivastava N, Gugnani N.

Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, DAVO Dental College and
Hospital, Yamunanagar, Haryana--135001.

Dental caries, a multifactorial disease requires four principle factor: the host,
the microflora, the substrate & time for its occurrence and can be prevented or
managed by elimination/modification of either of the above factors. The
conventional preventive measure being followed for long time for the dental
caries are not successful to the desirable extent due to their non
avaibailaballity in the rural areas, lack of awareness & inaccessibility of
dental services. Therefore, the focus has now been shifted to submicroscopic
level to ensure that these measures can be reached to the farthest areas & each &
every member of the population is benefitted. Few of the measures taken are. i)
Genetically modifying the S. Mutans: ii) Searching The antagonist peptides to
work against the specific enzyme system (Glucosyltransferase) of S. Mutans. iii)
Changing the oral environment by those Genetically modified organisms that will
produce bases (instead of acids) & these bases provides a milieu favoring
remineralization. This paper discusses various ways in which genetically modified
strains of microogranisms or genetically modified strains of microogranisms of
genetically modified foods can help in the prevention of caries.

PMID: 15328998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

351: Public Underst Sci. 2004 Apr;13(2):155-75.

Dynamics of list-server discussion on genetically modified foods.

Triunfol ML, Hines PJ.

Associate editor at the American Assocation for the Advancement of Science
(AAAS). mtriunfo@aaas.org

Computer-mediated discussion lists, or list-servers, are popular tools in
settings ranging from professional to personal to educational. A discussion list
on genetically modified food (GMF) was created in September 2000 as part of the
Forum on Genetically Modified Food developed by Science Controversies: Online
Partnerships in Education (SCOPE), an educational project that uses computer
resources to aid research and learning around unresolved scientific questions.
The discussion list "GMF-Science" was actively supported from January 2001 to May
2002. The GMF-Science list welcomed anyone interested in discussing the
controversies surrounding GMF. Here, we analyze the dynamics of the discussions
and how the GMF-Science list may contribute to learning. Activity on the
GMF-Science discussion list reflected some but not all the controversies that
were appearing in more traditional publication formats, broached other topics not
well represented in the published literature, and tended to leave undiscussed the
more technical research developments.

Publication Types:
Historical Article

PMID: 15323060 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

352: Curr Med Chem Cardiovasc Hematol Agents. 2003 Jun;1(2):197-202.

Design of a genetically modified soybean protein preventing hypertension based on
an anti-hypertensive peptide derived from ovalbumin.

Matoba N, Yamada Y, Yoshikawa M.

Division of Food Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture,
Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.

Food proteins can be a source of various bioactive peptides including such
possessing anti-hypertensive activity. While most orally active anti-hypertensive
peptides derived from food proteins inhibit the angiotensin I-converting enzyme
(ACE), ovokinin (2-7) (RADHPF), a peptide isolated from a chymotryptic digest of
ovalbumin, has been shown to induce nitric oxide-dependent vasorelaxation in an
isolated mesenteric artery as well as anti-hypertensive effect after oral
administration in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Rational amino acid
replacement lead to the ovokinin (2-7) analog, RPLKPW, which had the highest
anti-hypertensive activity among the tested peptides. Furthermore, oral
administration (0.1 mg/kg) of the peptide lowered the blood pressure of SHR but
not of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. In order to develop a novel use of
this potent anti-hypertensive peptide for prevention of hypertension, RPLKPW has
been genetically introduced into the homologous sequences in soybean
beta-conglycinin alpha' subunit by site-directed mutagenesis. The recombinant
RPLKPW-incorporated alpha' subunit expressed in E. coil has been shown to exert
anti-hypertensive activity after oral administration in SHR. Thus,
RPLKPW-incorporated alpha' subunit is the first example of a genetically modified
food protein possessing physiological activity based on a bioactive peptide.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15320699 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

353: Public Underst Sci. 2004 Apr;13(2):131-53.

Preferences need no inferences, once again: germinal elements in the public
perceptions of genetically modified foods in Colombia.

Parales-Quenza CJ.

Universidad del Rosario, Calle 14 6-25 Bogotö¡ D.C., Colombia.
cparales@urosario.edu.co

This paper explores the public perceptions of genetically modified foods in
Colombia in a phase considered germinal: the topic was too novel at the time of
research. The analysis covers media, informal conversations, and the word
associations made by a sample of residents in the city of Bogotö¡. The results
show that the public capability of associating with the topic, even intuitively,
is due to the availability of culture themes, the primary categories that help
conceptual elaborations, and the construction of common-sense theories. Three
themes are proposed: natural/artificial, tradition/change, and health/disease. It
is argued that cultural themes are not only cognitive, but also affectively laden
entities, which explains the evaluative force expressed by social beliefs.
Acknowledging the relevance of the non-attitude thesis, the author suggests that
people associate novel objects with latent cultural meanings, explaining why
words, images, and metaphors are readily available in elaborating social
knowledge.

Publication Types:
Historical Article

PMID: 15320334 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

354: J Biotechnol. 2004 Sep 9;112(3):255-66.

Use of quantitative real-time and conventional PCR to assess the stability of the
cp4 epsps transgene from Roundup Ready canola in the intestinal, ruminal, and
fecal contents of sheep.

Alexander TW, Sharma R, Deng MY, Whetsell AJ, Jennings JC, Wang Y, Okine E,
Damgaard D, McAllister TA.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Centre, P.O. Box 3000, Lethbridge,
Alta., Canada T1J 4B1.

The stability of transgenic DNA encoding the synthetic cp4 epsps protein in a
diet containing Roundup Ready (RR) canola meal was determined in duodenal fluid
(DF) batch cultures from sheep. A real-time TaqMan PCR assay was designed to
quantify the degradation of cp4 epsps DNA during incubation in DF at pH 5 or 7.
The copy number of cp4 epsps DNA in the diet declined more rapidly (P < 0.05) in
DF at pH 5 as compared to pH 7. The decrease was attributed mainly to microbial
activity at pH 7 and perhaps to plant endogenous enzymes at pH 5. The 62-bp
fragment of cp4 epsps DNA detected by real-time PCR reached a maximum of
approximately 1600 copies in the aqueous phase of DF at pH 7, whereas less than
20 copies were detected during incubations in DF at pH 5. A 1363-bp sequence of
cp4 epsps DNA was never detected in the aqueous fraction of DF. Additionally,
genomic DNA isolated from RR canola seed was used to test the persistence of
fragments of free DNA in DF at pH 3.2, 5, and 7, as well as in ruminal fluid and
feces. Primers spanning the cp4 epsps DNA coding region amplified sequences
ranging in size from 300 to 1363 bp. Free transgenic DNA was least stable in DF
at pH 7 where fragments less than 527 bp were detected for up to 2 min and
fragments as large as 1363 bp were detected for 0.5 min. This study shows that
digestion of plant material and release of transgenic DNA can occur in the ovine
small intestine. However, free DNA is rapidly degraded at neutral pH in DF, thus
reducing the likelihood that intact transgenic DNA would be available for
absorption through the Peyer's Patches in the distal ileum.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15313003 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

355: Methods Mol Biol. 2005;286:377-98.

Transgenic crops: the current and next generations.

Dunwell JM.

Department of Agricultural Botany, School of Plant Science, The University of
Reading, UK.

This chapter describes the present status and future prospects for transgenic
(genetically modified) crops. It concentrates on the most recent data obtained
from patent databases and field trial applications, as well as the usual
scientific literature. By these means, it is possible to obtain a useful
perspective into future commercial products and international trends. The various
research areas are subdivided on the basis of those associated with input
(agronomic) traits and those concerned with output (e.g., food quality)
characteristics. Among the former group are new methods of improving stress
resistance, and among the latter are many examples of producing pharmaceutical
compounds in plants.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15310935 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

356: J AOAC Int. 2004 Jul-Aug;87(4):927-36.

The modular analytical procedure and validation approach and the units of
measurement for genetically modified materials in foods and feeds.

Holst-Jensen A, Berdal KG.

National Veterinary Institute, Dep., Oslo, Norway. arne.holst-jensen@vetinst.no

Food and feed analysts are confronted with a number of common problems,
irrespective of the analytical target. The analytical procedure can be described
as a series of successive steps: sampling, sample processing, analyte extraction,
and ending, finally, in interpretation of an analytical result produced with,
e.g., real-time polymerase chain reaction. The final analytical result is
dependent on proper method selection and execution and is only valid if valid
methods (modules) are used throughout the analytical procedure. The final step is
easy to validate-the measurement uncertainty added from this step is relatively
limited and can be estimated with a high degree of precision. In contrast, the
front-end sampling and processing steps have not evolved much, and the
corresponding methods are rarely or never experimentally validated according to
internationally harmonized protocols. In this paper, we outlined a strategy for
modular validation of the entire analytical procedure, using an upstream
validation approach, illustrated with methods for genetically modified materials
that may partially apply also to other areas of food and feed analyses. We have
also discussed some implications and consequences of this approach in relation to
reference materials, measurement units, and thresholds for labelling and
enforcement, and for application of the validated methods (modules) in routine
food and feed analysis.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15295887 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

357: J AOAC Int. 2004 May-Jun;87(3):639-46.

Suitability of real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay for cry9C detection in Mexican corn tortillas: fate of DNA
and protein after alkaline cooking.

Quirasco M, Schoel B, Plasencia J, Fagan J, Galvez A.

Universidad Nacional Autö¨noma de Mö©xico, Departamento de Alimentos y
Biotecnologia, Facultad de Quimica, 04510, Mö©xico, D.F., Mexico.

Alkaline-cooked corn, called nixtamal, is the basis for many traditional corn
products such as tortillas, chips, and taco shells that are used widely in Mexico
and Central America and in the preparation of snack foods that are consumed
globally. To assess the effects of alkaline and thermal treatments on the
detectability of DNA and protein for the presence of genetically modified
sequences, various nixtamalized products were prepared from blends of
conventional white corn containing 0.1, 1.0, and 10% transgenic corn (event CBH
351, StarLink). Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reactions (RTQ-PCR) and
immunoassays were used to determine the cry9C gene and protein, respectively, in
unprocessed corn kernels, freshly prepared alkaline-cooked and ground corn
(masa), masa flour, tortillas prepared from masa by heat treatment, chips
prepared from damp masa dough by deep frying, and from tortillas processed at
high (200 degrees C) and low temperatures (70 degrees C). In spite of progressive
degradation of genomic DNA during processing, RTQ-PCR genetic analysis allowed
detection and quantification of the cry9C gene in all products prepared from 10,
1, and 0.1% StarLink corn, except deep-fried chips containing 0.1% StarLink.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays readily detected <1 ppm cry9C protein in all
blends of unprocessed corn (10, 1, and 0.1% StarLink) as well as in nonfried
tortilla and masa products. This technique was not suitable for thermally treated
nixtamalized products containing <1% transgenic corn.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15287662 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

358: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Aug;22(8):943.

Negative fallout from public sentiment in Japan.

Watanabe KN, Fujimura T, Shimamoto K, Hashimoto T, Koizumi N, Fukuda H, Naito S,
Nakamura K, Mimura T, Ohhashi Y, Shimazaki K, Terashima I, Uchimiya H, Yamaya T.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 15286637 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

359: IEEE Eng Med Biol Mag. 2004 Mar-Apr;23(2):52-4.

A European perspective on animal cloning and government regulation.

Galli C, Duchi R, Lagutina I, Lazzari G.

Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Consorzio per l'Incremento
Zootecnico, Associazione Italiana Allevatori, Cremona, Italy.
cesare@galli2.191.it

PMID: 15264470 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

360: Appetite. 2004 Aug;43(1):75-83.

Willingness to try new foods as predicted by social representations and attitude
and trait scales.

Bö¤ckströ¶m A, Pirttilö¤-Backman AM, Tuorila H.

Department of Food Technology, P.O. Box 66 (Agnes Sjö¶bergin katu 2), University
of Helsinki, Helsinki FIN-00014, Finland. anna.backstrom@helsinki.fi

The structure and predictive ability of social representation of new foods were
investigated and compared with instruments measuring relevant attitudes and
traits using a questionnaire quantifying these aspects, completed by 743
respondents. Based on their rated willingness to try, new foods were categorized
as modified dairy products, genetically modified (GM), organic, and ethnic
products (two examples, snails and passion fruit, were treated separately). The
social representation (SR) consisted of five dimensions: suspicion of novelties,
adherence to technology, adherence to natural food, eating as an enjoyment, and
eating as a necessity. The SR dimensions were strong predictors of willingness to
try GM foods (predicted by adherence to technology) and organic foods (predicted
by adherence to natural foods). Low food neophobia predicted the rated
willingness to try snails and passion fruit. Thus, different constructs predicted
willingness to try different categories of new foods, and as a whole, SR
dimensions markedly improved the prediction.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15262020 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

361: Genewatch. 2003 Nov-Dec;16(6):12-4.

Leveling the field: answers to frequently asked questions about the Cartagena
Biosafety Protocol.

Freeman L.

Harvard Divinity School, USA.

PMID: 15255003 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

362: Trends Biotechnol. 2004 Jul;22(7):331-6.

Is confidence in the monitoring of GE foods justified?

Heinemann JA, Sparrow AD, Traavik T.

New Zealand Institute of Gene Ecology, and School of Biological Sciences,
University of Canterbury, Christchurch 8020, New Zealand.
jack.heinemann@canterbury.ac.nz

Often the limits of detection of genetically engineered organisms (GEOs, LMOs,
GMOs) determine what legislation sets as thresholds of allowable contamination of
the human food chain with GEOs. Many countries have legislation that is triggered
by certain thresholds of contamination. Importantly, international trade in food
and animal feed is becoming increasingly vulnerable to interruptions caused by
the ambiguity GEOs can create when shipments are monitored at the border. We
examine the tools available for detection. Four key error-generating stages are
identified with the aim of prompting a higher uniform standard of routine
analysis at export and import points. Contamination of the New Zealand corn crop
with GEOs is used as a case study for the application of monitoring tools and
vulnerability to errors. These tools fail to meet emerging food safety
requirements, but some improvements are in development.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Evaluation Studies

PMID: 15245904 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

363: World J Gastroenterol. 2004 Jul 15;10(14):2063-6.

Effects of fucosylated milk of goat and mouse on Helicobacter pylori binding to
Lewis b antigen.

Xu HT, Zhao YF, Lian ZX, Fan BL, Zhao ZH, Yu SY, Dai YP, Wang LL, Niu HL, Li N,
Hammarströ¶m L, Borö©n T, Sjö¶strö¶m R.

State Key Laboratories for Agrobiotechnology, China Agriculture University,
Beijing 100094, China.

AIM: To evaluate the effects of animal milk containing fucosylated antigens on
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) binding to Lewis b antigen. METHODS: A mammary
gland expression vector containing human alpha1-3/4-fucosyltransferase cDNA
sequences was constructed. Transient expression of human
alpha1-3/4-fucosyltransferase cDNA in goat mammary cell and establishment of
transgenic mice were performed. The adhesion inhibitory properties of milk
samples were analyzed by using H. pylori. RESULTS: Goat milk samples were found
to inhibit bacterial binding to Lewis b antigen. The highest inhibition was
observed 42 h after injection of the plasmid. The binding activity of H. pylori
to Lewis b antigen reduced mostly, by 83%, however milk samples from transgenic
mice did not inhibit H. pylori binding to Lewis b antigen. CONCLUSION: The use of
"humanized" animal milk produced by the transgenic introduction of fucosylated
antigen can perhaps provide an alternative therapy and preventive measure for H.
pylori infection.

PMID: 15237435 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

364: Mol Ther. 2004 Jul;10(1):1.

Agbiotech: success depends on trust.

Verma IM.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15233936 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

365: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jul;22(7):791.

Agbiotech firms realign product focus.

Fox JL.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15229525 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

366: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2004 Mar;378(6):1616-23.

Analysis and interpretation of data from real-time PCR trace detection methods
using quantitation of GM soya as a model system.

Burns MJ, Valdivia H, Harris N.

BioAnalytical Innovation Team, LGC Limited, Queens Road, Teddington, Middlesex,
TW11 OLY, UK. Malcolm.Burns@lgc.co.uk

Recent years have seen an increased interest in DNA trace detection methods
involved in many areas of bioanalytical research, such as quantitation of
genetically modified (GM) ingredients in food products. There is little in the
way of standardisation of data handling from these methods, and the data
generated needs to be analysed appropriately if the results are to be interpreted
correctly. This paper describes particular aspects of real-time PCR trace
detection methods in order to increase the understanding of data generated using
this bioanalytical technique. Using the specific example of GM soya detection and
quantitation, it focuses on the production of calibration curves based on the
mean and individual data values, the interpretation of correlation coefficients,
regression techniques, and discusses suitable data analysis arising from simple
and more complex experimental designs following transformation. By using the
approaches outlined in this paper, more accurate analysis of data from real-time
PCR and GM trace detection methods could be achieved.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15214425 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

367: Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2004;17(1):47-57.

The Precautionary Principle: implications for risk management strategies.

Saltelli A, Funtowicz S.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for the Protection and
Security of the Citizen, Ispra, VA, Italy. andrea.saltelli@jrc.it

The European Commission has published a Communication on the Precautionary
Principle and a White Book on Governance. These provide us (as research civil
servants of the Commission) an institutional framework for handling scientific
information that is often incomplete, uncertain, and contested. But, although the
Precautionary Principle is intuitively straightforward to understand, there is no
agreed way of applying it to real decision-making. To meet this perceived need,
researchers have proposed a vast number of taxonomies. These include ignorance
auditing, type one-two-three errors, a combination of uncertainty and decision
stakes through post-normal science and the plotting of ignorance of probabilities
against ignorance of consequences. Any of these could be used to define a
precautionary principle region inside a multidimensional space and to position an
issue within that region. The role of anticipatory research is clearly critical
but scientific input is only part of the picture. It is difficult to imagine an
issue where the application of the Precautionary Principle would be
non-contentious. From genetically-modified food to electro-smog, from climate
change to hormone growth in meat, it is clear that: 1) risk and cost-benefit are
only part of the picture; 2) there are ethical issues involved; 3) there is a
plurality of interests and perspectives that are often in conflict; 4) there will
be losers and winners whatever decision is made. Operationalization of the
Precautionary Principle must preserve transparency. Only in this way will the
incommensurable costs and benefits associated with different stakeholders be
registered. A typical decision will include the following sorts of
considerations: 1) the commercial interests of companies and the communities that
depend on them; 2) the worldviews of those who might want a greener, less
consumerist society and/or who believe in the sanctity of human or animal life;
3) potential benefits such as enabling the world's poor to improve farming; 4)
risks such as pollution, gene-flow, or the effects of climate change. In this
paper we will discuss the use of a combination of methods on which we have worked
and that we consider useful to frame the debate and facilitate the dialogue among
stakeholders on where and how to apply the Precautionary Principle.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Review

PMID: 15212206 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

368: Risk Anal. 2004 Jun;24(3):727-35.

Using risk assessment, benefit-cost analysis, and real options to implement a
precautionary principle.

Farrow S.

scott.farrow@verizon.net

Risk assessment is an established methodology for environmental and public health
issues. However, economists' core approach to both risk assessment and risk
management, benefit-cost analysis, often fails to transparently evaluate
variability in a way that is a trademark of quantitative risk assessment.
Concurrently, environmental advocates are proposing new management criteria based
on a vaguely framed "Precautionary Principle." This manuscript demonstrates how
risk assessment techniques for characterizing variability, benefit-cost analysis,
and decision-making criteria under uncertainty and irreversibility can be
combined. The result is a quantifiable, case-specific, and risk-dependent
"precautionary" threshold for action compared to standard benefit-cost
approaches. The Clean Air Act and the regulation of genetically modified corn
provide applications.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15209941 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

369: Risk Anal. 2004 Jun;24(3):715-26.

Explaining public resistance to genetically modified corn: an analysis of the
distribution of benefits and risks.

Wu F.

Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
15261, USA.

Genetically modified (GM) crops have met with widespread approval among
scientists and policy makers in the United States, but public approval of GM
crops, both domestically and abroad, is progressing much more slowly. An
underlying cause of public wariness may be that both nations and individual
consumers do not perceive significant benefits to themselves from GM crops, while
fearing the risks they may incur. In this study, an economic analysis is
conducted to determine whether the benefits of one type of GM corn, Bt corn
(genetically modified to resist damage from the ECB and Southwestern corn borer),
outweigh the potential risks; and who the "winners" and "losers" are among
stakeholder groups that may be affected by Bt corn. It is found that Bt corn
growers, consumers, and industry all benefit from Bt corn adoption, though the
purported health and environmental benefits of reducing chemical pesticide usage
through Bt corn are negligible. Though the aggregated public benefit is large,
the welfare gain to individual consumers is small and may not make up for
perceived risks. While environmental and health risks of Bt corn are unlikely,
the potential market risks-impacting both the organic corn market and total U.S.
corn exports-are found to be significant. Currently, distributional analysis is
not a part of regulatory decision making of Bt corn in the United States; yet it
may help to explain why decision makers at both the government and
individual-consumer levels have failed to embrace Bt corn and other GM crops.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

PMID: 15209940 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

370: Clin Lab. 2004;50(5-6):380-1.

Consumer protection from an EU regulation on the mandatory labelling of
genetically modified food.

[No authors listed]

On the 7. November 2003 a new regulation was enforced in the states of the EU to
govern the authorisation and labelling of genetically modified food in
standardized and legally binding form. Raw materials from GM crops now have to
feature in the list of ingredients of the end products. The consumer is free to
choose whether or not he accepts gene technology in his food purchases.

PMID: 15209444 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

371: J Exp Bot. 2004 Jul;55(402):1445-54. Epub 2004 Jun 18.

Real-time PCR: what relevance to plant studies?

Gachon C, Mingam A, Charrier B.

Institut de Biotechnologie des Plantes, UMR CNRS 8618, Universitö© Paris-Sud,
F-91405 Orsay cedex, France.

The appearance of genetically modified organisms on the food market a few years
ago, and the demand for more precise and reliable techniques to detect foreign
(transgenic or pathogenic) DNA in edible plants, have been the driving force for
the introduction of real-time PCR techniques in plant research. This was followed
by numerous fundamental research applications aiming to study the expression
profiles of endogenous genes and multigene families. Since then, the interest in
this technique in the plant scientist community has increased exponentially. This
review describes the technical features of quantitative real-time PCR that are
especially relevant to plant research, and summarizes its present and future
applications.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15208338 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

372: Int J Toxicol. 2004 Mar-Apr;23(2):79-80.

Genetically modified foods get bad rap.

Mehendale HM.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15204724 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

373: EMBO Rep. 2004 May;5(5):432-6.

GM food and crops: what went wrong in the UK? Many of the public's concerns have
little to do with science.

Burke D.

UK Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes. dcb27@cam.ac.uk

PMID: 15184970 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

374: Nature. 2004 Jun 3;429(6991 Suppl):10-3.

Farmers to pharmas.

Collis B.

PMID: 15175705 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

375: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):680-2.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):739-45.

From alpha to omega-producing essential fatty acids in plants.

Green AG.

Food Futures, CSIRO Plant Industry, Canberra, ACT, Black Mountain, ACT,
Australia. allan.green@csiro.au

Publication Types:
Comment
News

PMID: 15175687 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

376: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):654-5.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):204-9.

Chasing 'transgenic' shadows.

Miller HI, Conko G.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15175675 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

377: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):642.

China ramps up efforts to commercialize GM rice.

Jia H, Jayaraman KS, Louö«t S.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15175669 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

378: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):637.

Playing catch-up.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 15175666 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

379: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2004 Feb;45(1):19-24.

A histochemical method using a substrate of beta-glucuronidase for detection of
genetically modified papaya.

Wakui C, Akiyama H, Watanabe T, Fitch MM, Uchikawa S, Ki M, Takahashi K, Chiba R,
Fujii A, Hino A, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

A histochemical assay for detecting genetically modified (GM) papaya (derived
from Line 55-1) is described. GM papaya, currently undergoing a safety assessment
in Japan, was developed using a construct that included a beta-glucuronidase
(GUS) reporter gene linked to a virus coat protein (CP) gene. Histochemical assay
was used to visualize the blue GUS reaction product from transgenic seed embryos.
Twelve embryos per fruit were extracted from the papaya seeds using a surgical
knife. The embryos were incubated with the substrate
5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl-beta-D-glucuronide (X-Gluc) in a 96-well microtiter
plate for 10-15 hours at 37 degrees C. Seventy-five percent of GM papaya embryos
should turn blue theoretically. The histochemical assay results were completely
consistent with those from a qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method
developed by this laboratory. Furthermore, the method was validated in a
five-laboratory study. The method for detection of GM papaya is rapid and simple,
and does not require use of specialized equipment.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15168556 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

380: Nature. 2004 May 27;429(6990):330.

Monsanto wins seven-year court battle for seed patent.

Spurgeon D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15164024 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

381: Trends Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):286-94.

The contribution of farm animals to human health.

Kues WA, Niemann H.

Department of Biotechnology, Institut fö¼r Tierzucht, Mariensee, D-31535 Neustadt,
Germany.

Farm animals and their products have a longstanding and successful history of
providing significant contributions to human nutrition, clothing, facilitation of
labour, research, development and medicine and have thus been essential in
improving life expectancy and human health. With the advent of transgenic
technologies the potential of farm animals for improving human health is growing
and many areas remain to be explored. Recent breakthroughs in reproductive
technologies, such as somatic cloning and in vitro embryo production, and their
merger with molecular genetic tools, will further advance progress in this field.
Here, we have summarized the contribution of farm animals to human health,
covering the production of antimicrobial peptides, dietary supplements or
functional foods, animals used as disease models and the contribution of animals
to solving urgent environmental problems and challenges in medicine such as the
shortage of human cells, tissues and organs and therapeutic proteins. Some of
these areas have already reached the level of preclinical testing or commercial
application, others will be further advanced only when the genomes of the animals
concerned have been sequenced and annotated. Provided the necessary precautions
are being taken, the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans can be
avoided to provide adequate security. Overall, the promising perspectives of farm
animals and their products warrant further research and development in this
field.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15158058 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

382: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2004 May;113(5):1003-4; author reply 1004-5.

Comment in:
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2004 Jul;114(1):127-30.

Comment on:
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2003 Nov;112(5):1011-2.

Starlink genetically modified corn and allergenicity in an individual.

Siruguri V, Sesikeran B, Bhat RV.

Publication Types:
Case Reports
Comment
Letter

PMID: 15148966 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

383: Nahrung. 2004 Apr;48(2):149-55.

Sensory and rheological properties of transgenically and chemically modified
starch ingredients as evaluated in a food product model.

Ahmt T, Wischmann B, Blennow A, Madsen F, Bandsholm O, Thomsen J.

Biotechnological Institute, Dept. of Perception & Functionality, Holbergsvej 10,
DK-6000 Kolding, Denmark. tina.ahmt@teknologisk.dk

Starches derived from five genetically modified potato lines, two chemically
modified potato starches and two native starches from potato and maize were
subjected to physical and chemical analyses and their functionality evaluated in
a milk-based food product model. The transgenic starches were specifically
modified with respect to amylopectin chain length and phosphorous content by
suppression of the starch branching enzyme and overexpression of glycogen
branching enzyme. Transgenic starches with long amylopectin chains and high
phosphorous content had increased gelatinisation temperatures, produced gels with
a higher tendency to retrograde and a low freeze/thaw stability as compared to
starches with shorter amylopectin chains and lower phosphorous content. The
textural properties of the food product model prepared from genetically and
chemically modified starches were characterised by sensory and rheological
analyses. To clearly visualise the effects of the modifications, data was
evaluated by radar plots and multiple regression analysis (chemometrics).
Genetically modified potato starches with longer amylopectin chains and increased
phosphorous content gave a more gelled and a shorter texture as compared to
starches with shorter amylopectin chains and decreased phosphorous content.
Acetylated and hydroxypropylated potato starches gave sticky and stringy
textures. Correlations between rheology parameters and sensory parameters were
found. The sensory parameter stringy/long could be predicted from the rheological
data.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15146974 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

384: Clin Med. 2004 Mar-Apr;4(2):193-4.

GM foods: is rational public debate possible?

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Interview

PMID: 15139747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

385: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1195-202.

Safety assessment, detection and traceability, and societal aspects of
genetically modified foods. European Network on Safety Assessment of Genetically
Modified Food Crops (ENTRANSFOOD). Concluding remarks.

Kuiper HA, Kö¶nig A, Kleter GA, Hammes WP, Knudsen I; European Network on Safety
Assessment of Genetically Modified Food Crops (ENTRANSFOOD).

RIKILT-Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen University & Research Centre,
Bornsesteeg 45, PO Box 230, NL-6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands.
harry.kuiper@wur.nl

The most important results from the EU-sponsored ENTRANSFOOD Thematic Network
project are reviewed, including the design of a detailed step-wise procedure for
the risk assessment of foods derived from genetically modified crops based on the
latest scientific developments, evaluation of topical risk assessment issues, and
the formulation of proposals for improved risk management and public involvement
in the risk analysis process. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15123387 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

386: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1181-93.

Societal aspects of genetically modified foods.

Frewer L, Lassen J, Kettlitz B, Scholderer J, Beekman V, Berdal KG.

Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group, University of Wageningen, Wageningen
University & Research Centre, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The
Netherlands. lynn.frewer@wur.nl

This paper aims to examine some of the reasons behind public controversy
associated with the introduction of genetically modified foods in Europe the
1990s. The historical background to the controversy is provided to give context.
The issue of public acceptance of genetically modified foods, and indeed the
emerging biosciences more generally, is considered in the context of risk
perceptions and attitudes, public trust in regulatory institutions, scientists,
and industry, and the need to develop communication strategies that explicitly
include public concerns rather than exclude them. Increased public participation
has been promoted as a way of increasing trust in institutional practices
associated with the biosciences, although questions still arise as to how to best
utilise the outputs of such exercises in policy development. This issue will
become more of a priority as decision-making systems become more transparent and
open to public scrutiny. The results are discussed in the context of risk
assessment and risk management, and recommendations for future research are made.
In particular, it is recommended that new methods are developed in order to
integrate public values more efficaciously into risk analysis processes,
specifically with respect to the biosciences and to technology implementation in
general. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Types:
Multicenter Study
Review

PMID: 15123386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

387: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1157-80.

Detection and traceability of genetically modified organisms in the food
production chain.

Miraglia M, Berdal KG, Brera C, Corbisier P, Holst-Jensen A, Kok EJ, Marvin HJ,
Schimmel H, Rentsch J, van Rie JP, Zagon J.

Istituto Superiore di Sanitö¡, Section of Cereal Chemistry, Laboratory of Food,
Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy.

Both labelling and traceability of genetically modified organisms are current
issues that are considered in trade and regulation. Currently, labelling of
genetically modified foods containing detectable transgenic material is required
by EU legislation. A proposed package of legislation would extend this labelling
to foods without any traces of transgenics. These new legislations would also
impose labelling and a traceability system based on documentation throughout the
food and feed manufacture system. The regulatory issues of risk analysis and
labelling are currently harmonised by Codex Alimentarius. The implementation and
maintenance of the regulations necessitates sampling protocols and analytical
methodologies that allow for accurate determination of the content of genetically
modified organisms within a food and feed sample. Current methodologies for the
analysis of genetically modified organisms are focused on either one of two
targets, the transgenic DNA inserted- or the novel protein(s) expressed- in a
genetically modified product. For most DNA-based detection methods, the
polymerase chain reaction is employed. Items that need consideration in the use
of DNA-based detection methods include the specificity, sensitivity, matrix
effects, internal reference DNA, availability of external reference materials,
hemizygosity versus homozygosity, extrachromosomal DNA, and international
harmonisation. For most protein-based methods, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays
with antibodies binding the novel protein are employed. Consideration should be
given to the selection of the antigen bound by the antibody, accuracy,
validation, and matrix effects. Currently, validation of detection methods for
analysis of genetically modified organisms is taking place. In addition, new
methodologies are developed, including the use of microarrays, mass spectrometry,
and surface plasmon resonance. Challenges for GMO detection include the detection
of transgenic material in materials with varying chromosome numbers. The existing
and proposed regulatory EU requirements for traceability of genetically modified
products fit within a broader tendency towards traceability of foods in general
and, commercially, towards products that can be distinguished from each other.
Traceability systems document the history of a product and may serve the purpose
of both marketing and health protection. In this framework, segregation and
identity preservation systems allow for the separation of genetically modified
and non-modified products from "farm to fork". Implementation of these systems
comes with specific technical requirements for each particular step of the food
processing chain. In addition, the feasibility of traceability systems depends on
a number of factors, including unique identifiers for each genetically modified
product, detection methods, permissible levels of contamination, and financial
costs. In conclusion, progress has been achieved in the field of sampling,
detection, and traceability of genetically modified products, while some issues
remain to be solved. For success, much will depend on the threshold level for
adventitious contamination set by legislation. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Types:
Multicenter Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15123385 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

388: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1089-125.

Unintended effects and their detection in genetically modified crops.

Cellini F, Chesson A, Colquhoun I, Constable A, Davies HV, Engel KH, Gatehouse
AM, Kö¤renlampi S, Kok EJ, Leguay JJ, Lehesranta S, Noteborn HP, Pedersen J, Smith
M.

Metapontum Agrobios, SS Jonica Km 448.2, I-75010 Metaponto Matera, Italy.

The commercialisation of GM crops in Europe is practically non-existent at the
present time. The European Commission has instigated changes to the regulatory
process to address the concerns of consumers and member states and to pave the
way for removing the current moratorium. With regard to the safety of GM crops
and products, the current risk assessment process pays particular attention to
potential adverse effects on human and animal health and the environment. This
document deals with the concept of unintended effects in GM crops and products,
i.e. effects that go beyond that of the original modification and that might
impact primarily on health. The document first deals with the potential for
unintended effects caused by the processes of transgene insertion (DNA
rearrangements) and makes comparisons with genetic recombination events and DNA
rearrangements in traditional breeding. The document then focuses on the
potential value of evolving "profiling" or "omics" technologies as non-targeted,
unbiased approaches, to detect unintended effects. These technologies include
metabolomics (parallel analysis of a range of primary and secondary metabolites),
proteomics (analysis of polypeptide complement) and transcriptomics (parallel
analysis of gene expression). The technologies are described, together with their
current limitations. Importantly, the significance of unintended effects on
consumer health are discussed and conclusions and recommendations presented on
the various approaches outlined. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Types:
Multicenter Study
Review

PMID: 15123383 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

389: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1047-88.

Assessment of the safety of foods derived from genetically modified (GM) crops.

Kö¶nig A, Cockburn A, Crevel RW, Debruyne E, Grafstroem R, Hammerling U, Kimber I,
Knudsen I, Kuiper HA, Peijnenburg AA, Penninks AH, Poulsen M, Schauzu M, Wal JM.

Harvard Center for Risk Analysis, Harvard School of Public Health, Harvard
University, 718 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
ariane_koenig@harvard.edu

This paper provides guidance on how to assess the safety of foods derived from
genetically modified crops (GM crops); it summarises conclusions and
recommendations of Working Group 1 of the ENTRANSFOOD project. The paper provides
an approach for adapting the test strategy to the characteristics of the modified
crop and the introduced trait, and assessing potential unintended effects from
the genetic modification. The proposed approach to safety assessment starts with
the comparison of the new GM crop with a traditional counterpart that is
generally accepted as safe based on a history of human food use (the concept of
substantial equivalence). This case-focused approach ensures that foods derived
from GM crops that have passed this extensive test-regime are as safe and
nutritious as currently consumed plant-derived foods. The approach is suitable
for current and future GM crops with more complex modifications. First, the paper
reviews test methods developed for the risk assessment of chemicals, including
food additives and pesticides, discussing which of these methods are suitable for
the assessment of recombinant proteins and whole foods. Second, the paper
presents a systematic approach to combine test methods for the safety assessment
of foods derived from a specific GM crop. Third, the paper provides an overview
on developments in this area that may prove of use in the safety assessment of GM
crops, and recommendations for research priorities. It is concluded that the
combination of existing test methods provides a sound test-regime to assess the
safety of GM crops. Advances in our understanding of molecular biology,
biochemistry, and nutrition may in future allow further improvement of test
methods that will over time render the safety assessment of foods even more
effective and informative. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Types:
Multicenter Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 15123382 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

390: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jun;42(6):1003-14.

Results of a 13 week safety assurance study with rats fed grain from glyphosate
tolerant corn.

Hammond B, Dudek R, Lemen J, Nemeth M.

Monsanto Company, 800 N. Lindbergh, St Louis, MO 63167, USA.
bruce.g.hammond@monsanto.com

The current study presents the results of a 13 week feeding study in rats with
grain from Roundup Ready corn which is tolerant to the herbicide glyphosate.
Herbicide tolerance was accomplished through the introduction of cp4 epsps coding
sequences into the corn genome for in planta production of CP4 EPSPS enzymes.
Unlike related corn EPSPS enzymes, CP4 EPSPS enzymes are not inhibited by the
herbicide glyphosate. Purina TestDiets formulated Roundup Ready corn grain into
rodent diets at levels of 11 and 33% (w/w). The responses of rats fed diets
containing Roundup Ready corn grain were compared to that of rats fed diets
containing non-transgenic grain (controls). All diets were nutritionally balanced
and conformed to Purina Mills, Inc. specifications for Certified LabDiet 5002.
There were 400 rats in the study divided into 10 groups of 20 rats/sex/group.
Overall health, body weight, food consumption, clinical pathology parameters
(hematology, blood chemistry, urinalysis), organ weights, gross and microscopic
appearance of tissues were comparable between groups fed diets containing Roundup
Ready and control corn grain. This study complements extensive agronomic,
compositional and farm animal feeding studies with Roundup Ready corn grain,
confirming it is as safe and nutritious as existing commercial corn hybrids.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 15110110 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

391: Nature. 2004 Apr 22;428(6985):788.

Labelling laws for transgenic food come into effect.

Nelson L.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15103341 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

392: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2004 Apr;15(2):162-5.

The nutritional fortification of cereals.

Poletti S, Gruissem W, Sautter C.

Institute of Plant Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zurich,
Universitö¤tstrasse 2, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland.

The low micronutrient content of cereals requires the fortification of food and
biofortification of plants. Many laboratories are currently pursuing
biofortification using breeding and genetic modification, but progress is
challenged by technical hurdles and our understanding of physiological processes.
Recent studies have largely been confined to the improvement of levels of iron,
zinc, some vitamins and a variety of essential amino acids. Progress has been
made in the accumulation of iron, zinc, and vitamins A and E in genetically
modified plants. For future success in this area, many more studies will be
required on the physiology of ion uptake and on the transport of vitamin
precursors.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15081056 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

393: Toxicol Lett. 2004 Apr 15;150(1):29-42.

DNA microarray technology in nutraceutical and food safety.

Liu-Stratton Y, Roy S, Sen CK.

Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and DNA Microarray & Genetics Facility,
Department of Surgery, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The
Ohio State University Medical Center, 473 W. 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210,
USA.

The quality and quantity of diet is a key determinant of health and disease.
Molecular diagnostics may play a key role in food safety related to genetically
modified foods, food-borne pathogens and novel nutraceuticals. Functional
outcomes in biology are determined, for the most part, by net balance between
sets of genes related to the specific outcome in question. The DNA microarray
technology offers a new dimension of strength in molecular diagnostics by
permitting the simultaneous analysis of large sets of genes. Automation of assay
and novel bioinformatics tools make DNA microarrays a robust technology for
diagnostics. Since its development a few years ago, this technology has been used
for the applications of toxicogenomics, pharmacogenomics, cell biology, and
clinical investigations addressing the prevention and intervention of diseases.
Optimization of this technology to specifically address food safety is a vast
resource that remains to be mined. Efforts to develop diagnostic custom arrays
and simplified bioinformatics tools for field use are warranted.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15068823 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

394: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Apr;22(4):383-4.

Flies in the soup--European GM labeling legislation.

Craddock N.

Neville Craddock Associates, Tun House, 28 High Street, Bletchingley, Surrey RH1
4PA, UK. nevillecraddock@tunhouse28.fsnet.co.uk

PMID: 15060547 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

395: Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 2003;54(4):345-53.

[Detection of genetic modification in maize and maize products by ELISA-test]

[Article in Polish]

Urbanek-Karå‚owska B, Sawilska-Rautenstrauch D, Jedra M, Badowski P.

Zakå‚ad Badania Zywnoå›ci i Przedmiotö¨w Uzytku, Paå„stwowy Zakå‚ad Higieny, 00-791
Warszawa, ul. Chocimska 24.

Enzyme immunoassay methods--TRAIT Test--was applied for detection of genetic
modification in maize seeds and foodstuffs, which have been produced from this
crop. TRAIT Test is based on the identification GMO protein Cry 1Ab produced by a
gene derived from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) incorporated into insect resistant
corn grain. The experiment was carried out on maize standards and foodstuffs from
Warsaw market. The positive result was obtained for one maize product, which was
not labelled as GMO. The presence of GMO material was approximately equal to 1%.
In conclusion, this test is proper for fast routine qualitative (yes/no)
determination GMO material in maize seeds and unprocessed food products.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 15052732 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

396: Trends Biotechnol. 2004 Mar;22(3):107-9.

Comment in:
Trends Biotechnol. 2005 Aug;23(8):386-7.

How can genetically modified foods be made publicly acceptable?

Rowe G.

Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK.
gene.rowe@bbsrc.ac.uk

A recent study by Lusk suggests that consumers might voluntarily pay more for a
genetically modified (GM) food than a non-GM equivalent if made aware of the
possible health benefits. However, other research indicates that the
acceptability of novel hazards is affected by a variety of factors, in addition
to benefits, and that making agricultural biotechnology publicly acceptable will
be more complex than indicated by the results from Lusk's study.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 15043045 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

397: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2003 Dec;44(6):281-8.

[Laboratory-performance study of the notified methods to detect genetically
modified maize (CBH351) and potato (NewLeaf Plus and NewLeaf Y)]

[Article in Japanese]

Watanabe T, Kasama K, Wakui C, Shibuya M, Matsuki A, Akiyama H, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

To investigate the key factors affecting the reliability of the analytical
results, a laboratory-performance study was attempted for the notified methods to
detect genetically modified (GM) maize (CBH351) and GM potato (NewLeaf Plus and
NewLeaf Y). The test samples were designed as three pairs of blind duplicates,
which included 0%, 0.1% and 1.0% GM maize (CBH351) or GM potato (NewLeaf Plus or
NewLeaf Y). Fourteen laboratories participated in the study. The test samples
were sent to the participating laboratories along with the protocol. The data
were collected from all laboratories and statistically analyzed. For the 0%
sample of the CBH351 maize, one laboratory reported a false-positive result. It
was considered that contamination could have occurred via the common use of
equipment or tools for the test. For the 0.1% samples of the NewLeaf Plus potato
or NewLeaf Y potato, on the other hand, three laboratories reported
false-negative results. It was presumed that these results were due to changes of
the conditions of the electrophoresis and agarose-gel staining. The other
laboratories reported appropriate results. It was considered that the method
employed in this study was suitable for the assessment of laboratory performance.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 15038109 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

398: Law Hum Genome Rev. 2003 Jul-Dec;(19):159-85.

[The zig-zagging legislative policies of the European Union in relation to
transgenic products]

[Article in Spanish]

Martö­n Uranga A.

Universidad de Deusto-Universidad del Paö­s Vasco/EHU, Madrid, Espaö±a.

The author analyses the E.U. legislative policies related to transgenic products
from the 80s until nowadays, she stops in Directive 2001/18/Ce and its conversion
into national law. She explains how the regulatory frame is after the recent
approval of the newest rules about tracking and labelling genetically modified
organisms (OMG). She also studies communitary jurisprudence about this subject
according to the legislation, concretely sentence 9 September 2003 in the affair
C-236/01 about commercialisation of two lines of transgenic corn. Finally she
points out how legislative policies have influenced the creation and development
of biotechnological enterprises.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 15032103 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

399: Risk Anal. 2004 Feb;24(1):185-94.

GM foods and the misperception of risk perception.

Gaskell G, Allum N, Wagner W, Kronberger N, Torgersen H, Hampel J, Bardes J.

Department of Social Psychology, London School of Economics, Centre for the
Analysis of Risk and Regulation, London, UK. g.gaskell@lse.ac.uk

Public opposition to genetically modified (GM) food and crops is widely
interpreted as the result of the public's misperception of the risks. With
scientific assessment pointing to no unique risks from GM crops and foods, a
strategy of accurate risk communication from trusted sources has been advocated.
This is based on the assumption that the benefits of GM crops and foods are
self-evident. Informed by the interpretation of some qualitative interviews with
lay people, we use data from the Eurobarometer survey on biotechnology to explore
the hypothesis that it is not so much the perception of risks as the absence of
benefits that is the basis of the widespread rejection of GM foods and crops by
the European public. Some respondents perceive both risks and benefits, and may
be trading off these attributes along the lines of a rational choice model.
However, for others, one attribute-benefit-appears to dominate their judgments:
the lexicographic heuristic. For these respondents, their perception of risk is
of limited importance in the formation of attitudes toward GM food and crops. The
implication is that the absence of perceived benefits from GM foods and crops
calls into question the relevance of risk communication strategies for bringing
about change in public opinion.

PMID: 15028010 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

400: Science. 2004 Mar 12;303(5664):1590.

Transgenic crops. Britain opts for brave new GM world.

Vogel G.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15016966 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

401: Nature. 2004 Mar 11;428(6979):107.

Californian county bans transgenic crops.

Dalton R.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15014455 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

402: Nature. 2004 Mar 11;428(6979):107.

Transgenic planting approved despite scepticism of UK public.

Giles J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 15014454 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

403: Formos J Med Humanit. 2001 Oct;2(1-2):41-7.

New technology ethic.

Macer D.

Eubios Ethics Institute; Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Tsukuba,
Tsukuba, Japan.

PMID: 15011655 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

404: Nature. 2004 Mar 4;428(6978):6.

US and biologists wary of strict biotech rules.

Cyranoski D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14999250 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

405: JAMA. 2004 Mar 3;291(9):1055.

Prevent genetically modified organisms from escaping into nature, report urges.

Hampton T.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14996758 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

406: J Relig Ethics. 2003 Winter;31(3):363-98.

Bioethics, theology, and social change.

Cahill LS.

Recent years have witnessed a concern among theological bioethicists that secular
debate has grown increasingly "thin," and that "thick" religious traditions and
their spokespersons have been correspondingly excluded. This essay disputes that
analysis. First, religious and theological voices compete for public attention
and effectiveness with the equally "thick" cultural traditions of modern science
and market capitalism. The distinctive contribution of religion should be to
emphasize social justice in access to the benefits of health care, challenging
the for-profit global marketing of research and biotechnology to wealthy
consumers. Second, religion and theology have been and are still socially
effective in sponsoring activism for practical change, both locally and globally.
This claim will be supported with specific examples; with familiar concepts like
subsidiarity and "middle axioms"; and with recent analyses of "participatory
democracy" and of emerging, decentralized forms of global governance.

PMID: 14986639 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

407: APMIS. 2004 Jan;112(1):21-8.

A comparative study of the allergenic potency of wild-type and
glyphosate-tolerant gene-modified soybean cultivars.

Sten E, Skov PS, Andersen SB, Torp AM, Olesen A, Bindslev-Jensen U, Poulsen LK,
Bindslev-Jensen C.

Allergy Clinic, 7542, National University Hospital, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100
Copenhagen ö˜, Denmark. E.STEN@RH.DK

A large proportion of soybean cultivars grown in the USA are now genetically
modified varieties and concern has been raised about the safety of these products
for consumers. A study of the impact on allergenic potency in soybeans,
comparable except for the newly introduced gene (CP4 EPSPS), was performed using
soybean-sensitized patients. The allergenicity of 18 different (10 GM and 8 WT)
soybean extracts was examined blindly by the following three methods: A) Sera
from patients with specific IgE against soybean were used to determine
concentrations inducing 50% RAST inhibition; B) Histamine release induced by the
extracts was examined using blood from sensitized patients; C) SPT was performed
on sensitized patients with all 18 extracts. All three methods showed variations
in the allergenic potency between the individual extracts but allergenic
potential was not affected by presence of the transgene. By using standard in
vitro methods and SPT for determination of allergenicity we were not able to
detect any significant difference in the allergenic potency between GM and WT
soybeans.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14961970 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

408: Nature. 2004 Feb 5;427(6974):474.

Europe urged to move on transgenic crop imports.

Schiermeier Q.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14765157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

409: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):170-2.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):204-9.

The fate of transgenes in the human gut.

Heritage J.

Publication Types:
Comment
News

PMID: 14755289 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

410: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):149.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Aug;21(8):835-6.

Questions linger over European GM food regulations.

Ramö¨n D, MacCabe A, Gil JV.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 14755281 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

411: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):133.

Erratum in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Apr;22(4):459.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jul;22(7):803. Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jul;22(7):803. Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):655-6. Nat Biotechnol. 2004 May;22(5):507. Nat Biotechnol. 2004 May;22(5):508. Nat Biotechnol. 2004 May;22(5):508. Nat Biotechnol. 2006 Oct;24(10):1191-3.

Drugs in crops--the unpalatable truth.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 14755274 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

412: Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2002 Dec;2(6):541-6.

Animal models of food allergy.

Helm RM, Burks AW.

ACHRI/UAMS, Department of Pediatrics, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202, USA.
helmrickim@uams.edu

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The focus of this review will be on recent animal models of
food allergy. Animal models are being used to investigate underlying mechanisms
of IgE-mediated disease and for prophylactic/intervention therapies to treat
allergic disease. RECENT FINDINGS: Considerable advances have been made in the
dosage and use of sensitization routes with and without adjuvant and
determinations of the pathophysiology of food allergy in murine, dog and swine
food allergy models. Continued research on the neuroendocrine and novel
immunoregulatory peptides is also providing new insight into inflammatory
regulation and immunity. With the advent of genetically modified food crops,
animal models are becoming a central theme for prediction/assessment of
allergenicity for novel proteins based upon known food allergens. Therapeutic
strategies involving cytokine and allergen, DNA immunizations and the use of
probiotics are receiving new interest. SUMMARY: Although murine models still
predominate the literature with respect to animal models of food allergy, the
atopic dog and neonatal swine model are contributing knowledge with respect to
symptoms more closely related to human allergic responses. Continuing
investigations into the mechanisms of IgE-mediated food allergy and therapeutic
strategies are providing new insights into prevention and intervention therapies
for food allergy.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Review

PMID: 14752339 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

413: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2004 Feb;133(2):101-12. Epub 2004 Jan 21.

Statistical evaluation of local alignment features predicting allergenicity using
supervised classification algorithms.

Soeria-Atmadja D, Zorzet A, Gustafsson MG, Hammerling U.

Division of Toxicology, National Food Administration, Uppsala University,
Uppsala, Sweden.

BACKGROUND: Recently, two promising alignment-based features predicting food
allergenicity using the k nearest neighbor (kNN) classifier were reported. These
features are the alignment score and alignment length of the best local alignment
obtained in a database of known allergen sequences. METHODS: In the work reported
here a much more comprehensive statistical evaluation of the potential of these
features was performed, this time for the prediction of allergenicity in general.
The evaluation consisted of the following four key components. (1) A new high
quality database consisting of 318 carefully selected, non-redundant allergens
and 1,007 sequences carefully selected to be non-allergens. (2) Three different
supervised algorithms: the kNN classifier, the Bayesian linear Gaussian
classifier, and the Bayesian quadratic Gaussian classifier. (3) A large set of
local alignment procedures defined using the FASTA3 alignment program by means of
a wide range of different parameter settings. (4) Novel performance curves,
alternative to conventional receiver-operating characteristic curves, to display
not only average behaviors but also statistical variations due to small data
sets. RESULTS: The linear Gaussian classifier proved most useful among the tested
supervised machine learning algorithms, closely followed by the quadratic
Gaussian equivalent and kNN. The overall best classification results were
obtained with a novel feature vector consisting of the combined alignment scores
derived from local alignment procedures using different substitution matrices.
CONCLUSIONS: The models reported here should be useful as a part of an integrated
assessment scheme for potential protein allergenicity and for future comparisons
with alternative bioinformatic approaches. Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel

Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14739578 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

414: Science. 2004 Jan 23;303(5657):448-9.

Genetically modified organisms. Europe takes tentative steps toward approval of
commercial GM crops.

Vogel G.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14739427 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

415: Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):204-9. Epub 2004 Jan 18.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):170-2. Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):654-5.

Assessing the survival of transgenic plant DNA in the human gastrointestinal
tract.

Netherwood T, Martö­n-Oröºe SM, O'Donnell AG, Gockling S, Graham J, Mathers JC,
Gilbert HJ.

School of Cell and Molecular Biosciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne,
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.

The inclusion of genetically modified (GM) plants in the human diet has raised
concerns about the possible transfer of transgenes from GM plants to intestinal
microflora and enterocytes. The persistence in the human gut of DNA from dietary
GM plants is unknown. Here we study the survival of the transgene epsps from GM
soya in the small intestine of human ileostomists (i.e., individuals in which the
terminal ileum is resected and digesta are diverted from the body via a stoma to
a colostomy bag). The amount of transgene that survived passage through the small
bowel varied among individuals, with a maximum of 3.7% recovered at the stoma of
one individual. The transgene did not survive passage through the intact
gastrointestinal tract of human subjects fed GM soya. Three of seven ileostomists
showed evidence of low-frequency gene transfer from GM soya to the microflora of
the small bowel before their involvement in these experiments. As this low level
of epsps in the intestinal microflora did not increase after consumption of the
meal containing GM soya, we conclude that gene transfer did not occur during the
feeding experiment.

Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14730317 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

416: Plant Physiol. 2004 Jan;134(1):3-10.

Production, identity preservation, and labeling in a marketplace with genetically
modified and non-genetically modified foods.

Huffman WE.

Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA .

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

PMID: 14730058 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

417: Johns Hopkins Med Lett Health After 50. 2001 Jul;13(5):8.

Is genetically modified food safe?

[No authors listed]

PMID: 14727588 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

418: Time. 2003 Dec 22;162(25):52.

Got hormones?

Roosevelt M.

Publication Types:
Legal Cases
News

PMID: 14712611 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

419: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2003 Dec;132(4):322-8.

Development and use of an ELISA test to detect IgE antibody to Cry9c following
possible exposure to bioengineered corn.

Raybourne RB, Williams KM, Vogt R, Reissman DB, Winterton BS, Rubin C.

Immunobiology Branch, Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, MD 20708, USA.
richard.raybourne@cfsan.fda.gov

BACKGROUND: Starlink(TM), a variety of corn genetically engineered to contain the
insecticidal protein Cry9c, had not been approved for human consumption because
it possessed some characteristics associated with allergenic proteins. However,
in the fall of 2000 CRY9C DNA was detected in several corn-containing products,
suggesting that Starlink corn had entered the human food supply. Subsequently,
consumers, following consumption of corn products, reported a number of adverse
health events, possibly consistent with allergic reaction. METHODS: To
investigate the possibility of allergic reactions due to Cry9c in these consumers
an ELISA test was developed for the purpose of detecting IgE antibodies to Cry9c
and blood samples were taken from a total of 18 people who self-reported allergic
reactions. Sera collected prior to the 1996 development of Starlink were used as
negative controls. RESULTS: None of the adverse event sera were found to be
reactive with recombinant Cry9c antigen, based on comparison with normal
controls. Although a known human positive control serum containing IgE specific
for Cry9c was not available, other controls were incorporated into the ELISA
protocol, including the use of sera from subjects allergic to other allergens and
their homologous antigens (cat, grass, peanut) to validate the IgE detection
reagents. CONCLUSIONS: While the results do not support the likely occurrence of
allergic reactions to Cry9c, such reactions cannot be ruled out, nor can the
possibility that sera might react with unique glycosylated epitopes of Cry9c that
may be expressed in the corn plant/seed. Copyright 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel

PMID: 14707463 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

420: Eur J Histochem. 2003;47(4):385-8.

Fine structural analyses of pancreatic acinar cell nuclei from mice fed on
genetically modified soybean.

Malatesta M, Biggiogera M, Manuali E, Rocchi MB, Baldelli B, Gazzanelli G.

We carried out ultrastructural morphometrical and immunocytochemical analyses on
pancreatic acinar cell nuclei from mice fed on genetically modified (GM) soybean,
in order to investigate possible structural and molecular modifications of
nucleoplasmic and nucleolar constituents. We found a significant lowering of
nucleoplasmic and nucleolar splicing factors as well as a perichromatin granule
accumulation in GM-fed mice, suggestive of reduced post-transcriptional hnRNA
processing and/or nuclear export. This is in accordance to already described
zymogen synthesis and processing modifications in the same animals.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 14706936 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

421: Nature. 2003 Dec 11;426(6967):591-5914.

Berkeley accused of biotech bias as ecologist is denied tenure.

Dalton R.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14668822 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

422: Nature. 2003 Dec 4;426(6966):495.

Comment on:
Nature. 2003 Oct 9;425(6958):559.

GM-debate methodology works in the real world.

Grove-White R.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 14654814 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

423: Curr Biol. 2003 Dec 2;13(23):R889-90.

Researchers protest at GM crop debate.

Williams N.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14654005 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

424: Mutat Res. 2003 Nov;544(2-3):223-33.

Genetically modified crops: environmental and human health concerns.

Azevedo JL, Araujo WL.

Departamento de Genö©tica, Escola Superior de Agricultura, Luiz de Queiroz,
Universidade de Sö¸o Paulo, P.O. Box 83, 13400-970 Piracicaba, Sö¸o Paulo, Brazil.
jazevedo@esalq.usp.br

About 10,000 years ago subsistence farmers started to domesticate plants and it
was only much later, after the discovery of the fundaments of genetics, those
organisms were submitted to rational genetic improvement mainly by selecting of
traits of interest. Breeders used appropriate gene combinations to produce new
animal races, plant varieties and hybrids, as well as improved microorganisms
such as yeasts. After the introduction of recombinant DNA techniques, the
transfer of DNA between species belonging to different genera, families or
kingdoms became possible. The release of transgenic plants has aroused debates
about several aspects of the environmental and human risks that could result from
the introduction of genetically modified crops. Less effort has been dedicated to
evaluate the impact of transgenic plants on their associated microorganisms, some
of which (e.g. nitrogen-fixing bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi and endophytic
microbiota) are extremely important for the survival of the plant. Investigations
have been made regarding the horizontal transfer of genetic material between
transgenic plants and microorganisms and on the disturbance of useful symbiotic
associations between plants and endophytic, epiphytic and rhizosphere
communities. In most cases the results do no show any adverse effect of
transgenic plants on autochthonous plant-associated microorganisms. Results from
our laboratory show small changes caused by genetically modified endophytic
bacteria on the indigenous endophytic population of the sweet orange Citrus
sinensis. In tests using appropriated fungal strains preliminary results using
extracts from transgenic plants indicate that these plants do not affect
haploidization, mitotic crossing-over, mutation rate or chromosomal alterations.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 14644324 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

425: Mutat Res. 2003 Nov;544(2-3):217-21.

