1: Pol J Vet Sci. 2008;11(4):411-4.

Current issues connected with usage of genetically modified crops in production
of feed and livestock feeding.

Kwiatek K, Mazur M, Sieradzki Z.

Department of Hygiene of Animal Feedingstuffs, National Veterinary Research
Institute in Pulawy, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland.
kwiatekk@piwet.pulawy.pl

Progress, which is brought by new advances in modern molecular biology, allowed
interference in the genome of live organisms and gene manipulation. Introducing
new genes to the recipient organism enables to give them new features, absent
before. Continuous increase in the area of the biotech crops triggers continuous 
discussion about safety of genetically modified (GM) crops, including food and
feed derived from them. Important issue connected with cultivation of genetically
modified crops is a horizontal gene transfer and a bacterial antibiotic
resistance. Discussion about safety of GM crops concerns also food allergies
caused by eating genetically modified food. The problem of genetic modifications 
of GM crops used for livestock feeding is widely discussed, taking into account
Polish feed law.

PMID: 19227143 [PubMed - in process]

2: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2009 Feb 19. [Epub ahead of print]

Sensitive and highly specific quantitative real-time PCR and ELISA for recording 
a potential transfer of novel DNA and Cry1Ab protein from feed into bovine milk.

Guertler P, Paul V, Albrecht C, Meyer HH.

Physiology Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Weihenstephaner Berg 3,
85350, Freising, Germany, patrick.guertler@wzw.tum.de.

To address food safety concerns of the public regarding the potential transfer of
recombinant DNA (cry1Ab) and protein (Cry1Ab) into the milk of cows fed
genetically modified maize (MON810), a highly specific and sensitive quantitative
real-time PCR (qPCR) and an ELISA were developed for monitoring suspicious
presence of novel DNA and Cry1Ab protein in bovine milk. The developed assays
were validated according to the assay validation criteria specified in the
European Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. The detection limit and detection
capability of the qPCR and ELISA were 100 copies of cry1Ab muL(-1) milk and 0.4
ng mL(-1) Cry1Ab, respectively. Recovery rates of 84.9% (DNA) and 97% (protein)
and low (<15%) imprecision revealed the reliable and accurate estimations. A
specific qPCR amplification and use of a specific antibody in ELISA ascertained
the high specificity of the assays. Using these assays for 90 milk samples
collected from cows fed either transgenic (n = 8) or non-transgenic (n = 7)
rations for 6 months, neither cry1Ab nor Cry1Ab protein were detected in any
analyzed sample at the assay detection limits.

PMID: 19225766 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

3: J Genet Genomics. 2009 Jan;36(1):41-9.

Index selection on seed traits under direct, cytoplasmic and maternal effects in 
multiple environments.

Zhang W, Xu H, Zhu J.

Institute of Bioinformatics, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang
University, Hangzhou 310029, China.

Crop seeds are important sources of protein, oil, and carbohydrates for food,
animal feeds, and industrial products. Recently, much attention has been paid to 
quality and functional properties of crop seeds. However, seed traits possess
some distinct genetic characteristics in comparison with plant traits, which
increase the difficulty of genetically improving these traits. In this study,
diallel analysis for seed models with genotype by environment interaction (GE)
effect was applied to estimate the variance-covariance components of seed traits.
Mixed linear model approaches were used to estimate the genetic covariances
between pair-wise seed and plant traits. The breeding values (BV) were divided
into two categories for the seed models. The first category of BV was defined as 
the combination of direct additive, cytoplasmic, and maternal additive effects,
which should be utilized for selecting stable cultivars over multi-environments. 
The three genetic effects, together with their GE interaction, were included in
the second category of BV for selecting special lines to be grown in specific
ecosystems. Accordingly, two types of selection indices for seed traits, i.e.,
general selection index and interaction selection index, were developed and
constructed on the first and the second category BV, respectively. These proposed
selection indices can be applied to solve the difficult task of simultaneously
improving multiple seed traits in various environments. Data of crop seeds with
regard to four seed traits and four yield traits based on the modified diallel
crosses in Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) were used as an example for
demonstrating the proposed methodology.

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

PMID: 19161944 [PubMed - in process]

4: Anal Chim Acta. 2009 Feb 16;634(1):75-82. Epub 2008 Dec 6.

Evaluation of stable isotope labelling strategies for the quantitation of CP4
EPSPS in genetically modified soya.

Ocaña MF, Fraser PD, Patel RK, Halket JM, Bramley PM.

Centre for Chemical and Bioanalytical Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of
London, Egham TW20 0EX, UK.

The introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops into the market has raised a 
general alertness relating to the control and safety of foods. The applicability 
of protein separation hyphenated to mass spectrometry to identify the bacterial
enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (CP4 EPSPS) protein expressed in GM
crops has been previously reported [M.F. Ocana, P.D. Fraser, R.K.P. Patel, J.M.
Halket, P.M. Bramley, Rapid Commun. Mass Spectrom. 21 (2007) 319.]. Herein, we
investigate the suitability of two strategies that employ heavy stable isotopes, 
i.e. AQUA and iTRAQ, to quantify different levels of CP4 EPSPS in up to four GM
preparations. Both quantification strategies showed potential to determine
whether the presence of GM material is above the limits established by the
European Union. The AQUA quantification procedure involved protein
solubilisation/fractionation and subsequent separation using SDS-PAGE. A segment 
of the gel in which the protein of interest was located was excised, the stable
isotope labeled peptide added at a known concentration and proteolytic digestion 
initiated. Following recovery of the peptides, on-line separation and detection
using LC-MS was carried out. A similar approach was used for the iTRAQ workflow
with the exception that proteins were digested in solution and generated tryptic 
peptides were chemically tagged. Both procedures demonstrated the potential for
quantitative detection at 0.5% (w/w) GM soya which is a level below the current
European Union's threshold for food-labelling. In this context, a comparison
between the two procedures is provided within the present study.

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

PMID: 19154813 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

5: Eur J Histochem. 2008 Oct-Dec;52(4):263-7.

Can a genetically-modified organism-containing diet influence embryo development?
A preliminary study on pre-implantation mouse embryos.

Cisterna B, Flach F, Vecchio L, Barabino SM, Battistelli S, Martin TE, Malatesta 
M, Biggiogera M.

Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Laboratorio di Biologia Cellulare e
Neurobiologia, ed Instituto di Genetica Molecolare del CNR, University of Pavia, 
Italy.

In eukaryotic cells, pre-mRNAs undergo several transformation steps to generate
mature mRNAs. Recent studies have demonstrated that a diet containing a
genetically modified (GM) soybean can induce modifications of nuclear
constituents involved in RNA processing in some tissues of young, adult and old
mice. On this basis, we have investigated the ultrastructural and
immunocytochemical features of pre-implantation embryos from mice fed either GM
or non- GM soybean in order to verify whether the parental diet can affect the
morpho-functional development of the embryonic ribonucleoprotein structural
constituents involved in pre-mRNA pathways. Morphological observations revealed
that the general aspect of embryo nuclear components is similar in the two
experimental groups. However, immunocytochemical and in situ hybridization
results suggest a temporary decrease of pre-mRNA transcription and splicing in
2-cell embryos and a resumption in 4-8-cell embryos from mice fed GM soybean;
moreover, pre-mRNA maturation seems to be less efficient in both 2-cell and
4-8-cell embryos from GM-fed mice than in controls. Although our results are
still preliminary and limited to the pre-implantation phases, the results of this
study encourage deepening on the effects of food components and/or contaminants
on embryo development.

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

PMID: 19109102 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

6: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2008 Dec 7. [Epub ahead of print]

Murine models for evaluating the allergenicity of novel proteins and foods.

Aldemir H, Bars R, Herouet-Guicheney C.

University of Paris Sud XI, Faculty of Pharmacy, 5 rue J.B. Clément, 92290
Châtenay Malabry, France; Bayer CropScience, 355 rue Dostoïevski, 06903
Sophia-Antipolis, France.

Genetically modified crops convey many benefits to world population. However, a
rigorous safety assessment procedure, including an evaluation of the allergenic
potential, is fundamental before their release into the food chain. As an
integral part of the safety assessment process, regulatory authorities worldwide 
strongly recommend the use of tests that can predict the allergenic potential of 
the novel proteins. All guidance documents are based on an array of tests that
have been proposed in 2003 by the Codex Alimentarius. Although the animal model
is not a requirement of the Codex Alimentarius weight of evidence approach,
allergenic hazard of novel proteins could only be evaluated by an in vivo model
that can potentially identify and distinguish commonly allergenic proteins from
rarely allergenic proteins. Therefore, food allergy experts encourage its
development. During the 2007 International Life Science Institute (ILSI) workshop
(Nice, France), worldwide experts shared their latest research results on rodent 
models to evaluate the allergenic potential of proteins and foods. This review
presents the most promising rodent models for assessing food protein
allergenicity that were evaluated during this ILSI workshop.

PMID: 19100305 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

7: Plant Cell Rep. 2009 Mar;28(3):445-55. Epub 2008 Dec 18.

Evaluation of a morphological marker selection and excision system to generate
marker-free transgenic cassava plants.

Saelim L, Phansiri S, Suksangpanomrung M, Netrphan S, Narangajavana J.

Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road,
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.

The efficacy of the ipt-type Multi-Auto-Transformation (MAT) vector system to
transform the extensively grown cassava cultivar "KU50" was evaluated. This
system utilizes the isopentenyltransferase (ipt) gene as morphological marker for
visual selection of transgenic lines. The extreme shooty phenotype (ESP) of
transgenic lines is lost due to the removal of ipt gene mediated by the yeast
Rint/RS system. As a result, phenotypically normal shoots, considered marker-free
transgenic plants, could be obtained. When transforming KU50 cassava cultivar
with two different ipt-type MAT vectors, transformation frequency at 19-21% was
observed. Among the total number of ESP explants, 32-38% regained normal extended
shoot phenotype and 88-96% of which were confirmed to represent the marker-free
transgenic plants. This is the first demonstration of the efficacy of Rint/RS
system in promoting excision of ipt marker gene in cassava specie, with the
consequent rapid production of marker-free transgenic plants. The high efficiency
of this system should facilitate pyramiding a number of transgenes by repeated
transformation without having to undergo through laborious, expensive and
time-consuming processes of sexual crossing and seed production. The generation
of marker-free, thus environmentally safe, genetically modified cassava clones
should also ease the public concerns regarding the use of transgenic cassava in
both food and nonfood industries.

PMID: 19093119 [PubMed - in process]

8: Environ Biosafety Res. 2008 Oct-Dec;7(4):241-52. Epub 2008 Dec 16.

Dispersal of viable row-crop seeds of commercial agriculture by farmland birds:
implication for genetically modified crops.

Cummings JL, Handley LW, Macbryde B, Tupper SK, Werner SJ, Byram ZJ.

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, 4101 LaPorte Avenue, Fort
Collins, CO 80521, USA. john.1.cummings@aphis.usda.gov

To address some concerns about the expansion of genetically engineered
pharmaceutical and industrial crops to outdoor plantings and potential impacts on
the human food supply, we determined whether commercial agriculture seeds of
maize or corn Zea mays L., barley Hordeum vulgare L., safflower Carthamus
tinctorius L. and rice Oryza sativa L. are digested or pass viably through the
digestive tract, or are transported externally, by captive mallard ducks Anas
platyrhynchos L., ring-necked pheasants Phasianus colchicus L., red-winged
blackbirds Agelaius phoeniceus (L.) and rock pigeons Columba livia Gmelin (with
the exception of whole maize seeds which were too large to feed to the
blackbirds). These crop seeds, whether free-fed or force-fed, did not pass
through the digestive tract of these bird species. The birds nonetheless did
retain viable seeds in the esophagus/crop and gizzard for several hours. For
example, after foraging for 6 h, mallards had retained an average of 228 +/- 112 
barley seeds and pheasants 192 +/- 78 in the esophagus/crop, and their
germination rates were 93 and 50%, respectively. Birds externally transported
seeds away from the feeding location, but in only four instances were seeds found
attached to their muddy feet or legs and in no case to feathers. Risk of such
crop seeds germinating, establishing and reproducing off site after transport by 
a bird (externally or internally) or movement of a carcass by a predator, will
depend greatly on the crop and bird species, location, environmental conditions
(including soil characteristics), timing, and seed condition.

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

PMID: 19081011 [PubMed - in process]

9: J Agromedicine. 2008;13(4):219-24.

Biofuels and North American agriculture--implications for the health and safety
of North American producers.

Gunderson PD.

Dakota Center for Technology-Optimized Agriculture, Devils Lake, ND 58301, USA.
Paul.D.Gunderson.1@LRSC.NODAK.EDU

This decade has provided North American agricultural producers with opportunity
to not only produce fiber and food, but also fuel and other industrial products. 
The drivers incenting this development could be sustained well into the future,
therefore workforce safety and health implications are likely to persist for some
time. Within production agriculture, the 'feedstock growth and harvest cycle' and
'transport' sectors possess the changing exposures experienced by workers. The
Conference explored the following exposures: distiller's grains and
bio-processing byproducts, spent catalyst, solvent brine, microbial agents,
genetically modified organisms, discharge effluent, H2O dilutes, change in
cropping patterns and resultant use of different seeding and harvest
technologies, pests (whether target or non-target), and rural traffic resulting
from concentrated movement of massive quantities of biomass and grain. Other
issues of a more general public health nature such as watershed implications,
other environmental impacts, emissions, uneven economic development potential,
public safety issues associated with transport of both fuel and other industrial 
products, and rural emergency medical service need were explored. And, agronomic 
impacts were noted, including tillage change, potassium buildup in soil, nutrient
depletion, sedimentation and erosion of tillable soil, and local esthetics. It
was concluded that rural venues for formation and exploration of public policy
need to be created.

PMID: 19064413 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

10: Maturitas. 2009 Jan 20;62(1):42-6. Epub 2008 Dec 5.

Morphological modification of female bladder after prolonged use of soy-based
diets.

da Silva Faria T, Soares LL, Medeiros JL Jr, Boaventura GT, Sampaio FJ, da Fonte 
Ramos C.

Urogenital Research Unit-UERJ, Biomedical Center, State University of Rio de
Janeiro, Av. 28 de Setembro, 87-fundos-FCM-terreo, 20551-030 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 
Brazil.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of a prolonged use
of organic and transgenic soy upon the lipid profile and the collagen/muscle
ratio of the detrusor muscle of the bladder. METHODS: Wistar rats were fed three 
different diets from weaning until sacrifice (15 months old): control group (CG) 
casein-based diet; organic soy group (OSG) organic soy-based diet; genetically
modified soy group (GMSG) transgenic soy-based diet. RESULTS: There was no
difference in the food consumption or in the diet isoflavone components among the
groups. Comparing to CG, both OSG and GMSG groups presented a significant
(p<0.05) reduction in the body weight, triglycerides, cholesterol and the smooth 
muscle of the detrusor and a significant (p<0.05) increase of collagen fibers
number of the detrusor muscle. CONCLUSIONS: These findings call into question
that, the prolonged use of soy-based diets can be deleterious to the bladder by
altering the collagen/muscle ratio what can cause bladder dysfunctions similar
with that occurring during menopause.

PMID: 19058935 [PubMed - in process]

11: BMC Genomics. 2008 Dec 4;9:584.

Optimised padlock probe ligation and microarray detection of multiple
(non-authorised) GMOs in a single reaction.

Prins TW, van Dijk JP, Beenen HG, Van Hoef AA, Voorhuijzen MM, Schoen CD, Aarts
HJ, Kok EJ.

RIKILT - Institute of Food Safety (WUR), Bornsesteeg 45, 6708 PD Wageningen, the 
Netherlands. theo.prins@wur.nl

BACKGROUND: To maintain EU GMO regulations, producers of new GM crop varieties
need to supply an event-specific method for the new variety. As a result methods 
are nowadays available for EU-authorised genetically modified organisms (GMOs),
but only to a limited extent for EU-non-authorised GMOs (NAGs). In the last
decade the diversity of genetically modified (GM) ingredients in food and feed
has increased significantly. As a result of this increase GMO laboratories
currently need to apply many different methods to establish to potential presence
of NAGs in raw materials and complex derived products. RESULTS: In this paper we 
present an innovative method for detecting (approved) GMOs as well as the
potential presence of NAGs in complex DNA samples containing different crop
species. An optimised protocol has been developed for padlock probe ligation in
combination with microarray detection (PPLMD) that can easily be scaled up.
Linear padlock probes targeted against GMO-events, -elements and -species have
been developed that can hybridise to their genomic target DNA and are visualised 
using microarray hybridisation.In a tenplex PPLMD experiment, different genomic
targets in Roundup-Ready soya, MON1445 cotton and Bt176 maize were detected down 
to at least 1%. In single experiments, the targets were detected down to 0.1%,
i.e. comparable to standard qPCR. CONCLUSION: Compared to currently available
methods this is a significant step forward towards multiplex detection in complex
raw materials and derived products. It is shown that the PPLMD approach is
suitable for large-scale detection of GMOs in real-life samples and provides the 
possibility to detect and/or identify NAGs that would otherwise remain
undetected.

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

PMID: 19055784 [PubMed - in process]

12: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2009 Jan;16(1):85-94. Epub 2008 Dec 2.

Cumulative impact of GM herbicide-tolerant cropping on arable plants assessed
through species-based and functional taxonomies.

Squire GR, Hawes C, Begg GS, Young MW.

Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee, DD2 5DA, UK,
geoff.squire@scri.ac.uk.

BACKGROUND, AIM AND SCOPE: In a gradualist approach to the introduction of crop
biotechnology, the findings of experimentation at one scale are used to predict
the outcome of moving to a higher scale of deployment. Movement through scales
had occurred for certain genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops in 
the UK as far as large-scale field trials. However, the land area occupied by
these trials was still <1% of the area occupied by the respective non-GM crops.
Some means is needed to predict the direction and size of the effect of
increasing the area of GMHT cropping on ecological variables such as the
diversity among species and trophic interactions. Species-accumulation curves are
examined here as a method of indicating regional-scale impacts on botanical
diversity from multiple field experiments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were used 
from experiments on the effect of (GMHT) crops and non-GM, or conventional,
comparators in fields sown with four crop types (beet, maize, spring and winter
oilseed rape) at a total of 250 sites in the UK between 2000 and 2003. Indices of
biodiversity were measured in a split-field design comparing GMHT with the
farmers' usual weed management. In the original analyses based on the means at
site level, effects were detected on the mass of weeds in the three spring crops 
and the proportion of broadleaf and grass weeds in winter oilseed rape, but not
on indices of plant species diversity. To explore the links between site means
and total taxa, accumulation curves were constructed based on the number of plant
species (a pool of around 250 species in total) and the number of plant
functional types (24), inferred from the general life-history characteristics of 
a species. RESULTS: Species accumulation differed between GMHT and conventional
treatments in direction and size, depending on the type of crop and its
conventional management. Differences were mostly in the asymptote of the curve,
indicative of the maximum number of species found in a treatment, rather than the
steepness of the curve. In winter oilseed rape, 8% more species were accumulated 
in the GMHT treatment, mainly as a result of the encouragement of grass species
by the herbicide when applied in the autumn. (Overall, GMHT winter oilseed rape
had strong negative effects on both the food web and the potential weed burden by
increasing the biomass of grasses and decreasing that of broadleaf weeds.) In
maize, 33% more species-a substantial increase-were accumulated in the GMHT than 
in the conventional, consistent with the latter's highly suppressive weed
management using triazine herbicides. In the spring oilseed rape and beet, fewer 
species (around 10%) were accumulated in the GMHT than the conventional. The GMHT
treatments did not remove or add any functional (life history) types, however.
Differences in species accumulation between treatments appeared to be caused by
loss or gain of rarer species. The generality of this effect was confirmed by
simulations of species accumulation in which the species complement at each of 50
sites was drawn from a regional pool and subjected to reducing treatment at each 
site. Shifts in the species-accumulation parameters, comparable to those
measured, occurred only when a treatment removed the rarer species at each site. 
DISCUSSION: Species accumulation provided a set of simple curve-parameters that
captured the net result of numerous local effects of treatments on plant species 
and, in some instances, the balance between grass and broadleaf types. The
direction of effect was not the same in the four crops and depended on the
severity of the conventional treatment and on complex interactions between
season, herbicide and crop. The accumulation curves gave an indication of
potential positive or negative consequences for regional species pools of
replacing a conventional practice with GMHT weed management. In this and related 
studies, a range of indicators, through which diversity was assessed by both
species and functional type, and at both site and regional scales, gave more
insight into effects of GMHT treatment than provided by any one indicator.
CONCLUSIONS: Species accumulation was shown to discriminate at the regional scale
between agronomic treatments that had little effect on species number at the
field scale. While a comprehensive assessment of GM cropping needs to include an 
examination of regional effects, as here, the costs of doing this in all
instances would be prohibitive. Simulations of diversity-reducing treatments
could provide a theoretical framework for predicting the likely regional effects 
from in-field plant dynamics. RECOMMENDATIONS AND PERSPECTIVES: Accumulation
curves potentially offer a means of linking within-site effects to regional
impacts on biodiversity resulting from any change in agricultural practice. To
guide empirical measurement, there is a scope to apply a methodology such as
individual-based modelling at the field scale to explore the links between
agronomic treatments and the relative abundance of plant types. The framework
needs to be validated in practice, using species-based and functional taxonomies,
the latter defined by measured rather than inferred traits.

PMID: 19048321 [PubMed - in process]

13: J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Dec 24;56(24):12099-104.

Safety assessment of bacterial choline oxidase protein introduced in transgenic
crops for tolerance against abiotic stress.

Singh AK, Singh BP, Prasad GB, Gaur SN, Arora N.

Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR), Delhi, India.

Genetically modified crops have resistance to abiotic stress by introduction of
choline oxidase protein. In the present study, the safety of choline oxidase
protein derived from Arthrobacter globiformis was assessed for toxicity and
allergenicity. The protein was stable at 90 degrees C for 1 h. Toxicity studies
of choline oxidase in mice showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) from
control in terms of growth, body weight, food consumption, and blood biochemical 
indices. Histology of gut tissue of mice fed protein showed normal gastric
mucosal lining and villi in jejunum and ileum sections. Specific IgE in serum and
IL-4 release in splenic culture supernatant were low in choline oxidase treated
mice, comparable to control. Intravenous challenge with choline oxidase did not
induce any adverse reaction, unlike ovalbumin group mice. Histology of lung
tissues from choline oxidase sensitized mice showed normal airways, whereas
ovalbumin-sensitized mice showed inflamed airways with eosinophilic infiltration 
and bronchoconstriction. ELISA carried out with food allergic patients' sera
revealed no significant IgE affinity with choline oxidase. Also, choline oxidase 
did not show any symptoms of toxicity and allergenicity in mice.

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

PMID: 19035641 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

14: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2008 Nov 8. [Epub ahead of print]

Identifying food proteins with allergenic potential: Evolution of approaches to
safety assessment and research to provide additional tools.

Ladics GS, Selgrade MK.

DuPont Co., DuPont Crop Genetics, Wilmington, DE 19880 USA.

A safety assessment process exists for genetically engineered crops that includes
the evaluation of the expressed protein for allergenic potential. The objectives 
of this evaluation are twofold: (1) to protect allergic consumers from exposure
to known allergenic or cross-reactive proteins, and (2) protect the general
population from risks associated with the introduction of genes encoding proteins
that are likely to become food allergens. The first systematic approach to
address these concerns was formulated by Metcalfe et al. [Metcalfe, D.D.,
Astwood, J.D., Townsend, R., Sampson, H.A., Taylor, S.L., and Fuchs, R.L. 1996.
Assessment of the allergenic potential of foods from genetically engineered crop 
plants. Crit. Rev. Food Sci. Nutr. 36(5), 165-186.] and subsequently Food and
Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization
(FAO/WHO) [FAO/WHO, 2001. Evaluation of allergenicity of genetically modified
foods. Report of a Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Allergenicity of Foods
Derived from Biotechnology. January 22-25, 2001. Rome, Italy]. More recently,
Codex [Codex Alimentarius Commission, 2003. Alinorm 03/34: Joint FAO/WHO Food
Standard Programme, Codex Alimentarius Commission, Twenty-Fifth Session, Rome,
Italy, 30 June-5 July, 2003. Appendix III, Guideline for the conduct of food
safety assessment of foods derived from recombinant-DNA plants, and Appendix IV, 
Annex on the assessment of possible allergenicity. pp. 47-60], noting that no
single factor is recognized as an identifier for protein allergenicity, suggested
a weight of evidence approach be conducted that takes into account a variety of
factors and approaches for an overall assessment of allergenic potential. These
various recommendations are based on what is known about allergens, including the
history of exposure and safety of the gene(s) source; amino acid sequence
identity to human allergens; stability to pepsin digestion in vitro; protein
abundance in the crop and processing effects; and when appropriate, specific IgE 
binding studies or skin-prick testing. Similarities and differences between these
various suggested recommendations, as well as data gaps, are discussed. The US
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Office of Research and Development (ORD) 
has initiated a targeted research effort to address data gaps and improve the
various recommended methods/endpoints for assessing the allergenic risks
associated with plant incorporated pesticides (PIPs) through both intramural and 
extramural (grant supported) research. The areas of primary focus for EPA
include: (1) development and evaluation of animal models; (2) targeted or
specific serological assays; and (3) structure-activity relationships. Details on
the current as well as proposed EPA funded research are discussed. More recently 
US EPA has partnered with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious
Disease (NIAID), National Institutes of Health to support research in areas of
mutual interest with respect to food allergy.

PMID: 19028539 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

15: J Biol. 2008 Nov 7;7(9):33. [Epub ahead of print]

Aquaglyceroporins: ancient channels for metalloids.

Bhattacharjee H, Mukhopadhyay R, Thiyagarajan S, Rosen BP.

Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wayne State University, School 
of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. brosen@med.wayne.edu.

ABSTRACT: The identification of aquaglyceroporins as uptake channels for arsenic 
and antimony shows how these toxic elements can enter the food chain, and
suggests that food plants could be genetically modified to exclude arsenic while 
still accumulating boron and silicon.

PMID: 19014407 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

16: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2009 Mar;64(1):1-5.

Organic and genetically modified soybean diets: consequences in growth and in
hematological indicators of aged rats.

Daleprane JB, Feijó TS, Boaventura GT.

College of Medicine, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói, Brazil,
juliobd@gmail.com.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protein quality of organic and
genetically modified soy by feeding specific diets to rats. Three groups of
Wistar rats (n = 10) were used, and each group was named according to the food
that they ate. There was an organic soy group (OG), a genetically modified soy
group (GG), and a control group (CG). All animals received water and diet ad
libitum for 455 days. At the end of this period, the weight of the GG group was
the same as that of the OG, and both were higher than CG. Protein intake was
similar for the OG and GG, which were significantly lower (p < 0.0005) than the
CG. The growth rate (GR) of the rats, albumin levels, and total levels of serum
protein were comparable for all groups. Hematocrit (p < 0.04) and hemoglobin (p <
0.03) for the OG and GG were less than the CG. Although the OG and GG
demonstrated reduced hematocrit and hemoglobin, both types of soy were utilized
in a way similar to casein. This result suggests that the protein quality of soy 
is parallel to the standard protein casein in terms of growth promotion but not
hematological indicators.

PMID: 19011971 [PubMed - in process]

17: Methods Mol Biol. 2009;478:273-88.

Establishing substantial equivalence: proteomics.

Lovegrove A, Salt L, Shewry PR.

Department of Plant Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Centre for Crop Genetic
Improvement, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, UK.

Wheat is a major crop in world agriculture and is consumed after processing into 
a range of food products. It is therefore of great importance to determine the
consequences (intended and unintended) of transgenesis in wheat and whether
genetically modified lines are substantially equivalent to those produced by
conventional plant breeding. Proteomic analysis is one of several approaches
which can be used to address these questions. Two-dimensional PAGE (2D PAGE)
remains the most widely available method for proteomic analysis, but is
notoriously difficult to reproduce between laboratories. We therefore describe
methods which have been developed as standard operating procedures in our
laboratory to ensure the reproducibility of proteomic analyses of wheat using 2D 
PAGE analysis of grain proteins.

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

PMID: 19009451 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

18: J Biosci Bioeng. 2008 Oct;106(4):350-6.

Chemical characteristics and volatile profile of genetically modified peanut
cultivars.

Ng EC, Dunford NT, Chenault K.

Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering and Robert M. Kerr Food &
Agricultural Products Center, Oklahoma State University, FAPC Room 103,
Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.

Genetic engineering has been used to modify peanut cultivars for improving
agronomic performance and pest resistance. Food products developed through
genetic engineering have to be assessed for their safety before approval for
human consumption. Preservation of desirable chemical, flavor and aroma
attributes of the peanut cultivars during the genetic modifications is critical
for acceptance of genetically modified peanuts (GMP) by the food industry. Hence,
the main objective of this study is to examine chemical characteristics and
volatile profile of GMP. The genetically modified peanut cultivars, 188, 540 and 
654 were obtained from the USDA-ARS in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The peanut variety
Okrun was examined as a control. The volatile analysis was performed using a gas 
chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) equipped with an olfactory detector. The 
peanut samples were also analyzed for their moisture, ash, protein, sugar and oil
compositions. Experimental results showed that the variations in nutritional
composition of peanut lines examined in this study were within the values
reported for existing cultivars. There were minor differences in volatile profile
among the samples. The implication of this study is significant, since it shows
that peanut cultivars with greater pest and fungal resistance were successfully
developed without major changes in their chemical characteristics.

