Think genetically engineered crops are unable to spread their transgenes to other plants? Think traditional crops grow in isolation away from engineered crops? Think superweeds are science fiction? Think again. Please join us for a very special talk and learn the truth about gene flow between GE crops and other plants.
Who: Dr. Carol Mallory-Smith, Oregon State University
Title: When gene flow matters: coexistence of GE and non-GE crops
Date: Monday, April 26, 2010
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Venue: Room A104, Clark Building [map]
Host: Bethany Econopouly, Soil & Crop Sciences
Gene flow is often raised as one of the major issues surrounding the introduction of genetically engineered (GE) crops because it can lead to the adventitious presence of the transgene. Gene flow via pollen was the initial issue raised with the introduction of GE crops, usually in regards to crossing with wild or weedy relatives. Gene flow occurs to some degree in all crops, even those that are predominantly self-pollinated. However, gene flow also can occur through movement of seed or vegetative propagules. For many crops, gene flow via seed will be the most common avenue of movement. The consequences of gene flow are dependent on the biology of the crop, the trait in question, and market issues surrounding the acceptance of the transgene. The traits that have been deregulated to date do not provide a fitness advantage in most instances but some newer traits may. It is difficult to predict under which circumstances gene flow will occur but there are many potential avenues. It is critical that gene flow be considered with the introduction of GE crops. However, there can be coexistence between GE and non-GE crops but tolerance levels must be set that can be met in the marketplace.
Carol Mallory-Smith, PhD is a professor and associate department head in the Crop and Soil Science Department at Oregon State University and also runs the Weed Science research group. Read more about her research interests here. Please contact Bethany if you would like to meet with Dr. Mallory-Smith during her visit to CSU.