Human health concerns with GM crops.

Malarkey T.

Syngenta Biotechnology Inc., P.O. Box 12257, 3054 Cornwallis Road, Research
Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. trish.malarkey@syngenta.com

Biotechnology was used in the first generation of so-called 'GM' crops to provide
growers with complimentary and sometimes alternative crop management solutions to
pesticides. Selected host genes or genes identified from other plants or
non-plant sources are modified or transferred to a crop plant. The new or altered
protein expression resulting from these modifications confer on the plant a
desired physiological trait, such as resistance to particular herbicides or
insect pests. Second generation modifications provide traits such as enhanced
nutritional or health-promoting characteristics that are of benefit to consumers.
The commonly raised concerns about possible implications for human health are:
inherent toxicity of the novel gene and their products, the potential to express
novel antigenic proteins or alter levels of existing protein allergens, the
potential for unintended effects resulting from alterations of host metabolic
pathways or over expression of inherently toxic or pharmacologically active
substances and the potential for nutrient composition in the new food occur
differing significantly from a conventional counterpart. Foods produced using
biotechnology are subjected to far greater levels of scrutiny than foods produced
by traditional plant breeding techniques. The accepted analytical, nutritional
and toxicological methods employed to support this scrutiny and to assess and
assure that a 'GM' food is a safe and nutritious as its 'non-GM' counterpart are
discussed. The challenges associated with identifying unintended effects in whole
GM foods and the promise new (proteomics/genomic) technologies offer opposite
traditional toxicity testing paradigms are appraised.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 14644323 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

426: Risk Anal. 2003 Dec;23(6):1117-33.

Communicating about the risks and benefits of genetically modified foods: the
mediating role of trust.

Frewer LJ, Scholderer J, Bredahl L.

Wageningen University and Research Centres, Department of Marketing and Consumer
Behavior, Wageningen, The Netherland. Lynn.Frewer@wur.nl

Recent research suggests that public attitudes toward emerging technologies are
mainly driven by trust in the institutions promoting and regulating these
technologies. Alternative views maintain that trust should be seen as a
consequence rather than a cause of such attitudes. To test its actual role,
direct as well as mediating effects of trust were tested in an attitude change
experiment involving 1,405 consumers from Denmark, Germany, Italy, and the United
Kingdom. After prior attitudes to genetic modification in food production had
been assessed, participants received different information materials (either
product-specific information or balanced/general information about genetic
modification in food production) and were asked to evaluate different types of
genetically modified foods (either beer or yoghurt). The information materials
were attributed to different information sources (either an industry association,
a consumer organization, or a government source). After completion, perceived
risk and perceived benefit were assessed, and participants indicated their trust
in the information sources to which the materials had been attributed. Direct and
trust-mediated attitude change effects were estimated in a multi-sample
structural equation model. The results showed that information provision had
little effect on people's attitudes toward genetically modified foods, and that
perceptions of information source characteristics contributed very little to
attitude change. Furthermore, the type of information strategy adopted had almost
no impact on postexperimental attitudes. The extent to which people trusted the
information sources appeared to be driven by people's attitudes to genetically
modified foods, rather than trust influencing the way that people reacted to the
information. Trust was not driving risk perception-rather, attitudes were
informing perceptions of the motivation of the source providing the information.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14641888 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

427: Anal Chem. 2003 Sep 1;75(17):392A-396A.

Tailoring thresholds for GMO testing.

Ruth L.

PMID: 14632033 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

428: Nature. 2003 Nov 20;426(6964):224-6.

GM crops: a continent divided.

Masood E.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14628018 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

429: Camb Q Healthc Ethics. 2003 Fall;12(4):342-52.

Biotechnology and the fear of Frankenstein.

Campbell CS.

Program for Ethics, Science, and the Environment, Department of Philosophy,
Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA.

PMID: 14619367 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

430: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2003 Nov;112(5):1011-2.

Comment in:
J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2004 May;113(5):1003-4; author reply 1004-5.

A negative, double-blind, placebo-controlled challenge to genetically modified
corn.

Sutton SA, Assa'ad AH, Steinmetz C, Rothenberg ME.

Publication Types:
Case Reports
Letter
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14610498 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

431: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Nov;21(11):1274-9.

A framework for designing transgenic crops--science, safety and citizen's
concerns.

Kö¶nig A.

Harvard University, Harvard Center for Risk Analysis, 718 Huntington Avenue,
Boston, Masschusetts 02115, USA. ariane_koenig@harvard.edu

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14595351 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

432: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Nov;21(11):1257-8.

GM confusion in Brazil.

Bonalume Neto R.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14595342 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

433: Curr Biol. 2003 Oct 28;13(21):R819-20.

Not yet a GM nation.

Dixon B.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14588251 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

434: Health Policy. 2003 Nov;66(2):179-97.

The precautionary principle within European Union public health policy. The
implementation of the principle under conditions of supranationality and
citizenship.

Antonopoulou L, van Meurs P.

Department of Economics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki,
Greece.

The present study examines the precautionary principle within the parameters of
public health policy in the European Union, regarding both its meaning, as it has
been shaped by relevant EU institutions and their counterparts within the Member
States, and its implementation in practice. In the initial section I concentrate
on the methodological question of "scientific uncertainty" concerning the
calculation of risk and possible damage. Calculation of risk in many cases
justifies the adopting of preventive measures, but, as it is argued, the
principle of precaution and its implementation cannot be wholly captured by a
logic of calculation; such a principle does not only contain scientific
uncertainty-as the preventive principle does-but it itself is generated as a
principle by this scientific uncertainty, recognising the need for a society to
act. Thus, the implementation of the precautionary principle is also a
simultaneous search for justification of its status as a principle. This
justification would result in the adoption of precautionary measures against risk
although no proof of this principle has been produced based on the "cause-effect"
model. The main part of the study is occupied with an examination of three cases
from which the stance of the official bodies of the European Union towards the
precautionary principle and its implementation emerges: the case of the "mad
cows" disease, the case of production and commercialization of genetically
modified foodstuffs. The study concludes with the assessment that the effective
implementation of the precautionary principle on a European level depends on the
emergence of a concerned Europe-wide citizenship and its acting as a mechanism to
counteract the material and social conditions that pose risks for human health.

PMID: 14585517 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

435: J Biotechnol. 2003 Nov 6;105(3):227-33.

Multiplex polymerase chain reaction/membrane hybridization assay for detection of
genetically modified organisms.

Su W, Song S, Long M, Liu G.

School of Biotechnology, Jimei University, Shi-Gu Road, 9 Xiamen, Fujian 361021,
China.

To improve detection efficiency and result accuracy, four screening primer pairs,
four identifying primer pairs, one common primer pair and corresponding probes
were designed for the development of multiplex polymerase chain reaction/membrane
hybridization assay (MPCR-MHA) for detection of the foreign genes insert in
genetically modified organisms (GMOs). After detecting condition and parameter
were optimized and determined, MPCR reactions were developed for amplifying
several target genes simultaneously in one tube. Primers were labeled with biotin
at the 5'-end; biotinylated MPCR products were detected by hybridization to the
oligonucleotide probes immobilized on a membrane with subsequent colorimetric
detection to confirm hybridization. The testing of screening primers can judge
whether the sample contains GMOs, and that of identifying primers can further
judge what kinds of trait genes are contained in the sample. We detected nine
soybean samples, six maize samples, seven potato samples and two rice samples by
the MPCR-MHA method; at the same time we also detected them with single PCR-MHA
method. The results between two methods have good consistency.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14580794 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

436: Nature. 2003 Oct 23;425(6960):751.

Biosafety trials darken outlook for transgenic crops in Europe.

Giles J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14574368 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

437: Trends Biotechnol. 2003 Nov;21(11):491-7.

Genetically modified probiotics in foods.

Ahmed FE.

Department of Radiation Oncology, LSB 014, Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center, The
Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA.
ahmedf@mail.ecu.edu

Probiotics have many potential therapeutic uses, but have not been universally
accepted because of a lack of understanding of their action. Lactic acid bacteria
(LAB) have been modified by traditional and genetic engineering methods to
produce new varieties. Modern techniques of molecular biology have facilitated
the identification of probiotic LAB strains, but only a few LAB have been
modified by recombinant-DNA technology because of consumer resistance to their
introduction to markets, especially in Europe.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 14573362 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

438: Environ Sci Technol. 2003 Oct 1;37(19):343A.

GM products: at least a label.

Schnoor JL.

est@uiowa.edu

PMID: 14572070 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

439: Biotechnol Lett. 2003 Sep;25(18):1485-90.

Genetically modified soybeans: false-positive detection in fermented natural
soybean (tempe).

Prakoso B, Nitisinprasert S, Stevens WF.

Bioprocess Technology, Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand.

Tempe was prepared using mixtures of natural soybean and genetically modified
Roundup Ready (RUR) soybean fermented with natural Rhizopus sp. The amount of RUR
soybean was quantified using an ELISA plate test. The RUR signal decreased during
fermentation. In the control experiments on fermentation of non-RUR soybean, the
tempe gave a false-positive RUR signal. The cross-reacting substance was
generated only in non-RUR soybean during fermentation by Rhizopus sp., Rhizopus
oligosporus, R. oryzae, Mucor rouxii and Aspergillus awamori.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Evaluation Studies
Validation Studies

PMID: 14571970 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

440: Science. 2003 Oct 17;302(5644):357.

Comment in:
Science. 2004 Jan 16;303(5656):310.

Agriculture and the developing world.

Kennedy D.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 14563974 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

441: Nature. 2003 Oct 16;425(6959):656-7.

Damned if they do, damned if they don't...

Giles J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14562072 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

442: Nature. 2003 Oct 16;425(6959):655.

Time to choose.

Aldhous P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14562071 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

443: PLoS Biol. 2003 Oct;1(1):E8. Epub 2003 Oct 13.

Genetically modified corn--environmental benefits and risks.

Gewin V.

gewin@nasw.org

PMID: 14551906 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

444: Appetite. 2003 Oct;41(2):207-9.

Consumer perceptions of genetically modified and organic foods. What kind of
knowledge matters?

Koivisto Hursti UK, Magnusson MK.

Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Section of Caring Sciences,
Uppsala University, Uppsala Science Park, 751 83 Uppsala, Sweden.
ulla-kaisa.koivisto@pubcare.uu.se

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 14550321 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

445: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2003;10(5):273-6.

Biotechnology for food, energy, and industrial products: new opportunities for
bio-based products.

Young AL.

Institute for Science and Public Policy, Sarkeys Energy Center, The University of
Oklahoma, 100 East Boyd, Room 510, Norman, Oklahoma, 73019, USA.
youngrisk@attbi.com

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 14535638 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

446: Vet Res Commun. 2003 Sep;27 Suppl 1:699-701.

Detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feedstuff.

Novelli E, Balzan S, Segato S, De Rigo L, Ferioli M.

Dipartimento di Sanitö  Pubblica, Patologia Comparata e Igiene Veterinaria,
Universitö  degli Studi di Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. enrico.novelli@unipd.it

PMID: 14535501 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

447: Nature. 2003 Oct 9;425(6958):559.

Comment in:
Nature. 2003 Dec 4;426(6966):495.

Flaws undermine results of UK biotech debate.

Campbell S, Townsend E.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 14534562 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

448: Curr Biol. 2003 Sep 30;13(19):R745-6.

Italy sets new hurdles for GM crops.

Williams N.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14521845 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

449: Mod Law Rev. 1998 Sep;61(5):621-60.

Regulation as facilitation: negotiating the genetic revolution.

Black J.

Law Department, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK.

PMID: 14518446 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

450: Trends Biotechnol. 2003 Oct;21(10):439-44.

Comparative safety assessment for biotech crops.

Kok EJ, Kuiper HA.

RIKILT Institute for Food Safety, Bornsesteeg 45, PO Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen,
The Netherlands. esther.kok@wur.nl

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 14512230 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

451: Nature. 2003 Sep 25;425(6956):331.

UK public opposes government on transgenic crops.

Giles J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 14508445 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

452: Nature. 2003 Sep 25;425(6956):329.

Dealing with democracy.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 14508443 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

453: QJM. 2003 Oct;96(10):779-80.

Before Frankenstein.

Berry C.

PMID: 14500868 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

454: Lancet. 2003 Sep 6;362(9386):835.

Comment on:
Lancet. 2003 Jun 14;361(9374):2051.

Genetically modified crops in developing countries.

Watts T.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 13678895 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

455: Lancet. 2003 Aug 30;362(9385):714.

GM foods in new dispute.

Bosch X.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12962112 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

456: Nature. 2003 Sep 4;425(6953):15.

Comment on:
Nature. 2003 Jul 31;424(6948):473.

Breeding to tackle blight without copper or GM.

Duncan JM.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12955114 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

457: Health Serv J. 2003 Jul 24;113(5865):21.

Abide with us.

Hunt P.

PMID: 12953678 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

458: EMBO Rep. 2003 Sep;4(9):819.

Blame games.

Breithaupt H.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12949577 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

459: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):1003-9.

Are Bt crops safe?

Mendelsohn M, Kough J, Vaituzis Z, Matthews K.

Office of Pesticide Programs of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, USA.
mendelsohn.mike@epa.gov

Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies

PMID: 12949561 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

460: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):976.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Aug;21(8):852-4. Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jul;21(7):735-6.

EU reflects European public opinion.

Borch K, Lassen J, Jö¸rgensen RB.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12949553 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

461: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):975-6.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jul;21(7):737-8.

EU reflects European public opinion.

Barnes MH.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12949552 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

462: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):974-5; author reply 975.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jun;21(6):598.

Identity tags revisited.

Marillonnet S, Klimyuk V, Gleba Y.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12949551 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

463: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):971-2.

Acceptance of golden rice in the Philippine 'rice bowl'.

Chong M.

Publication Types:
Letter
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12949549 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

464: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):957.

UK government caught in GM dilemma.

Mitchell P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12949540 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

465: Trends Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):389-93.

Labeling to manage marketing of GM foods.

Smyth S, Phillips PW.

Agricultural Economics, University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon,
Saskatchewan, S7N 5A8, Canada. sjs064@mail.usask.ca

Biotechnology has the potential to introduce new food safety risks, liabilities
and benefits, and although privately managed supply chains (involving proactive
management of the production of branded products) are effective at providing,
managing and communicating adequate information about products with well
understood risks, products with uncertain risks pose a greater challenge. The
demand for increased product information regarding genetically modified content,
in particular, places new constraints on food supply chains, frequently resulting
in communication failures. Here we assess and reject mandatory labeling as an
appropriate response.

PMID: 12948671 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

466: Nature. 2003 Aug 28;424(6952):995.

Comment on:
Nature. 2003 Jul 31;424(6948):473.

Consumers don't want GM, so why use it?

Melchett P.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12944939 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

467: J Plant Physiol. 2003 Jul;160(7):735-42.

Overview of the current status of genetically modified plants in Europe as
compared to the USA.

Brandt P.

Robert Koch-Institut, Zentrum Gentechnologie,Wollankstrasse 15-17, D-13187
Berlin, Germany. brandtp@rki.de

Genetically modified crops have been tested in 1,726 experimental releases in the
EU member states and in 7,815 experimental releases in the USA. The global
commercial cultivation area of genetically modified crops is likely to reach 50
million hectares in 2001, however, the commercial production of genetically
modified crops in the EU amounts to only a few thousand hectares and accounts for
only some 0.03% of the world production. A significant gap exists between the
more than fifty genetically modified crop species already permitted to be
cultivated and to be placed on the market in the USA, Canada and other countries
and the five genetically modified crop species permitted for the same use in the
EU member states, which are still pending inclusion in the Common Catalogue of
agricultural plant species. The further development of the "green gene
technology" in the EU will be a matter of public acceptance and administrative
legislation.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 12940542 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

468: J Plant Physiol. 2003 Jul;160(7):727-34.

Discussion of current status of commercialization of plant biotechnology in the
global marketplace.

Emrich R.

BASF Plant Science Holding GmbH, Agricultural Center, Building Li 554, 67117
Limburgerhof, Germany. reiner.emrich@basf-ag.de

PMID: 12940541 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

469: Curr Biol. 2003 Aug 19;13(16):R625-6.

GM tensions dig in.

Williams N.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12932332 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

470: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2003 May;32(3):239-45.

[Progress on biosafety assessment of marker genes in genetically modified foods]

[Article in Chinese]

Yang L, Yang X.

Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and
Prevention, Beijing 100050, China.

Marker genes are useful in facilitating the detection of genetically modified
organisms(GMO). These genes play an important role during the early
identification stage of GMO development, but they exist in the mature genetically
modified crops. So the safety assessment of these genes could not be neglected.
In this paper, all the study on the biosafety assessment of marker genes were
reviewed, their possible hazards and risks were appraised, and the marker genes
proved safe were list too. GMO Labeling the is one important regulations for the
development of genetically modified foods in the market. The accurate detecting
techniques for GMO are the basis for setting up labeling regulation. In addition,
some methods used to remove marker genes in genetically modified foods were
introduced in the paper, which can eliminate their biosafety concern thoroughly.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 12914289 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

471: Plant Physiol. 2003 Aug;132(4):1770-4.

Going to "great lengths" to prevent the escape of genes that produce specialty
chemicals.

Ellstrand NC.

Department of Genetics and Biotechnology Impacts Center, University of
California, Riverside, California 92521-0124, USA. ellstrand@ucrac1.ucr.edu

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

PMID: 12913134 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

472: Food Chem Toxicol. 2003 Oct;41(10):1273-82.

The use of consumption data to assess exposure to biotechnology-derived foods and
the feasibility of identifying effects on human health through post-market
monitoring.

Hlywka JJ, Reid JE, Munro IC.

Cantox Health Sciences International, Suite 308, 2233 Argentia Road, ON L5N 2X7
Mississauga, Canada. jhlywka@cantox.com

The pre-market safety assessment of foods derived through biotechnology provides
a scientific basis for concluding reasonable certainty of no harm and ensuring
safety. At a minimum, the outcome of such an assessment provides sufficient
information to estimate the likelihood of adverse effects on consumers, generally
precluding the need for post-market monitoring. Post-market monitoring (PMM) may
be appropriate under certain conditions where a better estimate of dietary
exposure and/or nutritional consequence of a biotechnology-derived food is
required, when a potential safety issue, such as allergenicity, cannot be
adequately addressed through pre-market studies, or to corroborate dietary
intakes of a nutritionally improved food with beneficial effects on human health.
Monitoring programs must be hypothesis-driven, and are dependent upon the
availability of accurate consumption data. Exposure assessment methods include
both deterministic and probabilistic estimates of intakes using food supply data,
individual dietary surveys, household surveys, or total diet studies. In the
development of a monitoring approach, resource allocation should be dependent
upon both the desired level of conservatism and the endpoint of interest.
However, the cost of monitoring varies substantially, and the potential to
determine causation may be limited.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12909259 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

473: Curr Biol. 2003 Aug 5;13(15):R578-9.

GM crops dancing to different tunes.

Dixon B.

MEDIAWATCH: Parts of the British media are keeping up a campaign against the
introduction of genetically modified crops ahead of the governemnet's assessment
of the trial programme this autumn, often to the detriment of the arguments.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12906800 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

474: Nature. 2003 Aug 7;424(6949):619.

Genetic engineering: unnatural selection.

Snow A.

Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, Ohio State University,
Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA.

PMID: 12904767 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

475: Nature. 2003 Aug 7;424(6949):613.

Flawed science underlies laws on transgenic crops.

Sandermann H Jr.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 12904760 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

476: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Aug;21(8):852-4.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):976.

Rethinking US leadership in food biotechnology.

Taylor MR.

Resources for the Future, 1616 P Street, NW Washington, DC 20036, USA.
taylor@rff.org

PMID: 12894194 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

477: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Aug;21(8):849-51.

The science and politics of plant biotechnology--a personal perspective.

Vasil IK.

University of Florida, Box 110690, Gainesville, Florida 32611-0690, USA.
ikv@mail.ifas.ufl.edu

PMID: 12894193 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

478: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Aug;21(8):835-6.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2004 Feb;22(2):149.

GM labeling in China beset by problems.

Jia H.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12894183 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

479: Nature. 2003 Jul 31;424(6948):473.

Comment in:
Nature. 2003 Aug 28;424(6952):995. Nature. 2003 Sep 4;425(6953):15.

Diversity in food technology.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12891314 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

480: Lancet. 2003 Jul 19;362(9379):219.

Codex adopts new standards on GM foods, irradiation, and animal feed.

Kapp C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12885509 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

481: Science. 2003 Jul 25;301(5632):447-8.

Agbiotech. U.K. government panel gives GM crops cautious support.

Pickrell J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12881538 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

482: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2003 Aug;38(1):98-104.

Post-market surveillance of GM foods: applicability and limitations of schemes
used with pharmaceuticals and some non-GM novel foods.

Wal JM, Hepburn PA, Lea LJ, Crevel RW.

Laboratoire d' Immuno-Allergie Alimentaire, Service de Pharmacologie et
d'Immunologie, INRA-CEA de Saclay, 91191 Gif sur Yvette Cedex, France.

Post-market surveillance (PMS) is increasingly required by some regulatory
authorities for the marketing approval of GM-Novel Foods. This requirement, in
addition to a complete conventional safety assessment, aims to show that
unexpected (adverse) effects do not occur after long-term everyday exposure.
Large food manufacturers have systems to obtain feedback from consumers on their
products. We show that such systems can be enhanced to collect information on
possible health effects of specific products and relate these to intake in
specific groups of consumers. The term post-launch monitoring (PLM) is proposed
to distinguish the process from that used for pharmaceuticals. GM foods differ
from branded products to which existing systems have been applied. The paper
discusses whether and how such systems could be applied to GM foods and what
additional elements would need to be incorporated in them. A PLM system should
define and organize the flow of information between the different stakeholders.
We conclude that because such data will be generated from a range of sources and
will need to be collated, verified, and integrated, an independent agency will be
essential to undertake this activity in order to balance the interests of all
stakeholders and ensure public trust.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12878059 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

483: Vopr Pitan. 2003;72(3):20-3.

[Monitoring of food products from genetically modified sources in Moscow]

[Article in Russian]

Tutel'ian VA, Filatov NN, Sorokina EIu, Chernysheva ON, Salova NIa, Sizykh EV,
Anisimova OV.

This paper presents results of a detection of genetically modified organisms
(GMO) in food from the shops of Moscow. The screening methods and event-specific
assay based on the polymerase chain reaction is used. Transgenic DNA from
genetically modified soybeans line 40-3-2 is detected in 17.2% samples of studied
foods. Soybeans line 40-3-2 is allowed in Russian food supply.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12872657 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

484: Lancet. 2003 Jul 12;362(9378):135.

Europe imposes strict GM-food laws.

Bosch X.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12870479 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

485: Nature. 2003 Jul 17;424(6946):237.

Comment in:
Nature. 2003 Sep 25;425(6956):343.

Don't believe the hype.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12867939 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

486: Science. 2003 Jul 11;301(5630):167; author reply 167.

Comment on:
Science. 2003 Apr 4;300(5616):61-2.

Democratization is more than lower prices.

Cayford J.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12855789 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

487: Nature. 2003 Jul 10;424(6945):116.

Europe finds transgenic food hard to swallow.

Giles J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12853914 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

488: Am Herit Invent Technol. 2003 Summer;19(1):16-25.

The growth of genetically modified foods.

Heppenheimer TA.

Publication Types:
Historical Article

PMID: 12841195 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

489: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2003 Jun;90(6 Suppl 3):90-8.

Food biotechnology: is this good or bad? Implications to allergic diseases.

Helm RM.

Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas
72202-3591, USA. helmrick@uams.edu

BACKGROUND: Food biotechnology represents advancement in the traditional
interspecies and intergeneric breeding methods for improving food supplies
worldwide. With respect to safety, foods developed through biotechnology
techniques represent one of the most extensively reviewed agricultural
advancements in history. OBJECTIVE: To review the relevant issues with respect to
foods from genetically modified crops and allergenicity. DATA SOURCES: To impart
this information, the author will rely upon his experiences with investigations
into food allergy and food allergens, participation in various workshops designed
to determine allergenicity of novel proteins introduced into the diet, web sites,
issue papers, and articles relevant to the topic. RESULTS: Given that there are
no validated methods or models to determine potential allergenicity of novel
proteins, criteria have been established based upon characteristics of known food
allergens. The combination of genetic and bioinformatics information available
from known food allergens applied to foods developed from genetically modified
crops to avoid the inadvertent introduction of allergens into foods should pose
no significant allergenic concern to individuals with a genetic predisposition to
food allergy. Education and sound scientific evaluation provided to the consumer
should alleviate any fear of emotionalism as implied by "Frankenfoods."
CONCLUSIONS: The estimation that more than two trillion transgenic plants have
been grown in 1999 and 2000 alone, with no overt documented adverse food
reactions being reported, indicates that genetic modification through
biotechnology will not impose immediate significant risks as food allergen
sources beyond that of our daily dietary intake of foods from crop plants.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12839121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

490: EMBO Rep. 2003 Jul;4(7):647-9.

Food fights.

Moore A.

PMID: 12835747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

491: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jul;21(7):739-41.

Codex guidelines for GM foods include the analysis of unintended effects.

Haslberger AG.

University of Vienna and the World Health Organization FOS Program for Food
Safety, Geneva, Switzerland. haslbergera@who.int

PMID: 12833088 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

492: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jul;21(7):737-8.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):975-6.

First salvo in transatlantic food fight is far from last word.

Miller HI.

Hoover Institution, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-6010, USA.
miller@hoover.stanford.edu

PMID: 12833087 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

493: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jul;21(7):735-6.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):976.

The WTO complaint--why now?

Kinderlerer J.

Sheffield Institute of Biotechnological Law and Ethics, Department of Law,
Conduit Road, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 1FL, UK.
j.kinderlerer@sheffield.ac.uk

PMID: 12833086 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

494: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jul;21(7):720-1.

US academia held accountable for GM products.

Powell K.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12833077 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

495: Medsurg Nurs. 2002 Oct;11(5):242-6.

Genetically modified foods: a taste of the future.

Lessick M, Keithley J, Swanson B, Lemon B.

University of Toledo, College of Health and Human Services, Toledo, OH, USA.

Technologies for genetically modifying foods hold tremendous promise for meeting
important public health challenges in this century. By keeping informed of the
ongoing development of genetically modified foods, nurses can effectively educate
patients about the benefits and risks of these foods and promote informed
decision making.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12830747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

496: Nature. 2003 Jun 26;423(6943):903.

A flight of fancy.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12827151 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

497: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1140-1.

Assessment of allergenic potential of genetically modified foods: an agenda for
future research.

Selgrade MK, Kimber I, Goldman L, Germolec DR.

National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research
and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina, USA. selgrade.maryjane@epa.gov

Speakers and participants in the workshop "Assessment of the Allergenic Potential
of Genetically Modified Foods" met in breakout groups to discuss a number of
issues including needs for future research. These groups agreed that research
should progress quickly in the area of hazard identification and that a need
exists for more basic research to understand the mechanisms underlying food
allergy. A list of research needs was developed.

PMID: 12826487 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

498: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1131-9.

Key issues for the assessment of the allergenic potential of genetically modified
foods: breakout group reports.

Germolec DR, Kimber I, Goldman L, Selgrade M.

Laboratory of Molecular Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health
Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA. germolec@niehs.nih.gov

On the final afternoon of the workshop "Assessment of the Allergenic Potential of
Genetically Modified Foods," held 10-12 December 2001 in Chapel Hill, North
Carolina, USA, speakers and participants met in breakout groups to discuss
specific questions in the areas of use of human clinical data, animal models to
assess food allergy, biomarkers of exposure and effect, sensitive populations,
dose-response assessment, and postmarket surveillance. Each group addressed
general questions regarding allergenicity of genetically modified foods and
specific questions for each subject area. This article is a brief summary of the
discussions of each of the six breakout groups regarding our current state of
knowledge and what information is needed to advance the field.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12826486 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

499: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1122-4.

Protein digestibility and relevance to allergenicity.

Bannon G, Fu TJ, Kimber I, Hinton DM.

Product Safety Center, Monsanto, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

In January 2001 a Joint Food and Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations/World Health Organization Expert Consultation Committee on Allergenicity
of Foods Derived from Biotechnology published a report outlining in detail an
approach for assessing the allergenic potential of novel proteins. One component
of this decision tree is a determination of whether the protein of interest is
resistant to proteolytic digestion. Although these (Italic)in vitro(/Italic)
methodologies have been useful, the correlation between resistance to proteolysis
and allergenic activity is not absolute. Two views and highlights of supporting
research regarding the relationship of resistance to digestion and allergenicity
are presented in this article.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12826484 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

500: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1114-21.

Clinical and laboratory investigation of allergy to genetically modified foods.