PMID: 19000610 [PubMed - in process]

19: Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2008 Nov;72(11):2953-8. Epub 2008 Nov 7.

Real-time PCR method using capturing oligo-immobilized PCR tubes to determine the
specific gene for soybean and genetically modified soybean in food matrices.

Harikai N, Saito S, Abe M, Kondo K, Kitta K, Akiyama H, Teshima R, Kinoshita K.

School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University, Hyogo, Japan.

A new real-time PCR method using capturing oligo-immobilized PCR tubes is
described. This method was used to detect specific genes for soybean and
genetically modified (GM) soybean in food matrices. In a standard reaction using 
soybean genomic DNA and a capturing oligo for the lectin gene (Le1) immobilized
on the tube, we examined the effects of such hybridization conditions as the
location, length, and amount of the capturing oligo, and the incubation time and 
temperature. Under optimized conditions, the copy number of Le1 was determined in
a concentration-dependent manner from soybean genomic DNA and soybean lysate (DNA
10-1000 ng, r=0.99; lysate 1-100%, r=0.99). The copy number of a Roundup Ready
soybean (RRS) gene was also successfully detected in a concentration-dependent
manner (1-100%, r=0.99) from GM soybean lysate, using PCR tubes with an
immobilized capturing oligo for the transgene. Our data indicate that this is a
rapid and simple method to determine specific genes for soybean and GM soybean in
food matrices.

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

PMID: 18997399 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

20: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2009 Feb;49(2):164-75.

Health risks of genetically modified foods.

Dona A, Arvanitoyannis IS.

Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Athens, Medical
School, Athens, Greece.

As genetically modified (GM) foods are starting to intrude in our diet concerns
have been expressed regarding GM food safety. These concerns as well as the
limitations of the procedures followed in the evaluation of their safety are
presented. Animal toxicity studies with certain GM foods have shown that they may
toxically affect several organs and systems. The review of these studies should
not be conducted separately for each GM food, but according to the effects
exerted on certain organs it may help us create a better picture of the possible 
health effects on human beings. The results of most studies with GM foods
indicate that they may cause some common toxic effects such as hepatic,
pancreatic, renal, or reproductive effects and may alter the hematological,
biochemical, and immunologic parameters. However, many years of research with
animals and clinical trials are required for this assessment. The use of
recombinant GH or its expression in animals should be re-examined since it has
been shown that it increases IGF-1 which may promote cancer.

PMID: 18989835 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

21: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Dec;46(12):3808-17. Epub 2008 Oct 8.

Subchronic feeding study of high oleic acid soybeans (Event DP-3Ø5423-1) in
Sprague-Dawley rats.

Delaney B, Appenzeller LM, Munley SM, Hoban D, Sykes GP, Malley LA, Sanders C.

Pioneer, A DuPont Company, Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc., Johnston, IA
50131-0552, USA. bryan.delaney@pioneer.com

DP-3Ø5423-1 (305423) is a genetically-modified (GM) soybean that was produced by 
biolistic insertion of a gm-fad2-1 gene fragment and the gm-hra gene into the
germline of soybean seeds. The gm-fad2-1 gene fragment cosuppresses expression of
the endogenous FAD2-1 gene encoding the seed-specific omega-6 fatty acid
desaturase resulting in higher concentrations of oleic acid (18:1) relative to
linoleic acid (18:2). The gm-hra gene encoding a modified acetolactate synthase
(ALS) enzyme was used as a selectable marker. In the current study, processed
fractions (meal, hulls, and oil) from 305423 soybeans, non-GM soybeans with a
similar genetic background (near isoline control) and three
commercially-available non-GM varieties were used to formulate diets that were
nutritionally comparable to PMI Certified Rodent LabDiet 5002. Diets were fed to 
young adult Crl:CD(SD) rats (12/sex/group) for approximately 90 days. Compared
with rats fed the non-GM control diet, no biologically relevant differences were 
observed in rats fed the 305423 diet with respect to body weight/gain, food
consumption/efficiency, mortality, clinical signs of toxicity, or
ophthalmological observations. No test diet-related effects were observed on
neurobehavioral assessments, organ weights, or clinical or anatomic pathology.
These results demonstrated that 305423 soybeans are as safe and wholesome as
non-GM soybeans.

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

PMID: 18952136 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

22: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Aug 29. [Epub ahead of print]

Timely awareness and prevention of emerging chemical and biochemical risks in
foods: Proposal for a strategy based on experience with recent cases.

Kleter GA, Groot MJ, Poelman M, Kok EJ, Marvin HJ.

RIKILT - Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen University and Research Center,
P.O. Box 230, NL-6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands.

A number of recent food safety incidents have involved chemical substances, while
various activities aim at the early identification of emerging chemical risks.
This review considers recent cases of chemical and biochemical risks, as a basis 
for recommendations for awareness and prevention of similar risks at an early
stage. These cases include examples of unapproved genetically modified food
crops, intoxications with botanical products containing unintentionally admixed
toxic herbs, residues of unapproved antibiotics and contaminants in farmed
aquaculture species such as shrimp and salmon; and adverse effects of chemical
and biological pesticides of natural origin. Besides case-specific
recommendations for mitigation of future incidents of the same nature, general
inferences and recommendations are made. It is recommended, for example, to
establish databases for contaminants potentially present within products.
Pro-active reconnaissance can facilitate the identification of products
potentially contaminated with hazardous substances. In international trade,
prevention and early identification of hazards are aided by management systems
for product quality and safety, rigorous legislation, and inspections of
consignments destined for export. Cooperation with the private sector and foreign
authorities may be required to achieve these goals. While food and feed safety
are viewed from the European perspective, the outcomes also apply to other
regions.

PMID: 18790713 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

23: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2008 Aug;49(4):272-82.

A 104-week feeding study of genetically modified soybeans in F344 rats.

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

Department of Environmental Health and Toxicology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute
of Public Health. Tokyo, Japan.

A chronic feeding study to evaluate the safety of genetically modified
glyphosate-tolerant soybeans (GM soybeans) was conducted using F344 DuCrj rats.
The rats were fed diet containing GM soybeans or Non-GM soybeans at the
concentration of 30% in basal diet. Non-GM soybeans were a closely related strain
to the GM soybeans. These two diets were adjusted to an identical nutrient level.
In this study, the influence of GM soybeans in 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 termination (104 weeks), animals were 
subjected to hematology, serum biochemistry, and pathological examinations. There
were several differences in animal growth, food intake, organ weights 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, and organ weights showed no meaningful difference between
rats fed the GM and Non-GM soybeans. In pathological observation, there was
neither an increase in incidence nor any specific type of nonneoplastic or
neoplastic lesions in the GM soybeans group in each sex. These results indicate
that long-term intake of GM soybeans at the level of 30% in diet has no apparent 
adverse effect in rats.

PMID: 18787312 [PubMed - in process]

24: Natl Toxicol Program Genet Modif Model Rep. 2007 Dec;(12):1-85.

The toxicology and carcinogenesis study of phenolphthalein (CAS No. 77-09-8) in
genetically modified haploinsufficient p16(Ink4a)/p19(Arf) mice (feed study).

[No authors listed]

Phenolphthalein was commonly used as a laxative for most of the 20th century. The
use of phenolphthalein in laxatives has decreased since 1997 when the United
States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed to withdraw its classification
as an over-the-counter drug (21 CFR, Part 310). Phenolphthalein has been
previously evaluated in 2-year carcinogenicity studies by the National Toxicology
Program (1996). The major route of human exposure to phenolphthalein is via
ingestion, dermal contact, and inhalation of contaminated air originating from
process units manufacturing the compound. In this study, the carcinogenic effects
of phenolphthalein were studied in the haploinsufficient p16(Ink4a)/p19(Arf)
mouse model as an ongoing goal of the NTP is to seek model systems for toxicology
and carcinogenesis studies, especially those that can provide mechanistic
information relative to understanding an agent's mode of action. Male and female 
haploinsufficient p16(Ink4a)/p19(Arf) mice were exposed to phenolphthalein
(greater than 97% pure) in feed for 27 weeks. Genetic toxicology studies were
conducted in mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 27-WEEK STUDY IN MICE: Groups
of 15 male and 15 female mice were exposed to 0, 200, 375, 750, 3,000, or 12,000 
ppm phenolphthalein (equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 35, 65,
135, 540, and 2,170 mg phenolphthalein/kg body weight to males and 50, 90, 170,
680, 2,770 mg/kg to females) in feed for 27 weeks. Survival of all exposed groups
of male and female mice was similar to that of the control groups. Mean body
weights of males in the 12,000 ppm group were less than those of the control
group after week 11. No differences in feed consumption were noted between
exposed and control groups. Atypical hyperplasia of the thymus, a premalignant
change of chemically induced thymic lymphoma, occurred in exposed males and
females, and the incidence was significantly increased in 12,000 ppm females.
Atrophy of the seminiferous tubules in the testis, hyperplasia of the testicular 
interstitial (Leydig) cells, and epididymal hypospermia occurred in most 3,000
and 12,000 ppm males. Additionally, the left and right testis weights, the left
epididymis weights, sperm motility, the numbers of spermatid heads per testis,
and sperm heads per cauda and per gram cauda epididymis were generally
significantly less in 3,000 and 12,000 ppm males than in the control group. The
incidences of nephropathy were significantly increased in 3,000 and 12,000 ppm
males; incidences of hypertrophy of renal tubules were significantly increased in
males receiving 750 ppm or greater. Hematopoietic cell proliferation of the
spleen occurred in all 12,000 ppm males, and the incidences of this lesion were
significantly increased in 375, 750, and 12,000 ppm females. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY: 
The frequency of micronucleated erythrocytes was assessed at four time points
during the 27-week study in male and female haploinsufficient p16(Ink4a)/p19(Arf)
mice. Significant concentration-related increases in micronucleated cells were
observed at all time points in male and female mice. CONCLUSIONS: Under the
conditions of this 27-week feed study, there was no evidence of carcinogenic
activity of phenolphthalein in male or female haploinsufficient
p16(Ink4a)/p19(Arf) mice exposed to 200, 375, 750, 3,000, or 12,000 ppm. Because 
this is a new model, there is uncertainty whether the study possessed sufficient 
sensitivity to detect a carcinogenic effect. Phenolphthalein induced atypical
hyperplasia, a preneoplastic lesion of the thymus, in male and female mice,
hematopoietic cell proliferation of the spleen in male and female mice, and
toxicity to the kidney and reproductive system in male mice.

PMID: 18784766 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

25: Natl Toxicol Program Genet Modif Model Rep. 2005 Oct;(2):1-113.

NTP toxicology studies of acesulfame potassium (CAS No. 55589-62-3) in
genetically modified (FVB Tg.AC Hemizygous) mice and carcinogenicity studies of
acesulfame potassium in genetically modified [B6.129-Trp53(tm1Brd) (N5)
Haploinsufficient] mice (feed studies)mice.

[No authors listed]

Acesulfame potassium is an artificial sweetener used throughout the world in food
and beverages. Acesulfame potassium was nominated by The Center for Science in
the Public Interest because of its widespread use. Male and female Tg.AC
hemizygous and p53 haploinsufficient mice were exposed to acesulfame potassium
(at least 99% pure) in feed for 9 months. Genetic toxicology studies were
conducted in mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 9-MONTH STUDY IN Tg.AC
HEMIZYGOUS MICE: Groups of 15 male and 15 female Tg.AC hemizygous mice were fed
diets containing 0%, 0.3%, 1%, or 3% acesulfame potassium (equivalent to average 
daily doses of approximately 420, 1,400, or 4,500 mg acesulfame potassium/kg body
weight to males and 520, 1,700, or 5,400 mg/kg to females) for 40 weeks. Exposure
to acesulfame potassium had no effect on survival or mean body weights. Feed
consumption by the exposed groups was similar to that by the control groups
throughout the study. There were no neoplasms or nonneoplastic lesions that were 
attributed to exposure to acesulfame potassium. 9-MONTH STUDY IN p53
HAPLOINSUFFICIENT MICE: Groups of 15 male and 15 female p53 haploinsufficient
mice were fed diets containing 0%, 0.3%, 1%, or 3% acesulfame potassium
(equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 475, 1,500, or 4,700 mg/kg to
males and 570, 1,800, or 5,700 mg/kg to females) for 40 weeks. Exposure to
acesulfame potassium had no effect on survival or mean body weights. Feed
consumption by the exposed groups was similar to that by the control groups
throughout the study. There were no neoplasms or nonneoplastic lesions that were 
attributed to exposure to acesulfame potassium. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY: Acesulfame
potassium did not increase the frequency of micronucleated erythrocytes in
peripheral blood of male or female Tg.AC hemizygous mice administered 0.3% to 3% 
in dosed feed. A similar study was conducted in p53 haploinsufficient mice, and a
significant exposure concentration-related increase in the frequency of
micronucleated erythrocytes was noted in males but not females. CONCLUSIONS:
Under the conditions of this 9-month feed study, there was no evidence of
carcinogenic activity of acesulfame potassium in male or female p53
haploinsufficient mice exposed to 0.3%, 1%, or 3%.

PMID: 18784762 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

26: J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Oct 8;56(19):9206-14. Epub 2008 Sep 10.

Assessment of the nutritional values of genetically modified wheat, corn, and
tomato crops.

Venneria E, Fanasca S, Monastra G, Finotti E, Ambra R, Azzini E, Durazzo A,
Foddai MS, Maiani G.

Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca per gli Alimenti e la Nutrizione, 00178 Roma,
Italy. venneria@inran.it

The genetic modification in fruit and vegetables could lead to changes in
metabolic pathways and, therefore, to the variation of the molecular pattern,
with particular attention to antioxidant compounds not well-described in the
literature. The aim of the present study was to compare the quality composition
of transgenic wheat ( Triticum durum L.), corn ( Zea mays L.), and tomato (
Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) to the nontransgenic control with a similar
genetic background. In the first experiment, Ofanto wheat cultivar containing the
tobacco rab1 gene and nontransgenic Ofanto were used. The second experiment
compared two transgenic lines of corn containing Bacillus thuringiensis "Cry
toxin" gene (PR33P67 and Pegaso Bt) to their nontransgenic forms. The third
experiment was conducted on transgenic tomato ( Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.)
containing the Agrobacterium rhizogenes rolD gene and its nontransgenic control
(cv. Tondino). Conventional and genetically modified crops were compared in terms
of fatty acids content, unsaponifiable fraction of antioxidants, total phenols,
polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamin C, total antioxidant activity, and mineral
composition. No significant differences were observed for qualitative traits
analyzed in wheat and corn samples. In tomato samples, the total antioxidant
activity (TAA), measured by FRAP assay, and the naringenin content showed a lower
value in genetically modified organism (GMO) samples (0.35 mmol of Fe (2+) 100 g 
(-1) and 2.82 mg 100 g (-1), respectively), in comparison to its nontransgenic
control (0.41 mmol of Fe (2+) 100 g (-1) and 4.17 mg 100 g (-1), respectively).
On the basis of the principle of substantial equivalence, as articulated by the
World Health Organization, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and
Development, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, these data
support the conclusion that GM events are nutritionally similar to conventional
varieties of wheat, corn, and tomato on the market today.

PMID: 18781763 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

27: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2008 Dec;52(3):208-22. Epub 2008 Aug 22.

A risk-based classification scheme for genetically modified foods. I: Conceptual 
development.

Chao E, Krewski D.

McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, Institute of Population 
Health, University of Ottawa, 1 Stewart Street, Ottawa, Ont., Canada KIN 6N5.
echao@uottawa.ca

The predominant paradigm for the premarket assessment of genetically modified
(GM) foods reflects heightened public concern by focusing on foods modified by
recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid (rDNA) techniques, while foods modified by
other methods of genetic modification are generally not assessed for safety. To
determine whether a GM product requires less or more regulatory oversight and
testing, we developed and evaluated a risk-based classification scheme (RBCS) for
crop-derived GM foods. The results of this research are presented in three
papers. This paper describes the conceptual development of the proposed RBCS that
focuses on two categories of adverse health effects: (1) toxic and
antinutritional effects, and (2) allergenic effects. The factors that may affect 
the level of potential health risks of GM foods are identified. For each factor
identified, criteria for differentiating health risk potential are developed. The
extent to which a GM food satisfies applicable criteria for each factor is rated 
separately. A concern level for each category of health effects is then
determined by aggregating the ratings for the factors using predetermined
aggregation rules. An overview of the proposed scheme is presented, as well as
the application of the scheme to a hypothetical GM food.

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

PMID: 18778747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

28: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2008 Dec;52(3):223-34. Epub 2008 Aug 15.

A risk-based classification scheme for genetically modified foods. II: Graded
testing.

Chao E, Krewski D.

McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, Institute of Population 
Health, University of Ottawa, 1 Stewart Street, Ottawa, Ont., Canada K1N 6N5.
echao@uottawa.ca

This paper presents a graded approach to the testing of crop-derived genetically 
modified (GM) foods based on concern levels in a proposed risk-based
classification scheme (RBCS) and currently available testing methods. A graded
approach offers the potential for more efficient use of testing resources by
focusing less on lower concern GM foods, and more on higher concern foods. In
this proposed approach to graded testing, products that are classified as Level I
would have met baseline testing requirements that are comparable to what is
widely applied to premarket assessment of GM foods at present. In most cases,
Level I products would require no further testing, or very limited confirmatory
analyses. For products classified as Level II or higher, additional testing would
be required, depending on the type of the substance, prior dietary history,
estimated exposure level, prior knowledge of toxicity of the substance, and the
nature of the concern related to unintended changes in the modified food. Level
III testing applies only to the assessment of toxic and antinutritional effects
from intended changes and is tailored to the nature of the substance in question.
Since appropriate test methods are not currently available for all effects of
concern, future research to strengthen the testing of GM foods is discussed.

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

PMID: 18768151 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

29: Plant Cell Rep. 2008 Nov;27(11):1741-54. Epub 2008 Aug 30.

Efficient production of genetically engineered, male-sterile Arabidopsis thaliana
using anther-specific promoters and genes derived from Brassica oleracea and B.
rapa.

Konagaya K, Ando S, Kamachi S, Tsuda M, Tabei Y.

Division of Plant Science, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences,
Ibaraki, Japan.

Prevention of transgene flow from genetically modified crops to food crops and
wild relatives is of concern in agricultural biotechnology. We used genes derived
from food crops to produce complete male sterility as a strategy for gene
confinement as well as to reduce the food purity concerns of consumers.
Anther-specific promoters (A3, A6, A9, MS2, and MS5) were isolated from Brassica 
oleracea and B. rapa and fused to the beta-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene and 
candidate genes for male sterility, including the cysteine proteases BoCysP1 and 
BoCP3, and negative regulatory components of phytohormonal responses involved in 
male development. These constructs were then introduced into Arabidopsis
thaliana. GUS analyses revealed that A3, A6, and A9 had tapetum-specific promoter
activity from the anther meiocyte stage. Male sterility was confirmed in tested
constructs with protease or gibberellin insensitive (gai) genes. In particular,
constructs with BoCysP1 driven by the A3 or A9 promoter most efficiently produced
plants with complete male sterility. The tapetum and middle layer cells of
anthers expressing BoCysP1 were swollen and excessively vacuolated when observed 
in transverse section. This suggests that the ectopic expression of cysteine
protease in the meiocyte stage may inhibit programmed cell death. The gai gene
also induced male sterility, although at a low frequency. This is the first
report to show that plant cysteine proteases and gai from food crops are
available as a novel tool for the development of genetically engineered
male-sterile plants.

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

PMID: 18758783 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

30: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Oct;46 Suppl 10:S15-9. Epub 2008 Aug 8.

Analytical criteria for performance characteristics of IgE binding methods for
evaluating safety of biotech food products.

Holzhauser T, Ree R, Poulsen LK, Bannon GA.

Division of Allergology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, 63225
Langen, Germany. holth@pei.de

There is detailed guidance on how to perform bioinformatic analyses and enzymatic
degradation studies for genetically modified crops under consideration for
approval by regulatory agencies; however, there is no consensus in the scientific
community on the details of how to perform IgE serum studies. IgE serum studies
are an important safety component to acceptance of genetically modified crops
when the introduced protein is novel, the introduced protein is similar to known 
allergens, or the crop is allergenic. In this manuscript, we describe the
characteristics of the reagents, validation of assay performance, and data
analysis necessary to optimize the information obtained from serum testing of
novel proteins and genetically modified (GM) crops and to make results more
accurate and comparable between different investigations.

PMID: 18727951 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

31: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2008 Oct;392(3):369-84. Epub 2008 Aug 23.

Methods for detection of GMOs in food and feed.

Marmiroli N, Maestri E, Gullì M, Malcevschi A, Peano C, Bordoni R, De Bellis G.

Department of Environmental Sciences, Division of Genetics and Environmental
Biotechnology, University of Parma, Viale G.P. Usberti 11A, 43100, Parma, Italy.

This paper reviews aspects relevant to detection and quantification of
genetically modified (GM) material within the feed/food chain. The GM crop
regulatory framework at the international level is evaluated with reference to
traceability and labelling. Current analytical methods for the detection,
identification, and quantification of transgenic DNA in food and feed are
reviewed. These methods include quantitative real-time PCR, multiplex PCR, and
multiplex real-time PCR. Particular attention is paid to methods able to identify
multiple GM events in a single reaction and to the development of microdevices
and microsensors, though they have not been fully validated for application.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18726090 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

32: J Med Food. 2008 Dec;11(4):601-5.

The problem with nutritionally enhanced plants.

Schubert DR.

Cellular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La
Jolla, California 92037-1099, USA. schubert@salk.edu

Among the next generation of genetically modified (GM) plants are those that are 
engineered to produce elevated levels of nutritional molecules such as vitamins, 
omega-3 fatty acids, and amino acids. Based upon the U.S. current regulatory
scheme, the plants and their products may enter our food supply without any
required safety testing. The potential risks of this type of GM plant are
discussed in the context of human health, and it is argued that there should be
very careful safety testing of plants designed to produce biologically active
molecules before they are commercially grown and consumed. This will require a
mandatory, scientifically rigorous review process.

PMID: 18721071 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

33: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Oct;46 Suppl 10:S12-4. Epub 2008 Jul 30.

The serum bank of EuroPrevall - the prevalence, cost and basis of food allergy
across Europe.

Vieths S, Reese G, Ballmer-Weber BK, Beyer K, Burney P, Fernandez-Rivas M,
Summers C, Ree R, Mills C.

Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Division of Allergology, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59,
D-63225, Langen, Germany. Viest@pei.de

EuroPrevall is an EU-funded multidisciplinary project including 62 institutions
from 22 countries. EuroPrevall studies the prevalence and distribution of food
allergies in infants, children, adolescents, and adults in Europe, threshold
doses for allergenic foods, the role of the environment in food allergy, the
socioeconomic impact of food allergy, and novel diagnostic tools for food
allergies. The EuroPrevall serum bank (EPASB), containing samples from
approximately 70,000 subjects, is a major tool to achieve these goals. EPASB is
coordinated by the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany. Local sera collections
are administered at the University of Amsterdam (NL), the University Hospital of 
Manchester (UK), Charité Hospital (DE) and the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut. The EPASB
coordinator and managing partners distribute samples for experimental work and
regulate access. The overall aim is to provide sera to fulfil EuroPrevall
research goals. The EPASB coordinator and managing partners suggest appropriate
sera for addressing specific scientific and diagnostic questions. The serum bank 
will be maintained after termination of the project, but subsequent
investigations must be in accordance with the original research goals of
EuroPrevall. Thus, the contributors of the sera retain control over their future 
use. This rule prevents investigation of questions outside the scope of
EuroPrevall, e.g. the allergenicity of genetically-modified foods.

PMID: 18706961 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

34: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2008 Oct;392(3):333-40.

Genetically modified food from crops: progress, pawns, and possibilities.

Morin XK.

Princeton Writing Program and the Princeton Environmental Institute, South Baker 
Hall, Whitman College, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA.
xmorin@princeton.edu

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

PMID: 18704376 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

35: Natl Toxicol Program Genet Modif Model Rep. 2005 Oct;(1):1-222.

NTP report on the toxicology studies of aspartame (CAS No. 22839-47-0) in
genetically modified (FVB Tg.AC hemizygous) and B6.129-Cdkn2atm1Rdp (N2)
deficient mice and carcinogenicity studies of aspartame in genetically modified
[B6.129-Trp53tm1Brd (N5) haploinsufficient] mice (feed studies).

Bucher JR, Bristol DW, French JE, Hailey JR, Haseman JK, Herbert RA, Malarkey DE,
Maronpot RR, Peckham JC, Roycroft JH, Smith CS, Travlos GS, Vallant MK, Witt KL, 
Wenk ML, Lanning LL, Hardisty JF, Shackelford CC, Brecher S; NTP Pathology
Working Group, Long P, Dixon D, Flake GP, Herbert RA, Little PB, Nyska A,
Shackelford CC, Crockett PW, Betz LJ, McGowan KP, Scott JT, Gunnels SR, Carver
PH, Coker KK, Hall BF, Harper LM, Rathman ES, Serbus DC, Willis RA.

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener used throughout the world in food and
beverages. Conventional 2-year rodent cancer studies of aspartame are considered 
negative, although a small number of neoplasms of the brain were observed in a
rat study (Fed. Regist., 1981a,b). The NTP has explored the use of genetically
altered mouse models as adjuncts to the 2-year rodent cancer assay. These models 
may prove to be more rapid, use fewer animals, and provide some mechanistic
insights into neoplastic responses. As part of the evaluation of new mouse cancer
screening models, aspartame was tested for potential toxicity and carcinogenicity
in two relatively well-studied models, the Tg.AC hemizygous strain and the p53
haploinsufficient strain, and an uncharacterized model, the Cdkn2a deficient
strain. Male and female Tg.AC hemizygous, p53 haploinsufficient, and Cdkn2a
deficient mice were given feed containing aspartame (greater than 98% pure) for 9
months. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, rat 
bone marrow cells, and mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes. 9-MONTH STUDY IN
Tg.AC HEMIZYGOUS MICE: Groups of 15 male and 15 female Tg.AC hemizygous mice were
fed diets containing 0, 3,125, 6,250, 12,500, 25,000, or 50,000 ppm aspartame
(equivalent to average daily doses of approximately 490, 980, 1,960, 3,960, or
7,660 mg aspartame/kg body weight to males and 550, 1,100, 2,260, 4,420, or 8,180
mg/kg to females) for 40 weeks. Exposure to aspartame had no effect on survival. 
The mean body weights of 50,000 ppm females were greater than those of the
controls from week 15 until the end of the study. Feed consumption by the exposed
groups was similar to that by the control groups throughout the study. There were
no neoplasms or nonneoplastic lesions that were attributed to exposure to
aspartame. 9-MONTH STUDY IN p53 HAPLOINSUFFICIENT MICE: Groups of 15 male and 15 
female p53 haploinsufficient mice were fed diets containing 0, 3,125, 6,250,
12,500, 25,000, or 50,000 ppm aspartame (equivalent to average daily doses of
approximately 490, 970, 1,860, 3,800, or 7,280 mg/kg to males and 630, 1,210,
2,490, 5,020, or 9,620 mg/kg to females) for 40 weeks. Exposure to aspartame had 
no effect on survival or mean body weights. Feed consumption by the exposed
groups was similar to that by the control groups throughout the study. No
neoplasms or nonneoplastic lesions were attributed to exposure to aspartame.
9-MONTH STUDY IN Cdkn2a DEFICIENT MICE: Groups of 15 male and 15 female Cdkn2a
deficient mice were fed diets containing 0, 3,125, 6,250, 12,500, 25,000, or
50,000 ppm aspartame for 40 weeks (equivalent to average daily doses of
approximately of approximately 490, 960, 1,900, 3,700, and 7,400 mg/kg to males
and 610, 1,200, 2,390, 4,850, and 9,560 mg/kg to females). Survival of all
exposed groups was similar to that of the control groups. Mean body weights of
3,125 and 6,250 ppm males were less than those of the controls after weeks 29 and
16, respectively. Mean body weights of female mice were similar to those of the
controls throughout the study. The incidences of minimal to mild cytoplasmic
vacuolization of periportal hepatocytes were significantly greater than controls 
in males exposed to 6,250, 25,000, or 50,000 ppm aspartame. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY:
Aspartame was tested for induction of gene mutations in Salmonella typhimurium.
No mutagenicity was detected in strains TA98, TA100, or TA1535 with or without
exogenous metabolic activation (S9). In addition, a single test in TA1537 with
30% rat liver S9 gave negative results. In TA97 with 30% rat liver S9, however, a
reproducible small increase in mutant colonies was observed, and this response
was judged to be equivocal. No mutagenicity was detected in TA97 without S9 or
with hamster liver S9. An acute bone marrow micronucleus test was conducted with 
aspartame administered by gavage to male F344/N rats. No increase in
micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes was observed at any dose level.
Peripheral blood micronucleus tests were conducted after 9 months exposure of
Tg.AC hemizygous, p53 haploinsufficient, and Cdkn2a deficient mice to aspartame
in dosed feed. Negative results were obtained in male and female Tg.AC hemizygous
and Cdkn2a deficient mice. Negative results were also obtained with male p53
haploinsufficient mice. In female p53 haploinsufficient mice, the results of the 
micronucleus test were judged to be positive, based on a significant trend test
and a small but statistically significant increased frequency of micronucleated
erythrocytes in the 50,000 ppm group. CONCLUSIONS Under the conditions of this
9-month feed study, there was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of aspartame
in male or female p53 haploinsufficient mice exposed to 3,125, 6,250, 12,500,
25,000, or 50,000 ppm. Because this is a new model, there is uncertainty whether 
the study possessed sufficient sensitivity to detect a carcinogenic effect.

