In June we read about a revolutionary new technique for creating genetically modified plants without the use of external DNA. The article (http://www.greenseedling.com/2009/06/17/new-method-of-gene-modification/) illustrated the research done with “zinc finger” nucleases. The nucleases allow genes within plant cells to be modified to produce herbicide resistant strains of crops.

Until now, primary problem with creating genetically modified organisms (GMOs) was that it was impossible to target the insertion of the new DNA in the genome. It was also difficult to determine how the new gene may affect the expression of the genes surrounding the insertion in the genomic sequence. Recently, David Wright and Jeffrey Townsend from Iowa State University have used the knowledge provided by previous research to insert foreign DNA in a specific, predetermined place in a genome. They used the “zinc finger” nuclease to create more accurate cuts in the host DNA and uses homologous recombination to insert the foreign DNA in a specific position in the genome.

This research builds on the study we read about earlier, providing means to introduce precise and accurate genetic modifications into the genomes of crop plants. This technology can provide an effective way for the agricultural industry to reduce the pressures caused by growing food needs across the globe.

Discussion Question: Could new problems arise from using this new technology? If yes, what might they be?

News Article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090720134514.htm
Journal Abstract: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v459/n7245/full/nature07845.html