Bernstein JA, Bernstein IL, Bucchini L, Goldman LR, Hamilton RG, Lehrer S, Rubin
C, Sampson HA.

Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.

Technology has improved the food supply since the first cultivation of crops.
Genetic engineering facilitates the transfer of genes among organisms. Generally,
only minute amounts of a specific protein need to be expressed to obtain the
desired trait. Food allergy affects only individuals with an abnormal immunologic
response to food--6% of children and 1.5-2% of adults in the United States. Not
all diseases caused by food allergy are mediated by IgE. A number of expert
committees have advised the U.S. government and international organizations on
risk assessment for allergenicity of food proteins. These committees have created
decision trees largely based on assessment of IgE-mediated food allergenicity.
Difficulties include the limited availability of allergen-specific IgE antisera
from allergic persons as validated source material, the utility of specific IgE
assays, limited characterization of food proteins, cross-reactivity between food
and other allergens, and modifications of food proteins by processing. StarLink
was a corn variety modified to produce a (Italic)Bacillus thuringiensis(/Italic)
(Bt) endotoxin, Cry9C. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
investigated 51 reports of possible adverse reactions to corn that occurred after
the announcement that StarLink, allowed for animal feed, was found in the human
food supply. Allergic reactions were not confirmed, but tools for postmarket
assessment were limited. Workers in agricultural and food preparation facilities
have potential inhalation exposure to plant dusts and flours. In 1999,
researchers found that migrant health workers can become sensitized to certain Bt
spore extracts after exposure to Bt spraying.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12826483 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

501: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1110-3.

Introduction: what are the issues in addressing the allergenic potential of
genetically modified foods?

Metcalfe DD.

Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious
Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
dean_metcalfe@nih.gov

There is growing concern among the general public and the scientific community
regarding the potential toxicity of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The
use of biotechnology to enhance pest resistance or nutritional value has raised a
number of fundamental questions including the consequences of insertion of
reporter genes, the spread of resistance genes to surrounding plants, and the use
of suicide genes to prohibit reuse of seed from engineered plants. Of particular
interest is the ability of proteins from GMOs to elicit potentially harmful
immunologic responses, including allergic hypersensitivity. The lack of
information of the potential toxicity of these products suggests a need to
identify the critical issues and research needs regarding these materials and to
develop testing strategies to examine the allergenicity of these compounds.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12826482 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

502: BMJ. 2003 Jun 21;326(7403):1351.

Controversy grows over India's genetically modified potato.

Mudur G.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12816815 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

503: Lancet. 2003 Jun 14;361(9374):2051.

Comment in:
Lancet. 2003 Sep 6;362(9386):835.

UK ethicists say GM foods could help poor. Group back the controversial crops as
government warily tests public opinion.

Ashraf H.

PMID: 12814720 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

504: Science. 2003 Jun 13;300(5626):1637-8.

Agricultural biotech. U.K. probes public opposition to GM crops.

Eastman Q.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12805509 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

505: Nutr Health. 2003;17(1):1-8.

In vivo studies on possible health consequences of genetically modified food and
feed--with particular regard to ingredients consisting of genetically modified
plant materials.

Pryme IF, Lembcke R.

Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bergen,
Arstadveien 19, NO-5009 Bergen, Norway. ian.pryme@ibmb.uib.no

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.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12803276 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

506: Nature. 2003 Jun 12;423(6941):672.

Public input sought on transgenic farming.

Tilstone C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12802294 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

507: Nature. 2003 Jun 12;423(6941):669.

Debate, what debate?

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12802292 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

508: Time. 2003 May 26;161(21):56-7.

Cures on the cob.

Roosevelt M.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12800326 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

509: Appetite. 2003 Jun;40(3):299-307.

Dimensions of novelty: a social representation approach to new foods.

Bö¤ckströ¶m A, Pirttilö¤-Backman AM, Tuorila H.

Department of Food Technology, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 27, Helsinki
FIN-00014, Finland. anna.backstrom@helsinki.fi

Social representations of new foods were examined with a total of 44 subjects in
nine focus groups. Each group was homogenous, defined by age, gender and
educational background. Halfway through the interview, commercial packages of
functional, genetically modified, organic, nutritionally modified and ethnic
foods were presented as visual stimuli for discussion. Thematic and content
analyses of the interview data showed that five dichotomies characterized the
social representation: trust/distrust, safe/unsafe, natural/artificial,
pleasure/necessity, and past/present. Many metaphors were used, with functional
products being associated metaphorically with, for example, medicine and
genetically modified products being associated with death and terrorism.
Chronological references focused on the development of cuisine. The perceived
unsafety of new foods was an important argument for women but not for men. The
difference between age groups was in relating the discussion to either present
time (young subjects) or past time (older subjects). Level of education affected
the content of argumentation. In the context of new foods, social representations
are formed to cope with the feeling of strangeness evoked by the novelties. They
also have a role in cultural acceptance of new products by making them familiar.
Overall, the results reflect the development of a new common sense in which
popularized scientific notions are anchored in the process of urbanization.

PMID: 12798788 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

510: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2003 Mar;32(2):134-7.

[Studies on protein-based identification method of genetically modified capsicum]

[Article in Chinese]

Liu J, Deng P, Fang S, Zhao J.

Shenzhen Disease Prevention and Control Center, Shenzhen 518020, China.

The detection system based on protein is a method to evaluate the safety of
genetically modified foods (GMF). Using cecropin BD gene in capsicum, a detecting
method was set up. It is a system of evaluating the real expressive condition and
safety of the foreign target protein of GMF. In this studies, with the
preformative technic method, a satisfactory results by making use of hemolymph of
immunized pupae of Antheraea pernyi as standard experimental material was
achieved, comparing with the realities of the goal protein expressive condition
of cecropin D gene in capsicum. The detecting steps were as following: the goal
protein from material was extracted roughly, then with CM-Sepharose-FF
ion-exchange chromatography twice, the goal protein was purified moderately. The
purified product was identified by detecting the anti-bacterial activity,
electrophoresis, biological auto-photography of the goal protein and MADDI-TOF
mass spectrum. The results showed that the expressive foreign target protein in
transgenic capsicum was in accordance with standard protein in the physical and
chemical property, anti-bacterial activity and molecular weight. It indicated
that expression of the target gene in capsicum is real, it corresponded to
expected value. The separation, purification and identification methods of
cecropin D were established in the study. By means of the comparative experiments
about anti-bacterial activity and molecular weight of anti-bacterial peptide(ABP)
from GM-capsicum and hemolymph of immunized pupae of Antheraea pernyi, the
identification method of target protein from GM-capsicum was set up. The method
is easy to be operated, fast and feasible.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12793005 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

511: Nature. 2003 Jun 5;423(6940):574.

Divisions sink US consensus effort on transgenic food.

Knight J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12789300 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

512: Trends Biotechnol. 2003 Jun;21(6):249-50.

Improved evaluation of potential allergens in GM food.

Jank B, Haslberger AG.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 12788543 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

513: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):113-7.

Precautionary risk assessment of Bt maize: what uncertainties?

Levidow L.

Centre for Technology Strategy, Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK.
L.Levidow@open.ac.uk

GM crops have become a test case for the conflicting slogans of 'the
precautionary principle' versus 'sound science.' The issues can be illustrated by
developments in regulatory science for Bt maize in the European Union. As this
case study suggests, risk assessment is always framed by some account of the
relevant uncertainties. These in turn depend upon how the environment is valued
and how scientific questions are posed about cause-effect pathways of potential
harm. The slogan of 'sound science' hides such judgements, by representing
ignorance or value-judgements as 'science.' By contrast, precaution can challenge
such judgements, identify new unknowns, generate different criteria for evidence,
open up new scientific questions, and make these judgements more transparent. It
is doubtful whether these complexities have been fully acknowledged by
specialists, and thus whether the continued risk debate is due solely to a public
misunderstanding of science.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12788280 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

514: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):110-2.

Considerations for conducting research in agricultural biotechnology.

Shelton AM.

Department of Entomology, Cornell University/NYSAES, 416 Barton Laboratory,
Geneva, NY 14456, USA. ams5@cornell.edu

Science has shown its increased vulnerability because of two recent high-profile
articles published in major journals on corn produced through biotechnology: a
laboratory report suggesting profound consequences to monarch butterfly
populations due to Bt corn pollen and a report suggesting transgenic
introgression into Mexican maize. While both studies have been widely regarded as
having flawed methodology, publishing these studies has created great
consternation in the scientific community, regulatory agencies and the general
public. There are roles and responsibilities of scientists, scientific journals,
the public media, public agencies, and those who oppose or advocate a specific
technology, and serious consequences when those roles and responsibilities go
awry. Modern communication may exacerbate the flow of misinformation and easily
lead to a decline in public confidence about biotechnology and science. However,
common sense tells us that scientific inquiry and the publication and reporting
of results should be performed with high standards of ethical behavior,
regardless of one's personal perspective on agricultural biotechnology.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12788279 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

515: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):107-9.

Regulatory and associated political issues with respect to Bt transgenic maize in
the European union.

Saeglitz C, Bartsch D.

Chair of Biology V, Ecology, Ecochemistry and Ecotoxicology, Aachen University of
Technology-RWTH Aachen, D-52056 Aachen, Germany.

Legislation at the national level in Europe as well as that developed by the
European Union (EU) generally permits release and commercialization of
genetically modified organisms (GMOs). However, only 10 plant/event combinations
were registered as of 2002: three maize events (Bt176, Mon810, and Bt11), with
the other seven divided among carnation (3), oil-seed rape (2), tobacco (1), and
raddiccio (1). Of these, only one maize event (Bt176) has been registered as a
legal variety, and this was in Spain, where 22,000ha have been planted annually
since 1998. In this paper, we first provide an overview on the complexity of EU
GMO legislation. Then we discuss the minor role that results of EU-funded
biosafety research have had on governmental policy. Finally, we provide
information about initiatives for post-commercialization monitoring plans of Bt
maize in Europe. As a result of the slow progress to date, we conclude that
commercialization of GMOs will be seriously delayed in the EU for the next
several years.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12788278 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

516: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):100-3.

Legal and regulatory concerns about transgenic plants in Brazil.

Fontes EM.

Embrapa Recursos Genö©ticos e Biotecnologia, C.P. 01372/02372, Brasö­lia, DF CEP
70849-970, Brazil. eliana@cenargen.embrapa.br

Brazil has a biosafety law that was approved in 1995. This law provides for a
horizontal type of regulation that coordinates other existing regulatory
frameworks in the areas of agriculture, health and environment. Various federal
government departments are responsible for implementing the law. The National
Technical Biosafety Commission is the national competent authority on biosafety
with overall responsibility. In the case of Bt plants or any insecticidal
organism, the Agrochemical Law also applies and authorization for laboratory,
greenhouse and field studies must be obtained from the Plant Protection
Secretariat, the Brazilian Institute of Environment and the National Agency of
Health. Furthermore, the National Environmental Council must issue a license for
commercialization of any GMO. There is pressure needed for capacity building and
to harmonize the regulatory and administrative frameworks among the different
federal departments involved. Some perspectives and challenges for the commercial
registration of transgenic crops are discussed.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12788276 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

517: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):93-9.

Regulation of Bt crops in Canada.

Macdonald P, Yarrow S.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 59 Camelot Drive, Ontario, Ottawa, Canada, K1A
0Y9. pmacdonald@inspection.gc.ca

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulates environmental releases of
plants with novel traits, which include transgenic plants such as Bt crops. Bt
crops are regulated in Canada because they express insect resistance novel to
their species. Commercialization of crops with novel traits such as the
production of insecticidal Bt proteins requires an approval for environmental
release, as well as approvals for use as feed and food. Environmental factors
such as potential impacts on non-target species are considered. Insect resistance
management (IRM) may be imposed as a condition for environmental release of Bt
crops to delay the development of resistance in the target insect. Bt potato and
European corn borer-resistant Bt corn have been released with mandatory IRM. The
CFIA imposes an IRM plan consisting of appropriate refugia, education of farmers
and seed dealers, and monitoring and mitigation. Industry, regulators, government
extension staff and public researchers provide expert advice on IRM.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12788275 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

518: Lancet. 2003 May 24;361(9371):1798.

USA fights Europe's ban on genetically modified food.

Bosch X.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12781547 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

519: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jun;21(6):599-601.

Making 'safety first' a reality for biotechnology products.

Kapuscinski AR, Goodman RM, Hann SD, Jacobs LR, Pullins EE, Johnson CS, Kinsey
JD, Krall RL, La Viö±a AG, Mellon MG, Ruttan VW.

Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology, 200 Hodson Hall, 1980
Folwell Ave., St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12776139 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

520: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jun;21(6):598.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Sep;21(9):974-5; author reply 975.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Mar;21(3):224-6.

Identity tags.

Pauli U.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12776138 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

521: J Nutr. 2003 Jun;133(6):1909-12.

Safety assessment of recombinant green fluorescent protein orally administered to
weaned rats.

Richards HA, Han CT, Hopkins RG, Failla ML, Ward WW, Stewart CN Jr.

Food Safety Center of Excellence, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996,
USA.

Several proposed biotechnological applications of green fluorescent protein (GFP)
are likely to result in its introduction into the food supply of domestic animals
and humans. We fed pure GFP and diets containing transgenic canola expressing GFP
to young male rats for 26 d to evaluate the potential toxicity and allergenicity
of GFP. Animals (n = 8 per group) were fed either AIN-93G (control), control diet
plus 1.0 mg of purified GFP daily, modified control diet with 200 g/kg canola
(Brassica rapa cv Westar), or control diet with 200 g/kg transgenic canola
containing one of two levels of GFP. Ingestion of GFP did not affect growth, food
intake, relative weight of intestine or other organs, or activities of hepatic
enzymes in serum. Comparison of the amino acid sequence of GFP to known food
allergens revealed that the greatest number of consecutive amino acid matches
between GFP and any food allergen was four, suggesting the absence of common
allergen epitopes. Moreover, GFP was rapidly degraded during simulated gastric
digestion. These data indicate that GFP is a low allergenicity risk and provide
preliminary indications that GFP is not likely to represent a health risk.

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

PMID: 12771338 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

522: Toxicology. 2003 Jun 30;188(2-3):297-307.

Safety assessment for genetically modified sweet pepper and tomato.

Chen ZL, Gu H, Li Y, Su Y, Wu P, Jiang Z, Ming X, Tian J, Pan N, Qu LJ.

The National Laboratory of Protein Engineering and Plant Genetic Engineering,
Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China. zhchen@pku.edu.cn

The coat protein (CP) gene of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) was cloned from a
Chinese CMV isolate, the CaMV promoter and NOS terminator added and the gene
construct was transformed into both sweet pepper and tomato plants to confer
resistance to CMV. Safety assessments of these genetically modified (GM) plants
were conducted. It was found that these two GM products showed no genotoxicity
either in vitro or in vivo by the micronucleus test, sperm aberration test and
Ames test. Animal feeding studies showed no significant differences in growth,
body weight gain, food consumption, hematology, blood biochemical indices, organ
weights and histopathology between rats or mice of either sex fed with either GM
sweet pepper or tomato diets compared with those with non-GM diets. These results
demonstrate that the CMV-resistant sweet pepper and tomato are comparable to the
non-GM counterparts in terms of food safety.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12767699 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

523: Nature. 2003 May 22;423(6938):379-80.

Brazilian science: Under new management.

Adam D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12761518 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

524: Nature. 2003 May 22;423(6938):369.

Trade war looms as US launches challenge over transgenic crops.

Knight J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12761507 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

525: Nature. 2003 May 22;423(6938):367.

Trade war: what is it good for?

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12761506 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

526: J Natl Med Assoc. 2003 Feb;95(2):152-66.

Environmental factors associated with asthma.

Walker B Jr, Stokes LD, Warren R.

Howard University Medical Center, Environmental Health Administration, District
of Columbia Department of Health, Washington, USA.

Asthma, a disease of attacks and remission, continues to account for substantial
morbidity and direct economic costs. Numerous studies--epidemiologic, toxicologic
and clinical--present evidence for a broad spectrum of environmental risk factors
associated with asthma. This review summarizes current thinking on a subset of
these factors. Knowledge of potential environmental determinants of asthma is
important to both the patient and healthcare professional in the application of
multiple modalities of medical and environmental intervention for management of
the development, and exacerbation of this chronic inflammatory disorder of the
airways.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12760611 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

527: Trends Plant Sci. 2003 May;8(5):208-12.

Risk assessment of GM plants: avoiding gridlock?

Wilkinson MJ, Sweet J, Poppy GM.

School of Plant Sciences, The University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, UK
RG6 6AS. m.j.wilkinson@reading.ac.uk

Cultivation of genetically modified crops is presently based largely on four
crops containing few transgenes and grown in four countries. This will soon
change and pose new challenges for risk assessment. A more structured approach
that is as generic as possible is advocated to study consequences of gene flow.
Hazards should be precisely defined and prioritized, with emphasis on quantifying
elements of exposure. This requires coordinated effort between large,
multidisciplinary research teams.

PMID: 12758037 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

528: Biomed Environ Sci. 2003 Mar;16(1):17-28.

Genetically engineered corn rootworm resistance: potential for reduction of human
health effects from pesticides.

Oehme FW, Pickrell JA.

Comparative Toxicology Laboratories, M213 Mosier Hall, 1800 Denison Ave, Kansas
State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-5705, USA. oehme@vet.ksu.edu

OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: Insecticide use, grower preferences regarding genetically
engineered (GE) corn resistant to corn rootworm (CRW), and the health effects of
using various CRW insecticides (organophosphates, pyrethroids, fipronil and
carbamates) are reviewed for current and future farm practices. RESULTS: Pest
damage to corn has been reduced only one-third by insecticide applications.
Health costs from insecticide use appear significant, but costs attributable to
CRW control are not quantifiable from available data. Methods reducing
health-related costs of insecticide-based CRW control should be evaluated. As a
first step, organophosphate insecticide use has been reduced as they have high
acute toxicity and risk of long-term neurological consequences. A second step is
to use agents which more specifically target the CRW. CONCLUSION: Whereas current
insecticides may be poisonous to many species of insects, birds, mammals and
humans, a protein derived from Bacillus thurigiensis and produced in plants via
genetic modification can target the specific insect of CRW (Coleoptra), sparing
other insect and non-insect species from injury.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 12747004 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

529: J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2003 May-Jun;6(3):211-25.

Potential adverse health effects of genetically modified crops.

Bakshi A.

Biology Department, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA.
abakshi@gmu.edu

Genetically modified crops have the potential to eliminate hunger and starvation
in millions of people, especially in developing countries because the genetic
modification can produce large amounts of foods that are more nutritious. Large
quantities are produced because genetically modified crops are more resistant to
pests and drought. They also contain greater amounts of nutrients, such as
proteins and vitamins. However, there are concerns about the safety of
genetically modified crops. The concerns are that they may contain allergenic
substances due to introduction of new genes into crops. Another concern is that
genetic engineering often involves the use of antibiotic-resistance genes as
"selectable markers" and this could lead to production of antibiotic-resistant
bacterial strains that are resistant to available antibiotics. This would create
a serious public health problem. The genetically modified crops might contain
other toxic substances (such as enhanced amounts of heavy metals) and the crops
might not be "substantially equivalent" in genome, proteome, and metabolome
compared with unmodified crops. Another concern is that genetically modified
crops may be less nutritious; for example, they might contain lower amounts of
phytoestrogens, which protect against heart disease and cancer. The review of
available literature indicates that the genetically modified crops available in
the market that are intended for human consumption are generally safe; their
consumption is not associated with serious health problems. However, because of
potential for exposure of a large segment of human population to genetically
modified foods, more research is needed to ensure that the genetically modified
foods are safe for human consumption.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12746139 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

530: J Biolaw Bus. 2000;Suppl.:67-70.

Biotechnology and health.

Borst E.

Minister of Health, Welfare and Sports, Government of the Netherlands.

PMID: 12739545 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

531: J Biolaw Bus. 2000;Suppl.:111-5.

The ethics of biotechnology.

Lenoir N.

French Constitutional Court, European Group on Ethics in Science and New
Technologies of the European Union.

PMID: 12739544 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

532: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2003 Apr;375(8):985-93. Epub 2003 Feb 15.

PCR technology for screening and quantification of genetically modified organisms
(GMOs).

Holst-Jensen A, Rö¸nning SB, Lö¸vseth A, Berdal KG.

National Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 8156 Dep., 0033, Oslo, Norway.
arne.holst-jensen@vetinst.no

Although PCR technology has obvious limitations, the potentially high degree of
sensitivity and specificity explains why it has been the first choice of most
analytical laboratories interested in detection of genetically modified (GM)
organisms (GMOs) and derived materials. Because the products that laboratories
receive for analysis are often processed and refined, the quality and quantity of
target analyte (e.g. protein or DNA) frequently challenges the sensitivity of any
detection method. Among the currently available methods, PCR methods are
generally accepted as the most sensitive and reliable methods for detection of
GM-derived material in routine applications.The choice of target sequence motif
is the single most important factor controlling the specificity of the PCR
method. The target sequence is normally a part of the modified gene construct,
for example a promoter, a terminator, a gene, or a junction between two of these
elements. However, the elements may originate from wildtype organisms, they may
be present in more than one GMO, and their copy number may also vary from one GMO
to another. They may even be combined in a similar way in more than one GMO.
Thus, the choice of method should fit the purpose. Recent developments include
event-specific methods, particularly useful for identification and quantification
of GM content. Thresholds for labelling are now in place in many countries
including those in the European Union. The success of the labelling schemes is
dependent upon the efficiency with which GM-derived material can be detected. We
will present an overview of currently available PCR methods for screening and
quantification of GM-derived DNA, and discuss their applicability and
limitations. In addition, we will discuss some of the major challenges related to
determination of the limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), and to
validation of methods.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 12733008 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

533: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2003 Apr;14(2):238-43.

Exploitation of molecular profiling techniques for GM food safety assessment.

Kuiper HA, Kok EJ, Engel KH.

RIKILT, Institute of Food Safety, PO Box 230, 6700 AE, Wageningen, The
Netherlands. h.a.kuiper@rikit.wag-ur.nl

Several strategies have been developed to identify unintended alterations in the
composition of genetically modified (GM) food crops that may occur as a result of
the genetic modification process. These include comparative chemical analysis of
single compounds in GM food crops and their conventional non-GM counterparts, and
profiling methods such as DNA/RNA microarray technologies, proteomics and
metabolite profiling. The potential of profiling methods is obvious, but further
exploration of specificity, sensitivity and validation is needed. Moreover, the
successful application of profiling techniques to the safety evaluation of GM
foods will require linked databases to be built that contain information on
variations in profiles associated with differences in developmental stages and
environmental conditions.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 12732328 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

534: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 May;21(5):468-9.

Europe sees sharp decline in GMO research.

Mitchell P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12721556 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

535: Toxicol Sci. 2003 May;73(1):8-16. Epub 2003 Apr 15.

Workshop overview: approaches to the assessment of the allergenic potential of
food from genetically modified crops.

Ladics GS, Holsapple MP, Astwood JD, Kimber I, Knippels LM, Helm RM, Dong W.

The DuPont Co., Haskell Laboratory, Newark, Delaware 19714, USA.
gregory.s.ladics@usa.dupont.com

There is a need to assess the safety of foods deriving from genetically modified
(GM) crops, including the allergenic potential of novel gene products. Presently,
there is no single in vitro or in vivo model that has been validated for the
identification or characterization of potential food allergens. Instead, the
evaluation focuses on risk factors such as source of the gene (i.e., allergenic
vs. nonallergenic sources), physicochemical and genetic comparisons to known
allergens, and exposure assessments. The purpose of this workshop was to gather
together researchers working on various strategies for assessing protein
allergenicity: (1) to describe the current state of knowledge and progress that
has been made in the development and evaluation of appropriate testing strategies
and (2) to identify critical issues that must now be addressed. This overview
begins with a consideration of the current issues involved in assessing the
allergenicity of GM foods. The second section presents information on in vitro
models of digestibility, bioinformatics, and risk assessment in the context of
clinical prevention and management of food allergy. Data on rodent models are
presented in the next two sections. Finally, nonrodent models for assessing
protein allergenicity are discussed. Collectively, these studies indicate that
significant progress has been made in developing testing strategies. However,
further efforts are needed to evaluate and validate the sensitivity, specificity,
and reproducibility of many of these assays for determining the allergenicity
potential of GM foods.

Publication Types:
Congresses

PMID: 12700419 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

536: J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2003 Apr 1;222(7):926.

Bioengineered pigs go to market.

Kuehn BM.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12685776 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

537: Biomol Eng. 2003 Mar;20(3):107-12.

Food-grade expression of human glutathione S-transferase and Cu/Zn superoxide
dismutase in Lactococcus lactis.

Xiang H, Wei W, Tan H.

Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, China.

A food-grade gene expression system in Lactococcus lactis was established by the
combination of a vector containing the lacF gene as the selection marker and a
strain WZ103 carrying an in-frame deletion of this gene in the chromosome as the
host. The human glutathione S-transferase A1-1 (hGSTA1) and Cu/Zn superoxide
dismutase (hSOD) genes were respectively cloned into a food-grade vector under
the control of the lactococcal inducible promoter P(lacA). The resulting
expression plasmids were separately introduced into the lactose-deficient
(Lac(-)) host, and the lactose-utilizing (Lac(+)) transformants were directly
selected on a chemically defined medium, using lactose as the sole carbon source.
The successful food-grade expression of hGSTA1 and hSOD in the L. lactis WZ103
transformed with these plasmids were analyzed by Western blotting and enzymatic
activity assay, respectively.

Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12684072 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

538: Tex Med. 2003 Mar;99(3):66-9.

Safety of foods derived from genetically modified plants.

Thomas JA.

University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX, USA.
jat-tox@swbell.net

Biopharmaceuticals have been available for clinical use for nearly three decades,
but foods derived from agribiotechnology have been available for just under a
decade. Controversy surrounding foods from genetically modified (GM) plants has
focused primarily upon their allergenicity, with lesser concerns about antibiotic
resistance genes. Concerns are related to possible environmental impacts on
non-human species, including effects on non-target species (e.g., butterflies)
and on the development of so-called "super weeds." Food allergies are no more
prevalent in foods from GM plants than in conventional foods. Further, the use of
antibiotics in the development of GM plants does not pose a significant risk to
the human population. Foods from the current GM plant products have been shown
not to pose any detrimental effects to humans, and, in fact, nutritionally
enhanced products are being developed. GM foods are subjected globally to intense
regulatory scrutiny, and extensive data have been provided consistently to
regulatory agencies in the United States on a voluntary basis, with mandatory
reporting of data soon to be in force. Existing environmental concerns appear to
be unjustified on the basis of existing data and experience.

PMID: 12674981 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

539: Bull Acad Natl Med. 2002;186(8):1391-400.

[Allergic risk of transgenic food: prevention strategies]

[Article in French]

Moneret-Vautrin DA.

Service de Mö©decine Interne-Immunologie Clinique et Allergologie, Hö´pital
Central, 29 avenue du Marö©chal de Lattre de Tassigny, 54035 Nancy.

Numerous allergens proceed from foods. The allergic risk of transgenic foods
needs to be evaluated according recommendations from the Joint Expert Committee
FAO/WHO. Potential issues are the risk of cross reactivity with existing
allergens, the modification of allergenicity of the transgenic protein induced by
a modified metabolism in the host, the modified allergenicity of the proteins of
the transgenic plant, a potential neo-allergenicity of the transgenic protein,
and the risk of dissemination through pollens, inducing a respiratory
sensitization then a cross food allergy. The algorithm includes three steps for
evaluation: first the search for significant homology of the protein with
allergens listed in allergen databanks, or the identity of a sequence of six
aminoacids with known allergens, then a cross reactivity explored through the
binding to IgEs from patients allergic to the source of the gene, or allergic to
organisms of the same group or botanical family, and finally the extent of the
pepsine resistance. The risk of immunogenicity has to be studied with appropriate
animal models. A post-marketing surveillance is recommended for monitoring of
adverse effects. The structure of an Allergo-Vigilance Network, the tools for
efficiency and the groups at higher risk will be discussed.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 12669358 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

540: Bull Acad Natl Med. 2002;186(8):1377-88; discussion 1388-9.

[GMOs in food: risk assessment and management; scientific and regulatory
characteristics]

[Article in French]

Casse F, Hervieu F.

Universitö© Montpellier 2, Biochimie et Physiologie Molö©culaire des Plantes, UMR
5004 CNRS/UM2/INRA/Agro-M), Place Viala, 34060 Montpellier.

Genetic transformation constitutes a new tool for improvement of microorganisms,
animals and plants used in food. Foreseeable risks are evoked, as well as
management measures to avoid GMO unsuspected risks. Few risks are specific to
GMOs. Present elements of french and european regulations concerning placing on
the market and follow up GMOs and other novel foods are described.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12669357 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

541: Ann Pharm Fr. 2003 Mar;61(2):124-31.

[Summary and conclusions]

[Article in French]

Rö©rat A.

Acadö©mie nationale de mö©decine, Paris.

PMID: 12668951 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

542: Ann Pharm Fr. 2003 Mar;61(2):96-102.

[The allergic risk of transgenic foods strategy for prevention]

[Article in French]

Moneret-Vautrin DA.

Service de Mö©decine Interne-Immunologie Clinique et Allergologie, Hö´pital
Central, 29 avenue du Marö©chal de Lattre de Tassigny, F54035 Nancy Cedex.