PMID: 18685711 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

36: Vopr Pitan. 2008;77(3):58-63.

[Questions safety and tendency of using genetically modified microorganisms in
food, food additives and food derived]

[Article in Russian]

Khovaev AA.

In this article analysis questions of using genetically modified microorganisms
in manufacture food production, present new GMM used in manufacture -food
ferments; results of medical biological appraisal/ microbiological and genetic
expert examination/ of food, getting by use microorganisms or there producents
with indication modern of control methods.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 18669333 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

37: Vopr Pitan. 2008;77(3):49-57.

[Requirements to a medical and biologic assessment and the hygienic control of
the food production received from recombinant-DNA microorganisms]

[Article in Russian]

Sheveleva SA, Efimmochkina NR, Nesterenko LN, Zigangirova NA, Khovaev AA,
Naroditskiĭ BS, Ivanov GE, Tutel'ian VA, Gintsburg AL.

In work the characteristic of the created in the Russian Federation system of an 
estimation of safety of the foodstuff received from/or with use of genetically
modified microorganisms (GMM) is given, at their admission to realization and the
hygienic control of given production over a revolution. It is shown, that
strategy of a safety at a stage of registration GMM, the established order and
accepted control measures of the foodstuff received from/or with use GMM, in
Russia their large-scale commercial use, and the normative-legal and methodical
base based on the federal legislation on state regulation in the field of
genetically engineering activity, about quality and effectively outstrip safety
of foodstuff about protection of the rights of consumers, is harmonized with
approaches of the international organizations.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 18669332 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

38: Histochem Cell Biol. 2008 Nov;130(5):967-77. Epub 2008 Jul 22.

A long-term study on female mice fed on a genetically modified soybean: effects
on liver ageing.

Malatesta M, Boraldi F, Annovi G, Baldelli B, Battistelli S, Biggiogera M,
Quaglino D.

Dipartimento di Scienze Morfologico-Biomediche, Sezione di Anatomia e Istologia, 
University of Verona, strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
manuela.malatesta@univr.it

Liver represents a suitable model for monitoring the effects of a diet, due to
its key role in controlling the whole metabolism. Although no direct evidence has
been reported so far that genetically modified (GM) food may affect health,
previous studies on hepatocytes from young female mice fed on GM soybean
demonstrated nuclear modifications involving transcription and splicing pathways.
In this study, the effects of this diet were studied on liver of old female mice 
in order to elucidate possible interference with ageing. The morpho-functional
characteristics of the liver of 24-month-old mice, fed from weaning on control or
GM soybean, were investigated by combining a proteomic approach with
ultrastructural, morphometrical and immunoelectron microscopical analyses.
Several proteins belonging to hepatocyte metabolism, stress response, calcium
signalling and mitochondria were differentially expressed in GM-fed mice,
indicating a more marked expression of senescence markers in comparison to
controls. Moreover, hepatocytes of GM-fed mice showed mitochondrial and nuclear
modifications indicative of reduced metabolic rate. This study demonstrates that 
GM soybean intake can influence some liver features during ageing and, although
the mechanisms remain unknown, underlines the importance to investigate the
long-term consequences of GM-diets and the potential synergistic effects with
ageing, xenobiotics and/or stress conditions.

PMID: 18648843 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

39: J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Aug 27;56(16):6791-800. Epub 2008 Jul 16.

Detection of genetically modified canola using multiplex PCR coupled with
oligonucleotide microarray hybridization.

Schmidt AM, Sahota R, Pope DS, Lawrence TS, Belton MP, Rott ME.

Sidney Laboratory, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 8801 East Saanich Road,
Sidney, British Columbia V8L 1H3, Canada.

A rapid method was developed for concurrent screening of transgenic elements in
GM canola. This method utilizes a single multiplex PCR coupled with an
oligonucleotide DNA array capable of simultaneously detecting the 12 approved GM 
canola lines in Canada. The assay includes construct-specific elements for
identification of approved lines, common elements (e.g., CaMV 35S promoter,
Agrobacterium tumefaciens nos terminator, or nptII gene) for screening of
approved or unapproved lines, a canola-specific endogenous gene, and endogenous
genes from heterologous crops to serve as additional controls. Oligonucleotide
probes were validated individually for functionality and specificity by
amplification of specific transgene sequences from appropriate GM canola lines
corresponding to each probe sequence, and hybridization of amplicons to the
array. Each target sequence hybridized to its corresponding oligonucleotide probe
and no significant cross-hybridization was observed. The limit of detection was
examined for the GM lines GT73, T45, and MS8/RF3, and was determined to be 0.1%, 
0.1%, and 0.5%, respectively, well within the European food and feed labeling
threshold level of 0.9% for approved GM product. Practically, the method was
demonstrated to be effective for the detection of GM canola in several types of
animal feed, as well as in commercial canola meal.

PMID: 18636685 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

40: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2008 Nov;52(2):94-103. Epub 2008 Jun 20.

Establishing objective detection limits for the pepsin digestion assay used in
the assessment of genetically modified foods.

Ofori-Anti AO, Ariyarathna H, Chen L, Lee HL, Pramod SN, Goodman RE.

Food Allergy Research and Resource Program (FARRP), Department of Food Science & 
Technology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 143 Food Industry Complex, Lincoln,
NE 68583-0955, USA.

RATIONALE: Guidelines for assessing the potential allergenicity of genetically
modified (GM) organisms recommend testing the digestibility of the introduced
protein by pepsin. Previous studies detailed the digestion procedure but have not
described a simple objective measurement of the extent of digestion nor evaluated
the impact of variation in pepsin activity. METHODS: Samples of eight proteins
were digested by pepsin at pH 1.2 and 2.0 using standard conditions (10,000 U of 
pepsin activity per mg test protein) as well as 5000 and 20,000 units per mg of
test protein. An independent digestion assay of hemoglobin was used to verify
pepsin activity for each assay. Digestion was stopped in timed samples between
0.5 and 60 min. Digestion samples and undigested protein (10% and 100%) were
separated by SDS-PAGE. Residual stained protein bands were measured by image
analysis. RESULTS: The differences in pH and pepsin concentration only had minor 
effects on digestion of intermediately stable proteins: concanavalin A,
ovalbumin, and lysozyme, but not on rapidly digested or stable proteins.
CONCLUSIONS: Verification of pepsin activity and measurement of an objective
endpoint of digestion (e.g. (90%) should provide more comparable results for the 
safety assessment of novel food proteins.

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

PMID: 18611423 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

41: Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2008;14:423-62.

Recent advances in the development of transgenic papaya technology.

Tecson Mendoza EM, C Laurena A, Botella JR.

College of Agriculture, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna,
Philippines. emtmendoza@nast.ph

Papaya with resistance to papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) is the first genetically
modified tree and fruit crop and also the first transgenic crop developed by a
public institution that has been commercialized. This chapter reviews the
different transformation systems used for papaya and recent advances in the use
of transgenic technology to introduce important quality and horticultural traits 
in papaya. These include the development of the following traits in papaya:
resistance to PRSV, mites and Phytophthora, delayed ripening trait or long shelf 
life by inhibiting ethylene production or reducing loss of firmness, and
tolerance or resistance to herbicide and aluminum toxicity. The use of papaya to 
produce vaccine against tuberculosis and cysticercosis, an infectious animal
disease, has also been explored. Because of the economic importance of papaya,
there are several collaborative and independent efforts to develop PRSV
transgenic papaya technology in 14 countries. This chapter further reviews the
strategies and constraints in the adoption of the technology and biosafety to the
environment and food safety. Constraints to adoption include public perception,
strict and expensive regulatory procedures and intellectual property issues.

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

PMID: 18606373 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

42: Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2008 Mar;58(1):49-58.

[Differentiated perception of transgenic tomato sauce in the southern Chile]

[Article in Spanish]

Schnettler Morales B, Sepúlveda Bravo O, Ruiz Fuentes D, Denegri Coria M.

Departamento de Producción Agropecuaria, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y
Forestales, Universidad de La Frontera, Chile.

The present study considers the debate generated in developed countries by
genetically modified foods, the importance of this variable to consumers in
Temuco (Araucanía Region, Chile) when purchasing tomato sauce and different
market segments were studied through a personal survey administered to 400
people. Using conjoint analysis, it was determined that the presence of genetic
modification in food was generally more important than the brand and purchase
price. Using cluster analysis, three segments were distinguished, with the most
numerous (49.3%) placing the greatest importance on the presence of genetic
modification (GM) in food and rejecting the transgenic product. The second group 
(39.4%) gave the greatest importance to the brand and preferred tomato sauce with
genetically modified ingredients. The smallest segment (11.3%) placed the
greatest value on price and preferred transgenic tomato sauce. The three segments
prefer the national brand, reject the store brand and react positively to lower
prices. The segment sensitive to the presence of GM in food comprised mainly
those younger than 35 years of age, single and with no children. The absence of
GM in food of vegetable origin is desirable for young consumers in the Araucanía 
Region, but a significant proportion accepts genetic modification in food
(50.7%).

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 18589572 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

43: Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008 Jun;8(3):270-5.

Soy allergy in perspective.

Ballmer-Weber BK, Vieths S.

Allergy Unit, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich,
Switzerland. barbara.ballmer@usz.ch

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss studies on 
soy allergy. RECENT FINDINGS: In Central Europe soy is a clinically relevant
birch pollen-related allergenic food. Crossreaction is mediated by a Bet v 1
homologous protein, Gly m 4. Additionally, birch pollen allergic patients might
acquire through Bet v 1 sensitization allergies to mungbean or peanut, in which
Vig r 1 and Ara h 8 are the main cross-reactive allergens. Threshold doses in soy
allergic individuals range from 10 mg to 50 g of soy and are more than one order 
of magnitude higher than in peanut allergy. No evidence was found for increased
allergenicity of genetically modified soybeans. SUMMARY: In Europe, both primary 
and pollen-related food allergy exist. The diagnosis of legume allergy in birch
pollen-sensitized patients should not be excluded on a negative IgE testing to
legume extracts. Bet v 1 related allergens are often underrepresented in
extracts. Gly m 4 from soy and Ara h 8 from peanut are nowadays commercially
available and are recommended in birch pollen allergic patients with suspicion of
soy or peanut allergy, but negative extract-based diagnostic tests to screen for 
IgE specific to these recombinant allergens.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18560305 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

44: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2008 Oct;392(3):355-67. Epub 2008 Jun 8.

New trends in bioanalytical tools for the detection of genetically modified
organisms: an update.

Michelini E, Simoni P, Cevenini L, Mezzanotte L, Roda A.

Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bologna, via Belmeloro 6,
40126, Bologna, Italy.

Despite the controversies surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the 
production of GM crops is increasing, especially in developing countries. Thanks 
to new technologies involving genetic engineering and unprecedented access to
genomic resources, the next decade will certainly see exponential growth in GMO
production. Indeed, EU regulations based on the precautionary principle require
any food containing more than 0.9% GM content to be labeled as such. The
implementation of these regulations necessitates sampling protocols, the
availability of certified reference materials and analytical methodologies that
allow the accurate determination of the content of GMOs. In order to qualify for 
the validation process, a method should fulfil some criteria, defined as
"acceptance criteria" by the European Network of GMO Laboratories (ENGL). Several
methods have recently been developed for GMO detection and quantitation, mostly
based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology. PCR (including its different
formats, e.g., double competitive PCR and real-time PCR) remains the technique of
choice, thanks to its ability to detect even small amounts of transgenes in raw
materials and processed foods. Other approaches relying on DNA detection are
based on quartz crystal microbalance piezoelectric biosensors, dry reagent
dipstick-type sensors and surface plasmon resonance sensors. The application of
visible/near-infrared (vis/NIR) spectroscopy or mass spectrometry combined with
chemometrics techniques has also been envisaged as a powerful GMO detection tool.
Furthermore, in order to cope with the multiplicity of GMOs released onto the
market, the new challenge is the development of routine detection systems for the
simultaneous detection of numerous GMOs, including unknown GMOs.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18537027 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

45: Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2007 Dec;57(4):313-5.

[Orthorexia or when a healthy diet becomes an obsession]

[Article in Spanish]

Bartrina JA.

Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de Navarra,
España.

Orthorexia is an obsessive-compulsive process characterized by extreme care for
and selection of what is considered to be pure 'healthy' food. This ritual leads 
to a very restrictive diet and social isolation as a compensation. Orthorexics
obsessively avoid foods which may contain artificial colours, flavours,
preservant agents, pesticide residues or genetically modified ingredients,
unhealthy fats, foods containing too much salt or too much sugar and other
components. The way of preparation, kitchenware and other tools used are also
part of the obsessive ritual. People with orthorexia often have a history or
features in common with anorexic patients. They are very careful, detailed and
tidy persons with an exagerated need for selfcare and protection. Women,
adolescents and those who practice sports suchs as bodybuidling or ahthetics are 
the gruops at higher risk. A short test has been suggested as a screening tool
and useful for early diagnosis of the disorder. Treatment of orthorexia require a
multidisciplinary team involving physicians, psychoterapists and dietitians. In
some cases, antiserotoninergic drugs may be required as part of the treatment.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 18524314 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

46: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:91-4.

Human health problems associated with current agricultural food production.

Bhat RV.

Secretary General, Federation of Asian Nutrition Societies, Centre for Science,
Society and Culture M 11, Kakateeyanagar, Habshiguda, Hyderabad- 500 007, India. 
rameshvbhat@yahoo.com

Scientific and technological developments in the agricultural sectors in the
recent past has resulted in increased food production and at the same time led to
certain public health concerns. Unseasonal rains at the time of harvest and
improper post harvest technology often results in agricultural commodities being 
contaminated with certain fungi and results in the production of mycotoxins.
Consumption of such commodities has resulted in human disease outbreaks.
Naturally occurring toxins, inherently present in foods and either consumed as
such or mixed up with grains, had been responsible for disease outbreaks. Other
possible causes of health concern include the application of various
agrochemicals such as pesticides and the use of antibiotics in aquaculture and
veterinary practices. Foodborne pathogens entering the food chain during both
traditional and organic agriculture pose a challenge to public health. Modern
biotechnology, producing genetically modified foods, if not regulated
appropriately could pose dangers to human health. Use of various integrated food 
management systems like the Hazard Analysis and critical control system approach 
for risk prevention, monitoring and control of food hazards are being emphasized 
with globalization to minimise the danger posed to human health from improper
agricultural practices.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18296310 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

47: Clin Exp Allergy. 2008 Jul;38(7):1095-99.

What is a food allergen?

Lucas JS, Atkinson RG.

Division of Infection Inflammation and Repair, University of Southampton,
Southampton, UK. jlucas1@soton.ac.uk

With the increasing prevalence of allergies, accurate identification of allergens
is a major priority for allergists, scientists, the food industry, and food
regulators. Knowledge of allergens is essential for risk assessment of novel
genetically modified (GM) foods, and to develop recombinant proteins for the
treatment and diagnosis of allergies. This Opinion Paper considers the lack of
standardization for the clinical and scientific assessment of proteins before
they are labelled as allergens. Food allergens are being reported and recorded in
allergen databases, with minimal or in some cases apparently no published
justification. IgE binding, rather than clinically relevant reactivity, is
inappropriately used to confirm allergenicity. Using kiwifruit as an example, the
lack of rigor in identifying allergenic proteins is considered.

PMID: 18498418 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

48: Georgian Med News. 2008 Apr;(157):39-44.

IgE-mediated food hypersensitivity disorders.

Gotua M, Lomidze N, Dolidze N, Gotua T.

Food allergy has become a serious health concern especially in developed
countries in the past two decades. In general population approximately 4-6% of
children and 1-3% of adults experience food allergy. The article reviews
IgE-mediated food hypersensitivity disorders. Epidemiology, Mechanism, Clinical
manifestations, Genetically modified crops (GMOs), Diagnosis, Prevention and
Treatment of IgE-mediated food allergies are discussed. The investigations show
that over 90% of IgE-mediated food allergies in childhood are caused by: cow's
milk, hen's egg, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish and shellfish. Also the
causes of food allergy are food additives, genetically modified crops. Risk
factors for food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis include asthma and
previous allergic reactions to the causative food. Food allergy is one of the
most common causes of systematic anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions, with an
annual incidence of four cases per million populations and estimated 500 deaths
annually. In addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, individuals may experience
urticaria, angioedema, atopic dermatitis, oral syndrome, asthma, rhinitis,
conjunctivitis, hypotension, shock and cardiac arrhythmias, caused by the massive
release of mediators from mast cells and basophiles. Diagnosis of food allergy is
based on history, detailed dietary analysis, skin testing, measuring specific IgE
in blood serum and challenge tests. Treatment and prevention includes: avoidance 
diet, application of auto-injectable epinephrine, H1 and H2 antihistamines,
corticosteroids, antileukotrienes, prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors, cromolyn 
sodium, etc.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18487689 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

49: Appl Environ Microbiol. 2008 Jul;74(14):4381-9. Epub 2008 May 16.

Effectiveness of Bacillus thuringiensis-transgenic chickpeas and the
entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae in controlling Helicoverpa
armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

Lawo NC, Mahon RJ, Milner RJ, Sarmah BK, Higgins TJ, Romeis J.

Agroscope Reckenholz-Tänikon Research Station ART, Reckenholzstr. 191, 8046
Zurich, Switzerland.

The use of genetically modified (Bt) crops expressing lepidopteran-specific Cry
proteins derived from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis is an effective
method to control the polyphagous pest Helicoverpa armigera. As H. armigera
potentially develops resistance to Cry proteins, Bt crops should be regarded as
one tool in integrated pest management. Therefore, they should be compatible with
biological control. Bioassays were conducted to understand the interactions
between a Cry2Aa-expressing chickpea line, either a susceptible or a
Cry2A-resistant H. armigera strain, and the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium
anisopliae. In a first concentration-response assay, Cry2A-resistant larvae were 
more tolerant of M. anisopliae than susceptible larvae, while in a second
bioassay, the fungus caused similar mortalities in the two strains fed control
chickpea leaves. Thus, resistance to Cry2A did not cause any fitness costs that
became visible as increased susceptibility to the fungus. On Bt chickpea leaves, 
susceptible H. armigera larvae were more sensitive to M. anisopliae than on
control leaves. It appeared that sublethal damage induced by the B. thuringiensis
toxin enhanced the effectiveness of M. anisopliae. For Cry2A-resistant larvae,
the mortalities caused by the fungus were similar when they were fed either food 
source. To examine which strain would be more likely to be exposed to the fungus,
their movements on control and Bt chickpea plants were compared. Movement did not
appear to differ among larvae on Bt or conventional chickpeas, as indicated by
the number of leaflets damaged per leaf. The findings suggest that Bt chickpeas
and M. anisopliae are compatible to control H. armigera.

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

PMID: 18487396 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

50: FEMS Microbiol Lett. 2008 Jun;283(1):62-8. Epub 2008 Apr 16.

Intragastric administration with recombinant Lactococcus lactis producing heme
oxygenase-1 prevents lipopolysaccharide-induced endotoxemia in rats.

Pang Q, Ji Y, Li Y, Bermúdez-Humarán LG, Hu G, Zeng Y.

Department of Pharmacology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.

Gut injury is a pivotal initiating event in the dysfunctional inflammatory
response that causes postinjury multiple organ failure. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)
is an important enzyme that provides cellular protection against oxidative stress
in different in vitro and in vivo systems. In this study, we evaluated the
protective effects of intragastrically administered live Lactococcus lactis
secreting bioactive HO-1 to treat intestinal mucosal injury induced by
lipopolysaccharide in rats. Intragastric administration with this recombinant L. 
lactis strain led to active delivery of HO-1 at the mucosa and significantly
decreased morbidity and mortality of lipopolysaccharide -induced endotoxemia as
confirmed by blinded macroscopic and microscopic inflammatory scores (Chiu's
grade), myeloperoxidase activity, mortality, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and 
IL-10 cytokine stimulation. This protective effect could be abolished by an HO-1 
inhibitor, the zinc protoporphyrin-IX. Our results suggest that a food-grade
bacterium genetically modified to deliver bioactive HO-1 in situ exerts a
protective effect against intestinal mucosal injury in rats with endotoxemia via 
modulation of the immune system. This novel approach may be beneficial for the
maintenance of the intestinal barrier and anti-inflammatory response of the lower
intestine.

PMID: 18422629 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

51: Transgenic Res. 2008 Dec;17(6):1059-77. Epub 2008 Apr 11.

Environmental impact of herbicide regimes used with genetically modified
herbicide-resistant maize.

Devos Y, Cougnon M, Vergucht S, Bulcke R, Haesaert G, Steurbaut W, Reheul D.

Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent
University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium. Yann.Devos@UGent.be

With the potential advent of genetically modified herbicide-resistant (GMHR)
crops in the European Union, changes in patterns of herbicide use are predicted. 
Broad-spectrum, non-selective herbicides used with GMHR crops are expected to
substitute for a set of currently used herbicides, which might alter the
agro-environmental footprint from crop production. To test this hypothesis, the
environmental impact of various herbicide regimes currently used with non-GMHR
maize in Belgium was calculated and compared with that of possible herbicide
regimes applied in GMHR maize. Impacts on human health and the environment were
calculated through the pesticide occupational and environmental risk (POCER)
indicator. Results showed that the environmental impact of herbicide regimes
solely relying on the active ingredients glyphosate (GLY) or glufosinate-ammonium
(GLU) is lower than that of herbicide regimes applied in non-GMHR maize. Due to
the lower potential of GLY and GLU to contaminate ground water and their lower
acute toxicity to aquatic organisms, the POCER exceedence factor values for the
environment were reduced approximately by a sixth when GLY or GLU is used alone. 
However, the environmental impact of novel herbicide regimes tested may be
underestimated due to the assumption that active ingredients used with GMHR maize
would be used alone. Data retrieved from literature suggest that weed control
efficacy is increased and resistance development delayed when GLY or GLU is used 
together with other herbicides in the GMHR system. Due to the partial instead of 
complete replacement of currently used herbicide regimes, the beneficial
environmental impact of novel herbicide regimes might sometimes be reduced or
counterbalanced. Despite the high weed control efficacy provided by the
biotechnology-based weed management strategy, neither indirect harmful effects on
farmland biodiversity through losses in food resources and shelter, nor shifts in
weed communities have been demonstrated in GMHR maize yet. However, with the
increasing adoption rate of GMHR maize and their associated novel herbicide
regimes, this situation is expected to change in the short-term.

PMID: 18404410 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

52: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Jun;46(6):2201-13. Epub 2008 Feb 29.

Subchronic feeding study of herbicide-tolerant soybean DP-356Ø43-5 in
Sprague-Dawley rats.

Appenzeller LM, Munley SM, Hoban D, Sykes GP, Malley LA, Delaney B.

Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., Johnston, IA, USA.

Optimum GAT1 soybean is a genetically modified (GM) soybean containing event
DP-356Ø43-5 (356043) that was produced by integration of the coding sequences of 
the GAT4601 and GM-HRA proteins. In planta expression of these proteins confers
tolerance to glyphosate and sulfonylurea/imidazolinone herbicides, respectively. 
This paper reports the results from a subchronic rat feeding study conducted with
356043 soybeans. Dehulled/defatted toasted meal and toasted ground hulls were
prepared from soybeans from untreated plants (356043), herbicide-treated plants
(356043+Gly/SU), non-transgenic isoline control (091), and three commercial
non-transgenic reference varieties (93B86, 93B15, and 93M40). Individual diets
conforming to standard certified rodent chow formulation (Purina Rodent LabDiet) 
5002) were prepared with 20% meal (w/w) and 1.5% hulls (w/w). Diets were fed to
young adult Sprague-Dawley rats (12/sex/group) for at least 93 days. Compared
with rats fed the isoline control or conventional reference diets, no
biologically-relevant, adverse effects were observed in rats fed diets containing
356043 or 356043+Gly/SU soybean with respect to body weight/gain, food
consumption/efficiency, clinical signs, mortality, ophthalmology, neurobehavioral
assessments (sensory response, grip strength, motor activity), clinical pathology
(hematology, coagulation, serum chemistry, urinalysis), organ weights, and gross 
and microscopic pathology. The results from this study indicate that 356043
soybeans are as safe and nutritious as conventional non-GM soybeans.

PMID: 18403083 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

53: Br J Nutr. 2008 Feb;99 Suppl 1:S22-5.

Influence of parental attitudes in the development of children eating behaviour.

Scaglioni S, Salvioni M, Galimberti C.

Pediatric Clinic S. Paolo Hospital University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
silviascaglioni@unimi.it

The present paper is a review of available data on effects of parental feeding
attitudes and styles on child nutritional behaviour. Food preferences develop
from genetically determined predispositions to like sweet and salty flavours and 
to dislike bitter and sour tastes. There is evidence for existence of some
innate, automatic mechanism that regulate appetite. However, from birth genetic
predispositions are modified by experience. There are mechanisms of taste
development: mere exposure, medicine effect, flavour learning, flavour nutrient
learning. Parents play a pivotal role in the development of their child's food
preferences and energy intake, with research indicating that certain child
feeding practices, such as exerting excessive control over what and how much
children eat, may contribute to childhood overweight. Mothers are of particular
interest on children's eating behaviour, as they have been shown to spend
significantly more time than fathers in direct interactions with their children
across several familial situations.A recent paper describes two primary aspects
of control: restriction, which involves restricting children's access to junk
foods and restricting the total amount of food, and pressure, which involves
pressuring children to eat healthy foods (usually fruits and vegetables) and
pressuring to eat more in general.The results showed significant correlations
between parent and child for reported nutritional behaviour like food intake,
eating motivations, and body dis- and satisfaction. Parents create environments
for children that may foster the development of healthy eating behaviours and
weight, or that may promote overweight and aspects of disordered eating. In
conclusion positive parental role model may be a better method for improving a
child's diet than attempts at dietary control.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18257948 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

54: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 May;46 Suppl 2:S71-97. Epub 2008 Feb 2.

Evaluation of protein safety in the context of agricultural biotechnology.

Delaney B, Astwood JD, Cunny H, Conn RE, Herouet-Guicheney C, Macintosh S, Meyer 
LS, Privalle L, Gao Y, Mattsson J, Levine M; ILSI International Food
Biotechnology Committee Task Force on Protein Safety.

Collaborators: Privalle L, Zhou J, Eichen-Conn R, Juberg D, Bannon G, Delaney B, 
Meyer L.

Pioneer Hi-Bred, A DuPont Company, Johnston, IA, USA.

One component of the safety assessment of agricultural products produced through 
biotechnology is evaluation of the safety of newly expressed proteins. The ILSI
International Food Biotechnology Committee has developed a scientifically based
two-tiered, weight-of-evidence strategy to assess the safety of novel proteins
used in the context of agricultural biotechnology. Recommendations draw upon
knowledge of the biological and chemical characteristics of proteins and testing 
methods for evaluating potential intrinsic hazards of chemicals. Tier I
(potential hazard identification) includes an assessment of the biological
function or mode of action and intended application of the protein, history of
safe use, comparison of the amino acid sequence of the protein to other proteins,
as well as the biochemical and physico-chemical properties of the proteins.
Studies outlined in Tier II (hazard characterization) are conducted when the
results from Tier I are not sufficient to allow a determination of safety
(reasonable certainty of no harm) on a case-by-case basis. These studies may
include acute and repeated dose toxicology studies and hypothesis-based testing. 
The application of these guidelines is presented using examples of transgenic
proteins applied for agricultural input and output traits in genetically modified
crops along with recommendations for future research considerations related to
protein safety assessment.

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

PMID: 18348900 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

55: Arch Environ Contam Toxicol. 2008 Nov;55(4):584-92. Epub 2008 Mar 18.

Reduced fitness of Daphnia magna fed a Bt-transgenic maize variety.

Bøhn T, Primicerio R, Hessen DO, Traavik T.

Genøk-Centre for Biosafety, The Science Park, P.O. Box 6418, Tromso, 9294,
Norway. thomas@genok.org

Genetically modified (GM) maize expressing the Bt-toxin Cry1Ab (Bt-maize) was
tested for effects on survival, growth, and reproduction of the water flea
Daphnia magna, a crustacean arthropod commonly used as a model organism in
ecotoxicological studies. In three repeated experiments, D. magna were fed 100%
ground maize in suspension, using either GM or isogenic unmodified (UM) maize. D.
magna fed GM-maize showed a significantly reduced fitness performance: The
mortality was higher, a lower proportion of females reached sexual maturation,
and the overall egg production was lower compared to D. magna fed UM isogenic
maize. We conclude that the tested variety of Bt-maize and its UM counterpart do 
not have the same quality as food sources for this widely used model organism.
The combination of a reduced fitness performance combined with earlier onset of
reproduction of D. magna fed Bt-maize indicates a toxic effect rather than a
lower nutritional value of the GM-maize.

