BIOTA GENE FLOW AND GENOME CONTAMINATION

W. Abdalqahar, F.; W. A. O. Al-falahi, F.

	BIOTA GENE FLOW AND GENOME CONTAMINATION
The Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Science
Article 1, Volume 41, Issue 2, 2010, Pages 126-149
Authors
F. W. Abdalqahar; F. W. A. O. Al-falahi
Abstract
Gene flow means the unconventional transfer of genes from one population's individual to another. This is a rare naturally occurring phenomenon among genetically compatible individuals if the appropriate conditions are available. Crops have exchanged genes with their wild and weedy relatives for centuries, and this will continue in happening. This process can occur in crop plants whether the crop plant was developed through conventional plant breeding or biotechnology methods. Transgene containment is a major concern in genetically modified crops (GMC), especially for those with potential to crosspollination their wild relatives. Releasing GM organisms into the environment can create serious threats to the environment and the food chain. GMC crops have the ability to reproduce and multiply. Therefore, through crosspollination, the "foreign" genes they contain can be transferred to other crops and wild species and cause what we call it "Genetic Contamination". Genetic contamination problem can, therefore, magnify over time. GMC seeds can also be spread, mixed with non GMC seed and compounding the problems. Bio-pharming originates to produce pharmaceutical proteins in genetically manipulated plants. Supporters of this technology claim that PMPs (Plants Made Pharmaceutical) can be made in plants at a significantly reduced cost compared to current production methods. One of the major concerns with bio-pharming is that food may become contaminated with genes of these products, as well as these products may have negative effects on natural ecosystems in near or far future.

Statistics Article View: 50 PDF Download: 35