A significant number of allergens arise from foods. The allergic risk of
transgenic foods must be evaluated in accordance with the recommendations of the
Joint Expert Committee FAO/WHO. Potential issues are the risk of cross reactivity
with existing allergens, the modification of allergenicity of the transgenic
protein induced by a modified metabolism in the host, the modified allergenicity
of the proteins of the transgenic plant, a potential neo-allergenicity of the
transgenic protein, and the risk of dissemination through pollens, inducing a
respiratory sensitization then a cross food allergy. The algorithm includes three
steps for evaluation: first the search for significant homology of the protein
with allergens listed in allergen databanks, or the identity of a sequence of six
aminoacids with known epitopes, then a cross reactivity explored through the
binding to IgEs from patients allergic to the source of the gene, or allergic to
organisms of the same group or botanical family, and finally the extent of the
pepsine resistance. The risk of immunogenicity has to be studied with appropriate
animal models. A post-marketing surveillance is recommended for monitoring of
adverse effects. The structure of an Allergo-Vigilance Network, the tools for
efficiency and the groups at higher risk will be discussed. The potential risk of
transgenic foods to be allergenic cannot be overlooked, not ignoring the fact
that current technologies modify allergenicity of foods.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 12668947 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

543: Ann Pharm Fr. 2003 Mar;61(2):87-95.

[GMOs in food: risk assessment, scientific management and regulatory aspects]

[Article in French]

Casse F, Hervieu F.

Universitö© Montpellier 2, CC 024, place Eugö¨ne Bataillon, F34095 Montpellier
Cedex 5.

Genetic transformation constitutes a new tool for improvement of microorganisms,
animals and plants used in food. We present foreseeable risks, as well as
management measures to avoid unsuspected risks of GMOs. Few risks are specific to
GMOs. Present elements of French and European regulations concerning placing on
the market and follow up GMOs and other novel foods are described.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12668946 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

544: Ann Pharm Fr. 2003 Mar;61(2):75-7.

[Joint session of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of
Pharmacy, November 26, 2002]

[Article in French]

Rö©rat A; National Academy of Medicine; National Academy of Pharmacy.

Acadö©mie nationale de mö©decine, Paris.

PMID: 12668944 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

545: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Apr;21(4):366-9.

Who is driving biotechnology acceptance?

Kalaitzandonakes N, Bijman J.

Agrobiotechnology Center, University of Missouri-Columbia, USA.
KalaitzandonakesN@missouri.edu

PMID: 12665818 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

546: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Apr;21(4):346-7.

US food aid still under GM cloud.

Jayaraman KS.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12665809 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

547: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Apr;21(4):346.

Italy employs further GMO delay tactics.

Meldolesi A.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12665808 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

548: Plant J. 2003 Apr;34(1):1-11.

The redistribution of protein sulfur in transgenic rice expressing a gene for a
foreign, sulfur-rich protein.

Hagan ND, Upadhyaya N, Tabe LM, Higgins TJ.

CSIRO Plant Industry, GPO Box 1600, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia.

Sulfur amino acid composition is an important determinant of seed protein
quality. A chimeric gene encoding sunflower seed albumin (SSA), one of the most
sulfur-rich seed storage proteins identified so far, was introduced into rice
(Oryza sativa) in order to modify cysteine and methionine content of the seed.
Analysis of a transgenic line expressing SSA at approximately 7% of total seed
protein revealed that the mature grain showed little change in the total sulfur
amino acid content compared to the parental genotype. This result indicated that
the transgenic rice grain was unable to respond to the added demand for cysteine
and methionine imposed by the production of SSA. Analysis of the protein
composition of the transgenic grain showed changes in the relative levels of the
major seed storage proteins, as well as some non-storage proteins, compared to
non-transgenic controls. Changes observed at the protein level were concomitant
with differences in mRNA accumulation but not always with the level of
transcription. The limited sulfur reserves appeared to be re-allocated from
endogenous proteins to the new sulfur sink in the transgenic grain. We
hypothesize that this response is mediated by a signal transduction pathway that
normally modulates seed storage protein composition in response to environmental
fluctuations in sulfur availability, via both transcriptional and
post-transcriptional control of gene expression.

PMID: 12662304 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

549: Mol Cells. 2003 Feb 28;15(1):20-6.

The 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase of glyphosate-tolerant soybean
expressed in Escherichia coli shows no severe allergenicity.

Chang HS, Kim NH, Park MJ, Lim SK, Kim SC, Kim JY, Kim JA, Oh HY, Lee CH, Huh K,
Jeong TC, Nam DH.

College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyongsan 712-749, Korea.

The recombinant gene was amplified from the chromosomal DNA of
genetically-modified (GM) soybeans and identified as epsps encoding
5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) which renders glyphosate
resistance. The epsps structural gene was introduced in the pET28(a) plasmid for
its expression in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). It was confirmed that the maximal
productivity of the EPSPS protein was achieved when cultivating the recombinant
strain in a LB broth for 2 h after supplementing 1 mM
isopropylbeta-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) in a 2 h-culture broth. Since the
expressed EPSPS protein was found as an insoluble form in the inclusion body, it
was extracted by 6 M urea after sonication, and then purified through immobilized
nickel-affinity column chromatography to isolate EPSPS having a molecular mass of
57 kDa. When incubated in simulated gastric fluid containing pepsin at pH 1.5,
the purified EPSPS protein was completely digested within 1 min. In addition, the
passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction of the purified EPSPS protein was not
observed in the Sprague Dawley rat system that was administered either orally or
subcutaneously. Furthermore, treatment of the EPSPS protein to the culture of the
sensitized peritoneal mast cells, or unsensitized but antisera-labeled mast
cells, showed neither a remarkable change in the histamine release nor a cytokine
production, including interleukin-4 (IL-4) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha
(TNF-alpha). Thus, it can be concluded that the EPSPS protein in the GM soybean
showed no significant allergenicity in the Sprague Dawley rats.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12661756 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

550: St Thomas Law Rev. 2001 Summer;13(4):927-34.

A Protestant perspective on the new genetics: are people and institutions of
faith prepared to lead?

Jones JC.

Plymouth Congregational Church Foundation, Inc., USA.

PMID: 12661582 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

551: Biochem Soc Trans. 2003 Apr;31(2):299-306.

Genes in food--why the furore?

Dixon B.

130 Cornwall Road, Ruislip Manor, Middx. HA4 6AW, U.K.

Although unprecedented and perhaps unique in its irrationality, the recent furore
over genetically modified (GM) food holds extremely important lessons for
scientists. Some sections of the media undoubtedly bear a heavy responsibility
for giving the expression 'GM' threatening connotations that are quite
unwarranted. However, influential contributions to the hysteria have come from a
surprising range of other sources, including some scientists. The research
community has failed in its responsibility to society in three ways. Firstly,
plant scientists did not appreciate that certain techniques (such as the use of
antibiotic resistance genes as markers during plant transformation) would
inevitably provoke public consternation. As a result, they took no steps to
address such concerns. Secondly, researchers overlooked, minimized or in some
cases simply dismissed the significance of public fears that they were
'interfering with Nature' or 'playing God'. Thirdly, plant breeders apparently
saw no need to take pro-active measures with regard to the media and public in
placing potential environmental and nutritional benefits of GM crops on the
agenda in a positive fashion. Partly because of this failure, GM food is now
firmly established in the public mind as wholly objectionable. One measure of how
far we have travelled down that road is that it hardly matters any more whether
objections are based on alleged environmental risks of cultivating GM crops or
alleged toxicological hazards of eating them. 'Genetically modified organism',
like 'radioactivity', has become an odious, generic shibboleth. Given that
millions of people throughout the world are already benefiting from
pharmaceuticals made by GM organisms, this is bizarre.

Publication Types:
Historical Article
Lectures

PMID: 12653625 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

552: Nature. 2003 Mar 20;422(6929):246.

Biotech firms join charities in drive to help Africa's farms.

Hoag H.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12646881 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

553: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2002 Dec;43(6):339-47.

[Comparison of soyasaponin and isoflavone contents between genetically modified
(GM) and non-GM soybeans]

[Article in Japanese]

Goda Y, Akiyama H, Suyama E, Takahashi S, Kinjo J, Nohara T, Toyoda M.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

Soyasaponins and isoflavones are main secondary metabolites in soybeans. In this
report we compared the content of secondary metabolites between genetically
modified (GM) and non-GM soybeans. Six cultivars/lines of GM and six
cultivars/lines of non-GM soybeans were extracted with methanol. Each extract was
partitioned with aqueous methanol and hexane and the aqueous methanol fraction
was partially purified by HP-20 and LH-20 column chromatography to afford crude
soyasaponin and isoflavone fractions. The main A-type soyasaponin,
acetylsoyasaponin A1 (AcA1), and the main B-type soyasaponins, soyasaponins I and
II (I and II), in the crude fractions were identified by LC/MS analyses with
authentic samples. The main isoflavones, daidzin, genistin, daidzein and
genistein (DI, GI, DE and GE), in the crude fractions were identified by LC
photo-diode array analyses with authentic samples. The contents of AcA1, I and II
in the crude soyasaponin fractions and those of DI, GI, DE and GE in the crude
isoflavone fractions were analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC. The average contents
(mg/100 g) of AcA1, I, II and total of B-type soyasaponins in GM soybeans were
36.4 +/- 24.2, 51.2 +/- 11.8, 26.4 +/- 7.6 and 77.7 +/- 18.5, respectively, and
those in non-GM ones were 22.3 +/- 14.7, 46.3 +/- 17.8, 19.8 +/- 9.1 and 65.9 +/-
26.9, respectively. The average contents (mg/100 g) of DI, GI, DE, GE and total
isoflavones in GM soybeans were 93.1 +/- 15.5, 121.8 +/- 19.4, 0.073 +/- 0.178,
0.320 +/- 0.082 and 215.3 +/- 33.3, respectively, and those in non-GM ones were
78.8 +/- 34.6, 106.7 +/- 28.3, 2.206 +/- 4.468, 0.822 +/- 0.754 and 188.5 +/-
26.7, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in
soyasaponin and isoflavone contents between GM and non-GM soybeans. Therefore, it
was estimated that the GM soybeans are equivalent to the non-GM ones in terms of
the composition of the main secondary metabolites.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 12635335 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

554: EMBO Rep. 2003 Mar;4(3):229-32.

Feeding prejudice. Reluctance within the European Union to accept genetically
modified crops may hinder the benefits of this technology reaching the developing
world.

Owens SR.

PMID: 12634834 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

555: Nature. 2003 Mar 13;422(6928):111-2.

Chinese agribiotech: Against the grain.

Macilwain C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12634752 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

556: Nature. 2003 Mar 13;422(6928):103.

Tougher rules aim to prevent gene flow into crops.

Hoag H.

PMID: 12634744 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

557: Nature. 2003 Mar 13;422(6928):99.

A little protectionism goes a long way.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12634739 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

558: Appetite. 2003 Feb;40(1):9-14.

The perceived healthiness of functional foods. A conjoint study of Danish,
Finnish and American consumers' perception of functional foods.

Bech-Larsen T, Grunert KG.

The MAPP Centre, The Aarhus School of Business, Haslegaardsvej 10, DK-8210,
Aarhus V, Denmark. tib@asb.dk

Functional foods presumably enable the consumer to lead a healthier life without
changing eating habits. Whether consumers accept this proposition or not is
potentially influenced by their perceptions of the healthiness of the processing
methods, enrichment components, food-types, and health claims used in the
production and marketing of functional foods. Because consumers may perceive
functional enrichment as interfering with nature, cultural values pertaining to
man's manipulation of nature may also influence consumer acceptance of functional
foods.The purpose of the study described here is to clarify to which extent
Danish, Finnish and American consumers' perceptions of the healthiness of
functional foods are explained by the factors mentioned above. The general
results indicate that values pertaining to man's manipulation of nature is only
modestly related to the acceptance of functional foods, whereas the use of
different health claims, processing methods, enrichments, product types, and
especially the interactions between the two latter, are important determinants of
consumers' perceptions of the healthiness of functional foods.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 12631500 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

559: Nature. 2003 Feb 13;421(6924):689.

Concern about Japan's unclear biotech regulations.

Watanabe KN.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 12610594 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

560: Nature. 2003 Feb 13;421(6924):675.

Missing the big picture.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12610579 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

561: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2002 Oct;43(5):301-5.

[A detection method for recombinant DNA from genetically modified potato (NewLeaf
Y potato)]

[Article in Japanese]

Akiyama H, Watanabe T, Wakui C, Chiba Y, Shibuya M, Goda Y, Toyoda M.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

A detection method using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was developed to
detect genetically modified (GM) potato (NewLeaf Y potato; NL-Y), of which the
mandatory assessment has not yet been completed in Japan. The potato sucrose
synthase gene was used as an internal control. We designed a primer pair to
specifically detect NL-Y without false-positive results in processed potato foods
infected with the potato virus Y (PVY). The DNA introduced into NL-Y using the
primer pair could be detected from potato powder samples containing 0.05% NL-Y.
In addition, we designed primer pairs for recognizing the CryIIIA gene to detect
the NewLeaf potato (NL), NewLeaf Plus potato (NL-P) and NL-Y and for recognizing
p-FMV in order to detect NL-P and NL-Y. The proposed method was applied to the
detection of NL-Y in 26 processed potato foods and NL-Y was not detected in any
samples.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12607929 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

562: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2002 Oct;43(5):273-9.

Effect of subchronic feeding of genetically modified corn (CBH351) on immune
system in BN rats and B10A mice.

Teshima R, Watanabe T, Okunuki H, Isuzugawa K, Akiyama H, Onodera H, Imai T,
Toyoda M, Sawada J.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

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.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12607925 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

563: Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2003 Jan 11;147(2):56-60.

Comment on:
Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2003 Jan 11;147(2):60-5.

[Nutrition and health--genetically modified food]

[Article in Dutch]

Kuiper HA, Kleter GA, Kok EJ.

Wageningen Universiteit & Research Centre, Rijks-Kwaliteitsinstituut voor Land-
en Tuinbouwproducten, Bornsesteeg 45, 6708 PD Wageningen.
h.a.kuiper@rikilt.wag-ur.nl

The genetically modified (GM) crops cultivated at present have new properties of
benefit to agriculture. It is expected that in the future GM crops will also be
cultivated with more complex genetic modifications that are aimed at improving
the nutritional and health value to the consumer. The safety assessment of GM
foods before market approval is based on a comparison of the characteristics of
the GM food with those of the conventional counterpart. Identified differences
are thoroughly tested for their toxicological and nutritional consequences.
Supplementary modern analytical techniques are being developed for the assessment
of future complex GM foods. No cases of adverse health or nutritional effects in
consumers have been reported for the existing generation of GM foods. The
feasibility of post-market surveillance of (GM) foods, in order to identify small
or chronic effects that have not been noticed in the pre-market phase, is being
investigated, yet its value should not be overestimated. Surveillance can be
informative in case of specific questions concerning certain products as long as
the consumer intake is well documented. To this end traceability and labelling
systems must be set up.

Publication Types:
Comment
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 12602068 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

564: Nature. 2003 Feb 20;421(6925):775.

Ministers back gene-crop advisers.

Butler D.

PMID: 12594469 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

565: Croat Med J. 2003 Feb;44(1):102-6.

Risks and benefits of genetically modified maize donations to southern Africa:
views from Malawi.

Muula AS, Mfutso-Bengo JM.

University of Malawi College of Medicine, Department of Public Health, Private
Bag 360, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi. amuula@commhealth.medcol.mw

In 2001 and 2002, many countries in the Southern African Development Community
(SADC) have suffered from severe food shortages resulting in an estimated 14
million people facing starvation due to inadequate quantities of the staple
maize. The international community's response has been the donation of
foodstuffs, including genetically modified maize. Reactions of the recipient
countries of Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi have been different. Zambia appealed to
the donors not to send genetically modified maize, whereas Malawi accepted the
maize donations. Malawi is currently facing many public health challenges because
10% of its 10-million population is HIV-positive, maternal mortality rate has
almost doubled between 1992 and 2000, and there are also an estimated 1 million
orphans due to HIV/AIDS. In the European Union, genetically modified maize falls
under "Novel Foods" and its marketing and distribution are strictly regulated by
law. This has never been the case in the southern African countries. In this
article, we discuss the ethical challenges associated with genetically modified
maize donations to southern Africa. Although genetically modified food offers a
way to avoid many adverse effects of food shortages, we believe that some of the
ethical questions of genetically modified food donations should be solved first,
under the leadership of the donor countries and partnership of the developing
countries. There are fears that consummation of genetically modified maize could
have adverse health effects. These fears must be addressed if the confidence of
developing countries in the donor community is to be maintained.

PMID: 12590438 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

566: Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom. 2003;17(5):479-83.

Analysis of protein profiles of genetically modified potato tubers by
matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

Careri M, Elviri L, Mangia A, Zagnoni I, Agrimonti C, Visioli G, Marmiroli N.

Dipartimento di Chimica Generale ed Inorganica, Chimica Analitica, Chimica
Fisica, Universitö  degli Studi di Parma, Italy.

Traceability of genetically modified (GM) foods demands the development of
appropriate reliable techniques in order to identify and quantify peptide or
nucleic acid residues in GM plants and food products through the food chain. In
this study the applicability of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization
time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOFMS) was demonstrated for the
characterization of proteins of transformed and untransformed potato (Solanum
Tuberosum L.) tubers. In GM tubers the expression level of the G1-1 gene, which
regulates transition from dormancy to sprouting tubers, was inhibited by
antisense technology. The analysis of antisense transformed lines showed that
several of them exhibited a significant delay in sprouting relative to the
control lines, in accordance with a decrease in the transcript level. Preliminary
attempts to compare the protein patterns obtained from transformed and control
lines using traditional electrophoresis were not able to reveal differences in
the low-kDa range. Instead, MALDI-TOFMS applied to total peptide extract without
any purification was able to distinguish spectral patterns of transformed and
untransformed lines. In particular, several characteristic peaks from m/z 4373 to
4932 were detected only in the mass spectra of GM tuber samples. Copyright 2003
John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12590397 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

567: J Am Diet Assoc. 2003 Feb;103(2):208-14.

Consumer perception of risk associated with eating genetically engineered
soybeans is less in the presence of a perceived consumer benefit.

Brown JL, Ping Y.

Department of Food Science, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
16802, USA. f9a@psu.edu

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether perceived benefit alters personal risk perception
associated with eating genetically engineered soybeans, consumer desire for
labeling, preferred phrase on a label symbol, and desired information in an
educational brochure. DESIGN: Comparison of responses of two consumer groups who
completed one of two survey versions. SUBJECTS/SETTINGS: One hundred fifty
supermarket shoppers, age 21 years and older, for each survey or n=300 total.
Focus groups and a pilot test were used to develop the final survey in which
consumers read a description of a genetically engineered soybean with either no
obvious consumer benefit or an obvious consumer benefit and then completed a set
of attitude questions and evaluated a voluntary label design and educational
brochure content. Main outcome measures were mean opinion scores of personal risk
and desire for labeling and ranking of desired label phrase and brochure topics.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Chi;(2) and t Tests were used. RESULTS: Consumers reading
about the soybean with obvious consumer benefit were significantly more
comfortable eating these than those reading about the soybean with no obvious
consumer benefit (2.9+/-1.1 vs 3.4+/-1.0, respectively; P groups did not differ in desire for labeling of foods made with these soybeans or
preferred brochure content. They did differ significantly in preferred phrase on
the symbol (P of genetic engineering applications such as those in this study to help consumers
assess these applications. Dietitians can play a critical role in explaining
labeling terms and designing educational materials when the FDA finalizes
voluntary labeling regulations for genetically engineered foods.

PMID: 12589328 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

568: Rev Invest Clin. 2002 Sep-Oct;54(5):422-9.

[Opinions of a group of university students about science and technology]

[Article in Spanish]

Lisker R, Carnevale A, Pö©rez Vera P, Betancourt M.

Departamento de Genö©tica, Direcciö¨n de Investigaciö¨n, Instituto Nacional de
Ciencias Mö©dicas y Nutriciö¨n Salvador Zubirö¡n Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Tlalpan,
14000 D.F., Mö©xico. rlisker@quetzal.innsz.mx

OBJECTIVE: To learn the opinions of university students of four different areas
on the impact of science and technology on society. SUBJECTS: One Hundred and
sixty three close to graduate students of the Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana
campus Iztapalapa, distributed as follows: Administration 59, Biology 50, Social
Sciences 36 and Engineering 18. METHODS: For the survey we translated into
spanish part of a questionnaire employed in several countries to explore ideas on
the impact of science and technology on society of several groups. It contained
general questions such as. Do you believe that science and technology are equally
good or bad to society, or degree of knowledge of several technologies such as
computation or in vitro fertilization. It includes also more specific questions,
such as would your have problems with the use of genetically modified vegetables?
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The results suggested that Administration and Social
Sciences students had less interest in Science and Technology than the other, and
that in general, the knowledge of all students is rather limited including
biotechnology, genetic enginering and gene therapy. We compared the results with
those obtained previously in a group of Mexican Physicians and Biology students
from India, Thailand and Singapor.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12587417 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

569: Science. 2003 Feb 14;299(5609):1013.

Comment on:
Science. 2002 Dec 20;298(5602):2317-9.

Caution in China over GM crops.

Niu C.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12586923 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

570: Lancet. 2003 Feb 8;361(9356):500.

Uganda tries to learn from Zambia's GM food controversy.

Wendo C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12583959 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

571: Presse Med. 2002 Dec 21;31(40):1875-6.

[Allergy risk of transgenic foods, methods for prevention]

[Article in French]

Moneret-Vautrin A.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12579076 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

572: Health Care Food Nutr Focus. 2003 Feb;20(2):1, 3-8.

A glimpse into the future.

Puckett RP.

Division of Continuing Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.

PMID: 12575514 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

573: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Feb;111(2):221-2.

Animal models to detect allergenicity to foods and genetically modified products:
workshop summary.

Tryphonas H, Arvanitakis G, Vavasour E, Bondy G.

Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Helen_Tryphonas@hc-sc.gc.ca

Respiratory allergy and allergy to foods continue to be important health issues.
There is evidence to indicate that the incidence of food allergy around the world
is on the rise. Current estimates indicate that approximately 5% of young
children and 1-2% of adults suffer from true food allergy (Kagan 2003). Although
a large number of in vivo and in vitro tests exist for the clinical diagnosis of
allergy in humans, we lack validated animal models of allergenicity. This
deficiency creates serious problems for regulatory agencies and industries that
must define the potential allergenicity of foods before marketing. The emergence
of several biotechnologically derived foods and industrial proteins, as well as
their potential to sensitize genetically predisposed populations to develop
allergy, has prompted health officials and regulatory agencies around the world
to seek approaches and methodologies to screen novel proteins for allergenicity.

PMID: 12573909 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

574: Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2003 Jan-Feb;31(1):1-6.

Transgenics: are these foods beneficial or harmful?

[Article in English, Spanish]

Muö±oz-Lö¨pez F.

PMID: 12573203 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

575: Nature. 2003 Feb 6;421(6923):568-70.

Comment in:
Nature. 2003 Apr 10;422(6932):559. Nature. 2003 Feb 27;421(6926):889.

Crop improvement: A dying breed.

Knight J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12571562 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

576: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2002 Feb;31(1):37-40.

[Study on the identification of genomic modified foods]

[Article in Chinese]

Deng P, Zhao J, Liu J, Fang S.

Shenzhen Hygiene and Epidemics Station, Shenzhen 518020, China.

Nucleotide-based amplification method is an important system for the
identification of genomic modified foods (GMF). Roundup Ready Soybeans (Monsanto
company), Bt 176 GM maize (Novartis/Ciba-Geigy company) and Cecropin D capsicum
was used as material to search for the feasibility of investigating the safety of
GMF by PCR method. Primers specific for inserted genes and crop endogenous genes
in Roundup Ready Soybeans, Bt 176 maize and Cecropin D capsicum were applied. The
discrimination system for GM soybeans, GM maize and GM capsicum from the
counterpart of non-GM products and the detection system for correlating marker
genes and transgenes are established. The method was easy and fast, and the
corresponding results fixed the standard or declared data.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12561571 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

577: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Feb;21(2):117.

India set to embrace GM rice.

Jayaraman KS.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12560825 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

578: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2002 Jun;31(3):184-7.

[Detection of the genetically modified organisms in genetically modified soybean
and maize by polymerase chain reaction method]

[Article in Chinese]

Mao D, Mu W, Yang X.

Institute of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Chinese Academy of Preventive Medicine,
Beijing 100050, China.

A method for the detection of the (genetically modified organism GMOs) in
genetically modified soybean (Round-up Ready soybean, RR soybean) and
maize(Bt-176 maize) is described. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method is
discussed with the genetically modified soybean and maize whose contents are
known. The detection limit can be 0.1%, that is to say, we can detect the GMO in
the food whose content is only 0.1%, the detection method is just a screening
method. The procedure includes: (1) extraction of genomic DNA of maize and
soybean, (2) amplification of the inserted genes, CaMV35S promoter and the NOS
terminator inserted by means of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, (3)
amplification of the specific genes of maize and soybean in order to determine
that the samples are maize and soybean, (4) characterization and confirmation of
the PCR products by restriction enzyme analysis and the electrophoresis on
agarose gel. The RR soybean contains CaMV35S promoter and NOS terminator, and the
Bt-176 maize contains only CaMV35S promoter. Due to the high content of the
starch in maize, the effect of the electrophororesis is not so good as of the
soybean's.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12545757 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

579: J Agric Food Chem. 2003 Jan 29;51(3):550-7.

Assessment of screening methods for the identification of genetically modified
potatoes in raw materials and finished products.

Jaccaud E, Hö¶hne M, Meyer R.

Department of Quality and Safety Assurance, Nestlö© Research Center, Nestec Ltd.,
Vers-chez-les-Blanc, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland.

Qualitative polymerase chain reaction methods for the detection of genetically
modified potatoes have been investigated that can be used for screening purposes
and identification of insect-resistant and virus-resistant potatoes in food. The
presence of the nos terminator from Agrobacterium tumefaciens and the antibiotic
marker gene nptII (neomycin-phosphotransferase II) was demonstrated in three
commercialized Bt-potato lines (Monsanto Co., St. Louis, MO, USA) and one
noncommercial GM-potato product (high amylopectin starch, AVEBE, Veendam, The
Netherlands) and allows for general screening in foods. For further
identification, specific primers for the FMV promoter derived from the figwort
mosaic virus, the CryIIIA gene (delta-endotoxin from Bacillus thuringiensis
subsp. tenebrionis), potato leafroll virus replicase gene, and the potato virus Y
coat protein gene, were designed. The methods described were successfully applied
to processed potato raw materials (dehydrated potato powders and flakes), starch
samples, and finished products.

PMID: 12537422 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

580: J Biolaw Bus. 2001;4(2):6-10.

The ethics of biotechnology.

Lenoir N.

French Constitutional Court; European Group on Ethics in Science and New
Technologies of the European Union.

Ethical considerations pertaining to biotechnology have progressively been
introduced into European community law, especially with regard to research, the
environment, patents, animal welfare and medicine. This article addresses the
ethics of biotechnology at the European Union (EU) level. It provides insight
into the European Group of Ethics and describes how European ethical values
concerning science and technology are defined by law and intimately connected to
Europe's cultural and political identity. In addition, this article highlights
the critical need for an independent and permanent international body to
spearhead discussion and collaboration so that views between the different
cultures of the world can be exchanged, and, to assure access to experts whose
legitimacy and accountability are universally recognized.

PMID: 12530386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

581: Vopr Pitan. 2002;71(6):3-10.

[Hygienic aspects of food safety in Russia: tasks and ways to accomplish them]

[Article in Russian]

Onishchenko GG.

The article gives an account of the hygienic aspects of food safety of Russia,
the questions of chemical and microbiological contamination of food products,
vitamin and microelement deficiency in the diet of the population of this
country. It outlines the ways of elimination of defects of the Russian
population's diet.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12522949 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

582: Toxicol Sci. 2003 Jan;71(1):2-8.

The safety of genetically modified foods produced through biotechnology.

Hollingworth RM, Bjeldanes LF, Bolger M, Kimber I, Meade BJ, Taylor SL, Wallace
KB; Society of Toxicology ad hoc Working Group.

Michigan State University, USA.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12520069 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

583: Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Jan;21(1):6.

Europe angers US with strict GM labeling.

Mitchell P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12511897 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

584: Nippon Koshu Eisei Zasshi. 2002 Nov;49(11):1135-41.

[Genetically modified food (food derived from biotechnology): current and future
trends in public acceptance and safety assessment]

[Article in Japanese]

Nishiura H, Imai H, Nakao H, Tsukino H, Kuroda Y, Katoh T.

Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital.

Current and future trends regarding genetically modified (GM) crops and food
stuffs were reviewed, with a particular focus on public acceptance and safety
assessment. While GM foods, foods derived from biotechnology, are popular with
growers and producers, they are still a matter of some concern among consumers.
In fact, our recent surveys showed that Japanese consumers had become uneasy
about the potential health risks of genetically modified foods. Many Japanese
consumers have only vague ideas about the actual health risks, and they appear to
be making decisions simply by rejecting GM food because of non-informed doubts.
Although the debate about GM foods has increased in the mass media and scientific
journals, few articles concerning direct studies on the potential toxicity or
adverse health effects of GM foods have appeared. The roles of relevant
international regulatory bodies in ensuring that GM crops and food are safe are
therefore have summarized. Finally, the current debate on use of GM crops in
agriculture and future trends for development of GM foods with enriched
nutrients, better functionality, and medicinal ingredients, which will be of
direct benefit to the consumer, are covered.