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

PMID: 18347840 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

56: Appetite. 2008 Jul;51(1):129-36. Epub 2008 Feb 7.

Acceptance of genetically modified foods: the relation between technology and
evaluation.

Tenbült P, De Vries NK, van Breukelen G, Dreezens E, Martijn C.

Department of Health Education and Promotion, Universiteit Maastricht, The
Netherlands. p.m.a.tenbult@uvt.nl

This study investigates why consumers accept different genetically modified food 
products to different extents. The study shows that whether food products are
genetically modified or not and whether they are processed or not are the two
important features that affect the acceptance of food products and their
evaluation (in terms of perceived healthiness, naturalness, necessity and
tastiness). The extent to which these evaluation attributes and acceptance of a
product are affected by genetic modification or processing depends on whether the
product is negatively affected by the other technology: Any technological change 
to a 'natural' product (when nonprocessed products are genetically modified or
when non-genetically modified products are processed) affect evaluation and
acceptance stronger than a change to an technologically adapted product (when
processed products are also genetically modified or vice versa). Furthermore,
evaluation attributes appear to mediate the effects of genetic modification and
processing on acceptance.

Publication Types: 
    Randomized Controlled Trial

PMID: 18336952 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

57: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Mar;46 Suppl 1:S2-70. Epub 2008 Feb 13.

Safety and nutritional assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed: the
role of animal feeding trials.

EFSA GMO Panel Working Group on Animal Feeding Trials.

Collaborators: Alink G, Barlow S, Cockburn A, Flachowsky G, Knudsen I, Kuiper H, 
Massin DP, Pascal G, Peijnenburg A, Phipps R, Pöting A, Poulsen M, Seinen W,
Spielmann H, van Loveren H, Wal JM, Williams A, Andersson HC, Arpaia S, Bartsch
D, Casacuberta J, Davies H, De Loose M, Hendriksen N, Herman L, Kärenlampi S,
Kiss J, Kryspin-Sørensen I, Kuiper H, Nes I, Panopoulos N, Perry J, Pöting A,
Schiemann J, Seinen W, Sweet J, Wal JM.

In this report the various elements of the safety and nutritional assessment
procedure for genetically modified (GM) plant derived food and feed are
discussed, in particular the potential and limitations of animal feeding trials
for the safety and nutritional testing of whole GM food and feed. The general
principles for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed are
followed, as described in the EFSA guidance document of the EFSA Scientific Panel
on Genetically Modified Organisms. In Section 1 the mandate, scope and general
principles for risk assessment of GM plant derived food and feed are discussed.
Products under consideration are food and feed derived from GM plants, such as
maize, soybeans, oilseed rape and cotton, modified through the introduction of
one or more genes coding for agronomic input traits like herbicide tolerance
and/or insect resistance. Furthermore GM plant derived food and feed, which have 
been obtained through extensive genetic modifications targeted at specific
alterations of metabolic pathways leading to improved nutritional and/or health
characteristics, such as rice containing beta-carotene, soybeans with enhanced
oleic acid content, or tomato with increased concentration of flavonoids, are
considered. The safety assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed follows 
a comparative approach, i.e. the food and feed are compared with their non-GM
counterparts in order to identify intended and unintended (unexpected)
differences which subsequently are assessed with respect to their potential
impact on the environment, safety for humans and animals, and nutritional
quality. Key elements of the assessment procedure are the molecular,
compositional, phenotypic and agronomic analysis in order to identify
similarities and differences between the GM plant and its near isogenic
counterpart. The safety assessment is focussed on (i) the presence and
characteristics of newly expressed proteins and other new constituents and
possible changes in the level of natural constituents beyond normal variation,
and on the characteristics of the GM food and feed, and (ii) the possible
occurrence of unintended (unexpected) effects in GM plants due to genetic
modification. In order to identify these effects a comparative phenotypic and
molecular analysis of the GM plant and its near isogenic counterpart is carried
out, in parallel with a targeted analysis of single specific compounds, which
represent important metabolic pathways in the plant like macro and micro
nutrients, known anti-nutrients and toxins. Significant differences may be
indicative of the occurrence of unintended effects, which require further
investigation. Section 2 provides an overview of studies performed for the safety
and nutritional assessment of whole food and feed. Extensive experience has been 
built up in recent decades from the safety and nutritional testing in animals of 
irradiated foods, novel foods and fruit and vegetables. These approaches are also
relevant for the safety and nutritional testing of whole GM food and feed. Many
feeding trials have been reported in which GM foods like maize, potatoes, rice,
soybeans and tomatoes have been fed to rats or mice for prolonged periods, and
parameters such as body weight, feed consumption, blood chemistry, organ weights,
histopathology etc have been measured. The food and feed under investigation were
derived from GM plants with improved agronomic characteristics like herbicide
tolerance and/or insect resistance. The majority of these experiments did not
indicate clinical effects or histopathological abnormalities in organs or tissues
of exposed animals. In some cases adverse effects were noted, which were
difficult to interpret due to shortcomings in the studies. Many studies have also
been carried out with feed derived from GM plants with agronomic input traits in 
target animal species to assess the nutritive value of the feed and their
performance potential. Studies in sheep, pigs, broilers, lactating dairy cows,
and fish, comparing the in vivo bioavailability of nutrients from a range of GM
plants with their near isogenic counterpart and commercial varieties, showed that
they were comparable with those for near isogenic non-GM lines and commercial
varieties. In Section 3 toxicological in vivo, in silico, and in vitro test
methods are discussed which may be applied for the safety and nutritional
assessment of specific compounds present in food and feed or of whole food and
feed derived from GM plants. Moreover the purpose, potential and limitations of
the 90-day rodent feeding trial for the safety and nutritional testing of whole
food and feed have been examined. Methods for single and repeated dose toxicity
testing, reproductive and developmental toxicity testing and immunotoxicity
testing, as described in OECD guideline tests for single well-defined chemicals
are discussed and considered to be adequate for the safety testing of single
substances including new products in GM food and feed. Various in silico and in
vitro methods may contribute to the safety assessment of GM plant derived food
and feed and components thereof, like (i) in silico searches for sequence
homology and/or structural similarity of novel proteins or their degradation
products to known toxic or allergenic proteins, (ii) simulated gastric and
intestinal fluids in order to study the digestive stability of newly expressed
proteins and in vitro systems for analysis of the stability of the novel protein 
under heat or other processing conditions, and (iii) in vitro genotoxicity test
methods that screen for point mutations, chromosomal aberrations and DNA
damage/repair. The current performance of the safety assessment of whole foods is
mainly based on the protocols for low-molecular-weight chemicals such as
pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, pesticides, food additives and
contaminants. However without adaptation, these protocols have limitations for
testing of whole food and feed. This primarily results from the fact that defined
single substances can be dosed to laboratory animals at very large multiples of
the expected human exposure, thus giving a large margin of safety. In contrast
foodstuffs are bulky, lead to satiation and can only be included in the diet at
much lower multiples of expected human intakes. When testing whole foods, the
possible highest concentration of the GM food and feed in the laboratory animal
diet may be limited because of nutritional imbalance of the diet, or by the
presence of compounds with a known toxicological profile. The aim of the 90-days 
rodent feeding study with the whole GM food and feed is to assess potential
unintended effects of toxicological and/or nutritional relevance and to establish
whether the GM food and feed is as safe and nutritious as its traditional
comparator rather than determining qualitative and quantitative intrinsic
toxicity of defined food constituents. The design of the study should be adapted 
from the OECD 90-day rodent toxicity study. The precise study design has to take 
into account the nature of the food and feed and the characteristics of the new
trait(s) and their intended role in the GM food and feed. A 90-day animal feeding
trial has a large capacity (sensitivity and specificity) to detect potential
toxicological effects of single well defined compounds. This can be concluded
from data reported on the toxicology of a wide range of industrial chemicals,
pharmaceuticals, food substances, environmental, and agricultural chemicals. It
is possible to model the sensitivity of the rat subchronic feeding study for the 
detection of hypothetically increased amount of compounds such as anti-nutrients,
toxicants or secondary metabolites. With respect to the detection of potential
unintended effects in whole GM food and feed, it is unlikely that substances
present in small amounts and with a low toxic potential will result in any
observable (unintended) effects in a 90-day rodent feeding study, as they would
be below the no-observed-effect-level and thus of unlikely impact to human health
at normal intake levels. Laboratory animal feeding studies of 90-days duration
appear to be sufficient to pick up adverse effects of diverse compounds that
would also give adverse effects after chronic exposure. This conclusion is based 
on literature data from studies investigating whether toxicological effects are
adequately identified in 3-month subchronic studies in rodents, by comparing
findings at 3 and 24 months for a range of different chemicals. The 90-day rodent
feeding study is not designed to detect effects on reproduction or development
other than effects on adult reproductive organ weights and histopathology.
Analyses of available data indicate that, for a wide range of substances,
reproductive and developmental effects are not potentially more sensitive
endpoints than those examined in subchronic toxicity tests. Should there be
structural alerts for reproductive/developmental effects or other indications
from data available on a GM food and feed, then these tests should be considered.
By relating the estimated daily intake, or theoretical maximum daily intake per
capita for a given whole food (or the sum of its individual commercial
constituents) to that consumed on average per rat per day in the subchronic
90-day feeding study, it is possible to establish the margin of exposure (safety 
margin) for consumers. Results obtained from testing GM food and feed in rodents 
indicate that large (at least 100-fold) 'safety' margins exist between animal
exposure levels without observed adverse effects and estimated human daily
intake. Results of feeding studies with feed derived from GM plants with improved
agronomic properties, carried out in a wide range of livestock species, are
discussed. The studies did not show any biologically relevant differences in the 
parameters tested between control and test animals. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED)

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18328408 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

58: Plant Cell Rep. 2008 Jun;27(6):1027-38. Epub 2008 Mar 8.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of poinsettia, Euphorbia
pulcherrima, with virus-derived hairpin RNA constructs confers resistance to
Poinsettia mosaic virus.

Clarke JL, Spetz C, Haugslien S, Xing S, Dees MW, Moe R, Blystad DR.

Plant Health and Plant Protection Division, Norwegian Institute for Agricultural 
and Environmental Research, Hoegskoleveien 7, 1432 Aas, Norway.
jihong.liu-clarke@bioforsk.no

Agrobacterium-mediated transformation for poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima
Willd. Ex Klotzsch) is reported here for the first time. Internode stem explants 
of poinsettia cv. Millenium were transformed by Agrobacterium tumefaciens, strain
LBA 4404, harbouring virus-derived hairpin (hp) RNA gene constructs to induce RNA
silencing-mediated resistance to Poinsettia mosaic virus (PnMV). Prior to
transformation, an efficient somatic embryogenesis system was developed for
poinsettia cv. Millenium in which about 75% of the explants produced somatic
embryos. In 5 experiments utilizing 868 explants, 18 independent transgenic lines
were generated. An average transformation frequency of 2.1% (range 1.2-3.5%) was 
revealed. Stable integration of transgenes into the poinsettia nuclear genome was
confirmed by PCR and Southern blot analysis. Both single- and multiple-copy
transgene integration into the poinsettia genome were found among transformants. 
Transgenic poinsettia plants showing resistance to mechanical inoculation of PnMV
were detected by double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
(DAS-ELISA). Northern blot analysis of low molecular weight RNA revealed that
transgene-derived small interfering (si) RNA molecules were detected among the
poinsettia transformants prior to inoculation. The Agrobacterium-mediated
transformation methodology developed in the current study should facilitate
improvement of this ornamental plant with enhanced disease resistance, quality
improvement and desirable colour alteration. Because poinsettia is a non-food,
non-feed plant and is not propagated through sexual reproduction, this is likely 
to be more acceptable even in areas where genetically modified crops are
currently not cultivated.

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

PMID: 18327592 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

59: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Jun;46(6):1976-84. Epub 2008 Feb 2.

Impact of Bacillus thuringiensis toxin Cry1Ab on rumen epithelial cells (REC) - a
new in vitro model for safety assessment of recombinant food compounds.

Bondzio A, Stumpff F, Schön J, Martens H, Einspanier R.

Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Oertzenweg 19b, 
14163 Berlin, Germany. bondzio@zedat.fu-berlin.de

The growing use of genetically modified crops necessitates viable screening
methods for safety evaluation of recombinant feed, particularly for ruminants. A 
new sheep rumen epithelial cell culture is introduced as an in vitro cell system 
for safety evaluation especially focussing on feed and food compounds. We used
lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, WST-1 conversion, ATP content and caspase
3/7 activity to evaluate cytotoxicity of Cry1Ab, one of the newly expressed
Bt-proteins in transgene maize. The results were compared to the effects of
valinomycin, a potassium ionophore known to induce cytotoxic effects on a wide
range of cells. Whereas no toxicity of Cry1Ab was observed in short as well as in
long term experiments, even at non-physiological high concentrations, exposure to
valinomycin induced apoptosis and a significant response of all viability
parameters after a number of hours. The ATP content and the WST-1 conversion
reflecting the energy metabolism of the cells appear to be more sensitive
indicators of valinomycin toxicity than the LDH release, a parameter which
reflects the membrane integrity. This study presents an in vitro model system,
that may be useful as a supplementary tool in toxicity screening before testing
substances on animals in vivo.

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

PMID: 18325653 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

60: BMC Biotechnol. 2008 Mar 6;8:26.

Comparison of different real-time PCR chemistries and their suitability for
detection and quantification of genetically modified organisms.

Buh Gasparic M, Cankar K, Zel J, Gruden K.

Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology,
Vecna pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. meti.buh.gasparic@nib.si

BACKGROUND: The real-time polymerase chain reaction is currently the method of
choice for quantifying nucleic acids in different DNA based quantification
applications. It is widely used also for detecting and quantifying genetically
modified components in food and feed, predominantly employing TaqMan and SYBR
Green real-time PCR chemistries. In our study four alternative chemistries: Lux, 
Plexor, Cycling Probe Technology and LNA were extensively evaluated and compared 
using TaqMan chemistry as a reference system. RESULTS: Amplicons were designed on
the maize invertase gene and the 5'-junction of inserted transgene and plant
genomic DNA in MON 810 event. Real-time assays were subsequently compared for
their efficiency in PCR amplification, limits of detection and quantification,
repeatability and accuracy to test the performance of the assays. Additionally,
the specificity of established assays was checked on various transgenic and
non-transgenic plant species. The overall applicability of the designed assays
was evaluated, adding practicability and costs issues to the performance
characteristics. CONCLUSION: Although none of the chemistries significantly
outperformed the others, there are certain characteristics that suggest that LNA 
technology is an alternative to TaqMan when designing assays for quantitative
analysis. Because LNA probes are much shorter they might be especially
appropriate when high specificity is required and where the design of a common
TaqMan probe is difficult or even impossible due to sequence characteristics.
Plexor on the other hand might be a method of choice for qualitative analysis
when sensitivity, low cost and simplicity of use prevail.

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

PMID: 18325084 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

61: Eur J Nutr. 2008 Mar;47(2):99-103. Epub 2008 Mar 4.

Zeaxanthin is bioavailable from genetically modified zeaxanthin-rich potatoes.

Bub A, Möseneder J, Wenzel G, Rechkemmer G, Briviba K.

Federal Research Centre for Nutrition and Food, Institute of Nutritional
Physiology, Haid-und-Neu-Str. 9, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany. achim.bub@bfel.de

The carotenoid zeaxanthin accumulates in the human macula lutea and protects
retinal cells from blue light damage. However, zeaxanthin intake from food
sources is low. Increasing zeaxanthin in common foods such as potatoes by
traditional plant breeding or by genetic engineering could contribute to an
increased intake of this carotenoid and, consequently, to a decreased risk of
age-related macular degeneration. Our aim was to investigate whether zeaxanthin
from genetically modified zeaxanthin-rich potatoes is bioavailable in humans.
Three men participated in this randomized, controlled double-blinded, crossover
pilot study. All subjects consumed 1,100 g of mashed potatoes, either genetically
modified (Solanum tuberosum L. var. Baltica GM47/18; 3 mg zeaxanthin) or
wild-type control potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L. var. Baltica; 0.14 mg
zeaxanthin). A second treatment was followed after a 7-day wash-out period. The
concentration of zeaxanthin was significantly increased in chylomicrons after
consumption of genetically modified potatoes and 0.27 mg of the 3 mg zeaxanthin
dose could be detected in chylomicrons. Consumption of control potatoes had no
effect on concentrations of zeaxanthin in chylomicrons. After normalization of
chylomicron zeaxanthin for plasma triacylglycerol, the time course of zeaxanthin 
concentrations peaked at 7 h after consumption of genetically modified potatoes. 
There were no significant differences in the concentrations of other major potato
carotenoids such as lutein and beta-carotene in chylomicrons after consumption of
genetically modified and wild type control potatoes. Thus, consumption of
zeaxanthin-rich potatoes significantly increases chylomicron zeaxanthin
concentrations suggesting that potentially such potatoes could be used as an
important dietary source of zeaxanthin.

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

PMID: 18320254 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

62: J Immunol Methods. 2008 Apr 20;333(1-2):156-66. Epub 2008 Feb 20.

Hybridoma populations enriched for affinity-matured human IgGs yield
high-affinity antibodies specific for botulinum neurotoxins.

Adekar SP, Jones RM, Elias MD, Al-Saleem FH, Root MJ, Simpson LL, Dessain SK.

Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research and Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas
Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.

The affinity-matured human antibody repertoire may be ideal as a source for
antibody therapeutics against infectious diseases and bioterror agents. Hybridoma
methods for cloning these antibodies have many potential advantages, including
convenience, high-yield antibody expression, and the ability to capture the
antibodies in their native configurations. However, they have been hindered by
hybridoma instability and limited accessibility of antigen-specific,
class-switched human B-cells. Here, we describe an efficient, three-step method
that uses human peripheral blood B-cells to produce stable hybridoma populations 
that are highly-enriched for affinity-matured human IgG antibodies. Peripheral
blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are (a) selected for expression of CD27, a marker
of post-germinal center B-cells, (b) cultured in vitro to promote B-cell
proliferation and class-switching, and (c) fused to a genetically modified
myeloma cell line. Using this strategy, we cloned 5 IgG antibodies that bind
botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT), the causes of the food-borne paralytic illness,
botulism, and Category A Select Bioterror agents. Two of these antibodies bind
BoNT with low picomolar affinities. One (30B) is the first high-affinity human
antibody to bind serotype B BoNT, and another (6A) is able to neutralize a lethal
dose of serotype A BoNT in vivo in pre- and post-exposure models. This optimized 
hybridoma method will broadly enable access to the native human antibody
repertoire.

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

PMID: 18313069 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

63: J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Mar 26;56(6):1818-28. Epub 2008 Feb 28.

Development of a real-time PCR method for the differential detection and
quantification of four solanaceae in GMO analysis: potato (Solanum tuberosum),
tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), eggplant (Solanum melongena), and pepper (Capsicum
annuum).

Chaouachi M, El Malki R, Berard A, Romaniuk M, Laval V, Brunel D, Bertheau Y.

Unité Etude du Polymorphisme des Génomes Végétaux (EPGV) UR1279, Centre National 
de Génotypage (CNG), 2 rue Gaston Crémieux 91057, CP5721, Evry cedex, France.

The labeling of products containing genetically modified organisms (GMO) is
linked to their quantification since a threshold for the presence of fortuitous
GMOs in food has been established. This threshold is calculated from a
combination of two absolute quantification values: one for the specific GMO
target and the second for an endogenous reference gene specific to the taxon.
Thus, the development of reliable methods to quantify GMOs using endogenous
reference genes in complex matrixes such as food and feed is needed. Plant
identification can be difficult in the case of closely related taxa, which
moreover are subject to introgression events. Based on the homology of
beta-fructosidase sequences obtained from public databases, two couples of
consensus primers were designed for the detection, quantification, and
differentiation of four Solanaceae: potato (Solanum tuberosum), tomato (Solanum
lycopersicum), pepper (Capsicum annuum), and eggplant (Solanum melongena).
Sequence variability was studied first using lines and cultivars (intraspecies
sequence variability), then using taxa involved in gene introgressions, and
finally, using taxonomically close taxa (interspecies sequence variability). This
study allowed us to design four highly specific TaqMan-MGB probes. A duplex real 
time PCR assay was developed for simultaneous quantification of tomato and
potato. For eggplant and pepper, only simplex real time PCR tests were developed.
The results demonstrated the high specificity and sensitivity of the assays. We
therefore conclude that beta-fructosidase can be used as an endogenous reference 
gene for GMO analysis.

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

PMID: 18303841 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

64: Rev Panam Salud Publica. 2008 Jan;23(1):52-8.

[Academic production on food labeling in Brazil]

[Article in Portuguese]

Câmara MC, Marinho CL, Guilam MC, Braga AM.

Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Centro de Estudos da Saúde do Trabalhador e
Ecologia Humana (CESTEH), Brazil. maria.clara@ensp.fiocruz.br

OBJECTIVE: To review and discuss academic production (theses and dissertations)
on the topic of labeling of prepackaged foods in Brazil. METHOD: A search of the 
database maintained by the Coordination for the Development of Higher Education
Professionals (CAPES), one of the two Brazilian government research funding and
support agencies, was conducted on the following keywords: "rotulagem"
(labeling), "rotulagem nutricional" (food labeling) and "rótulo de alimentos"
(food labels). The search covered the years 1987 (earliest year available) to
2004. RESULTS: We identified 49 studies on this topic. Content analysis
identified three major themes: the extent to which food labels meet specific
legal requirements (57.2%); the degree to which consumers understand the
information on labels (22.4%); and the labeling of transgenic or
genetically-modified foods (20.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Food labeling is a frequent
topic and is adequately covered by the Brazilian academic production. In most of 
the studies, ineffective law enforcement appears to be the main factor in the
lack of compliance with and disrespect for the food labeling rules and
regulations in Brazil.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 18291073 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

65: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Dec 25. [Epub ahead of print]

Identification of potentially emerging food safety issues by analysis of reports 
published by the European Community's Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed
(RASFF) during a four-year period.

Kleter GA, Prandini A, Filippi L, Marvin HJ.

RIKILT – Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen University and Research Center,
P.O. Box 230, NL-6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands.

The SAFE FOODS project undertakes to design a new approach towards the early
identification of emerging food safety hazards. This study explored the utility
of notifications filed through RASFF, the European Commission's Rapid Alert
System for Food and Feed, to identify emerging trends in food safety issues.
RASFF information and alert notifications published in the four-year period of
July 2003-June 2007 were assigned to categories of products and hazards. For
chronological trend analysis, a basic time unit of three months was chosen. Data 
within each hazard category were analyzed for chronological trends, relationships
between product and hazard categories, regions of origin, and countries filing
the notifications. Conspicuous trends that were observed included a rise in the
incidence of food contact substances, particularly 2-isopropyl-thioxanthone, as
well as of chemical substances migrating from utensils and fraud-related issues. 
Temporary increases were noted in the incidences of the unauthorized dye Para
Red, genetically modified organisms, the pesticide isophenfos-methyl, and herring
worm, Anisakis simplex. National and European authorities themselves have
signaled these conspicuous trends and taken measures. It is recommended to add
complementary data to RASFF data, including safety assessments, risk management
measures, background data on hazards and surveillance patterns, for a holistic
approach towards early identification of emerging hazards.

PMID: 18255210 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

66: Appl Environ Microbiol. 2008 Apr;74(7):2129-34. Epub 2008 Feb 1.

Construction of sterile ime1Delta-transgenic Saccharomyces cerevisiae wine yeasts
unable to disseminate in nature.

Ramírez M, Ambrona J.

Departamento de Microbiología (Antiguo Rectorado), Facultad de Ciencias,
Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain. mramirez@unex.es

The use of new transgenic yeasts in industry carries a potential environmental
risk because their dispersal, introducing new artificial genetic combinations
into nature, could have unpredictable consequences. This risk could be avoided by
using sterile transgenic yeasts that are unable to sporulate and mate with wild
yeasts. These sterile yeasts would not survive the annual cyclic harvesting
periods, being condemned to disappear in the wineries and vineyards in less than 
a year. We have constructed new ime1Delta wine yeasts that are unable to
sporulate and mate, bear easy-to-detect genetic markers, and quickly disappear in
grape must fermentation immediately after sporulation of the yeast population.
These sterile yeasts maintained the same biotechnological properties as their
parent yeasts without any detectable deleterious effect of the ime1Delta
mutation. These yeasts are therefore interesting biotechnologically for food
industry applications and for genetically modified microorganism environmental
monitoring studies.

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

PMID: 18245242 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

67: Appetite. 2008 Jul;51(1):58-68. Epub 2007 Dec 15.

Knowledge, attitudes towards and acceptability of genetic modification in
Germany.

Christoph IB, Bruhn M, Roosen J.

Federal Research Centre for Nutrition and Food (BfEL), Department of Food
Economics, Hermann-Weigmann-Strasse, 24103 Kiel, Germany.

Genetic modification remains a controversial issue. The aim of this study is to
analyse the attitudes towards genetic modification, the knowledge about it and
its acceptability in different application areas among German consumers. Results 
are based on a survey from spring 2005. An exploratory factor analysis is
conducted to identify the attitudes towards genetic modification. The identified 
factors are used in a cluster analysis that identified a cluster of supporters,
of opponents and a group of indifferent consumers. Respondents' knowledge of
genetics and biotechnology differs among the found clusters without revealing a
clear relationship between knowledge and support of genetic modification. The
acceptability of genetic modification varies by application area and cluster, and
genetically modified non-food products are more widely accepted than food
products. The perception of personal health risks has high explanatory power for 
attitudes and acceptability.

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

PMID: 18243411 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

68: Trends Biotechnol. 2008 Mar;26(3):122-5.

Is biotechnology a victim of anti-science bias in scientific journals?

Miller HI, Morandini P, Ammann K.

The Hoover Institution, 434 Galvez Mall, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
94305-6010, USA. miller@hoover.stanford.edu

Primarily outside the scientific community, misapprehensions and misinformation
about recombinant DNA-modified (also known as 'genetically modified', or 'GM')
plants have generated significant 'pseudo-controversy' over their safety that has
resulted in unscientific and excessive regulation (with attendant inflated
development costs) and disappointing progress. But pseudo-controversy and
sensational claims have originated within the scientific community as well, and
even scholarly journals' treatment of the subject has been at times unscientific,
one-sided and irresponsible. These shortcomings have helped to perpetuate 'The
Big Lie' - that recombinant DNA technology applied to agriculture and food
production is unproven, unsafe, untested, unregulated and unwanted. Those
misconceptions, in turn, have given rise to unwarranted opposition and tortuous, 
distorted public policy.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18243381 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

69: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2008 Oct;392(3):347-54. Epub 2008 Feb 2.

Advances in molecular techniques for the detection and quantification of
genetically modified organisms.

Elenis DS, Kalogianni DP, Glynou K, Ioannou PC, Christopoulos TK.

Department of Chemistry, University of Athens, Athens, 15771, Greece.

Progress in genetic engineering has led to the introduction of genetically
modified organisms (GMOs) whose genomes have been altered by the integration of a
novel sequence conferring a new trait. To allow consumers an informed choice,
many countries require food products to be labeled if the GMO content exceeds a
certain threshold. Consequently, the development of analytical methods for GMO
screening and quantification is of great interest. Exponential amplification by
the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) remains a central step in molecular methods
of GMO detection and quantification. In order to meet the challenge posed by the 
continuously increasing number of GMOs, various multiplex assays have been
developed for the simultaneous amplification and/or detection of several GMOs.
Classical agarose gel electrophoresis is being replaced by capillary
electrophoresis (CE) systems, including CE chips, for the rapid and automatable
separation of amplified fragments. Microtiter well-based hybridization assays
allow high-throughput analysis of many samples in a single plate. Microarrays
have been introduced in GMO screening as a technique for the simultaneous
multianalyte detection of amplified sequences. Various types of biosensors,
including surface plasmon resonance sensors, quartz crystal microbalance
piezoelectric sensors, thin-film optical sensors, dry-reagent dipstick-type
sensors and electrochemical sensors were introduced in GMO screening because they
offer simplicity and lower cost. GMO quantification is performed by real-time PCR
(rt-QPCR) and competitive PCR. New endogenous reference genes have been
validated. rt-QPCR is the most widely used approach. Multiplexing is another
trend in this field. Strategies for high-throughput multiplex competitive
quantitative PCR have been reported.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 18239909 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

70: 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.

Médecine interne, immunologie clinique et allergologique, Hôpital 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]

71: Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2008 Jun;70(2):327-33. Epub 2008 Feb 21.

Does Cry1Ab protein affect learning performances of the honey bee Apis mellifera 
L. (Hymenoptera, Apidae)?

Ramirez-Romero R, Desneux N, Decourtye A, Chaffiol A, Pham-Delègue MH.

