Human Gene Inserted into Rice

Researchers at the National Institute of Agro-Biological Sciences in Tsukuba, Japan have developed rice containing a human gene, which causes the liver to produce enzymes that break down toxins. Currently GM rice is resistant to only one herbicide, but the new rice may be able to tolerate thirteen herbicides. The development could give growers options for weed control and help prevent the build up of toxins in the soil.

Critics of the study are horrified by the use of human genes in a food crop and worry about the possibility of the escaped genes causing superweeds. Supporters feel that the research could help reduce and clean up toxins in the environment.

Rice is one of the most important food sources for man. Yields of rice have fallen in recent years and researchers are keen to discover ways to increase production.

Links:

• GM industry puts human gene into rice from The Independent (Article archived - now only available for purchase.


• GM fears as human liver gene is put into rice from the Telegraph UK

Posted by Eric La Fountaine at 8:00 AM on April 28, 2005