Publication Types:
English Abstract

PMID: 12508467 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

585: Toxicology. 2002 Dec 27;181-182:427-31.

Substantial equivalence--an appropriate paradigm for the safety assessment of
genetically modified foods?

Kuiper HA, Kleter GA, Noteborn HP, Kok EJ.

RIKILT, Wageningen University and Research Center, P.O. Box 230, 6700 AE
Wageningen, The Netherlands. h.a.kuiper@rikilt.wag-ur.nl

Safety assessment of genetically modified food crops is based on the concept of
substantial equivalence, developed by OECD and further elaborated by FAO/WHO. The
concept embraces a comparative approach to identify possible differences between
the genetically modified food and its traditional comparator, which is considered
to be safe. The concept is not a safety assessment in itself, it identifies
hazards but does not assess them. The outcome of the comparative exercise will
further guide the safety assessment, which may include (immuno)toxicological and
biochemical testing. Application of the concept of substantial equivalence may
encounter practical difficulties: (i) the availability of near-isogenic parental
lines to compare the genetically modified food with; (ii) limited availability of
methods for the detection of (un)intended effects resulting from the genetic
modification; and (iii) limited information on natural variations in levels of
relevant crop constituents. In order to further improve the methodology for
identification of unintended effects, new 'profiling' methods are recommended.
Such methods will allow for the screening of potential changes in the modified
host organism at different integration levels, i.e. at the genome level, during
gene expression and protein translation, and at the level of cellular metabolism.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12505347 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

586: Toxicology. 2002 Dec 27;181-182:421-6.

Safety assessment of genetically modified crops.

Atherton KT.

Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Macclesfield SK10 4TJ, UK.
keith.atherton@syngenta.com

The development of genetically modified (GM) crops has prompted widespread debate
regarding both human safety and environmental issues. Food crops produced by
modern biotechnology using recombinant techniques usually differ from their
conventional counterparts only in respect of one or a few desirable genes, as
opposed to the use of traditional breeding methods which mix thousands of genes
and require considerable efforts to select acceptable and robust hybrid
offspring. The difficulties of applying traditional toxicological testing and
risk assessment procedures to whole foods are discussed along with the evaluation
strategies that are used for these new food products to ensure the safety of
these products for the consumer.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12505346 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

587: Science. 2002 Dec 20;298(5602):2317-9.

Comment in:
Science. 2003 Feb 14;299(5609):1013.

Transgenic crops. China takes a bumpy road from the lab to the field.

Yimin D, Mervis J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12493892 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

588: Lancet. 2002 Dec 14;360(9349):1945.

Europe moves to loosen restriction on GM foods.

Bosch X.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12493265 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

589: Nature. 2002 Dec 19-26;420(6917):730-1.

Agribiotech: more heat than light.

Aldhous P.

PMID: 12490904 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

590: Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2002 Dec;13(6):385.

Post-marketing surveillance of novel foods.

Warner JO.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12485312 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

591: Science. 2002 Dec 13;298(5601):2109-10.

Genetic modification. Europe prepares for arrival of GM foods.

Weis P.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12481108 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

592: Nature. 2002 Dec 12;420(6916):596.

Labs cook up strategy to test transgenic food.

Abbott A.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12478253 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

593: BMC Struct Biol. 2002 Dec 12;2:8. Epub 2002 Dec 12.

Screening of transgenic proteins expressed in transgenic food crops for the
presence of short amino acid sequences identical to potential, IgE - binding
linear epitopes of allergens.

Kleter GA, Peijnenburg AA.

RIKILT Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
g.a.kleter@rikilt.wag-ur.nl

BACKGROUND: Transgenic proteins expressed by genetically modified food crops are
evaluated for their potential allergenic properties prior to marketing, among
others by identification of short identical amino acid sequences that occur both
in the transgenic protein and allergenic proteins. A strategy is proposed, in
which the positive outcomes of the sequence comparison with a minimal length of
six amino acids are further screened for the presence of potential linear
IgE-epitopes. This double track approach involves the use of literature data on
IgE-epitopes and an antigenicity prediction algorithm. RESULTS: Thirty-three
transgenic proteins have been screened for identities of at least six contiguous
amino acids shared with allergenic proteins. Twenty-two transgenic proteins
showed positive results of six- or seven-contiguous amino acids length. Only a
limited number of identical stretches shared by transgenic proteins (papaya
ringspot virus coat protein, acetolactate synthase GH50, and glyphosate
oxidoreductase) and allergenic proteins could be identified as (part of)
potential linear epitopes. CONCLUSION: Many transgenic proteins have identical
stretches of six or seven amino acids in common with allergenic proteins. Most
identical stretches are likely to be false positives. As shown in this study,
identical stretches can be further screened for relevance by comparison with
linear IgE-binding epitopes described in literature. In the absence of literature
data on epitopes, antigenicity prediction by computer aids to select potential
antibody binding sites that will need verification of IgE binding by sera binding
tests. Finally, the positive outcomes of this approach warrant further clinical
testing for potential allergenicity.

Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12477382 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

594: Nature. 2002 Dec 5;420(6915):453.

Field trials excluded from UK crop appraisal.

Adam D.

PMID: 12466806 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

595: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;13(5):508-11.

Phytochemicals in plants: genomics-assisted plant improvement for nutritional and
health benefits.

Grusak MA.

Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor
College of Medicine, 1100 Bates Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
mgrusak@bcm.tmc.edu

Plants are an important source of essential nutrients and health-beneficial
components that are crucial for human life. Because the intake of these
phytochemicals is not always adequate, the resources of plant biotechnology are
being used to enhance the nutritional quality of our plant-based food supply.
Various improvement strategies are feasible, depending on whether the
phytochemical target is a major or minor constituent. Recent efforts in gene
discovery and functional genomics are providing the necessary understanding to
develop and evaluate different approaches to manipulate phytochemical
composition.

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
Review

PMID: 12459345 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

596: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Dec;20(12):1196; author reply 1197.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;20(10):969.

Divergent perspectives on GM food.

Avery A.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12454666 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

597: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Dec;20(12):1195-6; author reply 1197.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Oct;21(10):1131.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;20(10):969.

Divergent perspectives on GM food.

Beachy R, Bennetzen JL, Chassy BM, Chrispeels M, Chory J, Ecker JR, Noel JP, Kay
SA, Dean C, Lamb C, Jones J, Santerre CR, Schroeder JI, Umen J, Yanofsky M,
Wessler S, Zhao Y, Parrott W.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12454665 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

598: J Anat. 2002 Nov;201(5):409-15.

Ultrastructural analysis of pancreatic acinar cells from mice fed on genetically
modified soybean.

Malatesta M, Caporaloni C, Rossi L, Battistelli S, Rocchi MB, Tonucci F,
Gazzanelli G.

Istituto di Istologia e Analisi di Laboratorio, University of Urbino, Italy.
malatesta@uniurb.it

No direct evidence that genetically modified (GM) food may represent a possible
danger for health has been reported so far; however, the scientific literature in
this field is quite poor. Therefore, we investigated the possible effects of a
diet containing GM soybean on mouse exocrine pancreas by means of
ultrastructural, morphometrical and immunocytochemical analyses. Our observations
demonstrate that, although no structural modification occurs in pancreatic acinar
cells of mice fed on GM soybean, quantitative changes of some cellular
constituents take place in comparison to control animals. In particular, a diet
containing significant amount of GM food seems to influence the zymogen synthesis
and processing.

PMID: 12448776 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

599: Curr Biol. 2002 Nov 19;12(22):R755-6.

Push and pull in Europe.

Williams N.

Expansion of the EU now looks set to take place but the major efforts to develop
common policies continue to be stymied by national differences, no more so than
in on the issue of genetically modified (GM) crops, as Nigel Williams reports.
But other moves are aiming to draw together Europeans in an effort to exploit
closer collaboration as Michael Gross reports below.

PMID: 12445394 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

600: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Dec;20(12):522-31.

Plants and human health in the twenty-first century.

Raskin I, Ribnicky DM, Komarnytsky S, Ilic N, Poulev A, Borisjuk N, Brinker A,
Moreno DA, Ripoll C, Yakoby N, O'Neal JM, Cornwell T, Pastor I, Fridlender B.

Biotech Center, Foran Hall, 59 Dudley Road, Cook College, Rutgers University, New
Brunswick, NJ 08901-8520, USA. Raskin@aesop.rutgers.edu

The concept of growing crops for health rather than for food or fiber is slowly
changing plant biotechnology and medicine. Rediscovery of the connection between
plants and health is responsible for launching a new generation of botanical
therapeutics that include plant-derived pharmaceuticals, multicomponent botanical
drugs, dietary supplements, functional foods and plant-produced recombinant
proteins. Many of these products will soon complement conventional
pharmaceuticals in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of diseases, while at
the same time adding value to agriculture. Such complementation can be
accelerated by developing better tools for the efficient exploration of diverse
and mutually interacting arrays of phytochemicals and for the manipulation of the
plant's ability to synthesize natural products and complex proteins. This review
discusses the history, future, scientific background and regulatory issues
related to botanical therapeutics.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 12443874 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

601: Cell Struct Funct. 2002 Aug;27(4):173-80.

Erratum in:
Cell Struct Funct. 2002 Oct;27(5):399.

Ultrastructural morphometrical and immunocytochemical analyses of hepatocyte
nuclei from mice fed on genetically modified soybean.

Malatesta M, Caporaloni C, Gavaudan S, Rocchi MB, Serafini S, Tiberi C,
Gazzanelli G.

Istituto di Istologia e Analisi di Laboratorio, via Zeppi s n, University of
Urbino, Italy. malatesta@uniurb.it

No direct evidence that genetically modified (GM) food may represent a possible
danger for health has been reported so far; however, the scientific literature in
this field is still quite poor. Therefore, we carried out an ultrastructural
morphometrical and immunocytochemical study on hepatocytes from mice fed on GM
soybean, in order to investigate eventual modifications of nuclear components of
these cells involved in multiple metabolic pathways related to food processing.
Our observations demonstrate significant modifications of some nuclear features
in GM-fed mice. In particular, GM fed-mice show irregularly shaped nuclei, which
generally represents an index of high metabolic rate, and a higher number of
nuclear pores, suggestive of intense molecular trafficking. Moreover, the
roundish nucleoli of control animals change in more irregular nucleoli with
numerous small fibrillar centres and abundant dense fibrillar component in GM-fed
mice, modifications typical of increased metabolic rate. Accordingly,
nucleoplasmic (snRNPs and SC-35) and nucleolar (fibrillarin) splicing factors are
more abundant in hepatocyte nuclei of GM-fed than in control mice. In conclusion,
our data suggest that GM soybean intake can influence hepatocyte nuclear features
in young and adult mice; however, the mechanisms responsible for such alterations
remain unknown.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study

PMID: 12441651 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

602: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2002 Aug;43(4):J265-8.

[Method development for detection of recombinant DNAs from genetically modified
soy and maize]

[Article in Japanese]

Matsuoka T.

National Food Research Institute: 2-1-12, Kannondai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki
305-8642, Japan.

PMID: 12436727 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

603: Science. 2002 Nov 8;298(5596):1153-4.

Food aid. Zambia rejects GM corn on scientists' advice.

Bohannon J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12424345 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

604: Adv Nurse Pract. 2001 Jan;9(1):65-70.

Food biotechnology. Understanding the science, exploring the issues.

Davis SB.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12416041 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

605: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Nov;20(11):1081-2; author reply 1082.

Labeling should be mandatory.

Lappö© M.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 12410247 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

606: CMAJ. 2002 Oct 29;167(9):1046.

Canada must bolster its GM food regulations, not add labels: report.

Kondro W.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12403759 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

607: J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2002 Oct;35(4):475-86.

Children and genetically engineered food: potentials and problems.

Perr HA.

Department of Pediatrics, California Pacific Medical Center and University of
California, San Francisco 94120, USA. hperr@itsa.ucsf.edu

Changes in food production and dietary practices are occurring faster than our
understanding of their potential impact on children's health. Traditionally,
pediatric gastroenterologists have studied food with respect to its nutritive
value and digestibility, its influence on metabolism, its growth-promoting
characteristics, and its relationship to risk and severity of disease.
Biotechnology is now expanding the science of food to include disease prevention
and treatment, as well as the feeding of children on a global scale.
Bioengineered ("genetically modified", or "transgenic") plants were initially
developed to enhance the food supply by increasing crop yields. Such previously
developed transgenic plants are now prevalent worldwide and appear in many
processed food products. The implementation of the technology of genetic
modulation of food plants has led to considerable fear, controversy, and
confusion as the understanding of the technology is poor in the general
population. This review presents an overview of genetically modified food crops
and their potential unique benefits and risks to children's health. Political,
economical, and ecological issues related to transgenic crops are not discussed.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12394371 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

608: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;20(10):969.

Comment in:
Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Dec;20(12):1195-6; author reply 1197. Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Dec;20(12):1196; author reply 1197. Nat Biotechnol. 2003 Oct;21(10):1131.

A different perspective on GM food.

Schubert D.

Salk Institute, 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
schubert@salk.edu

PMID: 12355105 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

609: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;20(10):959.

US animal biotech regulations "may not be adequate".

Fox JL.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12355099 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

610: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;20(10):957.

The fear factor.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12355098 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

611: Sci Eng Ethics. 2002 Jul;8(3):363-81.

Conflict of interest from a Romanian geneticist's perspective.

Ispas I.

University of Bucharest, Faculty of Biology, Mendeleev Street nr 21-25,
Bucharest, Romania. iispas@mct.ro

This paper examines Romanian bioethics regulations for biomedical sciences,
looking in particular at the genetics area as a source for conflict of interest.
The analysis is focused on the organizational level, national regulations, the
sources for generating conflicts of interest, and management of conflicts. Modern
biotechnology and gene technology are among the key technologies of the
twenty-first century. The application of gene technology for medical and
pharmaceutical purposes is widely accepted by society, but the same cannot be
said of the development and application of gene technology in agriculture and
food processing. Because the use of a technology in the production and processing
of food is regarded more sceptically than in the production of biomedical
products, there can be areas of conflict in many cases when communication is
undertaken about gene technology in the agro-food sector. Ethical concerns play
an important factor in this, but a society's attitude to a developing technology
is an amalgam of many effects which are beyond ethics as such. This paper
contains a study carried out by the author for the Romanian Association for
Consumer Protection about the attitudes of consumers towards genetically modified
(GM) foods. This study revealed that in Romania more than 98% of consumers did
not know anything about GM foods and frequently were confused about the
definitions of these terms. In conclusion, it is necessary to say that there is a
low level of knowledge regarding biotechnology in Romania and this is an
important reason why there is neither public acceptance of gene technology
products nor is there a rejection.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12353364 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

612: Nature. 2002 Sep 26;419(6905):337.

Comment on:
Nature. 2002 Jul 11;418(6894):114.

Food labels should state the benefits of GMOs.

Righelato R.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12353008 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

613: Nature. 2002 Sep 26;419(6905):327.

Hostilities resume over future of GM crops.

Adam D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12352998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

614: Food Drug Law J. 2000;55(1):35-56.

A survey of developments in food and drug law from July 1998 to November 1999.

Littlefield N, Hada NR.

Foley, Hoag & Eliot, Boston, MA, USA.

Publication Types:
Historical Article

PMID: 12296348 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

615: J Adv Nurs. 2002 Sep;39(5):408.

Codex task force agrees on final draft of principles for the evaluation of GM
foods.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12229859 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

616: Risk Anal. 2002 Aug;22(4):701-11.

The media and genetically modified foods: evidence in support of social
amplification of risk.

Frewer LJ, Miles S, Marsh R.

Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, UK. lynn.frewer@bbsrc.ac.uk

Empirical examinations of the "social amplification of risk" framework are rare,
partly because of the difficulties in predicting when conditions likely to result
in amplification effects will occur. This means that it is difficult to examine
changes in risk perception that are contemporaneous with increases and/or
decreases in social or media discussion of the risks associated with a particular
risk event. However, the collection of attitude data before, during, and after
the increased reporting of the risks of genetically modified food in the United
Kingdom (spring 1999) has demonstrated that people's risk perceptions do increase
and decrease in line with what might be expected upon examination of the
amplification and attenuation mechanisms integral to the framework. Perceptions
of benefit, however, appeared to be permanently depressed by negative reporting
about genetically modified food. Trust in regulatory institutions with
responsibility for protecting the public was not affected. It was concluded that
the social amplification of risk framework is a useful framework for beginning to
explain the potential impact on risk perceptions of a risk event, particularly if
that risk event is presented to the public as a new hazard occurring in a crisis
context.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12224744 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

617: Internist (Berl). 2002 Jul;43(7):840-6.

[Genetic techniques and food. Are genetically modified foods a health risk for
us?]

[Article in German]

Jany KD, Kiener C.

Molekularbiologisches Zentrum, Bundesforschungsanstalt fö¼r Ernö¤hrung,
Haid-und-Neu-Strasse 9, 76131 Karlsruhe. klaus-dieter.jany@bfe.uni-karlsruhe.de

PMID: 12219684 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

618: Nature. 2002 Sep 5;419(6902):7.

Gene-bank expansion plan launched at Earth summit.

Cherry M.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12214203 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

619: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Sep;20(9):868.

Labeling GM foods--the ethical way forward.

Reiss M.

Science Education, University of London Institute of Education, UK.
m.reiss@ioe.ac.uk

PMID: 12205497 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

620: Science. 2002 Aug 23;297(5585):1257.

Animal biotechnology. Environmental impact seen as biggest risk.

Stokstad E.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12193761 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

621: Clin Exp Allergy. 2002 Aug;32(8):1131-43.

Report on the potential allergenicity of genetically modified organisms and their
products.

Lack G, Chapman M, Kalsheker N, King V, Robinson C, Venables K; BSACI working
party.

Department of Paediatric allergy & Immunology, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK.
gideon.lack@st-marys.nhs.uk

PMID: 12190648 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

622: J AOAC Int. 2002 Jul-Aug;85(4):938-44.

Real-time detection of genetically modified soya using Lightcycler and ABI 7700
platforms with TaqMan, Scorpion, and SYBR Green I chemistries.

Terry CF, Shanahan DJ, Ballam LD, Harris N, McDowell DG, Parkes HC.

Bioanalytical Innovations (F008), LGC (Teddington) Ltd., Middlesex, UK.
cft@lgc.co.uk

A comparative cross platform evaluation of real-time polymerase chain reaction
detection of DNA sequences present in Roundup Ready soya was undertaken using the
ABI 7700 and Roche Lightcycler detection systems in combination with 3 different
detection chemistries: TaqMan, Scorpion primers, and SYBR Green I fluorescent
dye. Various copy numbers of a plasmid containing the soya lectin sequence were
used to determine the sensitivity and reproducibility of the different technology
combinations and to examine both inter and intra machine variability. To examine
the relative accuracy of each technology, the genetically modified soya content
of baked products containing known amounts of Roundup Ready soya was determined
by detection of lectin and the EPSPS transgene. It was determined that the
combination of TaqMan detection chemistry and the ABI 7700 platform represented
the best method for quantitative detection of genetically modified organisms in
terms of both precision and accuracy.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12180691 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

623: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Sep;20(9):402-4.

Agricultural biotechnology and the UK public.

Moses V.

CropGen, 31 St. Petersburgh Place, London, UK W2 4LL. v.moses@qmul.ac.uk

It might be an exaggeration to claim that UK agriculture is in a state of crisis,
but it is certainly a time for decisions. Uncertainties abound: the implications
of growing free trade; a steady reduction in subsidies; the ongoing drift of
people to towns and what some regard as the stranglehold of retailers both on
food prices and on what the farmer gets. To all of this has to be added the
backwash of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and foot-and-mouth disease
(FMD), and the advent of new technologies, especially those based on modern
genetics.

PMID: 12175772 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

624: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Sep;20(9):376-81.

Biotechnology in the global agri-food system.

Phillips PW.

Managing Knowledge-based Agri-food Development, Agricultural Economics,
University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Canada S7N 5A8.
phillips@duke.usask.ca

The advent of biotechnology presents fundamental challenges to the global
agri-food industry. While the scientific base for agri-food production is being
revolutionised, it is not clear if or how the technology will be used. Proponents
of biotechnology and a large portion of agri-food policy makers around the world
project a positive future in which technology overcomes food shortages, improves
the environment, heals or eliminates disease and leads to a prosperous and
healthy society. A smaller but significant array of policy makers, citizens and
consumers fear that the technology will exacerbate food insecurity, threaten the
environment, endanger human health and ultimately impoverish society itself.
Although scientists and industry are convinced the fears are unfounded, it is not
clear that our social institutions will be able to adapt, adopt and use the
technology in a way that will satisfy society and improve social welfare.

PMID: 12175768 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

625: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Sep;20(9):374-5; author reply 375.

India's wasteful war on biotechnology.

Miller HI.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 12175766 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

626: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):696-9.

The present and future of the international wine industry.

Bisson LF, Waterhouse AL, Ebeler SE, Walker MA, Lapsley JT.

Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California, Davis, One
Shields Avenue, Davis, California 95616-8749, USA.

Wine production is both art and science, a blend of individual creativity and
innovative technology. But wine production is also business, with economic
factors driving manufacturing practices. To be successful in the modern
marketplace, a winemaker must integrate the artistic and economic aspects of wine
production, and possess a solid understanding of the intrinsic and extrinsic
factors that underlie purchase motivation.

PMID: 12167877 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

627: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):685-8.

Assessing the risks associated with new agricultural practices.

Hails RS.

NERC Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Oxford, UK. rha@ceh.ac.uk

One key challenge for the twenty-first century is how to produce the food we
need, yet ensure the landscape we want. Genetically modified crops have focused
our attention on how to answer this question for one part of agriculture. The
same principles could be applied to assess environmental impacts of future
land-use change in a much broader context.

PMID: 12167875 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

628: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):678-84.

Enhancing the crops to feed the poor.

Huang J, Pray C, Rozelle S.

Center for Chinese Agricultural Policy, Institute of Geographic Sciences and
Natural Resource Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 917 Building, Anwai Datun
Road, Beijing 100101, China.

Solutions to the problem of how the developing world will meet its future food
needs are broader than producing more food, although the successes of the 'Green
Revolution' demonstrate the importance of technology in generating the growth in
food output in the past. Despite these successes, the world still faces
continuing vulnerability to food shortages. Given the necessary funding, it seems
likely that conventional crop breeding, as well as emerging technologies based on
molecular biology, genetic engineering and natural resource management, will
continue to improve productivity in the coming decades.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12167874 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

629: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):668-70.

Comment in:
Nature. 2002 Oct 24;419(6909):777.

Malthus foiled again and again.

Trewavas A.

Institute of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Edinburgh, UK.
trewavas@ed.ac.uk

Throughout history, increasing population has driven the need to increase
agricultural efficiency, so averting successive 'malthusian' disasters. In the
twentieth century, the application of scientific knowledge to agriculture yielded
tremendous dividends, enabling cereal yields to increase threefold since 1950.
But with the world's population projected to reach nine billion by the middle of
this century, new ways must be found to increase yields while preserving natural
habitats and biodiversity.

Publication Types:
Historical Article

PMID: 12167872 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

630: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):571.

US calls for early data on transgenic crop safety.

Check E.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12167819 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

631: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):571-2.

Comment in:
Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):569.

Africa hungry for conventional food as biotech row drags on.

McDowell N.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12167818 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

632: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):569.

Comment on:
Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):571-2.

Poverty and transgenic crops.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Comment
Editorial

PMID: 12167817 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

633: Appetite. 2002 Aug;39(1):9-24.

Consumer attitudes towards genetically modified foods.

Magnusson MK, Koivisto Hursti UK.

Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Section of Caring Sciences,
University of Uppsala, Uppsala Science Park, S-751 83 Uppsala, Sweden.
maria.magnusson@pubcare.uu.se

The present study reports attitudes towards genetically modified (GM) foods among
Swedish consumers. A random nation-wide sample of 2,000 addressees, aged 18-65
years, were mailed a questionnaire and 786 (39%) responded. Most of these
consumers were rather negative about GM foods. However, males, younger
respondents and those with higher level of education were more positive than were
females, older respondents and those with lower level of education. A majority of
the consumers had moral and ethical doubts about eating GM foods and did not
perceive attributes like better taste or lower price beneficial enough to
persuade them to purchase GM foods. However, tangible benefits, like being better
for the environment or healthier, seemed to increase willingness to purchase GM
foods.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12160561 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

634: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Aug;20(8):775-6.

Comment on:
Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Jun;20(6):537-41.

Terminator no solution to gene flow.

Shand H.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 12147996 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

635: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Aug;20(8):758-9.

Political will to lift the GMO moratorium emerging in Europe.

Meldolesi A.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12147986 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

636: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Aug;20(8):756-7.

European Parliament vote encourages industry to proclaim green biotech.

Hodgson J.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12147985 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

637: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Aug;20(8):753.

Bogged down in CAP reform.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12147983 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

638: Nat Biotechnol. 2002 Aug;20(8):753.

Caution: may be harmless if swallowed.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12147982 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

639: J Biotechnol. 2002 Sep 11;98(1):107-12.

The application of biotechnological methods in authenticity testing.

Popping B.

Eurofins Scientific, 69a Kilnwick Road, Pocklington, YO42 2JY, UK.
bertpopping@eurofins.com

By counterfeiting brand names in the food and drink industry as well as
fraudulently labelling and selling low quality products as premium products, this
sector of the industry has lost significant amounts of money and the consumer has
been deceived. While it was difficult to establish certain types of fraud before
the advent of modern biotechnology, DNA-based methods make an important
contribution to protect high-quality brand names and protect the consumer.
Several years ago, DNA technologies were considered as methods used in
universities, primarily for research purpose, not so much for 'real-life'
applications. However, this has changed and a number of laboratories have
specialised in offering such services to the industry. This article will review
DNA-based techniques commonly used for authenticity testing.

PMID: 12126809 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

640: J Biotechnol. 2002 Sep 11;98(1):79-106.

Assuring the safety of genetically modified (GM) foods: the importance of an
holistic, integrative approach.

Cockburn A.

Monsanto UK Ltd, The Maris Centre, 45 Hauxton Road, Trumpington, Cambridge CB2
2LQ, UK. andrew.cockburn@monsanto.com

Genes change continuously by natural mutation and recombination enabling man to
select and breed crops having the most desirable traits such as yield or flavour.
Genetic modification (GM) is a recent development which allows specific genes to
be identified, isolated, copied and inserted into other plants with a high level
of specificity. The food safety considerations for GM crops are basically the
same as those arising from conventionally bred crops, very few of which have been
subject to any testing yet are generally regarded as being safe to eat. In
contrast a rigorous safety testing paradigm has been developed for GM crops,
which utilises a systematic, stepwise and holistic approach. The resultant
science based process, focuses on a classical evaluation of the toxic potential
of the introduced novel trait and the wholesomeness of the transformed crop. In
addition, detailed consideration is given to the history and safe use of the
parent crop as well as that of the gene donor. The overall safety evaluation is
conducted under the concept known as substantial equivalence which is enshrined
in all international crop biotechnology guidelines. This provides the framework
for a comparative approach to identify the similarities and differences between
the GM product and its comparator which has a known history of safe use. By
building a detailed profile on each step in the transformation process, from
parent to new crop, and by thoroughly evaluating the significance from a safety
perspective, of any differences that may be detected, a very comprehensive matrix
of information is constructed which enables the conclusion as to whether the GM
crop, derived food or feed is as safe as its traditional counterpart. Using this
approach in the evaluation of more than 50 GM crops which have been approved
worldwide, the conclusion has been that foods and feeds derived from genetically
modified crops are as safe and nutritious as those derived from traditional
crops. The lack of any adverse effects resulting from the production and
consumption of GM crops grown on more than 300 million cumulative acres over the
last 5 years supports these safety conclusions.

PMID: 12126808 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

641: J Biotechnol. 2002 Sep 11;98(1):9-24.

Attitudes toward biotechnology in the European Union.

Pardo R, Midden C, Miller JD.

Fundacion BBVA, Principe de Vergara 51, 28006, Madrid, Spain. rpardo@fbbva.es

Public attitudes toward biotechnology in the European Union have been
characterized as negative using Eurobarometer data, but so far little attention
has been paid to building a robust metric appropriate for emerging public opinion
issues which combine high salience with very limited knowledge by the public. On
the basis of the general literature about the formation and structure of
attitudes and about public perceptions of science, this article presents a new
metric and analysis: first, for estimating the level of awareness and knowledge
of biotechnology in Europe; second, for assessing the stability and depth of
these evaluative perceptions; and third, for exploring the roles of canonical
socio-demographic variables, the knowledge variable and general attitudinal
schemas for understanding the perceptions of both benefits and risks of biotech
applications. The results show the importance of general value orientations or
"worldviews" in shaping positive attitudes, and more of these general cognitive
schemas should be measured in future research. The same multivariate model was
unable to account for a significant percentage of the total variance in the
perception of risks, suggesting that new measures are needed to tap this critical
area in the acceptance of biotech in Europe.