Instituto de Ecologia A.C., Km. 2.5 Carretera Antigua a Coatepec No. 351 El Haya,
91070 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.

Genetically modified Bt crops are increasingly used worldwide but side effects
and especially sublethal effects on beneficial insects remain poorly studied.
Honey bees are beneficial insects for natural and cultivated ecosystems through
pollination. The goal of the present study was to assess potential effects of two
concentrations of Cry1Ab protein (3 and 5000 ppb) on young adult honey bees.
Following a complementary bioassay, our experiments evaluated effects of the
Cry1Ab on three major life traits of young adult honey bees: (a) survival of
honey bees during sub-chronic exposure to Cry1Ab, (b) feeding behaviour, and (c) 
learning performance at the time that honey bees become foragers. The latter
effect was tested using the proboscis extension reflex (PER) procedure. The same 
effects were also tested using a chemical pesticide, imidacloprid, as positive
reference. The tested concentrations of Cry1Ab protein did not cause lethal
effects on honey bees. However, honey bee feeding behaviour was affected when
exposed to the highest concentration of Cry1Ab protein, with honey bees taking
longer to imbibe the contaminated syrup. Moreover, honey bees exposed to 5000 ppb
of Cry1Ab had disturbed learning performances. Honey bees continued to respond to
a conditioned odour even in the absence of a food reward. Our results show that
transgenic crops expressing Cry1Ab protein at 5000 ppb may affect food
consumption or learning processes and thereby may impact honey bee foraging
efficiency. The implications of these results are discussed in terms of risks of 
transgenic Bt crops for honey bees.

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

PMID: 18206234 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

72: J AOAC Int. 2007 Nov-Dec;90(6):1517-25.

Detection and characterization of cry1Ac transgene construct in Bt cotton:
multiple polymerase chain reaction approach.

Singh CK, Ojha A, Kachru DN.

Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, Post Box No. 80, M.G. Marg Lucknow-226001 
U.P., India.

To comply with international labeling regulations for genetically modified (GM)
crops and food, and to enable proper identification of GM organisms (GMOs),
effective methodologies and reliable approaches are needed. The spurious and
unapproved GM planting has contributed to crop failures and commercial losses. To
ensure effective and genuine GM cultivation, a methodology is needed to detect
and identify the trait of interest and concurrently evaluate the structural and
functional stability of the transgene insert. A multiple polymerase chain
reaction (PCR) approach was developed for detection, identification, and gene
stability confirmation of cry1Ac transgene construct in Bt cotton. As many as 9
samples of Bt cotton hybrid seeds comprising 3 approved Bt hybrids, MECH-12Bt,
MECH-162Bt, MECH-184Bt, and a batch of 6 nonapproved Bt hybrids were tested.
Initially, single standard PCR assays were run to amplify predominant GM DNA
sequences (CaMV 35S promoter, nos terminator, and npt-II marker gene); a
housekeeping gene, Gossypium hirsutum fiber-specific acyl carrier protein gene
(acp1); a trait-specific transgene (cry1Ac); and a sequence of 7S 3'
transcription terminator which specifically borders with 3' region of cry1Ac
transgene cassette. The concurrent amplification of all sequences of the entire
cassette was performed by 3 assays, duplex, triplex, and quadruplex multiplex PCR
assays, under common assay conditions. The identity of amplicons was reconfirmed 
by restriction endonuclease digestion profile. The 2 distinct transgene
cassettes, cry1Ac and npt-II, of the Bt cotton were amplified using the
respective forward primer of promoter and reverse primer of terminator. The
resultant amplicons were excised, eluted, and purified. The purified amplicons
served as template for nested PCR assays. The nested PCR runs confirmed the
transgene construct orientation and identity. The limit of detection as
established by our assay for GM trait (cry1Ac) was 0.1%. This approach can be
adopted as a standard procedure for complete molecular characterization of Bt
cotton. These assays will be of interest and use to importers, breeders, research
laboratories, safety regulators, and food processors for detection of cry1Ac
bearing GMOs.

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

PMID: 18193727 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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

Erratum in:
    Nat Biotechnol. 2008 Feb;26(2):241.

Comment in:
    Nat Biotechnol. 2008 Oct;26(10):1070-1; author reply 1071-2.

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]

74: Can J Infect Dis. 2000 May;11(3):142-53.

How novel methods can help discover more information about foodborne pathogens.

Griffiths MW.

Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario.

Considerable emphasis is being placed on quantitative risk assessment modelling
as a basis for regulation of trade in food products. However, for models to be
accurate, information about the behaviour of potential pathogens in foods needs
to be available. The question is how to obtain this knowledge in a simple and
cost effective way. One technique that has great potential is the use of reporter
bacteria which have been genetically modified to express a phenotype that can be 
easily monitored, such as light production in luminescent organisms. Bacteria
carrying these (lux) genes can easily be detected using simple luminometers or
more sophisticated low light imaging equipment.By monitoring light output from
these bacteria over time, it can easily be determined if the organism is growing 
(resulting in an increase in light emission), is dead (causing a decrease in
light production) or is injured (light output remains constant). The use of
imaging systems allows the response of bioluminescent bacteria to be studied
directly on the food, making the technique even more useful. Applications of
bioluminescence are discussed below and include use as reporters of gene
expression; biocide efficacy and antibiotic susceptibility; sub-lethal injury;
adhesion and biofilm formation; the microbial ecology of foods; pathogenesis; and
as biosensors.

PMID: 18159282 [PubMed - in process]

75: Environ Toxicol Chem. 2008 Jan;27(1):188-95.

Toxicological safety assessment of genetically modified Bacillus thuringiensis
with additional N-acyl homoserine lactonase gene.

Peng D, Zhou C, Chen S, Ruan L, Yu Z, Sun M.

State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Life Sciences and
Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China.

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the toxicology safety to mammals of a
genetically modified (GM) Bacillus thuringiensis with an additional N-acyl
homoserine lactones gene (aiiA), which possesses insecticidal activity together
with restraint of bacterial pathogenicity and is intended for use as a
multifunctional biopesticide. Safety assessments included an acute oral toxicity 
test and 28-d animal feeding study in Wistar rats, primary eye and dermal
irritation in Zealand White rabbits, and delayed contact hypersensitivity in
guinea pigs. Tests were conducted using spray-dried powder preparation. This GM
product showed toxicity neither in oral acute toxicity test nor in 28-d animal
feeding test at a dose of 5,000 mg/kg body weight. During the animal feeding
test, there were no significant differences in growth, food and water
consumption, hematology, blood biochemical indices, organ weights, and
histopathology finding between rats in controls and tested groups. Tested animals
in primary eye and dermal irritation and delayed contact hypersensitivity test
were also devoid of any toxicity compared to controls. All the above results
demonstrated that the GM based multifunctional B. thuringiensis has low toxicity 
and low eye and dermal irritation and would not cause hypersensitivity to
laboratory mammals and therefore could be regarded as safe for use as a
pesticide.

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

PMID: 18092859 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

76: 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, USA. bowman.christal@epa.gov

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.

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

PMID: 18033772 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

77: 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]

78: Med Pregl. 2007 May-Jun;60(5-6):295-8.

[Diseases caused by viruses and toxins in biological warfare and bioterrorism]

[Article in Serbian]

Bojić I, Vukadinov J, Minić S.

Specijalisticka ordinacija Dr Bojić Beograd. drbojic@net.yu

INTRODUCTION: Viruses and toxins, as well as bacteria and rickettsia can
potentially be used as biological weapons in conflicts or in bioterrorism. USE OF
BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS: The infection can be acquired by inhalation of aerosols,
ingestion of contaminated food or water, or direct contact with the skin or
mucosa. Special attention must be given to the possible use of genetically
modified agents. CONCLUSION: This paper describes the clinical features of
diseases caused hbi viruses (smallpox, hemorrhagic Jever and encephalitis) and
toxins (botulinum, staphylococcal enterotoxin B, ricinus toxin and mycotoxins)
their diagnosis, treatment, as well as basic preventive measures.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 17988067 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

79: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(8):721-33.

Toxicity studies of genetically modified plants: a review of the published
literature.

Domingo JL.

Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Rovira I
Virgili University, San Lorenzo, Reus, Spain. joseluis.domingo@urv.cat

According to the information reported by the WHO, the genetically modified (GM)
products that are currently on the international market have all passed risk
assessments conducted by national authorities. These assessments have not
indicated any risk to human health. In spite of this clear statement, it is quite
amazing to note that the review articles published in international scientific
journals during the current decade did not find, or the number was particularly
small, references concerning human and animal toxicological/health risks studies 
on GM foods. In this paper, the scientific information concerning the potential
toxicity of GM/transgenic plants using the Medline database is reviewed. Studies 
about the safety of the potential use of potatoes, corn, soybeans, rice,
cucumber, tomatoes, sweet pepper, peas, and canola plants for food and feed were 
included. The number of references was surprisingly limited. Moreover, most
published studies were not performed by the biotechnology companies that produce 
these products. This review can be concluded raising the following question:
where is the scientific evidence showing that GM plants/food are toxicologically 
safe?

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17987446 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

80: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2008 Feb;50(1):98-113. Epub 2007 Sep 29.

Comparative safety assessment of plant-derived foods.

Kok EJ, Keijer J, Kleter GA, Kuiper HA.

RIKILT Institute of Food Safety, Bornsesteeg 45, PO Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen, 
The Netherlands. Esther.kok@wur.nl

The second generation of genetically modified (GM) plants that are moving towards
the market are characterized by modifications that may be more complex and traits
that more often are to the benefit of the consumer. These developments will have 
implications for the safety assessment of the resulting plant products. In part
of the cases the same crop plant can, however, also be obtained by 'conventional'
breeding strategies. The breeder will decide on a case-by-case basis what will be
the best strategy to reach the set target and whether genetic modification will
form part of this strategy. This article discusses important aspects of the
safety assessment of complex products derived from newly bred plant varieties
obtained by different breeding strategies. On the basis of this overview, we
conclude that the current process of the safety evaluation of GM versus
conventionally bred plants is not well balanced. GM varieties are elaborately
assessed, yet at the same time other crop plants resulting from conventional
breeding strategies may warrant further food safety assessment for the benefit of
the consumer. We propose to develop a general screening frame for all newly
developed plant varieties to select varieties that cannot, on the basis of
scientific criteria, be considered as safe as plant varieties that are already on
the market.

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

PMID: 17983697 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

81: 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]

82: Plant Biotechnol J. 2008 Jan;6(1):2-12. Epub 2007 Oct 23.

US regulatory system for genetically modified [genetically modified organism
(GMO), rDNA or transgenic] crop cultivars.

McHughen A, Smyth S.

Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA 
92521-0124, USA. alanmc@ucr.edu

This paper reviews the history of the federal regulatory oversight of plant
agricultural biotechnology in the USA, focusing on the scientific and political
forces moulding the continually evolving regulatory structure in place today.
Unlike most other jurisdictions, the USA decided to adapt pre-existing
legislation to encompass products of biotechnology. In so doing, it established
an overarching committee (Office of Science and Technology Policy) to study and
distribute various regulatory responsibilities amongst relevant agencies: the
Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and US Department
of Agriculture. This paper reviews the history and procedures of each agency in
the execution of its regulatory duties and investigates the advantages and
disadvantages of the US regulatory strategy.

Publication Types: 
    Historical Article
    Review

PMID: 17956539 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

83: 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]

84: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1508-12.

Development of agribiotechnology and biosafety regulations used to assess safety 
of genetically modified crops in Bangladesh.

Nasiruddin KM, Nasim A.

Bangladesh Agricultural University, Biotechnology Department, Mymensingh 2202,
Bangladesh. nasirbiotech@yahoo.com

Bangladesh is on the verge of adopting genetically modified (GM) crops for
commercial cultivation and consumption as feed and food. Most of the laboratories
are engaged in tissue culture and molecular characterization on plants, whereas
some have started living modified organism research with shortages of trained
manpower, infrastructure, and funding. Nutritionally improved Golden Rice,
biotech brinjal, and late blight-resistant potato are in contained trials in a
greenhouse, and potato ring spot virus-resistant papaya is in the process of
approval for a field trial. The government has taken some initiative in support
of GM organism research, which include the formation of a Biotechnology
Department in all institutes and the formation of the apex body, the National
Task Force Committee on Biotechnology of Bangladesh under the chairpersonship of 
the Prime Minister. Biosafety policy guidelines and related aspects of
biotechnology issues have been approved, and the laws are in the process of being
promulgated. Being a party to the Cartagena Protocol, proper biosafety measures
are regulated by the appropriate authority as stated. Although there are no laws 
made yet directly for biosafety of GM crops/foods, the relevant laws on
agriculture, medicine, food, import, trade, environment, etc. may suffice and
explain the situation.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17956000 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

85: 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]

86: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1440-4.

Impact of foods nutritionally enhanced through biotechnology in alleviating
malnutrition in developing countries.

Gilani GS, Nasim A.

Nutrition Research Division, Food Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch,
Health Canada, Government of Canada, 251 Sir Frederick Banting Dwy, Ottawa, ON,
Canada. Sarwar_Gilani@hc-sc.gc.ca

According to United Nations (UN) projections, the world's population will grow
from 6.1 billion in 2000 to 8 billion in 2025 and 9.4 billion in 2050. Most (93%)
of the increase will take place in developing countries. The rapid population
growth in developing countries creates major challenges for governments regarding
food and nutrition security. According to current World Health Organization
estimates, more than 3 billion people worldwide, especially in developing
countries, are malnourished in essential nutrients. Malnutrition imposes severe
costs on a country's population due to impaired physical and cognitive abilities 
and reduced ability to work. Little progress has been made in improving
malnutrition over the past few decades. The Food and Agriculture Organization of 
the UN would like to see more nutrient-rich foods introduced into these
countries, because supplements are expensive and difficult to distribute widely. 
Biofortification of staple crops through modern biotechnology can potentially
help in alleviating malnutrition in developing countries. Several genetically
modified crops, including rice, potatoes, oilseeds, and cassava, with elevated
levels of essential nutrients (such as vitamin A, iron, zinc, protein and
essential amino acids, and essential fatty acids); reduced levels of
antinutritional factors (such as cyanogens, phytates, and glycoalkaloid); and
increased levels of factors that influence bioavailability and utilization of
essential nutrients (such as cysteine residues) are advancing through field trial
stage and regulatory processes towards commercialization. The ready availability 
and consumption of the biofortified crops would have a significant impact in
reducing malnutrition and the risk of chronic disease in developing countries.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17955991 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

87: Appetite. 2008 Mar-May;50(2-3):340-52. Epub 2007 Sep 18.

Consumer responses to communication about food risk management.

van Dijk H, Houghton J, van Kleef E, van der Lans I, Rowe G, Frewer L.

Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group, Department of Social Sciences, Wageningen
University, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The Netherlands.
Heleen.vanDijk@wur.nl

Recent emphasis within policy circles has been on transparent communication with 
consumers about food risk management decisions and practices. As a consequence,
it is important to develop best practice regarding communication with the public 
about how food risks are managed. In the current study, the provision of
information about regulatory enforcement, proactive risk management, scientific
uncertainty and risk variability were manipulated in an experiment designed to
examine their impact on consumer perceptions of food risk management quality. In 
order to compare consumer reactions across different cases, three food hazards
were selected (mycotoxins on organically grown food, pesticide residues, and a
genetically modified potato). Data were collected from representative samples of 
consumers in Germany, Greece, Norway and the UK. Scores on the "perceived food
risk management quality" scale were subjected to a repeated-measures mixed linear
model. Analysis points to a number of important findings, including the existence
of cultural variation regarding the impact of risk communication
strategies-something which has obvious implications for pan-European risk
communication approaches. For example, while communication of uncertainty had a
positive impact in Germany, it had a negative impact in the UK and Norway.
Results also indicate that food risk managers should inform the public about
enforcement of safety laws when communicating scientific uncertainty associated
with risks. This has implications for the coordination of risk communication
strategies between risk assessment and risk management organizations.

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

PMID: 17945386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

88: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(7):675-99.

A review on tomato authenticity: quality control methods in conjunction with
multivariate analysis (chemometrics).

Arvanitoyannis IS, Vaitsi OB.

University of Thessaly School of Agricultural Sciences Department of Agriculture 
Animal Production & Aquatic Production, Volos, Hellas, Greece. parmenion@uth.gr

Authenticity and traceability have been two of the most important issues in the
food chain. Authenticity in particular, is closely related with both food quality
and safety issues. Vegetables stand for a category of foods heavily affected by
adulteration either in terms of geographic origin (national or international
level) or production methods (organic or conventional production, fertilizers,
pesticides, genetically modified vegetables). This review aims at addressing most
of the currently applied methods for ensuring quality control of vegetables; a)
instrumental: ion chromatography, high pressure liquid chromatography, atomic
absorption spectrophotometry, electronic nose and mass spectroscopy and b)
sensory analysis. The results of all the above mentioned methods were analyzed by
means of multivariate analysis (principal component analysis, discriminant
analysis, cluster analysis, canonical analysis, and factor analysis). All ensuing
results and conclusions are summarized in eight comprehensive tables.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17943497 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

89: BMC Bioinformatics. 2007 Oct 9;8:375.

Computational analysis of the relationship between allergenicity and
digestibility of allergenic proteins in simulated gastric fluid.

Jiang B, Qu H, Hu Y, Ni T, Lin Z.

College of Life Sciences, National Lab of Protein Engineering and Genetic
Engineering of Plants, Peking University, Beijing 100871, PR China.
jiangbingjun@gmail.com

BACKGROUND: Safety assessment of genetically modified (GM) food, with regard to
allergenic potential of transgene-encoded xenoproteins, typically involves
several different methods, evaluation by digestibility being one thereof.
However, there are still debates about whether the allergenicity of food
allergens is related to their resistance to digestion by the gastric fluid. The
disagreements may in part stem from classification of allergens only by their
sources, which we believe is inadequate, and the difficulties in achieving
identical experimental conditions for studying digestion by simulated gastric
fluid (SGF) so that results can be compared. Here, we reclassify allergenic food 
allergens into alimentary canal-sensitized (ACS) and non-alimentary
canal-sensitized (NACS) allergens and use a computational model that simulates
gastric fluid digestion to analyze the digestibilities of these two types.
RESULTS: The model presented in this paper is as effective as SGF digestion
experiments, but more stable and reproducible. On the basis of this model, food
allergens are satisfactorily classified as ACS and NACS types by their pathways
for sensitization; the former are relatively resistant to gastric fluid digestion
while the later are relatively labile. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that it is
better to classify allergens into ACS and NACS types when understanding the
relationship between their digestibility and allergenicity and the digestibility 
of a target foreign protein is a parameter for evaluating its allergenicity
during safety assessments of GM food.

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

PMID: 17922925 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

90: 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]

91: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Dec;45(12):2372-80. Epub 2007 Aug 23.

Proteomic analysis of ovomucoid hypersensitivity in mice by two-dimensional
difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE).

Hobson DJ, Rupa P, Diaz GJ, Zhang H, Yang M, Mine Y, Turner PV, Kirby GM.

Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G
2W1.

There is a need to develop reliable methods to assess the safety of genetically
modified and other novel foods. The aim of this study was to identify protein
biomarkers of food allergy in mice exposed to ovomucoid (OVM), a major food
allergen found in chicken egg white. BALB/c mice were repeatedly sensitized by
gavage with OVM and cholera toxin (CT) and control mice were exposed to a mixture
of amino acids with CT. At the endpoint, all mice were challenged
intraperitoneally with OVM and alum. Type-1 hypersensitivity was confirmed in
OVM-sensitized mice by observation of clinical signs of anaphylaxis and elevated 
levels of plasma histamine, OVM-specific IgE and OVM-specific IgG by ELISA.
Differential protein expression was assessed in albumin-depleted plasma as well
as in mesenteric lymph node, liver, spleen, and ileum by two-dimensional
difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE). Differentially expressed proteins were 
identified by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Plasma
proteins overexpressed in OVM-sensitized mice included haptoglobin (41-fold),
serum amyloid A (19-fold) and peroxiredoxin-2 (1.9-fold). Further validation of
these plasma proteins in other animal models of food allergy with different food 
allergens is required to assess their potential as candidate biomarkers for use
in evaluating the allergenicity of novel foods.

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

PMID: 17897766 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

92: Health Res Policy Syst. 2007 Sep 26;5:10.

Biofortification in China: policy and practice.

Campos-Bowers MH, Wittenmyer BF.

Department of Health Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University
of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth,
Texas 76107, USA. mcampos@hsc.unt.edu.

ABSTRACT: Micronutrient deficiency undernutrition, due to insufficient levels of 
vitamins and minerals in the diet, remains one of the most prevalent and
preventable nutritional problems in the world today. Micronutrient undernutrition
is the most common form of malnutrition. Compared to the 180 million children
with protein-energy malnutrition, 3.5-5 billion persons are iron-deficient, and
140-250 million persons are vitamin A-deficient. Micronutrient deficiencies
diminish physical, cognitive, and reproductive development. Undernutrition is
both a cause and a result of poor human health and achievement.Middle-income
nations, such as China, also suffer from micronutrient undernutrition's effects. 
In China's poor western provinces, despite supplementation and fortification
efforts, stunting and underweight (symptoms of micronutrient undernutrition)
remain common. In recent decades, nutritional adequacy, in terms of available
food energy, improved immensely, as the government made food security a top
priority. A potential next step for China could be to address specifically
micronutrient undernutrition. The paper aims to provide a discussion of policy
issues relevant to biofortification, if China were to consider the implementation
of this intervention in its rural provinces.Traditional nutritional interventions
currently employ four main strategies: dietary modification, supplementation,
commercial fortification, and biofortification. Biofortification, a relatively
new technique, involves selectively breeding staple plant varieties to increase
specific nutrient levels in plant tissues. Biofortification has the potential to 
provide benefits to humans, plants, and livestock; nourish nutrient-depleted
soils; and help increase crop yields per acre. Biofortification methods include
selective breeding, reducing levels of anti-nutrients, and increasing levels of
substances that promote nutrient absorption.If China were to implement
biofortification programs, with help from government agencies and international
organizations, several policy questions would need to be addressed. The paper
discusses several policy questions that pertain to the relationship between
biofortified and genetically modified crops, human health and safety concerns,
labeling of biofortified crops for consumers, consumer rights, potential
environmental impacts, intellectual property rights, seed disbursement,
government investment, private-sector research, and additional agricultural and
commercial regulations. Biofortification has the potential to help alleviate the 
suffering, death, disability, and failure to achieve full human potential that
results from micronutrient undernutrition-related diseases.

Publication Types: 
    Editorial

PMID: 17897456 [PubMed - in process]

93: Med Pregl. 2007 Mar-Apr;60(3-4):195-7.

[Diseases caused by bacteria and rickettsia in biological warfare and
bioterrorism]

[Article in Serbian]

Bojić I, Vukadinov J, Minić S.

Specijalisticka ordinacija Dr Bojić, Beograd. drbojic@net.yu

INTRODUCTION: Until recently, the use of biological weapons was considered more
from an academic than practical point of view. The list of agents and/or toxins
that can be used as biological weapons is long. Some of them are highly lethal,
while others cause morbidity and disability. BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS: Bacteria,
rickettsia, viruses, fungi, protozoa and toxins can all be used as biological
weapons. The infection may be acquired by inhalation of aerosols, ingestion of
contaminated water or food or direct contact with infectious agents. Early
recognition, diagnosis and treatment of these patients is of utmost importance.
Special attention must be given to the use of genetically modified
microorganisms. Medical protection from biological weapons is very important as
well as continuous education. CONCLUSION: This article describes the main
clinical characteristics of anthrax, cholera, plague, Q fever, tularemia,
brucellosis, and glanders, as biological weapons, their diagnostics, treatment
and basic prevention measures.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 17853736 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

94: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2008 Feb 27;363(1492):761-76.

Biological control and sustainable food production.

Bale JS, van Lenteren JC, Bigler F.

School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT,
UK. j.s.bale@bham.ac.uk

The use of biological control for the management of pest insects pre-dates the
modern pesticide era. The first major successes in biological control occurred
with exotic pests controlled by natural enemy species collected from the country 
or area of origin of the pest (classical control). Augmentative control has been 
successfully applied against a range of open-field and greenhouse pests, and
conservation biological control schemes have been developed with indigenous
predators and parasitoids. The cost-benefit ratio for classical biological
control is highly favourable (1:250) and for augmentative control is similar to
that of insecticides (1:2-1:5), with much lower development costs. Over the past 
120 years, more than 5000 introductions of approximately 2000 non-native control 
agents have been made against arthropod pests in 196 countries or islands with
remarkably few environmental problems. Biological control is a key component of a
'systems approach' to integrated pest management, to counteract
insecticide-resistant pests, withdrawal of chemicals and minimize the usage of
pesticides. Current studies indicate that genetically modified insect-resistant
Bt crops may have no adverse effects on the activity or function of predators or 
parasitoids used in biological control. The introduction of rational approaches
for the environmental risk assessment of non-native control agents is an
essential step in the wider application of biological control, but future success
is strongly dependent on a greater level of investment in research and
development by governments and related organizations that are committed to a
reduced reliance on chemical control.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17827110 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

95: 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]

96: 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., Schrøder, 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.,
Schrøder, 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; Schrøder, 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]

97: 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, Oberdörfer R, Samuels F.

Nestlé 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]

98: Gastroenterology. 2007 Aug;133(2):517-28. Epub 2007 May 3.

Comment in:
    Gastroenterology. 2007 Aug;133(2):706-9.

Induction of ovalbumin-specific tolerance by oral administration of Lactococcus
lactis secreting ovalbumin.

Huibregtse IL, Snoeck V, de Creus A, Braat H, De Jong EC, Van Deventer SJ,
Rottiers P.

Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Academic Medical Center,
University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Obtaining antigen-specific immune suppression is an
important goal in developing treatments of autoimmune, inflammatory, and allergic
gastrointestinal diseases. Oral tolerance is a powerful means for inducing
tolerance to a particular antigen, but implementing this strategy in humans has
been difficult. Active delivery of recombinant autoantigens or allergens at the
intestinal mucosa by genetically modified Lactococcus lactis (L lactis) provides 
a novel therapeutic approach for inducing tolerance. METHODS: We engineered the
food grade bacterium L lactis to secrete ovalbumin (OVA) and evaluated its
ability to induce OVA-specific tolerance in OVA T-cell receptor (TCR) transgenic 
mice (DO11.10). Tolerance induction was assessed by analysis of delayed-type
hypersensitivity responses, measurement of cytokines and OVA-specific
proliferation, phenotypic analysis, and adoptive transfer experiments. RESULTS:
Intragastric administration of OVA-secreting L lactis led to active delivery of
OVA at the mucosa and suppression of local and systemic OVA-specific T-cell
responses in DO11.10 mice. This suppression was mediated by induction of
CD4(+)CD25(-) regulatory T cells that function through a transforming growth
factor beta-dependent mechanism. Restimulation of splenocytes and gut-associated 
lymph node tissue from these mice resulted in a significant OVA-specific decrease
in interferon gamma and a significant increase in interleukin-10 production.
Furthermore, Foxp3 and CTLA-4 were significantly up-regulated in the
CD4(+)CD25(-) population. CONCLUSIONS: Mucosal antigen delivery by oral
administration of genetically engineered L lactis leads to antigen-specific
tolerance. This approach can be used to develop effective therapeutics for
systemic and intestinal immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

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

PMID: 17681173 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

99: 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]

100: Environ Biosafety Res. 2006 Oct-Dec;5(4):201-3. Epub 2007 Jul 20.

9th International Symposium on the Biosafety of Genetically Modified Organisms.
Session VII: Risk management and monitoring.

Schiemann J.

Institute for Plant Virology, Microbiology and Biosafety, Federal Biological
Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (BBA), Messeweg 11-12, 38104
Braunschweig, Germany. j.schiemann@bba.de

Biosafety regulatory frameworks are intended to serve as mechanisms for ensuring 
the safe use of biotechnology products without imposing unacceptable risk to
human health or the environment, or unintended constraints to technology
transfer. In several regulatory systems GMO risk assessment has been separated
from GMO risk management. As a consequence, risk assessment can be performed on a
purely scientific basis, whereas risk management can take additional aspects
(e.g. socio-economic or ethical) into consideration. For instance, the European
Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the keystone of European Union risk assessment
regarding food and feed safety, provides independent scientific advice and clear 
communication on existing and emerging risks in close collaboration with national
authorities and in open consultation with its stakeholders. Risk management
measures are not within the remit of EFSA, and remain the responsibility of the
European Commission and Member States.

Publication Types: 
    Congresses

PMID: 17640508 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

101: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2007 Aug;51(8):946-55.

Serum testing of genetically modified soybeans with special emphasis on potential
allergenicity of the heterologous protein CP4 EPSPS.

Hoff M, Son DY, Gubesch M, Ahn K, Lee SI, Vieths S, Goodman RE, Ballmer-Weber BK,
Bannon GA.

Department of Allergology, Paul Ehrlich Institute, Langen, Germany.

Roundup Ready soy contains the CP4-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (CP4
EPSPS) protein. Serum IgE from two distinct populations of soy-allergic patients 
were recruited to determine their IgE-binding specificity. One population
consisted of 10 adult patients from Europe, whose primary diagnosis was soy food 
allergy with some also having mite allergy. In addition, 6 primarily
mite-allergic, 6 food-allergic (celery, carrot, milk, shrimp, walnut, and apple),
and 5 non-allergic patients were tested. Another population consisted of 13
children from Korea, whose primary diagnosis was atopic dermatitis and
secondarily soy and egg sensitization. In addition, 11 non-allergic patients were
tested. Each patient population was extensively characterized with respect to
clinical symptoms, specific IgE (CAP) scores, and total IgE. Immunoblots and
ELISA assays were developed using serum IgE from these patients and soy extracts,
CP4 EPSPS, rice extract, ovalbumin, rubisco, purified major peanut allergen Ara h
2, the putative soy allergen Gly m Bd 30k and mite allergen Der f 2 proteins as
the intended targets. Immunoblot results indicated that soy-allergic patients
bound soy extracts but did not specifically bind rubisco or CP4 EPSPS. ELISA
results were in general agreement with the immunoblot results except that rubisco
bound significant quantities of serum IgE from some patients. These results
indicate that the CP4 EPSPS protein does not bind significant quantities of IgE
from two geographically distinct sensitive populations and there is no evidence
for an increased allergenic potential of this biotech protein.

PMID: 17639514 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

102: Transgenic Res. 2008 Jun;17(3):393-402. Epub 2007 Jul 19.

Impact of genetic structures on haploid genome-based quantification of
genetically modified DNA: theoretical considerations, experimental data in MON
810 maize kernels (Zea mays L.) and some practical applications.

Zhang D, Corlet A, Fouilloux S.

GEVES Domaine du Magneraud, Laboratoire BioGEVES, B.P. 52, Surgeres 17700,
France. david.zhang@geves.fr

Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based assays are widely used to
estimate the content of genetically modified (GM) materials in food, feed and
seed. It has been known that the genetic structures of the analyte can
significantly influence the GM content expressed by the haploid genome (HG) %
estimated using real-time PCR assays; this kind of influence is also understood
as the impact of biological factors. The influence was first simulated at
theoretical level using maize as a model. We then experimentally assessed the
impact of biological factors on quantitative results, analysing by quantitative
real-time PCR six maize MON 810 hybrid kernels with different genetic structures:
(1) hemizygous from transgenic male parent, (2) hemizygous from transgenic female
parent and (3) homozygous at the transgenic locus. The results obtained in the
present study showed clear influences of biological factors on GM DNA
quantification: 1% of GM materials by weight (wt) for the three genetic
structures contained 0.39, 0.55 and 1.0% of GM DNA by HG respectively, from
quantitative real-time PCR analyses. The relationships between GM wt% and GM HG% 
can be empirically established as: (1) in the case of the presence of a single GM
trait: GM HG% = GM wt% x (0.5 +/- 0.167Y), where Y is the endosperm DNA content
(%) in the total DNA of a maize kernel, (2) in the case of the presence of
multiple GM traits: GM HG% = N x GM wt% x (0.5 +/- 0.167Y), where N is the number
of GM traits (stacked or not) present in an unknown sample. This finding can be
used by stakeholders related to GMO for empirical prediction from one unit of
expression to another in the monitoring of seed and grain production chains.
Practical equations have also been suggested for haploid copy number
calculations, using hemizygous GM materials for calibration curves.

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

PMID: 17638110 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

103: Transgenic Res. 2007 Oct;16(5):541-55. Epub 2007 Jul 6.

A multidisciplinary approach directed towards the commercial release of
transgenic herbicide-tolerant rice in Costa Rica.

Espinoza-Esquivel AM, Arrieta-Espinoza G.

Centro de Investigación en Biología Celular y Molecular (CIBCM), Ciudad de la
Investigación, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Jose, Costa Rica.
amespino@racsa.co.cr

This review discusses a multidisciplinary and multicomponent approach leading to 
the development and commercial release of transgenic Costa Rican rice varieties
tolerant to the herbicide gluphosinate ammonium. We describe the field
evaluations of the transgenic lines and their potential environmental impact,
focusing on gene flow, particularly in relation to native wild Oryza species and 
weedy rice, based on trials performed in compliance with the national regulatory 
requirements of the country. We also present a socio-economic analysis of rice
production in Costa Rica and the economic benefits of genetically modified (GM)
rice as well as an environmental risk-benefit analysis for the deployment of GM
rice. Additionally, food safety evaluation, intellectual property management,
requirements for deregulation, and options for the commercialization of the new
varieties are discussed. We also present results from a national survey aimed at 
assessing the level of support for GM crops in Costa Rica as this forms an
integral component of our approach. Taken together, our results demonstrate that 
the adoption of these genetically improved rice varieties will provide clear
benefits to Costa Rican rice growers and consumers.

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

PMID: 17619158 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

104: Gen Comp Endocrinol. 2007 Oct-Dec;154(1-3):128-36. Epub 2007 Jun 3.

Circulating corticosterone levels in breeding blue tits Parus caeruleus differ
between island and mainland populations and between habitats.

Müller C, Jenni-Eiermann S, Blondel J, Perret P, Caro SP, Lambrechts MM, Jenni L.

Swiss Ornithological Institute, Luzernerstrasse 6, CH-6204 Sempach, Switzerland. 
claudia.mueller@vogelwarte.ch

Little is known about whether adaptations to an insular life also involve
adaptations in basal corticosterone levels or in the adrenocortical stress
response, thus being part of a genetically based island syndrome. However,
differences in corticosterone between island and mainland may also be a direct
phenotypic response to differences in environmental conditions or may depend on
individual characteristics of the animal such as body condition or parental
investment. In this paper, we investigated whether insular (Island of Corsica)
and mainland (nearby Southern France) blue tits Parus caeruleus populations
differed in baseline and handling-stress induced corticosterone levels during the
breeding season as a response to biological changes of insular biota. We also
examined whether corticosterone levels of both mainland and insular blue tits
differed between birds living in two different habitats (summergreen and
evergreen oak woods) that differ in food availability and whether individual
characteristics affected corticosterone levels. We found (a) differences in
baseline corticosterone plasma levels between Corsica and the mainland,
independent of regional differences in fat scores, (b) a regional difference in
the relationship between corticosterone levels and brood size, (c) a difference
in the rapidity of onset of the stress response to handling between habitats,
independent of region, and (d) a negative relationship between body fat stores
and baseline corticosterone levels independent of region. Reduced baseline
corticosterone levels on Corsica may be a component of the insular syndrome,
allowing birds to be less aggressive and to enhance parental investment despite
higher breeding densities. We suggest that baseline corticosterone levels are
only elevated if food availability affects directly the parents. However, when
conditions deteriorate unexpectedly (as mimicked by handling stress), food
allocation between parents and offspring needs to be re-adjusted in favor of the 
parents, possibly by increased circulating corticosterone levels. The switch to
self-maintenance seems to be modified by the amount of body energy stores.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 17617413 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

105: 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]

106: Med Hypotheses. 2007;69(6):1257-60. Epub 2007 Jun 5.

Are xenogeneic anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies the holy grail for celiac 
patients?

Ivanovski PI, Ivanovski IP, Sedlarevic R.

University Children's Hospital, 10 Tirshova Str., Belgrade, Serbia.
ivanovsk@eunet.yu <ivanovsk@eunet.yu>

Celiac disease is an immune mediated disorder, the only one with a
well-established origin, resulting from a permanent gluten intolerance. Although 
a gluten-free diet is currently the "safe" and appropriate therapy for celiac
disease, this is not always an easy and simple option as "harmful" gluten may
contaminate food during the processing and preparation phases. There are also
further social pressures, which might be more pressing for young celiac patients,
in following a strict gluten-free diet. Therefore, a new therapeutic approaches
are sought which would permit celiacs to "peacefully" coexist with gluten.
Presently, the most promising looks search for genetically modified wheat lacking
toxic gluten peptides and the use of oral endopeptidases in attempt to curb
gluten toxicity. Recently discovered role of anti-tissue transglutaminase
antibodies in celiac pathogenesis has brought a prospect for a new hypothetical
therapeutic approach, an oral immunization of celiacs with xenogeneic anti-tissue
transglutaminase antibodies.

PMID: 17553630 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

107: Rev Biol Trop. 2007 Jun;55(2):347-64.

[Genetically modified crops: promises and good intentions are not enough
(refutation to Espinoza et aL 2004, Rev. Biol. Trop. 52 (3): 727-732)]

[Article in Spanish]

García JE.

Centro de Educación Ambiental de la Universidad Estatal a Distancia y Escuela de 
Biologia de la Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
jaimeenrique56@yahoo.com

The arguments presented by Espinoza et al. in their paper "Relationship of
genetically modified crops with the environment and health of the Costa Rican
human population" published in this journal (Rev. Biol. Trop. 52: 727-732, 2004) 
are questioned and refuted. The arguments are confronted with evidence offered by
scientists and national and international independent organizations around the
world (e.g. World Health Organization, Consumers International, Physicians and
Scientists for Responsible Application of Science and Technology, International
Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, the Council of the
University of Costa Rica, and the Independent Science Panel) showing the current 
uncertainty and limitations of science in this area, as well as those of proposed
and applied biosafety approaches. Environment, biodiversity and food security are
so important and basic matters, that there is need of serious testing,
particularly when promises seem to be based on environmentally dangerous ideas
promoted half a century ago by the so called "green revolution". Debate should
continue, based on a holistic analysis of facts and with ethical reasoning,
avoiding emotional positions that can confuse virtual reality with reality.

Publication Types: 
    Comment
    English Abstract

PMID: 19069750 [PubMed - in process]

108: Biotechnol J. 2007 Jul;2(7):826-32.

Safety assessment of genetically modified organisms of plant origin in the
Russian Federation.

Tyshko NV, Aksyuk IN, Tutelyan VA.

Institute of Nutrition, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow, Russian
Federation.

The beginning of the 21st century is characterized by growing interest in the
problems of biosafety, which are determined, on the one hand, by the wide use of 
novel biotechnologies and the necessity to develop the adequate precautionary
measures, and, on the other hand, by the objective threat of bioterrorism.
Therefore, improvement of the estimation system for genetically modified (GM)
sources of food and strengthening the control of their circulation are the urgent
problems of modern biology and medicine. Russia is one of the countries where the
estimation system of food products obtained from the GM sources is rather
efficient. The key features of this system are the complex toxicological and
epidemiological examinations. One of the main parts of GM food safety assessment 
is based upon detection of their potentially toxic properties, which could
provoke unintended effects of the genetic modification.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17526054 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

109: 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]

110: Clin Exp Allergy. 2007 Jun;37(6):918-28.

Genetically glycosylated ovomucoid third domain can modulate Immunoglobulin E
antibody production and cytokine response in BALB/c mice.

Rupa P, Nakamura S, Mine Y.

Department of Food Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada N1G 2W1.

BACKGROUND: Food allergies are on the rise and it is estimated that in North
America, 8% of the children and 4% of the adults have food allergies. Food
allergies tend to occur more often in children than in adults due to their
immature digestive and immune systems. Hen's egg is among the most common cause
of food-induced allergic reactions in North America. OBJECTIVE: The present study
was undertaken to investigate the role of N-glycans of the third domain of
ovomucoid in IgE binding and modulation of allergen-specific immune response in
BALB/c mice. METHODS: The cDNA encoding the third domain of ovomucoid was
inserted into the yeast genome and expressed in Pichia pastoris X-33 cells, under
the control of the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (GAP) dehydrogenase promoter for
constitutive expression to obtain a post-translationally modified and
functionally active ovomucoid third domain. Upon expression, the protein was
secreted into the extracellular medium and was purified by size exclusion
chromatography. The recombinant protein was produced at 10 mg/L of the culture
supernatant. BALB/c mice were sensitized with the recombinant and native forms of
glycosylated ovomucoid third domain antigen. The allergic response of the native 
and the recombinant glycosylated forms of ovomucoid third domain antigens were
compared using antibody and cytokine measurements. RESULTS: ELISA tests indicated
a significant decrease in specific IgE antibodies to the recombinant N-linked
glycosylated form (P-Gly), when compared with the native glycosylated form
(DIII+) using mice sera. Immunization with P-Gly induced the production of
IFN-gamma [T-helper type 1 (Th1) response] and lowered the production of IL-4
(Th2 response), and a skewed balance towards the Th1 cytokine demonstrated that
P-Gly has a modulating ability on Th1/Th2 balance to down-regulate Th2 response. 
Furthermore, N-linked glycan (N28) in the third domain of ovomucoid was shown to 
be associated with suppression of the allergic response. CONCLUSION: Therefore,
we can conclude that P-Gly facilitates and contributes to the discovery of new
molecular target for the development of a safe and specific therapeutic vaccine
for the treatment of egg allergy, and oligosaccharides do seem to play a major
role in the suppression of IgE-binding activity.

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

PMID: 17517106 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

111: 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]

112: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2007;144(1):29-38. Epub 2007 May 11.

A proteomic study to identify soya allergens--the human response to transgenic
versus non-transgenic soya samples.

Batista R, Martins I, Jeno P, Ricardo CP, Oliveira MM.

Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Lisboa, Portugal.
rita.batista@insa.min-saude.pt

BACKGROUND: In spite of being among the main foods responsible for allergic
reactions worldwide, soybean (Glycine max)-derived products continue to be
increasingly widespread in a variety of food products due to their
well-documented health benefits. Soybean also continues to be one of the elected 
target crops for genetic modification. The aim of this study was to characterize 
the soya proteome and, specifically, IgE-reactive proteins as well as to compare 
the IgE response in soya-allergic individuals to genetically modified Roundup
Ready soya versus its non-transgenic control. METHODS: We performed
two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of protein extracts from a 5% genetically
modified Roundup Ready flour sample and its non-transgenic control followed by
Western blotting with plasma from 5 soya-sensitive individuals. We used peptide
tandem mass spectrometry to identify soya proteins (55 protein matches),
specifically IgE-binding ones, and to evaluate differences between transgenic and
non-transgenic samples. RESULTS: We identified 2 new potential soybean
allergens--one is maturation associated and seems to be part of the late
embryogenesis abundant proteins group and the other is a cysteine proteinase
inhibitor. None of the individuals tested reacted differentially to the
transgenic versus non-transgenic samples under study. CONCLUSION: Soybean
endogenous allergen expression does not seem to be altered after genetic
modification. Proteomics should be considered a powerful tool for functional
characterization of plants and for food safety assessment. Copyright (c) 2007 S. 
Karger AG, Basel.

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

PMID: 17496424 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

113: ALTEX. 2006;23 Suppl:284-7.

Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified (GM) Foods.

O'mahony P, Reilly A.

Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.

Modern biotechnology enables a transfer of genes between species that would not
occur naturally. Safety assessment of genetically modified (GM) foods is
primarily based on the concept of substantial equivalence, a comparison with
conventional counterparts and similar varieties as a starting point. Nutritional 
and toxicological studies should be based on the outcome of the comparison, and
additional safety tests should be carried out as required. The limitations of
animal studies, particularly in assessing the safety of whole GM foods may be
addressed by the new technologies that brought us GM foods in the first place.
While animal studies may still have a role in the testing of GM food components, 
the advent of technology such as "genomics" offers a real and possibly superior
alternative.

PMID: 17492196 [PubMed - in process]

114: J AOAC Int. 2007 Mar-Apr;90(2):582-6.

Calculation of measurement uncertainty in quantitative analysis of genetically
modified organisms using intermediate precision--a practical approach.

Zel J, Gruden K, Cankar K, Stebih D, Blejec A.

National Institute of Biology, Vecna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
jana.zel@nib.si

Quantitative characterization of nucleic acids is becoming a frequently used
method in routine analysis of biological samples, one use being the detection of 
genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Measurement uncertainty is an important
factor to be considered in these analyses, especially where precise thresholds
are set in regulations. Intermediate precision, defined as a measure between
repeatability and reproducibility, is a parameter describing the real situation
in laboratories dealing with quantitative aspects of molecular biology methods.
In this paper, we describe the top-down approach to calculating measurement
uncertainty, using intermediate precision, in routine GMO testing of food and
feed samples. We illustrate its practicability in defining compliance of results 
with regulations. The method described is also applicable to other molecular
methods for a variety of laboratory diagnostics where quantitative
characterization of nucleic acids is needed.

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

PMID: 17474528 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

115: 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]

116: 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]

117: Ig Sanita Pubbl. 2007 Jan-Feb;63(1):65-94.

Erratum in:
    Ig Sanita Pubbl. 2008 Jan;64(1):26.

[Aquaculture in Italy. An integrated model of product quality control]

[Article in Italian]

De Giusti M, Cocchieri RA, De Vito E, Grasso GM, Ortaggi G, Reali D, Ricciardi G,
Romano-Spica V, Boccia A.

Università degli Studi di Roma La Sapienza, Dipartimento de Medicina
Sperimantale, Sezione de Medicina Clinica e Sanità Pubblica.

Aquaculture is becoming increasingly diffuse even in Italy. The increased
production introduces new problems such as product quality control and process
safety. This article presents the results of a research project, funded by the
Ministry of the Environment, whose aim was to evaluate and promote aquaculture
product quality and safety in an environmentally responsible way. Four intensive 
land-based and offshore aquaculture sites were monitored to evaluate
microbiological, biological and chemical (i.e. polychlorinated biphenyls and
endocrine disruptors) quality of water, products and fish feed. In total 154
samples were analysed, of which 66 were water samples, 55 product samples and 33 
feed samples. Salmonella and other enteric pathogens were absent in products and 
the aquatic environment, while other environmental pathogens of the Vibrio
species were detected. Bacterial load and fecal indicators were found to be
higher in off-shore products and in mussels from all aquaculture sites. PCBs were
detected in all products in concentrations below 2 microg/g fresh product (Food
and Drug Administration), but on average, higher concentrations were detected in 
off-shore products. No estrogen mimetic activity was detected in fish feed, in
contrast it was detected in offshore products and water. Product quality was
found to be strictly correlated with the quality of the environment. Genetically 
modified organisms were detected in fish feed but no integration of genetic
material in products occurred.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 17450652 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

118: Environ Biosafety Res. 2006 Jul-Sep;5(3):151-68. Epub 2007 Mar 17.

Meteorological input data requirements to predict cross-pollination of GMO maize 
with Lagrangian approaches.

Lipsius K, Wilhelm R, Richter O, Schmalstieg KJ, Schiemann J.

Institute for Geoecology, Environmental Systems Analysis Group, Technical
University Braunschweig, Germany. K.Lipsius@tu-bs.de

Modeling pollen dispersal to predict cross-pollination is of great importance for
the ongoing discussion of adventitious presence of genetically modified material 
in food and feed. Two different modeling approaches for pollen dispersal were
used to simulate two years of data for the rate of cross-pollination of non-GM
maize (Zea mays (L.)) fields by pollen from a central 1 ha transgenic field. The 
models combine the processes of wind pollen dispersal (transport) and pollen
competition. Both models used for the simulation of pollen dispersal were
Lagrangian approaches: a stochastic particle Lagrange model and a Lagrangian
transfer function model. Both modeling approaches proved to be appropriate for
the simulation of the cross-pollination rates. However, model performance
differed significantly between years. We considered different complexity in
meteorological input data. Predictions compare well with experimental results for
all simplification steps, except that systematic deviations occurred when only
main wind direction was used. Concluding, it can be pointed out that both models 
might be adapted to other pollen dispersal experiments of different crops and
plot sizes, when wind direction statistics are available. However, calibration of
certain model parameters is necessary.

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

PMID: 17445511 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

119: 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]

120: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2007 Jan;36(1):45-8.

[Expression and identification of Cry 1Ie in Bacillus coli]

[Article in Chinese]

Xu H, Zhang X, Li F, Wang G.

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

OBJECTIVE: In this study, Cry1Ie expressed protein in the transgenic Cry1Ie maize
was used as a model protein to establish a technical platform for the safety
assessment of other genetically modified plants. METHODS: Bacillus coli
expression system was used to express Cry1Ie protein and then the expressed
protein was purified by SDS-PAGE. The equivalence of Cry1Ie proteins expressed in
Bacillus coli and in transgenic Cry1Ie maize was analyzed by their
immunorecognition and bioactivity. RESULTS: Cry1Ie protein was highly expressed
in Bacillus coli and could be segregated and purified by SDS-PAGE. Cry1Ie
expressed protein in Bacillus coli is substantially equivalent to that of maize
genetically modified with Cry1Ie in tests of immunorecognition western blot and
bioactivity in target pest. CONCLUSION: The established technical platform of
external Cry1Ie expressed protein can be applied to assess the food safety of
genetically modified plants.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 17424848 [PubMed - in process]

121: Anal Chim Acta. 2007 Apr 25;589(2):159-65. Epub 2007 Feb 25.

Solubilisation and binding characteristics of a recombinant beta2-adrenergic
receptor expressed in the membrane of Escherichia coli for the multianalyte
detection of beta-agonists and antagonists residues in food-producing animals.

Danyi S, Degand G, Duez C, Granier B, Maghuin-Rogister G, Scippo ML.

Department of Food Sciences, Laboratory of Analysis, Faculty of Veterinary
Medicine, University of Liège, Sart-Tilman, Liège, Belgium. sdanyi@ulg.ac.be
<sdanyi@ulg.ac.be>

The number of substances with beta-agonistic activity, illegally introduced in
meat production or in sports doping as anabolic or beta-blocking agents is
increasing. Analytical methods suited for their multianalyte detection are thus
necessary. In this perspective, receptor assays were developed. The research
activities undertaken in this study describe the solubilisation of a recombinant 
human beta(2)-adrenergic receptor produced in the inner membrane of genetically
modified Escherichia coli, using the detergent n-dodecyl-beta-d-maltoside. Its
potential to detect the presence of beta-agonists or beta-blockers in biological 
samples was evaluated. The solubilised beta(2)-adrenergic receptor retained its
binding affinity in a radio-receptor assay based on the competition for the
binding to receptors between a ligand (beta-agonist or antagonist) and the
radioligand [(125)I]iodocyanopindolol. The IC(50) values ranged from 5+/-1 x
10(-8) M (clenbuterol) to 8+/-2 x 10(-6) M (isoxsuprine) for the beta-agonists
tested and from 1.5+/-0.2 x 10(-10) M (carazolol) to 1.2+/-0.2 x 10(-5) M
(metoprolol) for the beta-blockers tested. It was shown to have a lower limit of 
detection than a radio-receptor assay using the solubilised beta(2)-adrenoceptor 
expressed in a mammalian cell line. The solubilised recombinant human
beta(2)-adrenoreceptor expressed in E. coli would be a useful tool to develop non
radioactive multianalyte screening methods.

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

PMID: 17418176 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

122: Bull Entomol Res. 2007 Apr;97(2):211-5.

Evaluation of Bt-toxin uptake by the non-target herbivore, Myzus persicae
(Hemiptera: Aphididae), feeding on transgenic oilseed rape.

Burgio G, Lanzoni A, Accinelli G, Dinelli G, Bonetti A, Marotti I, Ramilli F.

Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Agroambientali, Alma Mater
Studiorum-Università di Bologna, Viale Fanin 42, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
gburgio@entom.agrsci.unibo.it

As consequence of the concern about the biosafety of genetically modified plants,
biological and ecological studies are considered crucial for environmental risk
assessment. Laboratory experiments were carried out in order to evaluate the
transfer of the Cry1Ac Bt-toxin from a transgenic Bt-oilseed rape to a non-target
pest, Myzus persicae Sulzer. Cry1Ac protein levels in plants and aphids were
determined using a double sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Phloem sap 
from (Bt+) and (Bt-) oilseed rape plants was collected from leaves using a
standard method of extraction in an EDTA buffer. Bt-toxin was present in phloem
sap, with a mean concentration of 2.7 +/- 1.46 ppb, corresponding to a 24-fold
lower level than in oilseed rape leaves. Toxin was also detected in aphid
samples, with a mean concentration in the positive samples of 2.0 +/- 0.8 ppb.
The evidence that Bt-toxin remains in herbivores, in this case an aphid, could be
useful to clarify functional aspects linked to possible consequences of Bt-crops 
on food chains involving herbivore-natural enemy trophic systems. Further studies
are needed in order to improve the knowledge on the functional aspects linked to 
the transfer of the Cry1Ac Bt-toxin from GM-oilseed rape to aphids and their
possible consequence.

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

PMID: 17411484 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

123: Nat Protoc. 2006;1(6):2828-30.

Assessing hoarding in mice.

Deacon RM.

Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road,
Oxford OX1 3UD, UK. robert.deacon@psy.ox.ac.uk

Hoarding is a species-typical behavior shown by rodents, as well as other
animals. By hoarding, the rodent secures a food supply for times of emergency
(for example, when threatened by a predator) or for times of seasonal adversity
such as winter. Scatter hoarding, as seen typically in squirrels and birds,
involves placing small caches of food in hidden places, generally underground.
Most rodents, however, hoard a supply of food in or near the home base--for
example, in 'larders' near the sleeping quarters in a burrow. In the laboratory, 
measurement of hoarding involves simply weighing the food transported into the
home cage from an external source, but the route to that source must be secure
and animal-proof; for example, there should be no holes large enough to permit
escape of a mouse, and no weak points that could be enlarged by gnawing. A
suitable and easily constructed apparatus is described in the protocol. Hoarding 
has been shown to be sensitive to brain lesions and pharmacological agents, and
is a suitable test for species-typical behavior in genetically modified mice.

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

PMID: 17406541 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

124: Nat Protoc. 2006;1(1):122-4.

Digging and marble burying in mice: simple methods for in vivo identification of 
biological impacts.

Deacon RM.

Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road,
Oxford OX1 3UD, UK. robert.deacon@psy.ox.ac.uk

Mice exhibit various species-typical behaviors such as digging and burrowing.
They dig in the ground to find food, to hoard food, to create a refuge from
predators or cold and to make a safe nursery area for the young. In the
laboratory, mice dig vigorously in deep bedding such as wood chips. This behavior
is sensitive to strain differences and drugs. For example, the effects of
anxiolytics and 5-HT-active compounds, including those used clinically for
obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), can be detected. Digging can be quantified
by manual timing. Alternatively, the bedding can be covered with glass marbles
and the number buried can be counted after a set time. These behaviors can be
assessed using very little specialized equipment, and results can be obtained
from ten animals in about an hour. Species-typical behaviors may be sensitive to 
a wide variety of treatments, and their simplicity and ability to yield robust
quantitative data might be particularly useful in assessing genetically modified 
mice, even in laboratories not primarily oriented to behavioral work.

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

PMID: 17406223 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

125: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 May 2;55(9):3351-7. Epub 2007 Apr 3.

Detection methods for biotech cotton MON 15985 and MON 88913 by PCR.

Lee SH, Kim JK, Yi BY.

Gene Analysis Laboratory, Experiment Research Institute of National Agricultural 
Products Quality Management Service, Seoul 150-043, South Korea.
starlee@naqs.go.kr

Plants derived through agricultural biotechnology, or genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), may affect human health and ecological environment. A living
GMO is also called a living modified organism (LMO). Biotech cotton is a GMO in
food or feed and also an LMO in the environment. Recently, two varieties of
biotech cotton, MON 15985 and MON 88913, were developed by Monsanto Co. The
detection method is an essential element for the GMO labeling system or LMO
management of biotech plants. In this paper, two primer pairs and probes were
designed for specific amplification of 116 and 120 bp PCR products from MON 15985
and MON 88913, respectively, with no amplification from any other biotech cotton.
Limits of detection of the qualitative method were all 0.05% for MON 15985 and
MON 88913. The quantitative method was developed using a TaqMan real-time PCR. A 
synthetic plasmid, as a reference molecule, was constructed from a taxon-specific
DNA sequence of cotton and two construct-specific DNA sequences of MON 15985 and 
MON 88913. The quantitative method was validated using six samples that contained
levels of biotech cotton mixed with conventional cotton ranging from 0.1 to
10.0%. As a result, the biases from the true value and the relative deviations
were all within the range of +/-20%. Limits of quantitation of the quantitative
method were all 0.1%. Consequently, it is reported that the proposed detection
methods were applicable for qualitative and quantitative analyses for biotech
cotton MON 15985 and MON 88913.

PMID: 17402745 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

126: 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 Investigación en Biología Celular y Molecular, Universidad de Costa
Rica, Ciudad Universitaria Rodrigo Facio, San José, 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]

127: Arch Environ Contam Toxicol. 2007 May;52(4):596-602. Epub 2007 Mar 13.

New analysis of a rat feeding study with a genetically modified maize reveals
signs of hepatorenal toxicity.

Séralini GE, Cellier D, de Vendomois JS.