PMID: 12126802 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

642: Nature. 2002 Jul 11;418(6894):114.

Comment in:
Nature. 2002 Sep 26;419(6905):337.

Europe gets tough on labelling genetically modified foodstuffs.

Butler D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12110851 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

643: Nutr Health. 2002;16(2):73-84.

Can science give us the tools for recognizing possible health risks of GM food?

Pusztai A.

The Rowett Research Institute, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK. a.pusztai@freenet.co.uk

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.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12102369 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

644: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2002 Apr;43(2):68-73.

Increased digestibility of two products in genetically modified food (CP4-EPSPS
and Cry1Ab) after preheating.

Okunuki H, Teshima R, Shigeta T, Sakushima J, Akiyama H, Goda Y, Toyoda M, Sawada
J.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

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.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12092415 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

645: Duodecim. 2001;117(1):112-6.

[Genetically modified and other novel food products]

[Article in Finnish]

Mannonen L.

Elintarvikevirasto PL 5, 00531 Helsinki.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12092344 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

646: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):809-15.

Validation studies and proficiency testing.

Ankilam E, Heinze P, Kay S, Van den Eede G, Popping B.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Food Products Unit, Ispra, Italy.
elke.anklam@jrc.it

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) entered the European food market in 1996.
Current legislation demands the labeling of food products if they contain <1%
GMO, as assessed for each ingredient of the product. To create confidence in the
testing methods and to complement enforcement requirements, there is an urgent
need for internationally validated methods, which could serve as reference
methods. To date, several methods have been submitted to validation trials at an
international level; approaches now exist that can be used in different
circumstances and for different food matrixes. Moreover, the requirement for the
formal validation of methods is clearly accepted; several national and
international bodies are active in organizing studies. Further validation
studies, especially on the quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods, need
to be performed to cover the rising demand for new extraction methods and other
background matrixes, as well as for novel GMO constructs.

Publication Types:
Validation Studies

PMID: 12083280 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

647: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):801-8.

Detection methods and performance criteria for genetically modified organisms.

Bertheau Y, Diolez A, Kobilinsky A, Magin K.

Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, PMDV/MDO, Versailles, France.
bertheau@versailles.inra.fr

Detection methods for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are necessary for
many applications, from seed purity assessment to compliance of food labeling in
several countries. Numerous analytical methods are currently used or under
development to support these needs. The currently used methods are bioassays and
protein- and DNA-based detection protocols. To avoid discrepancy of results
between such largely different methods and, for instance, the potential resulting
legal actions, compatibility of the methods is urgently needed. Performance
criteria of methods allow evaluation against a common standard. The more-common
performance criteria for detection methods are precision, accuracy, sensitivity,
and specificity, which together specifically address other terms used to describe
the performance of a method, such as applicability, selectivity, calibration,
trueness, precision, recovery, operating range, limit of quantitation, limit of
detection, and ruggedness. Performance criteria should provide objective tools to
accept or reject specific methods, to validate them, to ensure compatibility
between validated methods, and be used on a routine basis to reject data outside
an acceptable range of variability. When selecting a method of detection, it is
also important to consider its applicability, its field of applications, and its
limitations, by including factors such as its ability to detect the target
analyte in a given matrix, the duration of the analyses, its cost effectiveness,
and the necessary sample sizes for testing. Thus, the current GMO detection
methods should be evaluated against a common set of performance criteria.

PMID: 12083279 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

648: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):797-800.

DNA methods: critical review of innovative approaches.

Kok EJ, Aarts HJ, Van Hoef AM, Kuiper HA.

State Institute for Quality Control of Agricultural Products (RIKILT), Department
of Food Safety and Health, Wageningen, The Netherlands. e.j.kok@rikilt.wag-ur.nl

The presence of ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in
food products in the market place is subject to a number of European regulations
that stipulate which product consisting of or containing GMO-derived ingredients
should be labeled as such. In order to maintain these labeling requirements, a
variety of different GMO detection methods have been developed to screen for
either the presence of DNA or protein derived from (approved) GM varieties.
Recent incidents where unapproved GM varieties entered the European market show
that more powerful GMO detection and identification methods will be needed to
maintain European labeling requirements in an adequate, efficient, and
cost-effective way. This report discusses the current state-of-the-art as well as
future developments in GMO detection.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12083278 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

649: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):792-6.

State of the art and limitations of quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Wiseman G.

RHM Technology Ltd, High Wycombe, Bucks, UK. gwiseman@rhmtech.co.uk

Consequential to the implementation of European Commission (EC) Regulation
1139/98, EC Regulation 49/2000, and EC Regulation 50/2000 has been the need to
measure accurately the levels of the genetically modified (GM) species Roundup
Ready Soya and Bt 176 Maize that are present in food. Analytical methods to
detect and quantitate these transgenic species have received much attention
particularly with respect to the deminimus threshold of 1% for their presence in
materials derived from non-GM identity-preserved (IP) supplies. The relative
advantages and limitations of threshold analysis by double-competitive polymerase
chain reaction (PCR) and quantitative real-time PCR are discussed in their
application to the quantitative analysis of processed foods. Consideration is
also given to other factors involved in the analyses that affect the performance
of quantitative procedures, and to the many uncertainties involved in the
precision of a reported analytical result.

PMID: 12083277 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

650: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):787-91.

Detection of genetically modified organisms in foods by protein- and DNA-based
techniques: bridging the methods.

van Duijn GJ, van Biert R, Bleeker-Marcelis H, Van Boeijen I, Adan AJ, Jhakrie S,
Hessing M.

TNO Nutrition and Food Research, AJ Zeist, The Netherlands.
vanDuijn@voeding.tno.nl

According to European Commission (EC) Regulation 1139/98, foods and food
ingredients that are to be delivered to the final consumer in which either
protein or DNA resulting from genetic modification is present, shall be subject
to additional specific labeling requirements. Since 1994, genetically altered
tomatoes, squash, potatoes, canola, cotton, and soy have been on the market.
Recently, insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant maize varieties have been
introduced. Soy and maize are 2 of the most important vegetable crops in the
world. During the past 4 years, both protein- and DNA-based methods have been
developed and applied for detection of transgenic soy and maize, and their
derivatives. For protein-based detection, specific monoclonal and polyclonal
antibodies have been developed; for immunochemical detection, Western blot
analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays are the most prominent examples.
For detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) at the level of DNA,
polymerase chain reaction-based methods are mainly used. For these reactions,
highly specific primer sets are needed. This study compares the principally
different methods. Specificity of methods and the possible risks of
false-positive or false-negative results are considered in relation to sampling,
matrix effects, and food processing procedures. In addition, quantitative aspects
of protein- and DNA-based GM detection methods are presented and discussed. This
is especially relevant as EC regulation 49/2000, which defines a threshold for an
unintentional comingling of 1%, came into force on April 10, 2000.

PMID: 12083276 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

651: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):780-6.

Protein immunoassay methods for detection of biotech crops: applications,
limitations, and practical considerations.

Stave JW.

Strategic Diagnostics, Inc, Newark, DE 19713, USA. jstave@sdix.com

Immunoassay methods are available for detection and quantitation of proteins
expressed by most biotechnology-derived crops in commercial production. The 2
most common test formats are enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and
immunochromatographic (lateral flow) strip tests. Two ELISA methods, one for
Roundup Ready soybeans and one for MON810 CrylAb corn, were the subject of large
international collaborative studies and were demonstrated to quantitatively
determine the concentrations of biotech crops in samples of ground grain.
Quantitative ELISA methods are also useful for analysis of processed fractions of
agricultural commodities such as soybean toasted meal or corn flour. Both strip
tests and ELISAs for biotech crops are currently being used on a large scale in
the United States to manage the sale and distribution of grain. In these
applications, tests are used to determine if the concentration of biotech grain
is above or below specified threshold limits. Using existing U.S. Department of
Agriculture sampling techniques, the reliability of the threshold determination
is expressed in terms of statistical confidence rather than analytical precision.
Combining the use of protein immunoassays with Identity Preservation systems
provides an effective means of characterizing the raw and processed agricultural
inputs to the food production system in a way that allows food producers to
comply with labeling laws.

PMID: 12083275 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

652: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):775-9.

Production of certified reference materials for the detection of genetically
modified organisms.

Trapmann S, Schimmel H, Kramer GN, Van den Eede G, Pauwels J.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements, Geel, Belgium. trapmann@irmm.jrc.be

Certified reference materials (CRMs) are an essenIial tool in the quality
assurance of analytical measurements. They are produced, certified, and used in
accordance with relevant ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and
BCR (Community Bureau of Reference) guidelines. The Institute for Reference
Materials and Measurements (IRMM; Geel, Belgium) has produced the first powdery
genetically modified organism (GMO) CRMs in cooperation with the Institute for
Health and Consumer Protection (Ispra, Italy). Until now, different weight
percentages in the range of 0-5% for 4 GMOs in Europe were produced and
certified: Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis)-11 and Bt-176 maize, Roundup Ready
soybean, and MON810 maize. Bt-11 and Bt-176 maize and Roundup Ready soybean were
produced by IRMM on behalf of Fluka Chemie AG (Buchs, Switzerland).
Characterization of used base material is the first step in production and is
especially important for GMO CRMs. The production of powdery GMO CRMs and methods
used for production control are described. Thorough control of homogeneity and
stability are essential for certification of reference materials and ensure
validity of the certificate for each bottle of a batch throughout a defined
shelf-life. Because production of reference materials and their maintenance are
very labor- and cost-intensive tasks, the usefulness of new types of GMO CRMs
must be estimated carefully.

PMID: 12083274 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

653: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):768-74.

Detection of genetically modified crops and their derivatives: critical steps in
sample preparation and extraction.

Terry CF, Harris N, Parkes HC.

BioAnalytical Innovation Team, LGC, Teddington, Middlesex, UK.
catherine.terry@lgc.co.uk

The detection of genetically modified crops in foodstuff relies on detection of
transgenic DNA or protein material in the sample matrix. Purified DNA or proteins
are used as analytical material for polymerase chain reaction technologies and
immunodiagnostics. Successful sample preparation is critical to the validity of
subsequent analysis. For routine analysis, a good sample preparation technique
should be simple, safe, and inexpensive while reproducibly generating DNA/protein
of sufficient quality and yield. The suitability of isolated DNA or protein as an
analyte for a detection or characterization technique depends on amount or
concentration, purity, and integrity, each of which may be influenced by sample
matrix and the extraction technique, and, in turn, may impact the validity of
analytical techniques. The key sample preparation steps of homogenization,
pretreatment, extraction, and purification are discussed as well as typical
analytical methods. Consideration is given to application of these steps for
particular sample matrixes to maximize yield, reduce inhibition effects, and
minimize contamination. The choice of the most appropriate and valid methods for
sample preparation from particular foods is discussed with respect to DNA
analysis. Attention is also given to ease of use, cost, and generic applicability
of the procedures.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12083273 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

654: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):762-7.

Identity preservation of genetically modified organisms in the food chain:
requirements, methods, and costs.

Brookes G.

PG Economics, Dorchester, Dorset, UK. Graham.Brookes@Btinternet.com

The use of the technology of genetic modification (GM) in European agriculture
and the food supply chain is currently controversial. Because of strong anti-GM
technology sentiments, the use of ingredients derived from plants containing GM
have largely been eliminated from foods manufactured for direct human consumption
by the food supply chain in much of the European Union (EU). During the past
year, the attention of those opposed to the technology has turned to the use of
GM ingredients in livestock production systems by incorporation of GM soy and
maize in animal feed. A discussion is presented of the key issues relating to
this subject, focusing on how supplies of GM or non-GM products are segregated or
how their identities are preserved. The discussion is centered on GM maize and
soybeans into which agronomic traits, such as herbicide tolerance and/or insect
resistance, have been incorporated. These are currently the only crops into which
some varieties containing GM have been approved for use in the EU.

PMID: 12083272 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

655: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):757-61.

Analytical challenges: bridging the gap from regulation to enforcement.

Van den Eede G, Kay S, Anklam E, Schimmel H.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer
Protection, Food Products Unit, Ispra, VA, Italy. guy.van-den-eede@jrc.it

An overview is presented of the analytical steps that may be needed to determine
the presence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) or for analysis of
GMO-derived produce. The analytical aspects necessary for compliance with
labeling regulations are discussed along with bottlenecks that may develop when a
plant product or a food sample is analyzed for conformity with current European
Union GMO legislation. In addition to sampling and testing, other topics deal
with complications that arise from biological and agricultural realities that may
influence testing capabilities. The issues presented are intended to serve as
elements to examine the different challenges that enforcement laboratories might
face.

PMID: 12083271 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

656: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):754-6.

Method development in relation to regulatory requirements for detection of GMOs
in the food chain.

Anklam E, Neumann DA.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Food Products Unit, Ispra, Italy.
Elke.anklam@jrc.it

This is a summary report of a joint workshop held in Brussels, Belgium, in
December 2000. The workshop was organized by the ILSI Europe Novel Food Task
Force in collaboration with the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC)
and ILSI International Food Biotechnology Committee. The purpose was to
investigate progress in the development of analytical methods since the last
workshop was held in June 1998.

PMID: 12083270 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

657: Tex Med. 2002 Jun;98(6):50-2.

Bon appö©tit.

Ortolon K.

ken.ortolon@texmed.org

PMID: 12073902 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

658: Appetite. 2002 Jun;38(3):189-97.

Public perception of a range of potential food risks in the United Kingdom.

Kirk SF, Greenwood D, Cade JE, Pearman AD.

Nutrition Epidemiology Group, Nuffield Institute for Health, 71-75 Clarendon
Road, University of Leeds LS2 9PL, UK. s.f.l.kirk@leeds.ac.uk

This study aimed to use a standard questionnaire to obtain a nationally
representative sample of opinions on a range of potential food risks.
Participants were a national sample of 1182 subjects selected using three
different approaches: random and sentinel postal samples and a telephone survey.
A modified psychometric questionnaire (the Perceived Food Risk Index) was
administered to subjects on three occasions, spanning five time-points. Baseline
data collection was undertaken from October to December 1998 (phase 1). The
second wave of data collection was undertaken over three time-points in February,
April and July 1999 (one-third of respondents to phase 1 at each time-point -
data combined as phase 2), and the final phase of data collection was between
October and December 1999 (phase 3). Principal components analysis was used to
assess the intercorrelations between the items on the questionnaire. Two main
components were identified as 'dread' and 'knowledge'. Saturated fats were
perceived as the least dreaded and the most known of the potential risks
considered, while bovine spongiform encephalopathy and Salmonella were the risks
dreaded the most. There was a slight perception that the potential risks had
become more known over the year, especially for growth hormones. This study has
raised a number of important issues for risk communicators. Despite current
policy aimed at reducing fat intake, this will be difficult to achieve at a
population level since people are not worried about its impact, yet food safety
continues to be a significant concern to the public. Copyright 2002 Elsevier
Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12071684 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

659: Science. 2002 Jun 14;296(5575):1948-9.

Genetically modified food. TV drama sparks scientific backlash.

Shouse B.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12065809 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

660: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Jul;20(7):285-6.

GM foods in Spanish newspapers.

Ramö¨n D, Dorcey E, Gil JV, Serrano A.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 12062971 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

661: Proc Biol Sci. 2002 Jun 7;269(1496):1173-6.

Sensitive dependencies and separation distances for genetically modified
herbicide-tolerant crops.

Perry JN.

Plant and Invertebrate Ecology Division, IACR Rothamsted Experimental Station,
Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ, UK. joe.perry@bbsrc.ac.uk

The amount of land available for the coexistent growing of both organic and
genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops depends on the separation
distance between the two types of crop. The form of the decline in the proportion
of land available for growing one of these crop types due to increasing
separation distance is linear on a suitable scale, but with a slope and intercept
that are sensitively dependent on the proportion of the other crop already
present. Spatially explicit simulations from realistic scenarios indicate that a
major increase in separation distances, currently under review by the UK
government, may have serious implications for the future coexistence of organic
and GMHT crops in the UK.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 12061962 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

662: Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2002 Jun;2(3):249-52.

Genetically engineered foods: implications for food allergy.

Taylor SL, Hefle SL.

University of Nebraska, Food Allergy Research and Resource Program, Lincoln,
Nebraska 68583-0919, USA. staylor2@unl.edu

The products of agricultural biotechnology, including such common foods as corn
and soybeans, are already reaching the consumer marketplace. Consumer exposure to
such foods is already fairly significant, particularly in the USA. Thus far, no
reports exist regarding allergic reactions to the crops that have been approved
for introduction into the food supply. These crops have been modified to only a
minor extent by comparison with their traditional counterparts, and the level of
expression of new and novel proteins is quite low. Thus, consumer exposure to
these novel proteins is very low and unlikely to result in allergic
sensitization. Nevertheless, foods produced through agricultural biotechnology
must be assessed for safety, including their potential allergenicity, before they
may be approved by worldwide regulatory agencies for entry into the food supply.
However, the adequacy of the current approach to the assessment of the potential
allergenicity of foods produced through agricultural biotechnology has been the
subject of considerable scientific and regulatory debate.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12045422 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

663: Curr Biol. 2002 May 14;12(10):R337.

Kernel knowledge.

Harris RF.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 12015127 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

664: J Agric Food Chem. 2002 May 22;50(11):3161-4.

Detection of genetically modified coho salmon using polymerase chain reaction
(PCR) amplification.

Masri S, Rast H, Ripley T, James D, Green M, Jia X, Devlin RH.

CFIA, Centre for Plant Health, 8801 East Saanich Road, Sidney, British Columbia
V8L 1H3, Canada. masris@inspection.gc.ca

A PCR-based protocol for the identification of genetically modified salmon
carrying a growth hormone transgene was developed. Several primer pairs were
examined, and the primers that gave consistent results were selected to conduct
routine testing. Comparison among several DNA extraction procedures, as well as
different buffer compositions, led to the adoption of TriZol as the method of
choice. Low potassium and high magnesium chloride concentrations were very
important in the overall success of the PCR reaction, whereas buffer pH, ranging
from 8.3 to 9.2, had little impact on the amplification reaction. The optimal
primer annealing temperature was 52 degrees C. Although fish muscle tissues were
the primary source for DNA samples, detection of the transgene was also possible
in bones, skin, fins, and other organs. No benefits were achieved by the addition
of additives such as dimethyl sulfoxide and betaine to the PCR reaction. This
optimized PCR method was used to identify all samples tested (61 samples and 17
controls) with 100% accuracy.

PMID: 12009980 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

665: Proc Nutr Soc. 2002 Feb;61(1):31-7.

Mad cows, mad corn and mad communities: the role of socio-cultural factors in the
perceived risk of genetically-modified food.

Finucane ML.

Decision Research, Eugene, Oregon 97401, USA. melissafinucane@hotmail.com

The rapid globalization of the world economy has increased the need for a
knowledge base of reliable socio-cultural differences in perceptions, values and
ways of thinking about new food technologies. Awareness of socio-cultural
differences is important because collaborative efforts to deal with food hazards
presuppose some understanding of where, how and why the viewpoints of various
stakeholders may differ. In the present paper factors that influence public
perceptions of genetically-modified (GM) food are discussed, with a special focus
on the unique circumstances of populations in the USA, Europe and developing
countries. It is argued that effective communication and decision making about
the risk of GM food depends critically on understanding how socio-cultural groups
differ in their values and in the way they deal with the risks and benefits of
new technologies. The implications of psychological aspects of perceived risk
(including the roles of qualitative dimensions of risk, world views and trust)
for public acceptance of new food technologies are highlighted.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 12002793 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

666: Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2002 Apr;13(2):73-4.

Genetically modified food and the pediatric allergist.

Warner JO.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 12000476 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

667: Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001 Jun;1(3):269-71.

Hidden food allergens.

Hefle SL.

Food Allergy Research and Resource Program, University of Nebraska, Lincoln,
Nebraska, USA. shefle1@unl.edu

This review summarizes recent advances and findings in the area of 'hidden' food
allergens, i.e. allergenic foods that can either contaminate other foods, or be
'disguised' as part of a food, and cause allergic reactions. Newly emerging
allergenic foods of increasing importance, recently developed methods for the
detection of allergenic residues, the potential allergenicity of genetically
engineered foods, and some unexpected sources of food allergens are described.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11964700 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

668: Expert Rev Mol Diagn. 2002 Jan;2(1):69-76.

Traceability of genetically modified organisms.

Aarts HJ, van Rie JP, Kok EJ.

h.j.m.aarts@rikilt.wag-ur.nl

EU regulations stipulate the labeling of food products containing genetically
modified organisms (GMOs) unless the GMO content is due to adventitious and
unintended 'contamination' and not exceeding the 1% level at ingredient basis. In
addition, member states have to ensure full traceability at all stages of the
placing on the market of GMOs. Both requirements ensure consumers 'right to
know', facilitate enforcement of regulatory requirements and are of importance
for environmental monitoring and postmarket surveillance. Besides administrative
procedures, such as used in quality certification systems, the significance of
adequate molecular methods becomes more and more apparent. During the last decade
a considerable number of molecular methods have been developed and validated that
enable the detection, identification and quantification of GMO impurities. Most
of them rely on the PCR technology and can only detect one specific stretch of
DNA. It can, however, be anticipated that in the near future the situation will
become more complex. The number of GMO varieties, including 'stacked-gene'
varieties, which will enter the European Market will increase and it is likely
that these varieties will harbor more variable constructs. New tools will be
necessary to keep up with these developments. One of the most promising
techniques is microarray analysis. This technique enables the screening for a
large number of different GMOs within a single experiment.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11963810 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

669: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2002 Apr;13(2):142-5.

Improving iron, zinc and vitamin A nutrition through plant biotechnology.

Zimmermann MB, Hurrell RF.

Laboratory of Human Nutrition, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Swiss
Federal Institute of Technology, Zö¼rich, PO Box 474, CH-8803 Rö¼schlikon,
Switzerland. michael.zimmermann@ilw.agrl.ethz.ch

Recent understanding of plant metabolism has made it possible to increase the
iron, zinc and beta-carotene (provitamin A) content in staple foods by both
conventional plant breeding and genetic engineering. Improving the micronutrient
composition of plant foods may become a sustainable strategy to combat
deficiencies in human populations, replacing or complementing other strategies
such as food fortification or nutrient supplementation.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 11950566 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

670: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 May;20(5):215-23.

Detection of genetically modified organisms in foods.

Ahmed FE.

Dept of Radiation Oncology, Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center, The Brody School of
Medicine, LSB 014, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA.
ahmedf@mail.ecu.edu

Legislation enacted worldwide to regulate the presence of genetically modified
organisms (GMOs) in crops, foods and ingredients, necessitated the development of
reliable and sensitive methods for GMO detection. In this article, protein- and
DNA-based methods employing western blots, enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay,
lateral flow strips, Southern blots, qualitative-, quantitative-, real-time- and
limiting dilution-PCR methods, are discussed. Where information on modified gene
sequences is not available, new approaches, such as near-infrared spectrometry,
might tackle the problem of detection of non-approved genetically modified (GM)
foods. The efficiency of screening, identification and confirmation strategies
should be examined with respect to false-positive rates, disappearance of marker
genes, increased use of specific regulator sequences and the increasing number of
GM foods.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
Review

PMID: 11943377 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

671: BMC Biotechnol. 2002 Apr 4;2:4.

Genetically modified parthenocarpic eggplants: improved fruit productivity under
both greenhouse and open field cultivation.

Acciarri N, Restaino F, Vitelli G, Perrone D, Zottini M, Pandolfini T, Spena A,
Rotino G.

Research Institute for Vegetable Crops, Monsampolo del Tronto, AP, Italy.
acciarri@libero.it

BACKGROUND: Parthenocarpy, or fruit development in the absence of fertilization,
has been genetically engineered in eggplant and in other horticultural species by
using the DefH9-iaaM gene. The iaaM gene codes for tryptophan monoxygenase and
confers auxin synthesis, while the DefH9 controlling regions drive expression of
the gene specifically in the ovules and placenta. A previous greenhouse trial for
winter production of genetically engineered (GM) parthenocarpic eggplants
demonstrated a significant increase (an average of 33% increase) in fruit
production concomitant with a reduction in cultivation costs. RESULTS: GM
parthenocarpic eggplants have been evaluated in three field trials. Two
greenhouse spring trials have shown that these plants outyielded the
corresponding untransformed genotypes, while a summer trial has shown that
improved fruit productivity in GM eggplants can also be achieved in open field
cultivation. Since the fruits were always seedless, the quality of GM eggplant
fruits was improved as well. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that the DefH9-iaaM
gene is expressed during late stages of fruit development. CONCLUSIONS: The
DefH9-iaaM parthenocarpic gene is a biotechnological tool that enhances the
agronomic value of all eggplant genotypes tested. The main advantages of
DefH9-iaaM eggplants are: i) improved fruit productivity (at least 30-35%) under
both greenhouse and open field cultivation; ii) production of good quality
(marketable) fruits during different types of cultivation; iii) seedless fruit
with improved quality. Such advantages have been achieved without the use of
either male or female sterility genes.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 11934354 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

672: FDA Consum. 2001 Jan-Feb;35(1):14-20.

A new kind of fish story. The coming of biotech animals.

Lewis C.

PMID: 11930918 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

673: FDA Consum. 2000 Jul-Aug;34(4):7.

Plans for more rigorous review of bioengineered foods.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11924640 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

674: Kokuritsu Iyakuhin Shokuhin Eisei Kenkyusho Hokoku. 2001;(119):27-39.

[Hypersensitivity about environmental chemicals--mainly about food allergy]

[Article in Japanese]

Teshima R.

rteshima@nihs.go.jp

The hypersensitivity of environmental chemicals and natural products has been
reviewed. Among environmental chemicals, small molecular weight molecules work as
hapten and cause immediate-type and delayed-type hypersensitivity. Among natural
products, relatively lower molecular weight protein or glycoprotein (MW
10,000-70,000 kDa) work as allergen and cause mainly immediate-type
hypersensitivity. In recent years, amino acid sequence of important natural
allergens have been determined, and three-dimensional structure and IgE epitopes
of some of these allergens have also been determined. The characteristics of both
inhalation and food allergens have been summarized. As for food allergens, the
stability of these proteins in simulated gastric fluid(SGF) was one of the most
important characteristics. In the last parts, the approach to the assessment of
allergenic potential of genetically modified foods has been summarized.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 11915282 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

675: Nature. 2002 Mar 21;416(6878):252.

Diplomats near pact in simmering debate over transgenic foods.

Giles J.

PMID: 11907542 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

676: Chembiochem. 2001 Apr 2;2(4):289-90.

Scientists and society--and never the twain shall meet?

Wright K.

Publication Types:
Consensus Development Conference
Review

PMID: 11905466 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

677: Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2002 Jan;2(1):55-62.

Biotechnology and food allergy.

Helm RM.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Hospital
Research Institute, 1120 Marshall Street, Little Rock, AR 72202-3591, USA.
HelmRickiM@uams.edu

The production of genetically modified foods for an increasingly informed and
selective consumer requires the coordinated activities of both the companies
developing the transgenic food and regulatory authorities to ensure that these
foods are at least as safe as the traditional foods they are supplementing in the
diet. Although the size and complexity of the food sector ensures that no single
player can control the process from seed production through farming and
processing to final products marketed in a retail outlet, checks and balances are
in place to ensure that transgenic foods will provide a convenient, wholesome,
tasty, safe, affordable food source. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of
companies developing the genetically modified food to provide relevant data to
regulatory agencies, such as the US Department of Agriculture, Environmental
Protection Agency, and Food and Drug Administration, to confirm that the
transgenic product is reasonably safe for the consumer, as zero risk from
allergen sensitization is nonexistent.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11895627 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

678: Nature. 2002 Mar 14;416(6877):123.

In risk assessment, one has to admit ignorance.

Hoffmann-Riem H, Wynne B.

Publication Types:
Letter

PMID: 11894070 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

679: Toxicol Pathol. 2002 Jan-Feb;30(1):129-31.

Safety assessment and public concern for genetically modified food products: the
European view.

Moseley BE.

bevmos@bmoseley.fsnet.co.uk

The safety assessment for marketing purposes of genetically modified (GM) foods
in the 15 Member States of the European Union (EU) is based on the Novel Foods
and Novel Food Ingredients Regulation adopted in May 1997. Before a GM food can
be approved under the Regulation, it must satisfy three criteria: Gm food must be
safe, it must not mislead the consumer and it must be nutritionally adequate. The
EU Scientific Committee on Food has published a set of guidelines describing the
type of information expected from a company in support of an application for
approval of a GM food or food ingredient. Despite this rigorous procedure and
there being no evidence of harm resulting from the consumption of GM foods
worldwide, there is essentially no market in the EU for such products at present.
Possible reasons for this are discussed and the view put forward that the market
for GM foods will change only when there are more clearly perceived consumer
benefits.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11892726 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

680: Toxicol Pathol. 2002 Jan-Feb;30(1):132-4.

Safety assessments and public concern for genetically modified food products: the
American view.

Harlander SK.