Committee for Independent Information and Research on Genetic Engineering
CRIIGEN, Paris, France. criigen@unicaen.fr

Health risk assessment of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) cultivated for
food or feed is under debate throughout the world, and very little data have been
published on mid- or long-term toxicological studies with mammals. One of these
studies performed under the responsibility of Monsanto Company with a transgenic 
corn MON863 has been subjected to questions from regulatory reviewers in Europe, 
where it was finally approved in 2005. This necessitated a new assessment of
kidney pathological findings, and the results remained controversial. An Appeal
Court action in Germany (Münster) allowed public access in June 2005 to all the
crude data from this 90-day rat-feeding study. We independently re-analyzed these
data. Appropriate statistics were added, such as a multivariate analysis of the
growth curves, and for biochemical parameters comparisons between GMO-treated
rats and the controls fed with an equivalent normal diet, and separately with six
reference diets with different compositions. We observed that after the
consumption of MON863, rats showed slight but dose-related significant variations
in growth for both sexes, resulting in 3.3% decrease in weight for males and 3.7%
increase for females. Chemistry measurements reveal signs of hepatorenal
toxicity, marked also by differential sensitivities in males and females.
Triglycerides increased by 24-40% in females (either at week 14, dose 11% or at
week 5, dose 33%, respectively); urine phosphorus and sodium excretions
diminished in males by 31-35% (week 14, dose 33%) for the most important results 
significantly linked to the treatment in comparison to seven diets tested. Longer
experiments are essential in order to indicate the real nature and extent of the 
possible pathology; with the present data it cannot be concluded that GM corn
MON863 is a safe product.

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

PMID: 17356802 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

128: Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2007 Jan-Mar;20(1):111-8.

Longer resistance of some DNA traits from BT176 maize to gastric juice from
gastrointestinal affected patients.

Ferrini AM, Mannoni V, Pontieri E, Pourshaban M.

Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Centre for Food Quality and Risk
Assessment, Rome, Italy. ferrini@iss.it

The presence of antibiotic resistance marker genes in genetically engineered
plants is one of the most controversial issues related to Genetically Modified
Organism (GMO)-containing food, raising concern about the possibility that these 
markers could increase the pool of antibiotic resistance genes. This study
investigates the in vitro survival of genes bla and cryIA(b) of maize Bt176 in
human gastric juice samples. Five samples of gastric juice were collected from
patients affected by gastro-esophageal reflux or celiac disease and three
additional samples were obtained by pH modification with NaHCO3. DNA was
extracted from maize Bt176 and incubated with samples of gastric juices at
different times. The survival of the target traits (bla gene, whole 1914 bp gene 
cry1A(b), and its 211 bp fragment) was determined using PCR. The stability of the
target genes was an inverse function of their lengths in all the samples.
Survival in samples from untreated subjects was below the normal physiological
time of gastric digestion. On the contrary, survival time in samples from
patients under anti-acid drug treatment or in samples whose pH was modified,
resulted strongly increased. Our data indicate the possibility that in particular
cases the survival time could be so delayed that, as a consequence, some traits
of DNA could reach the intestine. In general, this aspect must be considered for 
vulnerable consumers (people suffering from gastrointestinal diseases related to 
altered digestive functionality, physiological problems or drug side-effects) in 
the risk analysis usually referred to healthy subjects.

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

PMID: 17346434 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

129: Exp Appl Acarol. 2007;41(3):191-201. Epub 2007 Mar 3.

Toxicological evaluation of genetically modified cotton (Bollgard) and Dipel WP
on the non-target soil mite Scheloribates praeincisus (Acari: Oribatida).

Oliveira AR, Castro TR, Capalbo DM, Delalibera I Jr.

Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology and Agricultural Zoology, University of
Sao Paulo, CP 9, 13418-900 Piracicaba, SP, Brazil.

Insecticides derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and plants
genetically modified (GM) to express B. thuringiensis toxins are important
alternatives for insect pest control worldwide. Risk assessment of B.
thuringiensis toxins to non-target organisms has been extensively studied but few
toxicological tests have considered soil invertebrates. Oribatid mites are one of
the most diverse and abundant arthropod groups in the upper layers of soil and
litter in natural and agricultural systems. These mites are exposed to the toxic 
compounds of GM crops or pesticides mainly when they feed on vegetal products
incorporated in the soil. Although some effects of B. thuringiensis products on
Acari have been reported, effects on oribatid mites are still unknown. This study
investigated the effects of the ingestion of Bt cotton Bollgard and of the B.
thuringiensis commercial product Dipel WP on the pantropical species
Scheloribates praeincisus (Scheloribatidae). Ingestion of Bollgard and Dipel did 
not affect adult and immature survivorship and food consumption (estimated by
number of fecal pellets produced daily) or developmental time of immature stages 
of S. praeincisus. These results indicate the safety of Bollgard and Dipel to S. 
praeincisus under field conditions where exposition is lower and other food
sources besides leaves of Bt plants are available. The method for toxicological
tests described here can be adapted to other species of Oribatida, consisting on 
a new option to risk assessment studies.

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

PMID: 17334814 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

130: Environ Biosafety Res. 2006 Apr-Jun;5(2):57-65. Epub 2007 Mar 1.

A tiered system for assessing the risk of genetically modified plants to
non-target organisms.

Garcia-Alonso M, Jacobs E, Raybould A, Nickson TE, Sowig P, Willekens H, Van der 
Kouwe P, Layton R, Amijee F, Fuentes AM, Tencalla F.

Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, RG42 6EY,
United Kingdom.

Representatives of the developers of modern agricultural biotechnology are
proposing a tiered approach for conducting non-target organism risk assessment
for genetically modified (GM) plants in Europe. The approach was developed by the
Technical Advisory Group of the EuropaBio Plant Biotechnology Unit
(http://www.europabio.org/TAG.htm) and complements other international activities
to harmonize risk assessment. In the European Union (EU), the principles and
methods to be followed in an environmental risk assessment for the placing on the
market of GM plants are laid out in Annex II of Directive 2001/18/EC on the
deliberate release into the environment of GMOs, Commission Decision 2002/623/EC 
and Regulation (EC) No. 1829/2003. Additional information is provided in the
European Food Safety Authority guidance document of 2004. However, risk
assessment for effects to non-target organisms could benefit from further
clarification and remains the subject of much discussion in Europe. The
industry-wide approach developed by EuropaBio is based on the fundamental steps
of risk evaluation, namely hazard and exposure assessment. It follows a
structured scheme including assessment planning, product characterization and
assessment of hazard/exposure (Tier 0), single high dose and dose response
testing (Tier 1), refined hazard characterization and exposure assessment (Tier
2) and further refined risk assessment experiments (Tier 3). An additional tier
(Tier 4) was included to reflect the fact that post-market activities such as
monitoring are required under Directive 2001/18/EC. The approach is compatible
with conditions of commercial release in the EU and around the world.

PMID: 17328852 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

131: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Apr 4;55(7):2509-16. Epub 2007 Feb 28.

Identification of PCR-amplified genetically modified organisms (GMOs) DNA by
peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probes in anion-exchange chromatographic analysis.

Rossi S, Lesignoli F, Germini A, Faccini A, Sforza S, Corradini R, Marchelli R.

Dipartimento di Chimica Organica e Industriale Università di Parma, Viale G. P.
Usberti 17/A, I-43100 Parma, Italy.

PCR products obtained by selective amplification of transgenic DNA derived from
food samples containing Roundup Ready soybean or Bt-176 maize have been analyzed 
by anion-exchange HPLC. Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), oligonucleotide analogues
known to bind to complementary single-stranded DNA with high affinity and
specificity, have been used as specific probes in order to assess the identity of
the peaks observed. Two different protocols were adopted in order to obtain
single-stranded DNA: amplification with an excess of one primer or digestion of
one DNA strand. The single-stranded DNA was mixed with the PNA probe, and the
presence of a specific sequence was revealed through detection of the
corresponding PNA:DNA peak with significantly different retention time.
Advantages and limits of this approach are discussed. The method was tested with 
reference materials and subsequently applied to commercial samples.

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

PMID: 17326652 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

132: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Jul;45(7):1179-85. Epub 2007 Jan 11.

Safety assessment of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis with VIP insecticidal
protein gene by feeding studies.

Peng D, Chen S, Ruan L, Li L, Yu Z, Sun M.

State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Life Science and
Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of 
China.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the toxicology safety of a genetically
modified (GM) Bacillus thuringiensis with vegetative insecticidal protein (VIP)
gene. Acute and subacute toxicity studies by using its powder preparation were
conducted in Wistar rats. The result of the acute study showed the
no-observable-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of this GM B. thuringiensis powder
preparation was greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight (BW). In the subacute study, 
the data analysis of body weight gain, food and water consumptions, clinical
observations, haematology, serum biochemistry, organ weight ratios and
histopathological findings did not show significant differences between control
and treated groups. These results proved the NOAEL of this GM B. thuringiensis
powder preparation in subacute test was greater than 5000 mg/kg BW. Since both
the acute and subacute oral toxicity were not detected at the highest dose
recommended by OECD guidelines, this GM B. thuringiensis could be generally
regarded as safe for use in bio-pesticide industry.

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

PMID: 17320261 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

133: 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]

134: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Feb 21;55(4):1264-73.

Development of a real-time PCR method based on duplo target plasmids for
determining an unexpected genetically modified soybean intermix with feed
components.

Dalla Costa L, Martinelli L.

IASMA Research Center, Genetics and Molecular Biology Department, Via E. Mach 1, 
38010 San Michele all'Adige (TN), Italy.

The occurrence of intermixing, especially that resulting from genetically
modified (GM) species, is increasingly becoming a problem in the delicate chain
of feed and food quality control. Thus, a strategy is needed for precisely
quantifying the presence of intermixing. An analytical assay based on real-time
PCR has been developed; it can ascertain the extent of unexpected intermixing of 
GM soybean with maize meal. Three soybean-maize mix levels, with soybean intermix
percentages of, respectively, 0.1, 0.5, and 1%, were prepared to simulate samples
containing traces of soybean. As calibrator standards, ad hoc multiple-target
pGEM-T plasmids containing soybean and maize reference genes in a 1:1 ratio were 
constructed. Four different maize endogenous genes, alcohol dehydrogenase 1
(adh1), high-mobility group protein a (hmga), invertase 1 (ivr1), and zein
(zein), were assessed, each combined with the soybean endogenous lectin 1 (lect1)
gene. Plasmids containing adh1-lect1 and zein-lect1 genes were found to be the
most reliable calibration systems for this analysis, providing precise and
accurate quantification results. Measuring the percentage of GM soybean
intermixing makes it possible to calculate the actual transgenic component of the
total sample.

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

PMID: 17300150 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

135: Riv Biol. 2006 Sep-Dec;99(3):381-94.

The impact of GMOs on poor countries: a threat to the achievement of the
Millennium Development Goals?

Francescon S.

United Nations Millennium Campaign.

The first of the Millennium Development Goals - halve the proportion of people
who suffer from hunger by 2015 - is essential for eradicating poverty, as most of
the poor live in rural areas.The role of agriculture is, therefore, key to the
fight against poverty.Nevertheless, over the last years rich countries diminished
their official development assistance for agricultural development and some of
them proposed and pushed for a new model of agriculture based on biotechnology.
Such a new model of agriculture is presented by its supporters as a means to
contribute to the elimination of poverty, as it intends to maximise the crop
production.However, it does not take into consideration that policies fighting
hunger: need a more comprehensive approach; must take into consideration
socio-economic and environmental peculiarities, especially local needs and
traditional knowledge and practices.Genetically modified technology goes against 
these basic requirements, as it is designed to suit multinational enterprises in 
the North.When drafting development policies, rich and poor countries must bear
in mind that the framework of the Millennium Development Goals, to which 189
Nations committed, requires a coherent approach to empower the poor, especially
women, and promote traditional knowledge of indigenous people and local
communities, as well as ensuring environmental sustainability.The fight to
poverty and hunger will not be won and people will still go hungry if the
fundamental causes of hunger and food insecurity are not tackled, whereas
genetically modified technology is not based on this assumption.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 17299696 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

136: Biotechnol Prog. 2007 Mar-Apr;23(2):297-301. Epub 2007 Feb 8.

Comparative evaluation of different DNA extraction procedures from food samples.

Di Bernardo G, Del Gaudio S, Galderisi U, Cascino A, Cipollaro M.

Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Biotechnologies and Molecular
Biology, and CRISCEB, 2nd University of Naples, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138
Naples, Italy.

Five methodologies for extracting DNA from food samples are described. The food
products analyzed are from either soybean or maize. They were selected on the
basis of the mechanical, thermal, and chemical treatments that they had been
subjected to during industrial processing. DNA preparations were evaluated for
purity, yield, and average fragment size. Two endogenous genes, soybean lectin
gene and alcohol dehydrogenase gene (adh1), were used to assess the degree of DNA
degradation at different stages of the transformation chain. The goal of this
study was to determine the role that extraction methods play in DNA amplification
in order to select the best protocol for a food sample. This comparative
evaluation can be specifically useful for detection of genetically modified
ingredients in a variety of food matrices.

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

PMID: 17286386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

137: 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]

138: J Agric Food Chem. 2007 Feb 21;55(4):1274-9. Epub 2007 Jan 23.

Development and evaluation of event-specific qualitative PCR methods for
genetically modified Bt10 maize.

Watanabe T, Tokishita S, Spiegelhalter F, Furui S, Kitta K, Hino A, Matsuda R,
Akiyama H, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1 Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
158-8501, Japan. tawata@nihs.go.jp

In 2005 it was reported that the genetically modified (GM) maize strain or
"event" called Bt10 had been distributed inadvertently in the United States over 
the previous 4 years. In order to ensure that grain for food and feed production 
did not contain trace amounts of Bt10 maize and complied with the applicable
regulation, highly sensitive and specific detection of Bt10 maize was required.
Accordingly, we developed a novel qualitative PCR system for specific detection
of Bt10 maize. Moreover, we amply evaluated the performance characteristics of
two PCR systems, our own and the one provided by the developer of Bt10, Syngenta 
Co. Ltd. It was confirmed that both of the qualitative PCR systems can
specifically detect Bt10 maize, and the results of a single-laboratory
examination suggested that the limit of detection was approximately less than
0.05% for both methods. To evaluate the reproducibility of the methods, we
organized an interlaboratory study with the participation of 6 laboratories and
analysis of 240 blind test samples. In this paper, we report, for the first time,
the statistical analysis of the qualitative PCR data obtained from the
interlaboratory study. The results of this analysis also revealed that there was 
no significant difference in the sensitivity between the two aforementioned
methods and that the limit of detection of both the methods was less than 0.05%. 
Thus, we conclude that both of the methods are equally suitable for correct
identification and sensitive detection of the unapproved GM maize Bt10 event in
test samples.

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

PMID: 17243705 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

139: Lab Anim. 2007 Jan;41(1):30-45.

Should laboratory mice be anaesthetized for tail biopsy?

Arras M, Rettich A, Seifert B, Käsermann HP, Rülicke T.

Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Sternwartstrasse 6,
CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland. marras@bzl.unizh.ch

Tail biopsies are routinely taken to genotype genetically modified mice. However,
the effect of this procedure on the wellbeing of the animals has rarely been
investigated. Thus, it has not yet been clearly demonstrated to what extent the
mice suffer from tail biopsy (TB) and for how long. The aim of our study was to
assess the impact of a single TB on the physiological and behavioural parameters 
of adult mice and to investigate whether or not anaesthesia can be beneficial.
Body weight (BW) curves, daily food/water consumption and telemetric measurements
of heart rate, body core temperature, and locomotor activity were recorded for
three days following TB, both with and without anaesthesia with methoxyflurane
(MOF) or diethylether (ether). Additionally, the impact of anaesthesia alone was 
characterized. TB without anaesthesia induced an increase in heart rate and
locomotor activity for 1 h. Body core temperature was elevated for 2 h. In
contrast, heart rate was increased for up to 4 h after anaesthesia. Body core
temperature remained altered for up to 20 h after exposure to ether and for 44 h 
after exposure to MOF. BW was slightly reduced after MOF. Cases of death occurred
exclusively under ether at a rate of 7%. Our results indicate a short-lived
impact of a TB, whereas anaesthesia with either MOF or ether induced remarkable
alterations in the parameters analysed. In conclusion, these types of anaesthesia
did not improve mouse wellbeing following tail biopsy.

PMID: 17234048 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

140: 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 Sanità Pubblica, Università 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]

141: Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom. 2007;21(3):319-28.

Mass spectrometric detection of CP4 EPSPS in genetically modified soya and maize.

Ocaña MF, Fraser PD, Patel RK, Halket JM, Bramley PM.

Centre for Chemical and Bioanalytical Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of
London, Egham TW20 0EX, UK.

The potential of protein fractionation hyphenated to mass spectrometry (MS) to
detect and characterize the transgenic protein present in Roundup Ready soya and 
maize has been investigated. Genetically modified (GM) soya and maize contain the
5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) gene from Agrobacterium
tumefaciens CP4, which confers resistance to the herbicide glyphosate. The GM
soya and maize proteomes were fractionated by gel filtration, anion-exchange
chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis
(SDS-PAGE) prior to MS. This facilitated detection of a tryptic peptide map of
CP4 EPSPS by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight
(MALDI-TOF) MS and nanoelectrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight
(nanoESI-QTOF) MS. Subsequently, sequence information from the CP4 EPSPS tryptic 
peptides was obtained by nanoESI-QTOF MS/MS. The identification was accomplished 
in 0.9% GM soya seeds, which is the current EU threshold for food-labeling
requirements. Copyright 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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

PMID: 17200978 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

142: 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]

143: 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]

144: Behav Brain Res. 2007 Feb 12;177(1):22-9. Epub 2006 Dec 8.

Spatial learning in Long-Evans Hooded rats and C57BL/6J mice: different
strategies for different performance.

Cressant A, Besson M, Suarez S, Cormier A, Granon S.

Laboratoire de Physiologie de la Perception et de l'Action, UMR CNRS 7124,
Collège de France, Paris, France.

Spatial learning abilities of rodents have been extensively used to explore the
management of a wide range of cognitive and emotional processes such as learning,
memory, attention and anxiety. Knowledge about the organization and processing of
spatial learning has mainly been obtained in rats. Due to increasing generation
of genetically modified mice, cognitive abilities of mice are now extensively
tested. The present paper aimed at comparing spatial representation, learning and
strategies in C57BL/6J mice and Long-Evans Hooded rats when subjected to the same
spatial learning paradigm, i.e. learning a food location in a crossmaze. We also 
analyzed the influence of environmental richness on learning modalities in both
species. Our results showed that rats and mice could exhibit similar spatial
learning abilities in some circumstances. However, Long-Evans rats and C57BL/6J
mice may set up different strategies depending on the availability of visual
information within the environment. Rats' learning strategies mainly relied on
distant visual cues and seemed more efficient than those used by mice as they
needed less time than mice to solve the task. We emphasize that the strategies of
mice are less robust and flexible than the ones set up by rats. Finally, the
richness of the environment was shown to affect speed and quality of spatial
learning in both species.

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

PMID: 17157932 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

145: Plant Biotechnol J. 2005 Nov;3(6):571-82.

Engineering a root-specific, repressor-operator gene complex.

Kim T, Balish RS, Heaton AC, McKinney EC, Dhankher OP, Meagher RB.

Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.

Strong, tissue-specific and genetically regulated expression systems are
essential tools in plant biotechnology. An expression system tool called a
'repressor-operator gene complex' (ROC) has diverse applications in plant
biotechnology fields including phytoremediation, disease resistance, plant
nutrition, food safety, and hybrid seed production. To test this concept, we
assembled a root-specific ROC using a strategy that could be used to construct
almost any gene expression pattern. When a modified E. coli lac repressor with a 
nuclear localization signal was expressed from a rubisco small subunit expression
vector, S1pt::lacIn, LacIn protein was localized to the nuclei of leaf and stem
cells, but not to root cells. A LacIn repressible Arabidopsis actin expression
vector A2pot was assembled containing upstream bacterial lacO operator sequences,
and it was tested for organ and tissue specificity using beta-glucuronidase (GUS)
and mercuric ion reductase (merA) gene reporters. Strong GUS enzyme expression
was restricted to root tissues of A2pot::GUS/S1pt::lacIn ROC plants, while GUS
activity was high in all vegetative tissues of plants lacking the repressor.
Repression of shoot GUS expression exceeded 99.9% with no evidence of root
repression, among a large percentage of doubly transformed plants. Similarly,
MerA was strongly expressed in the roots, but not the shoots of
A2pot::merA/S1pt::lacIn plants, while MerA levels remained high in both shoots
and roots of plants lacking repressor. Plants with MerA expression restricted to 
roots were approximately as tolerant to ionic mercury as plants constitutively
expressing MerA in roots and shoots. The superiority of this ROC over the
previously described root-specific tobacco RB7 promoter is demonstrated.

PMID: 17147628 [PubMed]

146: Mycologia. 2006 Jul-Aug;98(4):593-7.

An optimized method for mycelial compatibility testing in Sclerotinia
sclerotiorum.

Schafer MR, Kohn LM.

Biology Department, University of Toronto at Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road
North, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada.

Classification of isolates into mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs) is used
routinely in many laboratories as a quick marker for genotyping Sclerotinia
sclerotiorum within populations. Scoring each new sample requires optimization of
standardized conditions to support adequate growth of all paired isolates.
Appropriate conditions for growth are especially important because diverse
compatibility reactions are difficult to categorize and score (e.g., in samples
from populations with high genetic diversity, such as those that receive
immigration from genetically diverse sources or those that deviate from strict
clonality). The current standard medium for MCG testing can be inhibitory to
isolates from some samples, confounding scoring of compatibility. We identified
two foci for optimization: (i) choice of medium, in this experiment, Patterson's 
medium amended with red food coloring (termed modified Patterson's medium, MPM,
the current standard medium) versus potato dextrose agar (PDA) and (ii) amount of
McCormick's red food coloring amended to the growth medium. The red food coloring
often yields a red reaction line in incompatible interactions; alternative
incompatible reactions are a line of thick or thin hyphae. Based on results to
date, self-self pairings of S. sclerotiorum are compatible and are a reliable
standard for scoring compatible self-nonself mycelial interactions. PDA amended
with 75 microl/L of McCormick's red food coloring was identified as optimal for
isolates inhibited by MPM from a highly diverse, recombining population sample.
This precisely amended PDA was also suitable for isolates from highly clonal
populations that were not inhibited by MPM or by higher concentrations of red
food coloring. Under the optimized, standardized conditions all paired isolates
grew together and produced interactions that could be scored in repeatedly
identifiable categories, compatible or incompatible. Workers are advised to
optimize conditions before screening a new population sample.

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

PMID: 17139852 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

147: 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]

148: 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, Peña L, Egea-Cortines M.

Agricultural Science and Technology Department, Genetics, Universidad Politécnica
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]

149: J Agric Environ Ethics. 2006;19(3):239-52.

Journalism and science: how to erode the idea of knowledge.

Meyer G.

The International Center for Business and Politics, Copenhagen Business School,
Monrads Alle 7, DK 2500, Valby, Denmark. sprogbrug@get2net.dk

This paper discusses aspects of the relationship between the scientific community
and the public at large. Inspired by the European public debate on genetically
modified crops and food, ethical challenges to the scientific community are
highlighted. This is done by a discussion of changes that are likely to occur to 
journalistic attitudes--mirroring changing attitudes in the wider
society--towards science and scientific researchers. Two journalistic
conventions--those of science transmission and of investigative journalism--are
presented and discussed in relation to the present drive towards
commercialization within the world of science: how are journalists from these
different schools of thought likely to respond to the trend of commercialization?
Likely journalistic reactions could, while maintaining the authority of the
scientific method, be expected to undermine public trust in scientists. In the
long term, this may lead to an erosion of the idea of knowledge as something that
cannot simply be reduced to the outcome of negotiation between stakeholders. It
is argued that science is likely to be depicted as a fallen angel. This may be
countered, it is posited, by science turning human, by recognizing its membership
of society, and by recognizing that such membership entails more than just
commercial relations. To rethink its relationship with the public at large--and, 
in particular, to rethink the ideal of disinterested science--is an ethical
challenge facing the scientific community.

PMID: 17061381 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

150: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2006 Aug;1072:176-86.

Therapeutic drug delivery by genetically modified Lactococcus lactis.

Steidler L, Rottiers P.

Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, Transgenic Bacteriology, University College Cork,
Western Road, Cork, Ireland. l.steidler@ucc.ie

Food-grade bacteria have been consumed throughout history without associated
pathologies and are, therefore, absolutely safe to ingest. Unexpectedly,
Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis), known from cheese production, can be genetically 
engineered to constantly secrete satisfactory amounts of bioactive cytokines.
Both of these features enabled the development of a new kind of topical delivery 
system: topical and active delivery of therapeutic proteins by genetically
modified micro-organisms. The host organism's record inspired the development of 
applications that target intestinal diseases. In a variety of mouse models,
chronic colon inflammation can be successfully treated with (interleukin)
IL-10-secreting L. lactis. Trefoil factor (TFF) producer strains have also been
shown to be very effective in the treatment of acute colitis. Such novel
therapeutic strains are textbook examples of genetically modified (GM) organisms.
There are legitimate concerns with regard to the deliberate release of GM
micro-organisms. On development of these applications, therefore, we have
engineered these bacteria in such a way that biological containment is
guaranteed. The essential gene thyA, encoding thymidylate synthase, has been
exchanged for IL-10. This makes the GM strain critically dependent on thymidine. 
Lack of thymidine, for example, resulting from thymidine consumption by
thyA-deficient strains-will irreversibly lead to induced "thymidine-less death." 
This accomplishment has created the possibility of using this strategy for
application in human medicine.

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

PMID: 17057198 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

151: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Mar;45(3):350-63. Epub 2006 Sep 14.

A 90-day safety study in Wistar rats fed genetically modified rice expressing
snowdrop lectin Galanthus nivalis (GNA).

Poulsen M, Kroghsbo S, Schrøder M, Wilcks A, Jacobsen H, Miller A, Frenzel T,
Danier J, Rychlik M, Shu Q, Emami K, Sudhakar D, Gatehouse A, Engel KH, Knudsen
I.

Department of Toxicology and Risk Assessment, Danish Institute for Food and
Veterinary Research, Mørkhøj Bygade 19, DK-2860 Søborg, Denmark. mop@dfvf.dk

Genetically modified plants expressing insecticidal traits offer a new strategy
for crop protection, but at the same time present a challenge in terms of food
safety assessment. The present 90-day feeding study was designed to assess the
safety of a rice variety expressing the snowdrop Galanthus nivalis lectin (GNA
lectin), and forms part of a EU-funded project where the objective has been to
develop and validate sensitive and specific methods to assess the safety of
genetically modified foods. Male and female Wistar rats were given a purified
diet containing either 60% genetically modified or parental rice for 90 days.
This corresponds to a mean daily GNA lectin intake of approximately 58 and
67mg/kg body weight for males and females, respectively. Prior to the animal
study comprehensive analytical characterization of both rice materials was
performed. The chemical analyses showed a number of statistically significant
differences, with the majority being within the ranges reported in the
literature. In the animal study a range of clinical, biological, immunological,
microbiological and pathological parameters were examined. A number of
significant differences were seen between groups fed the two diets, but none of
them were considered to be adverse. In conclusion, the design of the present
animal study did not enable us to conclude on the safety of the GM food.
Additional group(s) where the expressed gene products have been spiked to the
diet should be included in order to be able to distinguish whether the observed
effects were due to the GNA lectin per se or to secondary changes in the GM rice.

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

PMID: 17052828 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

152: Neuroscience. 2007 Jan 5;144(1):17-25. Epub 2006 Oct 13.

The contribution of endogenous opioids to food reward is dependent on sex and
background strain.

Hayward MD, Low MJ.

Center for the Study of Weight Regulation, Oregon Health and Science University, 
3181 Southwest Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
Michael.Hayward@Xenogen.com

Complex behaviors such as those associated with reward to unconditioned positive 
reinforcers are polygenic processes. In studies using genetically modified mice
specific for the endogenous opioid systems an observed phenotype in a complex
behavior is likely to be dependent on interacting genes which, in inbred mouse
lines, influence that phenotype. To address this issue we examined operant
responding for palatable food reinforcers in mice lacking the expression of
beta-endorphin, enkephalin or both peptides congenic to two different genetic
backgrounds; C57BL/6J and DBA/2J. These two inbred strains were chosen because
their endogenous opioid states differ and they respond differently to exogenous
opioids in many behavioral assays. We found that wildtype and mutant C57BL/6J
mice acquired operant responding for food reinforcers faster than DBA/2J mice,
regardless of their opioid genotype. Although wildtype DBA/2J mice had a
significant deficit in acquisition of bar-pressing behavior to reach a
pre-established performance criterion, no subsequent deficit was observed under
two different schedules of reinforcement. Additionally, we found that mice
lacking enkephalin had decreased motivation to bar press for palatable food
reinforcers under a progressive ratio regardless of sex or background strain. In 
contrast, the only subset of beta-endorphin-deficient mice that had decreased
motivation to bar press under a progressive ratio was males on the C57BL/6J
background. Of the two classical endogenous opioid peptides with preferential
activation of the mu opioid receptor, the knockout models would suggest that
enkephalins play a more consistent role than beta-endorphin in mediating the
motivation for food reward when tested under a progressive ratio.

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

PMID: 17049174 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

153: 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]

154: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2006 Jul;35(4):431-4.

[Stability of hpt marker gene in transgenic rice in different food matrices and
under varying food-processing conditions]

[Article in Chinese]

Shen LM, Wu YN, Zhang JZ, Zhou PP.