BlOrational Consultants, Inc, New Brighton, Minnesota 55112, USA.
SKHARLAND@aol.com

In the relatively short time since their commercial introduction in 1996,
genetically modified (GM) crops have been rapidly adopted in the United States GM
crops are regulated through a coordinated framework developed in 1992 and
administered by three agencies-the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) that
ensures the products are safe to grow, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
that ensures the products are safe for the environment, and the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) that ensures the products are safe to eat. Rigorous food and
environmental safety assessments must be completed before GM crops can be
commercialized. Fifty-one products have been reviewed by the FDA, including
several varieties of corn, soybeans, canola, cotton, rice, sugar beets, potatoes,
tomatoes, squash, papaya, and flax. Because FDA considers these crops
"substantially equivalent" to their conventional counterparts, no special
labeling is required for GM crops in the United States and they are managed as
commodities with no segregation or identity preservation. GM crops have thus made
their way through commodity distribution channels into thousands of ingredients
used in processed foods. It has been estimated that 70% to 85% of processed foods
on supermarket shelves in the United States today contain one or more ingredients
potentially derived from GM crops. The food industry and retail industry have
been monitoring the opinions of their consumers on the GM issue for the past
several years. Numerous independent groups have also surveyed consumer concerns
about GM foods. The results of these surveys are shared and discussed here.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11890465 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

681: Toxicol Pathol. 2002 Jan-Feb;30(1):126-8.

Safety assessment and public concerns for genetically modified food products: the
Japanese experience.

Hino A.

Gustatory Biology Laboratory, National Food Research Institute, Tsukuba, Ibaraki,
Japan. akhino@nfri.affrc.go.jp

The recombinant DNA (rDNA) technique is expected to bring about great progress in
the improvement of breeding technology and the development of new plant varieties
showing high quality and high yield, such as those with excellent pest and
disease resistance, those with environmental stress tolerance, and so forth. In
the United States and Canada, many genetically modified (GM) crop plants were
commercialized as early as 1994. In Japan, 35 transgenic crop plants, such as
herbicide tolerant soybean, cotton, and canola, and insect-resistant corn,
cotton, and potatos, were authorized and considered marketable until April 2001.
The general public, however, is not familiar with rDNA technology, and some
people seem to feel uncomfortable with biotechnology, frequently because of the
difficulty of the technology and lacking of sufficient information. New labeling
systems were initiated in April 2001 in Japan to provide information regarding
the use of GM crops as raw material.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11890464 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

682: Environ Health Perspect. 2002 Mar;110(3):A130-3.

Allergies ö  la carte: is there a problem with genetically modified foods?

Eubanks M.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11882488 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

683: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2001 Dec;42(6):367-73.

[Comparison of carotenoid components between GM and non-GM papaya]

[Article in Japanese]

Mutsuga M, Ohta H, Toyoda M, Goda Y.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

We compared the carotenoid profile in GM papaya (Sunup) line to that of a non-GM
one (Sunset). First, to identify major carotenoids in papaya, large-scale
extraction was carried out with methanol. HPLC analyses of the methanol extracts
revealed that both papayas mainly contained 5 pigments and no apparent difference
was observed in the HPLC profiles. On the basis of LC/MS data and
photodiode-array spectra, beta-carotene (3), lycopene (2), beta-cryptoxanthin
(1), and beta-cryptoxanthin myristoyl and lauroyl esters (4 and 5) were
identified as major carotenoids. It is well known that most carotenoids are
labile, so a rapid analysis with precautions to avoid decomposition was developed
to quantify their contents in the original fruits. Frozen samples of the fruits
were sliced and a piece (about 2 g) of fruit was cut out and lyophilized. After
extraction of the piece with methanol containing an anti-oxidant, BHT, the
extract was further partitioned with hexane and methanol. Finally the contents of
the main carotenoids in the hexane fraction were analyzed by HPLC. The contents
of total carotenoids (sum of 1-5) and beta-cryptoxanthin (1, 4 and 5) in GM
papaya fruit were estimated to be 0.764 +/- 0.056 and 0.604 +/- 0.051 (mumol/g),
respectively and those in non-GM fruit were 0.883 +/- 0.145 and 0.705 +/- 0.098
(mumol/g), respectively. These differences are not statistically significant.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 11875821 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

684: Nature. 2002 Feb 28;415(6875):948-9.

Alleged flaws in gene-transfer paper spark row over genetically modified maize.

Butler D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11875532 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

685: Science. 2002 Mar 1;295(5560):1617-9.

Has GM corn 'invaded' Mexico?

Mann CC.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11872805 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

686: Camb Q Healthc Ethics. 2002 Winter;11(1):97-101.

Chris Shaw on ethical issues in biotechnology. Interview by Thomasine Kushner.

Shaw C.

Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Research Group, University of Ulster, Northern
Ireland.

Publication Types:
Interview

PMID: 11868425 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

687: Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2001 Jan-Feb;5(1):25-9.

Genetically modified foods and children potential health risks.

Cantani A, Micera M.

Pediatric Department, University of Roma La Sapienza.

AIM: Professor Pusztai was publicly humiliated over claims that genetically
modified (GM) Frankenstein food may be harmful. He was stripped of his post and
described as 'muddled' by his superiors after he referred to experiments in which
rats had been damaged when fed genetically-altered potatoes. Who is in an unsound
scenario, supported by verbal expressions ("substantially"), should even more
expend further effort in conducting scientific investigation into the safety of
GM varieties of plants. OBSERVATIONS: Of particular concern is the exposure of
infants and children to GM foods (GMFs) because of their possible increased
susceptibility for untoward effects. Several examples stress that the
ascertainment of human disease emerged after certain materials were widely used.
Studies show that some compounds were not adequately tested for toxicity before
their commercial introduction, whereas proper premarked testing would have
prevented a prolonged exposure. CONCLUSIONS: Too often the toxicity of these
substances is untested and the potential hazards that they may pose to children
have not been examined. Nobody has evaluated whether intrauterine and infant
exposure to GMFs may have profound permanent and irreversible consequences even
in adult life. In this paper we analyse issues pertaining to children's health
that have been largely ignored.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11860219 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

688: NCSL Legisbrief. 2001 Aug-Sep;9(33):1-2.

International trade of new agricultural products from biotechnology.

Naftzger D, Smith S.

NCSL--Washington, D.C., USA. david.naftzger@ncsl.org

PMID: 11850893 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

689: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2001 Aug;42(4):231-6.

[Detection of recombinant DNA from genetically modified papaya]

[Article in Japanese]

Goda Y, Asano T, Shibuya M, Hino A, Toyoda M.

National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan.

A method using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was developed to detect the
genetically modified (GM) papaya (55-1 line), of which the mandatory safety
assessment has not been finished in Japan because of insufficient data. The
papaya intrinsic papain gene was used as an internal control. The results of PCR
amplification of the papain gene segment indicated that a commercial silica
membrane type kit (QIAGEN DNeasy plant mini) was useful for extraction of DNA
from papaya fruit, but not for extraction from canned papaya fruit. On the other
hand, a commercial ion-exchange type kit (QIAGEN Genomic-tip) provided enough
purified DNA for PCR from canned papaya fruit. Compared with the parental line
and other commercial non-GM papayas, the DNA from GM papaya fruit provided
specific amplification bands in PCR with five primer pairs (Nos. 2-6) including
beta-glucuronidase and neomycin phosphotransferase II gene-specific ones. On the
other hand, the primer pairs recognizing these genes showed false-positive
results when we used DNAs from canned papaya. Therefore, we recommend that the
primer pairs (Nos. 5 and 6) recognizing the sequences derived from two different
species of organism should be used in order to detect specifically the GM papaya
in canned fruits.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 11817137 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

690: Environ Sci Technol. 2002 Jan 1;36(1):8A.

Comment on:
Environ Sci Technol. 2001 Dec 1;35(23):472A-473A.

Transgenes in native Mexican maize--still no need for concern.

Martö­nez-Soriano J, Bailey AM, Lara-Reyna J, Leal-Klevezas DS.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 11811496 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

691: Nature. 2002 Jan 24;415(6870):353.

UN attempts to boost biosafety in developing world.

Adam D.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11807509 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

692: Food Drug Law J. 1998;53(1):181-91.

No "killer tomatoes": easing federal regulation of genetically engineered plants.

Beach JE.

Hyman, Phelps & McNamara, P.C., Washington, D.C., USA.

PMID: 11795332 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

693: Ann Nutr Metab. 2001;45(6):235-54.

Safety considerations of DNA in food.

Jonas DA, Elmadfa I, Engel KH, Heller KJ, Kozianowski G, Kö¶nig A, Mö¼ller D,
Narbonne JF, Wackernagel W, Kleiner J.

Institute of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.

Recombinant DNA techniques are capable of introducing genetic changes into food
organisms that are more predictable than those introduced through conventional
breeding techniques. This review discusses whether the consumption of DNA in
approved novel foods and novel food ingredients derived from genetically modified
organisms (GMOs) can be regarded as being as safe as the consumption of DNA in
existing foods. It concludes that DNA from GMOs is equivalent to DNA from
existing food organisms that has always been consumed with human diets. Any risks
associated with the consumption of DNA will remain, irrespective of its origin,
because the body handles all DNA in the same way. The breakdown of DNA during
food processing and passage through the gastrointestinal tract reduces the
likelihood that intact genes capable of encoding foreign proteins will be
transferred to gut microflora. The review does not specifically address food
safety issues arising from the consumption of viable genetically modified
microorganisms but it shows that the likelihood of transfer and functional
integration of DNA from ingested food by gut microflora and/or human cells is
minimal. Information reviewed does not indicate any safety concerns associated
with the ingestion of DNA per se from GMOs resulting from the use of currently
available recombinant DNA techniques in the food chain. Copyright 2001 S. Karger
AG, Basel

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11786646 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

694: Adv Exp Med Biol. 2001;495:299-303.

Oral immunization of human with transgenic lettuce expressing hepatitis B surface
antigen.

Kapusta J, Modelska A, Pniewski T, Figlerowicz M, Jankowski K, Lisowa O,
Plucienniczak A, Koprowski H, Legocki AB.

Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12,
61-704 Poznaå„, Poland.

Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 11774582 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

695: J AOAC Int. 2001 Nov-Dec;84(6):1941-6.

Sampling grain shipments to detect genetically modified seed.

Whitaker TB, Freese L, Giesbrecht FG, Slate AB.

USDA/ARS, North Carolina State University, Raleigh 27695-7625, USA.
Tom_Whitaker@ncsu.edu

Using the binomial distribution, the effect of sample size on the variability
among sample test results when sampling a lot with 1.0% genetically modified (GM)
or biotech seed was evaluated. The coefficient of variation, cv, among 500-seed
sample test results taken from a lot with truly 1.0% was computed to be 44.5%.
Increasing sample size to 1000 seeds reduced the cv among sample test results to
31.5%. The effects of sample size and accept/reject limits on the buyer's risk
(bad lots accepted) and the seller's risk (good lots rejected) was also evaluated
assuming a tolerance of 1.0% GM seed. Increasing sample size decreases both the
buyer's and seller's risks at the same time. Using an accept/reject limit below
the regulatory tolerance decreases the buyer's risk, but increases the seller's
risk. Using an accept/reject limit above the regulatory tolerance decreases the
seller's risk but increases the buyer's risk.

PMID: 11767166 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

696: J AOAC Int. 2001 Nov-Dec;84(6):1891-901.

Determination of Cry9C protein in corn-based foods by enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay: interlaboratory study.

Trucksess NW.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition,
Washington, DC 20204, USA. mtruckse@cfsan.fda.gov

The performance of a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit
(Enviro-Logix) was assessed for the determination of Cry9C protein, which is
produced by the genetically modified corn StarLink, in 8 types of corn-based
foods (starch, refined oil, soft tortillas, tortilla chips, corn flakes, corn
puffs, corn muffins, and corn bread) in an interlaboratory study involving 7
laboratories in the United States. The assay kit is a double antibody sandwich
and is based on the specific interaction between antibody and antigen. The Cry9C
protein analyte is sandwiched between 2 antibodies, one to capture the analyte
and the other is conjugated to the enzyme, horseradish peroxidase. The enzyme
uses tetramethylbenzidine/peroxide for color development. A strong acid stopping
reagent is then used to change the color from blue to a stable yellow. The
intensity of the color is proportional to the concentration of the Cry9C protein.
In this study blind duplicates of control samples (blank material prepared from
non- StarLink corn), spiked samples (blank material with the addition of Cry9C
protein), and samples containing incurred analyte (products prepared with
StarLink corn) were analyzed. Cry9C protein from 2 different sources was used to
spike the food products. Cry9C protein produced and purified from a bacterial
host was used to prepare spiked test samples at 2.72 and 6.8 ng/g. Cry9C protein
from StarLink corn flour was used to prepare spiked samples at 1.97 ng/g. Average
recoveries for samples spiked with corn flour Cry9C protein at 1.97 ng/g ranged
from 73 to 122%, within-laboratory relative standard deviations (RSDr) ranged
from 6 to 22%, and between-laboratories relative standard deviations (RSDR)
ranged from 16 to 56%. Average recoveries for samples spiked with bacterial Cry9C
protein at 2.72 and 6.8 ng/g ranged from 27 to 96% and from 32 to 113%,
respectively; RSDr values ranged from 10 to 35% and from 7 to 38%, respectively;
and the RSDR ranged from 28 to 84% and 15 to 75%, respectively. The incurred test
samples were found to contain Cry9C protein at levels ranging from 0.8 to 3187
ng/g depending on the product, RSDr values ranged from 5 to 16% and RSDR values
ranged from 11 to 71%. Results of the statistical analysis indicate that this
method is applicable to the determination of Cry9C protein in the 8 types of
collaboratively studied corn-based products containing Cry9C protein (from
StarLink) at levels of > or =2 ng/g.

PMID: 11767159 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

697: J AOAC Int. 2001 Nov-Dec;84(6):1855-64.

Validation of PCR methods for quantitation of genetically modified plants in
food.

Hö¼bner P, Waiblinger HU, Pietsch K, Brodmann P.

Kantonales Labor Zö¼rich, Switzerland.

For enforcement of the recently introduced labeling threshold for genetically
modified organisms (GMOs) in food ingredients, quantitative detection methods
such as quantitative competitive (QC-PCR) and real-time PCR are applied by
official food control laboratories. The experiences of 3 European food control
laboratories in validating such methods were compared to describe realistic
performance characteristics of quantitative PCR detection methods. The limit of
quantitation (LOQ) of GMO-specific, real-time PCR was experimentally determined
to reach 30-50 target molecules, which is close to theoretical prediction.
Starting PCR with 200 ng genomic plant DNA, the LOQ depends primarily on the
genome size of the target plant and ranges from 0.02% for rice to 0.7% for wheat.
The precision of quantitative PCR detection methods, expressed as relative
standard deviation (RSD), varied from 10 to 30%. Using Bt176 corn containing test
samples and applying Bt176 specific QC-PCR, mean values deviated from true values
by -7to 18%, with an average of 2+/-10%. Ruggedness of real-time PCR detection
methods was assessed in an interlaboratory study analyzing commercial,
homogeneous food samples. Roundup Ready soybean DNA contents were determined in
the range of 0.3 to 36%, relative to soybean DNA, with RSDs of about 25%. Taking
the precision of quantitative PCR detection methods into account, suitable sample
plans and sample sizes for GMO analysis are suggested. Because quantitative GMO
detection methods measure GMO contents of samples in relation to reference
material (calibrants), high priority must be given to international agreements
and standardization on certified reference materials.

Publication Types:
Validation Studies

PMID: 11767156 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

698: Vopr Pitan. 2001;70(5):47-8.

[New educational programs for thematic improvement of sanitary doctors in the
area of state regulation modified food sources]

[Article in Russian]

Korolev AA, Elizarova EV.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11715701 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

699: Nature. 2001 Nov 1;414(6859):1.

Comment in:
Nature. 2001 Dec 20-27;414(6866):843.

Finding a future for GM crops.

[No authors listed]

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 11689897 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

700: Nature. 2001 Oct 18;413(6857):661.

Bid to end EU's transgenic impasse.

Schiermeier Q.

PMID: 11606987 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

701: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2001 Oct;12(5):510-5.

Edible genetically modified microorganisms and plants for improved health.

Mercenier A, Wiedermann U, Breiteneder H.

Laboratory of Bacteriology of Ecosystems, Institut Pasteur de Lille, 1 rue du Pr.
Calmette, BP 245, F-59019 Cedex, Lille, France. annick.mercenier@ibl.fr

The development of new strategies for the delivery of vaccine antigens or immune
modulators to the mucosal tissue includes innovative approaches such as the use
of genetically modified food microorganisms and plants. Even though the
'proof-of-concept' has recently been established for these two systems, key
questions mainly related to efficacy and risk of breaking oral tolerance remain
to be critically addressed in the immediate future.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 11604330 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

702: Biomed Environ Sci. 2001 Jun;14(1-2):40-3.

Modern biotechnology-current standards in Japan.

Nakamura Y.

Standards Division, Department of Food Sanitation, Ministry of Health, Labour and
Welfare, Tokyo, Japan.

PMID: 11594478 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

703: EMBO Rep. 2001 Sep;2(9):744-5.

Comment on:
EMBO Rep. 2001 Aug;2(8):644-7. EMBO Rep. 2001 Jun;2(6):455-9.

Comment on Stefan Flothmann and Jan van Aken's article 'Of maize and men' in EMBO
reports, August 2001.

Leaver CJ, Trewavas AJ.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 11559579 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

704: Biotechniques. 2001 Aug;31(2):426-9.

PCR-based detection of genetically modified soybean and maize in raw and highly
processed foodstuffs.

Tengel C, Schö¼ssler P, Setzke E, Balles J, Sprenger-Haussels M.

QIAGEN GmbH, Hilden, Germany.

The PCR method has proved to be an invaluable tool for the specific and sensitive
detection of genetically modified material (e.g., Roundup Ready Soybean and
Bt-176 "Maximizer" Maize) in foodstuffs. The first step in the procedure, namely
the purification of nucleic acids from the sample, is often the deciding factor
in the production of meaningful results. In this study, we present two procedures
that enable an efficient isolation of trace amounts of genetic material from both
raw and highly processed foodstuffs. We show that for optimal, PCR-ready DNA
purification from highly processed foodstuffs and PCR inhibitor-rich
substances--such as cocoa-containing products--adapted protocols for the QIAGEN
QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit can be utilized. For complete DNA isolation from raw
foodstuffs, a protocol using the DNeasy Plant Mini Kit is presented.

PMID: 11515380 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

705: Vopr Pitan. 2001;70(2):3-7.

[Hygiene and standards aspects of registration, marking and labeling of food
products prepared from genetically modified sources]

[Article in Russian]

Onishchenko GG.

The basic requirements to problems of registration, marking and labelling of the
foodstuff prepared from generically modified sources are stated. The comparative
analysis of the above-named problems in the different countries (USA, countries
of EU, Russia etc.) is given.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 11494669 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

706: EMBO Rep. 2001 Aug;2(8):644-7.

Comment in:
EMBO Rep. 2001 Sep;2(9):744-5.

Comment on:
EMBO Rep. 2001 Jun;2(6):455-9.

Of maize and men. Is the endorsement of GM crops science or politics?

Flothmann S, van Aken J.

Greenpeace, Germany. stefan.flothmann@greenpeace.de

Publication Types:
Comment

PMID: 11493587 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

707: Risk Anal. 2001 Feb;21(1):189-98.

Limits of knowledge and the limited importance of trust.

Sjö¶berg L.

Center for Risk Research, Stockholm School of Economics, Sweden. pls@hhs.se

Perceived risk and related attitudes have been implicated as major factors in
many of the difficult policy problems that face modern society (nuclear power,
genetically modified food, etc). Experts often argue that no or very small risks
are involved; people are still worried. Why? The standard answer is lack of
trust. Data on trust and risk perception, however, point to only a weak
relationship between the two (r approximately 0.3). It is suggested here that the
reason for the surprisingly minor importance of trust is that people believe that
there are clear limits to how much science and experts know. Results are
presented from studies of risk perception of the public, experts, and
politicians. Politicians and members of the public believe that there are many
unknown effects of technology and such beliefs were strongly related to their
perceived risk. Experts on nuclear waste, on the other hand, seemed to believe
that little is unknown in their field of expertise. Regression analyses of risk
perception showed the unknown-effects factor to be a more important explanatory
factor than trust for the public and politicians.

PMID: 11332547 [PubMed]

708: Nature. 2001 Mar 29;410(6828):503.

Critics claim 'sight-saving' rice is over-rated.

Schnapp N, Schiermeier Q.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11279451 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

709: Nature. 2001 Mar 29;410(6828):501.

Americans perplexed by GM food.

Lok C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 11279448 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

710: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 2000;17:327-52.

Genetically modified food crops: current concerns and solutions for next
generation crops.

Daniell H.

Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, 12722 Research Parkway,
University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32826-3227, USA. daniell@mail.ucf.edu

Publication Types:
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
Review

PMID: 11255672 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

711: Lancet. 2000 Mar 11;355(9207):931.

Comment on:
Lancet. 2000 Jan 29;355(9201):414.

Toxins and genetically modified food.

Trewavas A.

Publication Types:
Comment
Letter

PMID: 10752731 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

712: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2000 Oct;11(5):505-8.

Gene transfer from genetically modified food.

Gasson MJ.

Food Safety Science Division, Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park,
Colney, Norfolk, NR4 7UA, Norwich, UK. mike.gasson@bbsrc.ac.uk

The current debate about the safety of genetically modified food includes some
important scientific issues where more scientific data would aid the robustness
of safety evaluation. One example is the possibility of gene transfer, especially
from genetically modified plant material.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 11024371 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

713: FEBS Lett. 2000 Sep 15;481(2):164-8.

DNA stability in plant tissues: implications for the possible transfer of genes
from genetically modified food.

Chiter A, Forbes JM, Blair GE.

School of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Room 8.10a Garstang Building,
University of Leeds, Mount Preston Street, Leeds, UK.

The potential for transfer of antibiotic resistance genes from genetically
modified (GM) plant material to microbes through genetic recombination in the
human or animal gut is a consideration that has engendered caution in the use of
GM foods. This study was aimed at defining the optimal physical and chemical
conditions necessary to ensure sufficient fragmentation of DNA in plant tissues
to a size where it would be unlikely to be stably transferred to bacterial gut
microflora. The ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase small subunit
(Rubisco SS) genes are of similar size (approximately 1.4 kb) to transgenes
present in GM plants. DNA analysis and PCR amplification of Rubisco SS genes
showed that fresh maize and maize silage contained high molecular weight DNA and
intact Rubisco SS genes. Relatively high temperatures and pressurised steam were
necessary to degrade fully genomic DNA and Rubisco SS genes in maize and wheat
grains, the source of most animal feedstuffs. Furthermore, chemical expulsion and
extrusion of oilseeds resulted in residues with completely degraded genomic DNA.
These results imply that stringent conditions are needed in the processing of GM
plant tissues for feedstuffs to eliminate the possibility of transmission of
transgenes.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

PMID: 10996317 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

714: West J Med. 2000 Apr;172(4):220-1.

The genetically modified food fight.

Jacobson M.

Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, DC 20009, USA.
mjacobson@cspinet.org

PMID: 10778361 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

715: Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):173-4.

Comment in:
Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):148-9.

Genetically modified foods--food for thought.

Leeder SR.

Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney, NSW. steve@medicine.usyd.edu.au

We would be wise to hold off until we know more about the health, ecological and
economic effects of genetically modified food.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 10772590 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

716: Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):148-9.

Comment on:
Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):170-3. Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):173-4.

Genetically modified food: consternation, confusion, and crack-up.

Horton R.

Publication Types:
Comment
Editorial
Review

PMID: 10772580 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

717: Vopr Pitan. 1999;68(5-6):3-8.

[Current approaches to the evaluation of genetically modified food products.
Soybean 40-3-2 data]

[Article in Russian]

Onishchenko GG, Tutel'ian VA, Petukhov AI, Korolev AA, Aksiuk IN, Sorokina EIu.

Different methodological approaches were elaborated to evaluate quality and
safety of genetically modified food products. The new engineering is proposed to
rate medical, biological, genetic and technological advantage of these products.
Using the same engineering, a complete analysis of the genetically modified
soybean 40-3-2 ("Monsanto Co", USA) has been performed.

Publication Types:
Comparative Study
English Abstract

PMID: 10641272 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

718: Trends Biotechnol. 2000 Jan;18(1):8-10.

Ethical issues in biotechnology.

Polkinghorne JC.

Queens' College, University of Cambridge, UK.

New ethical questions have arisen from our ability to intervene in the structure
of the genome. Responsible use of this technique requires ethical evaluation in
which experts, potential beneficiaries and the general public should all
participate. The examples of genetically modified food and of human genetics help
to illustrate the issues involved.

PMID: 10631772 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

719: Nature. 1999 Dec 9;402(6762):571.

US food-safety body hears protests over genetically modified food.

Macilwain C.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 10604452 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

720: Science. 1999 May 28;284(5419):1442-4.

Genetically modified food. Britain struggles to turn anti-GM tide.

Gavaghan H.

Publication Types:
News

PMID: 10383316 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

721: Curr Probl Dermatol. 1999;28:81-7.

Genetically modified food: a danger or a benefit for atopics?

Ebner C.

Institute of General and Experimental Pathology, University of Vienna, Austria.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 10374054 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

722: Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax. 1999 Apr 1;88(14):609-14, 616-8.

[Food additives and genetically modified food--a risk for allergic patients?]

[Article in German]

Wö¼thrich B.

Dermatologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Universitö¤tsspital Zö¼rich.

Adverse reactions to food and food additives must be classified according to
pathogenic criteria. It is necessary to strictly differentiate between an
allergy, triggered by a substance-specific immunological mechanism, and an
intolerance, in which no specific immune reaction can be established. In contrast
to views expressed in the media, by laymen and patients, adverse reactions to
additives are less frequent than is believed. Due to frequently "alternative"
methods of examination, an allergy to food additives is often wrongly blamed as
the cause of a wide variety of symptoms and illness. Diagnosing an allergy or
intolerance to additives normally involves carrying out double-blind,
placebo-controlled oral provocation tests with food additives. Allergic reactions
to food additives occur particularly against additives which are organic in
origin. In principle, it is possible that during the manufacture of genetically
modified plants and food, proteins are transferred which potentially create
allergies. However, legislation exists both in the USA (Federal Drug
Administration, FDA) and in Switzerland (Ordinance on the approval process for GM
food, GM food additives and GM accessory agents for processing) which require a
careful analysis before a genetically modified product is launched, particularly
where foreign genes are introduced. Products containing genetically modified
organisms (GMO) as additives must be declared. In addition, the source of the
foreign protein must be identified. The "Round-up ready" (RR) soya flour
introduced in Switzerland is no different from natural soya flour in terms of its
allergenic potential. Genetically modified food can be a blessing for allergic
individuals if gene technology were to succeed in removing the allergen (e.g.
such possibilities exist for rice). The same caution shown towards genetically
modified food might also be advisable for foreign food in our diet. Luckily, the
immune system of the digestive tract in healthy people tolerates foreign
antigens. Food allergies in adults occur mainly among those allergic to pollen.

Publication Types:
English Abstract
Review

PMID: 10321121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

723: J Appl Microbiol. 1998 Jun;84(6):969-80.

Common DNA sequences with potential for detection of genetically manipulated
organisms in food.

MacCormick CA, Griffin HG, Underwood HM, Gasson MJ.

Institute of Food Research, Colney, UK. caroline.maccormick@bbsrc.ac.uk

Foods produced by genetic engineering technology are now appearing on the market
and many more are likely to emerge in the future. The safety aspects, regulation,
and labelling of these foods are still contentious issues in most countries and
recent surveys highlight consumer concerns about the safety and labelling of
genetically modified food. In most countries it is necessary to have approval for
the use of genetically manipulated organisms (GMOs) in the production of food. In
order to police regulations, a technology to detect such foods is desirable. In
addition, a requirement to label approved genetically modified food would
necessitate a monitoring system. One solution is to 'tag' approved GMOs with some
form of biological or genetic marker, permitting the surveillance of foods for
the presence of approved products of genetic engineering. While non-approved GMOs
would not be detected by such a surveillance, they might be detected by a screen
for DNA sequences common to all or most GMOs. This review focuses on the
potential of using common DNA sequences as detection probes for GMOs. The
identification of vector sequences, plant transcription terminators, and marker
genes by PCR and hybridization techniques is discussed.

Publication Types:
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

PMID: 9717281 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

724: BMJ. 1998 Jun 20;316(7148):1845-6.

Comment in:
BMJ. 1999 Jan 30;318(7179):332.

Why all the fuss about genetically modified food?. Much depends on who benefits.

Burke D.

Publication Types:
Editorial

PMID: 9632400 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

725: Politics Life Sci. 1994 Aug;13(2):195-203.

Transgenesis in farm animals: ethical implications for public policy.

Mepham TB.

Centre for Applied Bioethics, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus,
Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK.

There is currently considerable investment in research aimed at producing
transgenic farm animals with enhanced productive capacities. This article submits
these prospective technologies to critical ethical evaluation. The analysis
provided, focusing on issues relevant to public policy, suggests the need to
introduce additional regulations governing the use of these technologies. Should
their use be permitted in principle, specific legislation would seem to be
required: (1) to protect the welfare of transgenic animals produced/kept in
commercial enterprises; (2) to ensure the freedom of choice of purchasers of food
and other products derived from transgenic animals by provision of adequate
information on the source of the products; and (3) to provide a mechanism for
limiting the use of transgenic technologies to those that are in the public
interest.

PMID: 15702517 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]