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

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the likelihood of horizontal gene transfer from transgenic
rice to bacteria of the food chain and human gut, the stability of s86 transgenic
rice hpt gene in different food matrices and under varying food-processing
conditions was studied. METHODS: Degradation of DNA was monitored by fragment
-multiplex polymerase chain reaction. Integrity of hpt gene in various food
samples was tested. RESULTS: A PCR system for the hpt gene of genetically
modified rice has been established to detect fragments ranging between 236bp and 
910bp. Detection of hpt and rbcl gene fragments was carried out in various
food-processed samples by this PCR system. The data showed that the fragments up 
to 500 bp were detected in rice and congee, while the fragment length more than
236bp was not detected in crispy rice and popcorn-like rice. CONCLUSION: These
results suggested that there are significant differences in DNA degradation by
different food-processing methods. The likelihood of the large hpt gene fragments
transfer from transgenic rice processed food to bacteria is reduced by food
process.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 16986517 [PubMed - in process]

155: 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]

156: Electrophoresis. 2006 Oct;27(19):3879-88.

A new PCR-CGE (size and color) method for simultaneous detection of genetically
modified maize events.

Nadal A, Coll A, La Paz JL, Esteve T, Pla M.

Institut de Tecnologia Agroalimentària, Universitat de Girona, EPS, Girona,
Spain.

We present a novel multiplex PCR assay for simultaneous detection of multiple
transgenic events in maize. Initially, five PCR primers pairs specific to events 
Bt11, GA21, MON810, and NK603, and Zea mays L. (alcohol dehydrogenase) were
included. The event specificity was based on amplification of transgene/plant
genome flanking regions, i.e., the same targets as for validated real-time PCR
assays. These short and similarly sized amplicons were selected to achieve high
and similar amplification efficiency for all targets; however, its unambiguous
identification was a technical challenge. We achieved a clear distinction by a
novel CGE approach that combined the identification by size and color (CGE-SC).
In one single step, all five targets were amplified and specifically labeled with
three different fluorescent dyes. The assay was specific and displayed an LOD of 
0.1% of each genetically modified organism (GMO). Therefore, it was adequate to
fulfill legal thresholds established, e.g., in the European Union. Our CGE-SC
based strategy in combination with an adequate labeling design has the potential 
to simultaneously detect higher numbers of targets. As an example, we present the
detection of up to eight targets in a single run. Multiplex PCR-CGE-SC only
requires a conventional sequencer device and enables automation and high
throughput. In addition, it proved to be transferable to a different laboratory. 
The number of authorized GMO events is rapidly growing; and the acreage of
genetically modified (GM) varieties cultivated and commercialized worldwide is
rapidly increasing. In this context, our multiplex PCR-CGE-SC can be suitable for
screening GM contents in food.

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

PMID: 16972302 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

157: Yonsei Med J. 2006 Aug 31;47(4):505-12.

Evaluating the allergic risk of genetically modified soybean.

Kim SH, Kim HM, Ye YM, Kim SH, Nahm DH, Park HS, Ryu SR, Lee BO.

Department of Allergy, Ajou University School of Medicnie, Suwon, Korea.
hspark@ajou.ac.kr

Genetically modified (GM) soybean (carrying the EPSPS transgene) is the most
common GM food in Korea. In order to assess whether genetic modification
increases the allergenic risk of soybeans, the allergenicity and IgE-reactive
components of wild-type and GM soybean extracts were compared in allergic adults 
who had been sensitized to soybeans. We enrolled 1,716 adult allergy patients and
40 healthy, non-atopic controls. Skin prick tests and IgE enzyme linked
immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were performed using wild-type and GM soybean
extracts, along with other common inhaled allergens. The specificities of serum
IgE antibodies from allergic patients and the identities of the IgE-reactive
components of the soybean extracts were compared using ELISA inhibition testing, 
2-dimensional gel electrophoresis, and IgE immunoblotting. To evaluate the
effects of digestive enzymes and heat treatment, the soybean extracts were heated
or pre- incubated with or without simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. The
IgE sensitization rates to wild-type and GM soybeans were identical (3.8% of
allergic adults), and circulating IgE antibodies specific for the two extracts
were comparable. The results of the ELISA inhibition test, SDS-PAGE, and IgE
immunoblotting showed a similar composition of IgE-binding components within the 
wild-type and GM extracts, which was confirmed using two-dimensional gel
electrophoresis, IgE immunoblotting, and amino acid sequencing. None of the
subjects had a positive response to purified EPSPS protein in the skin prick
test, ELISA, or IgE immunoblot analysis. These findings suggest that the IgE
sensitization rate to GM soybean extracts is identical to that of wild-type
soybean extracts in adult allergy patients. In addition, based on both in vivo
and in vitro methods, the allergenicity of wild type and GM soybean extracts was 
identical.

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

PMID: 16941740 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

158: Plasmid. 2007 Jan;57(1):18-28. Epub 2006 Aug 28.

A role for the tet(O) plasmid in maintaining Campylobacter plasticity.

Friis LM, Pin C, Taylor DE, Pearson BM, Wells JM.

Institute of Food Research, Colney Lane, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7UA, UK.
lfriis@ualberta.ca

Genomic sequencing projects are beginning to reveal regions of extensive DNA
homology between bacterial genera. Public fears of the spread of genetically
modified organisms into the food chain and the increasing prevalence of
multi-drug resistant disease in humans highlight the implications of horizontal
gene transfer. The striking DNA sequence similarity between the two uniquely
identified tetracycline resistant (Tc(R)) Campylobacter plasmids, pCC31 and pTet,
suggests their conserved acquisition and maintenance within Campylobacter
[Batchelor, R.A., Pearson, B.M., Friis, L.M., Guerry, P., Wells, J.M. 2004.
Nucleotide sequences and comparison of two large conjugative plasmids from
different Campylobacter species. Microbiology 150, 3507-3517]. It is thus likely 
that these and other conjugative plasmids are highly prevalent and broadly
distributed across several continents. Microarray technology is now enabling fast
and extensive genomic comparisons to be made and allows us to investigate intra- 
and inter-genetic conservation and variability. This study details the
development of a microarray specific for genes from Campylobacter plasmids pCC31,
pTet and pVir and its application to the analysis of Campylobacter plasmid gene
presence and preservation throughout environmental and clinical isolates.
Application of the iterative algorithm GENCOM (freely available at ) is used as a
rapid and effective way of comparing the content and conservation of plasmids in 
bacteria and provides details of the Campylobacter flexible gene pool and its
contribution to genomic plasticity.

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

PMID: 16934869 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

159: Plant Biol (Stuttg). 2006 Sep;8(5):662-72. Epub 2006 Aug 24.

Evaluation of a non-targeted "omic" approach in the safety assessment of
genetically modified plants.

Metzdorff SB, Kok EJ, Knuthsen P, Pedersen J.

Danish Institute for Food and Veterinary Research, 19 Mørkhøj Bygade, 2860
Søborg, Denmark. metz@dfvf.dk

Genetically modified plants must be approved before release in the European
Union, and the approval is generally based upon a comparison of various
characteristics between the transgenic plant and a conventional counterpart. As a
case study, focusing on safety assessment of genetically modified plants, we here
report the development and characterisation of six independently transformed
ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA lines modified in the flavonoid biosynthesis. Analyses of
integration events and comparative analysis for characterisation of the intended 
effects were performed by PCR, quantitative Real-time PCR, and High Performance
Liquid Chromatography. Analysis by cDNA microarray was used as a non-targeted
approach for the identification of potential unintended effects caused by the
transformation. The results revealed that, although the transgenic lines
possessed different types of integration events, no unintended effects were
identified. However, we found that the majority of genes showing differential
expression were identified as stress-related genes and that environmental
conditions had a large impact on the expression of several genes, proteins, and
metabolites. We suggest that the microarray approach has the potential to become 
a useful tool for screening of unintended effects, but state that it is crucial
to have substantial information on the natural variation in traditional crops in 
order to be able to interpret "omics" data correctly within the framework of food
safety assessment strategies of novel plant varieties, including genetically
modified plant varieties.

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

PMID: 16933176 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

160: Food Chem Toxicol. 2006 Nov;44(11):1909-15. Epub 2006 Jul 4.

Investigation on possible allergenicity of 19 different commercial enzymes used
in the food industry.

Bindslev-Jensen C, Skov PS, Roggen EL, Hvass P, Brinch DS.

Department of Dermatology and Allergy Center, Odense University Hospital, DK 5000
Odense C, Denmark. Carsten.Bindslev-Jensen@ouh.fyns-amt.dk

The aim of the study was to investigate the safety to allergic patients of 19
commercially available and authority-approved enzymes used in the food industry. 
Enzymes produced by genetically modified organisms were included. Four hundred
consecutive adult patients with a diagnosed allergy to inhalation allergens, food
allergens, bee or wasp were included. All had at least one positive skin prick
test to the above allergens. Skin prick testing with the 19 enzymes was performed
on the forearm and if positive (in 13 patients), in vitro histamine release from 
blood basophils were performed. Patients with positive results in skin prick test
were subsequently reinvestigated with further purified enzymes and finally
challenged orally with the enzymes in a double-blind, placebo-controlled
protocol. Only one reaction to a placebo challenge was seen. In some instances a 
positive skin prick test result or a positive histamine release was seen elicited
by the enzymes, but since none of the patients were positive to any of the
commercial enzymes in the subsequent oral challenges using exaggerated dosages of
the enzymes compared to normal daily intake, the findings are without clinical
relevance. A wide variety of enzyme classes and origins was included in the
study. Because there were no allergenic findings of clinical relevance it is
concluded that ingestion of food enzymes in general is not considered to be a
concern with regard to food allergy.

Publication Types: 
    Clinical Trial
    Controlled Clinical Trial

PMID: 16920243 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

161: 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]

162: 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]

163: BMC Biotechnol. 2006 Aug 14;6:37.

Critical points of DNA quantification by real-time PCR--effects of DNA extraction
method and sample matrix on quantification of genetically modified organisms.

Cankar K, Stebih D, Dreo T, Zel J, Gruden K.

Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, National Institute of Biology, 
Vecna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia. katja.cankar@nib.si

BACKGROUND: Real-time PCR is the technique of choice for nucleic acid
quantification. In the field of detection of genetically modified organisms
(GMOs) quantification of biotech products may be required to fulfil legislative
requirements. However, successful quantification depends crucially on the quality
of the sample DNA analyzed. Methods for GMO detection are generally validated on 
certified reference materials that are in the form of powdered grain material,
while detection in routine laboratories must be performed on a wide variety of
sample matrixes. Due to food processing, the DNA in sample matrixes can be
present in low amounts and also degraded. In addition, molecules of plant origin 
or from other sources that affect PCR amplification of samples will influence the
reliability of the quantification. Further, the wide variety of sample matrixes
presents a challenge for detection laboratories. The extraction method must
ensure high yield and quality of the DNA obtained and must be carefully selected,
since even components of DNA extraction solutions can influence PCR reactions.
GMO quantification is based on a standard curve, therefore similarity of PCR
efficiency for the sample and standard reference material is a prerequisite for
exact quantification. Little information on the performance of real-time PCR on
samples of different matrixes is available. RESULTS: Five commonly used DNA
extraction techniques were compared and their suitability for quantitative
analysis was assessed. The effect of sample matrix on nucleic acid quantification
was assessed by comparing 4 maize and 4 soybean matrixes. In addition 205 maize
and soybean samples from routine analysis were analyzed for PCR efficiency to
assess variability of PCR performance within each sample matrix. Together with
the amount of DNA needed for reliable quantification, PCR efficiency is the
crucial parameter determining the reliability of quantitative results, therefore 
it was chosen as the primary criterion by which to evaluate the quality and
performance on different matrixes and extraction techniques. The effect of PCR
efficiency on the resulting GMO content is demonstrated. CONCLUSION: The crucial 
influence of extraction technique and sample matrix properties on the results of 
GMO quantification is demonstrated. Appropriate extraction techniques for each
matrix need to be determined to achieve accurate DNA quantification.
Nevertheless, as it is shown that in the area of food and feed testing matrix
with certain specificities is impossible to define strict quality controls need
to be introduced to monitor PCR. The results of our study are also applicable to 
other fields of quantitative testing by real-time PCR.

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

PMID: 16907967 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

164: Transgenic Res. 2006 Aug;15(4):409-25.

Assessing the potential for unintended effects in genetically modified potatoes
perturbed in metabolic and developmental processes. Targeted analysis of key
nutrients and anti-nutrients.

Shepherd LV, McNicol JW, Razzo R, Taylor MA, Davies HV.

Quality, Health and Nutrition Programme, Scottish Crop Research Institute,
Invergowrie, DD2 5DA, Dundee, Scotland. louise.shepherd@scri.ac.uk

Targeted compositional analysis was carried out on transgenic potato tubers of
either cultivar (cv.) Record or cv. Desirée to assess the potential for
unintended effects caused by the genetic modification process. The range of
transgenic lines analysed included those modified in primary carbohydrate
metabolism, polyamine biosynthesis and glycoprotein processing. Controls included
wildtype tubers, tubers produced from plants regenerated through tissue culture
(including a callus phase) and tubers derived from transformation with the 'empty
vector' i.e. no specific target gene included (with the exception of the
kanamycin resistance gene as a selectable marker). Metabolite analysis included
soluble carbohydrates, glycoalkaloids, vitamin C, total nitrogen and fatty acids.
Trypsin inhibitor activity was also assayed. These cover the major compounds
recommended by the OECD in their Consensus Document on Compositional
Considerations for New Varieties of Potatoes: Key Food and Feed Nutrients,
Anti-Nutrients and Toxicants (2002). Data was statistically analysed using
analysis of variance (ANOVA) for individual compounds and, where applicable,
principal component analysis (PCA). In general, targeted compositional analysis
revealed no consistent differences between GM lines and respective controls. No
construct specifically induced unintended effects. Statistically significant
differences between wildtype controls and specific GM lines did occur but
appeared to be random and not associated with any specific construct. Indeed such
significant differences were also found between wildtypes and both tissue culture
derived tubers and tubers derived from transformation with the empty vector. This
raises the possibility that somaclonal variation (known to occur significantly in
potato, depending on genotype) may be responsible for an unknown proportion of
any differences observed between specific GM lines and the wildtype. The most
obvious differences seen in GC-MS profiles were between the two potato varieties 
used in the study.

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

PMID: 16906442 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

165: 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]

166: Med Princ Pract. 2006;15(5):325-37.

Human obesity: its hormonal basis and the role of gastric inhibitory polypeptide.

Marks V.

Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Post-Graduate Medical School, University of 
Surrey Guildford, Surrey, UK. vincentmarks@bigfoot.com

Obesity is an abnormal expansion of the adipose organ and is a pathophysiological
response to an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. It is the 
result of a large number of diverse factors involving heritable and environmental
characteristics. A simple definition of obesity is difficult and unsatisfactory
and its age dependency has largely been ignored. Differentiation between healthy,
age-related plumpness and obesity is often blurred and responsible for
overdiagnosis of obesity in the developed world. In the past, epidemiological
studies have often ignored the different prognostic significance of the two major
phenotypes of human obesity making their conclusions of limited value. The role
of heritable factors in determining both the propensity to develop obesity under 
favourable environmental conditions, including inactivity and unlimited access to
fat-rich foods, and the phenotype it assumes received an enormous fillip from
experiments involving genetically modified animals. The most important of these
have demonstrated the key role played by a number of newly discovered or recently
resurrected polypeptide hormones that are released from the intestine in response
to food. Molecular manipulation of these hormones, especially of
glucose-dependent insulin-stimulatory polypeptide offers a new therapeutic
approach.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16888389 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

167: 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]

168: 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]

169: 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]

170: Proc Biol Sci. 2006 Aug 7;273(1596):1921-8.

Weed seed resources for birds in fields with contrasting conventional and
genetically modified herbicide-tolerant crops.

Gibbons DW, Bohan DA, Rothery P, Stuart RC, Haughton AJ, Scott RJ, Wilson JD,
Perry JN, Clark SJ, Dawson RJ, Firbank LG.

RSPB, UK Headquarters, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, UK.
david.gibbons@rspb.org.uk

The UK Farm Scale Evaluations (FSEs) have shown that the use of broad spectrum
herbicides on genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops can have
dramatic effects on weed seed production compared to management of conventional
varieties. Here, we use FSE data and information on bird diets to determine how
GMHT cropping might change the food resources available to farmland birds. More
than 60 fields of each of four crops, spring- and winter-sown oilseed rape, beet 
and maize, were split, one half being sown with a conventional variety, the other
with a GMHT variety. Seed rain from weeds known to be important in the diets of
17 granivorous farmland bird species was measured under the two treatments. In
beet and spring oilseed rape, rain of weed seeds important in the diets of 16
bird species was significantly reduced in GMHT compared to conventional halves;
for no species did it increase. In winter oilseed rape, rain of weed seeds
important in the diets of 10 species was significantly reduced in GMHT halves;
for only one species did it increase significantly. By contrast, in maize, rain
of weed seeds important in the diets of seven species was significantly greater
in GMHT halves; for no species was it reduced. Treatment effects for the total
weed seed energy available to each bird species were very similar to those for
seed rain alone. Measuring the effects on individual bird species was outside the
scope of this study. Despite this, these results suggest that should beet, spring
and winter rape crops in the UK be largely replaced by GMHT varieties and managed
as in the FSEs, this would markedly reduce important food resources for farmland 
birds, many of which declined during the last quarter of the twentieth century.
By contrast, GMHT maize would be beneficial to farmland birds.

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

PMID: 16822753 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

171: Clin Mol Allergy. 2006 Jul 4;4:10.

Evaluation of the sensitization rates and identification of IgE-binding
components in wild and genetically modified potatoes in patients with allergic
disorders.

Lee SK, Ye YM, Yoon SH, Lee BO, Kim SH, Park HS.

Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan,
Korea. skleeai@daunet.donga.ac.kr

BACKGROUND: The potato is one of the most common types of genetically modified
(GM) food. However, there are no published data evaluating the impact of genetic 
manipulations on the allergenicity of GM potatoes. To compare the allergenicity
of GM potatoes with that of wild-type potatoes using in vivo and in vitro methods
in adult allergy patients sensitized to potatoes. METHODS: A total of 1886
patients with various allergic diseases and 38 healthy controls participated in
the study. Skin-prick testing and IgE-ELISA were carried out with extracts
prepared from wild-type and GM potatoes. An ELISA inhibition test was used to
confirm the binding specificity. IgE-binding components in extracts from the two 
types of potato were identified by SDS-PAGE and IgE-immunoblotting. The effects
of digestive enzymes and heat on the allergenicity of the extracts was evaluated 
by preincubating the potatoes with or without simulated gastric and intestinal
fluids in the absence or presence of heat. RESULTS: Positive responses (ratio of 
the wheal size induced by the allergen to that induced by histamine (A/H) > or = 
2+) to wild-type or GM potato extracts, as demonstrated by the skin-prick test,
were observed in 108 patients (5.7%). Serum-specific IgE was detected in 0-88% of
subjects who tested positively. ELISA inhibition tests indicated significant
inhibition when extract from each type of potato was added. IgE-immunoblot
analysis demonstrated the presence of 14 IgE-binding components within the
wild-type potato and 9 within the GM potato. Furthermore, a common 45-kDa binding
component that yielded similar IgE-binding patterns was noted in more than 80% of
the reactions using sera from patients sensitized to wild-type or GM potato.
Exposure to simulated gastric fluid and heat treatment similarly inhibited IgE
binding by extracts from wild-type and GM potatoes, whereas minimal changes were 
obtained following exposure of the extracts to simulated intestinal fluid.
CONCLUSION: Our results strongly suggest that genetic manipulation of potatoes
does not increase their allergenic risk. The sensitization rate of adult allergy 
patients to both types of extract was 5.7%, and a common major allergen (45 kDa) 
was identified.

PMID: 16817976 [PubMed]

172: Microb Cell Fact. 2006 Jun 23;5:23.

Live bacterial vaccines--a review and identification of potential hazards.

Detmer A, Glenting J.

Danish Toxicology Centre, Hørsholm, Denmark. ad@dhigroup.com

The use of live bacteria to induce an immune response to itself or to a carried
vaccine component is an attractive vaccine strategy. Advantages of live bacterial
vaccines include their mimicry of a natural infection, intrinsic adjuvant
properties and their possibility to be administered orally. Derivatives of
pathogenic and non-pathogenic food related bacteria are currently being evaluated
as live vaccines. However, pathogenic bacteria demands for attenuation to weaken 
its virulence. The use of bacteria as vaccine delivery vehicles implies
construction of recombinant strains that contain the gene cassette encoding the
antigen. With the increased knowledge of mucosal immunity and the availability of
genetic tools for heterologous gene expression the concept of live vaccine
vehicles gains renewed interest. However, administration of live bacterial
vaccines poses some risks. In addition, vaccination using recombinant bacteria
results in the release of live recombinant organisms into nature. This places
these vaccines in the debate on application of genetically modified organisms. In
this review we give an overview of live bacterial vaccines on the market and
describe the development of new live vaccines with a focus on attenuated bacteria
and food-related lactic acid bacteria. Furthermore, we outline the safety
concerns and identify the hazards associated with live bacterial vaccines and try
to give some suggestions of what to consider during their development.

PMID: 16796731 [PubMed]

173: 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]

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

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

Leimanis S, Hernández M, Fernández S, Boyer F, Burns M, Bruderer S, Glouden T,
Harris N, Kaeppeli O, Philipp P, Pla M, Puigdomènech P, Vaitilingom M, Bertheau
Y, Remacle J.

Unité de Recherche en Biologie Cellulaire (URBC), Faculté 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]

175: 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]

176: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2006 Jul;50(7):645-54.

Allergen-specific IgE testing in the diagnosis of food allergy and the event of a
positive match in the bioinformatics search.

van Ree R, Vieths S, Poulsen LK.

Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Current documents on risk assessment of genetically modified foods recommend
including IgE-binding tests on sera from allergic patients. However, there is no 
generally accepted recommendation on technical aspects of the testing procedures 
or on the interpretation of the results, despite that fact that both false
positive and false-negative results may be caused by variability of the test
procedures. The present article discusses the state-of-the-art of serological
test procedures for qualitative and quantitative determination of specific IgE
and interpretation of test results. It is emphasized that the use of sera from
clinically well-characterized subjects is of high importance. In the case of a
positive test result, the biological activity of the detected IgE antibodies, i. 
e., the potential to trigger mediator release from basophils or mast cells in an 
allergen-specific manner, should be taken into account. However, present data
also indicate that validation of such mediator release tests is required, both in
terms of experimental protocols and with respect to correlation of the test
results with the clinical situation. Further studies are also required to prove
the usefulness of targeted serum screening, i. e., the testing of gene products
from organisms not known to be allergenic with sera from subjects allergic to
related species.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16764014 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

177: 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]

178: 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]

179: 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]

180: 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]

181: Law Hum Genome Rev. 2005 Jul-Dec;(23):217-21.

Report on genetically modified organisms in agriculture and food.

[Article in English, Spanish]

Ethics Advisory Committe on Scientific and Technological Research.

Publication Types: 
    Practice Guideline

PMID: 16628882 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

182: Biotechnol Lett. 2006 Mar;28(5):321-5.

The occurrence of antibiotic resistance genes in Taq polymerases and a
decontamination method applied to the detection of genetically modified crops.

Perron A, Raymond P, Simard R.

St-Hyacinthe Laboratory, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Casavant Blvd West, J2S
8E3 3400, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada.

Different antibiotic resistance (AR) genes, such as Bla, Tet and NPTII,
contaminate commercially available Taq polymerases. The specificity of the AR
gene PCR can be increased when using a restriction enzyme-based decontamination
of polymerase. The elimination of Taq polymerase contamination allows the use of 
PCR tests to screen seeds (corn) and processed food for the presence of
genetically modified organisms (GMO) based on the detection of AR genes. Without 
a decontamination procedure for AR genes, PCR screening tests should be
interpreted with caution.

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

PMID: 16614919 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

183: 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]

184: Microb Cell Fact. 2006 Mar 23;5:14.

Heterologous expression of Brucella abortus GroEL heat-shock protein in
Lactococcus lactis.

Miyoshi A, Bermúdez-Humarán LG, Ribeiro LA, Le Loir Y, Oliveira SC, Langella P,
Azevedo V.

Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo
Horizonte - MG, Brasil. miyoshi@icb.ufmg.br

BACKGROUND: Brucella abortus is a facultative intracellular pathogen that mainly 
infects cattle and humans. Current vaccines rely on live attenuated strains of B.
abortus, which can revert to their pathogenic status and thus are not totally
safe for use in humans. Therefore, the development of mucosal live vaccines using
the food-grade lactic acid bacterium, Lactococcus lactis, as an antigen delivery 
vector, is an attractive alternative and a safer vaccination strategy against B. 
abortus. Here, we report the construction of L. lactis strains genetically
modified to produce B. abortus GroEL heat-shock protein, a candidate antigen, in 
two cellular locations, intracellular or secreted. RESULTS: Only the secreted
form of GroEL was stably produced in L. lactis, suggesting a detrimental effect
of GroEL protein when intracellularly produced in this bacterium. Only trace
amounts of mature GroEL were detected in the supernatant fraction of induced
lactococcal cultures, and the GroEL precursor remained stacked in the cell
fraction. Attempts to raise the secretion yields were made, but even when GroEL
was fused to a synthetic propeptide, secretion of this antigen was not improved. 
CONCLUSION: We found that L. lactis is able to produce, and to secrete, a stable 
form of GroEL into the extracellular medium. Despite the low secretion efficiency
of GroEL, which suggest that this antigen interacts with the cell envelope of L. 
lactis, secretion seems to be the best way to achieve both production and protein
yields, regardless of cellular location. The L. lactis strain secreting GroEL has
potential for in vivo immunization.

PMID: 16556312 [PubMed]

185: 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]

186: Vaccine. 2006 May 1;24(18):3900-8. Epub 2006 Mar 2.

Immunogenicity of a malaria parasite antigen displayed by Lactococcus lactis in
oral immunisations.

Ramasamy R, Yasawardena S, Zomer A, Venema G, Kok J, Leenhouts K.

BioMaDe Technology, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.

A putative protective protein from Plasmodium falciparum merozoites, MSA2, was
expressed in two different ways on the cell surface of the Gram-positive
food-grade bacterium, Lactococcus lactis. The first display format exploits an
LPXTG-type anchoring motif of the lactococcal proteinase PrtP to covalently
anchor MSA2 to the genetically modified producer cells. In a second display
format, MSA2 was fused to the peptidoglycan-binding domain (Protein Anchor) of
the lactococcal cell wall hydrolase AcmA and was non-covalently rebound to the
surface of non-genetically modified, non-living high-binder L. lactis cells,
termed Gram-positive enhancer matrix (GEM) particles. The L. lactis recombinants 
carrying covalently bound MSA2 were used to immunise rabbits through nasal and
oral routes. The highest levels of IgG antibodies reacting with near-native MSA2 
on merozoites was elicited by oral administration. Intestinal antibodies to MSA2 
were produced only after oral immunisation. MSA2-specific T(h)-cell activation
could be demonstrated. Based on these results, the immunogenicity in oral
immunisations of MSA2, bound non-covalently to non-genetically modified L. lactis
GEM particles, was compared with MSA2 that was bound covalently to genetically
modified L. lactis. These two forms elicited similar titres of serum antibodies. 
The results illustrate the potential of using non-genetically modified L. lactis 
as a safe vaccine delivery vehicle to elicit systemic antibodies, thereby
avoiding the dissemination of recombinant DNA into the environment.

PMID: 16545511 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

187: 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]

188: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Mar 22;54(6):2154-61.

Application of two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to interrogate alterations in 
the proteome of genetically modified crops. 1. Assessing analytical validation.

Ruebelt MC, Leimgruber NK, Lipp M, Reynolds TL, Nemeth MA, Astwood JD, Engel KH, 
Jany KD.

Product Safety Center, Monsanto Company, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St.
Louis, Missouri 63167, USA. m.ruebelt@gmail.com

Current tools used to assess the safety of food and feed derived from modern
biotechnology emphasize the investigation of possible unintended effects caused
directly by the expression of transgenes or indirectly by pleiotropy. These tools
include extensive multisite and multiyear agronomic evaluations, compositional
analyses, animal nutrition, and classical toxicology evaluations. Because
analytical technologies are rapidly developing, proteome analysis based on
two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) was investigated as a complementary
tool to the existing technologies. A 2DE method was established for the
qualitative and quantitative analysis of the seed proteome of Arabidopsis
thaliana with the following validation parameters examined: (1) source and scope 
of variation; (2) repeatability; (3) sensitivity; and (4) linearity of the
method. The 2DE method resolves proteins with isoelectric points between 4 and 9 
and molecular masses (MM) of 6-120 kDa and is sensitive enough to detect protein 
levels in the low nanogram range. The separation of the proteins was demonstrated
to be very reliable with relative position variations of 1.7 and 1.1% for the pI 
and MM directions, respectively. The mean coefficient of variation of 254 matched
spot qualities was found to be 24.8% for the gel-to-gel and 26% for the overall
variability. A linear relationship (R2 > 0.9) between protein amount and spot
volume was demonstrated over a 100-fold range for the majority of selected
proteins. Therefore, this method could be used to interrogate proteome
alterations such as a novel protein, fusion protein, or any other change that
affects molecular mass, isoelectric point, and/or quantity of a protein.

PMID: 16536590 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

189: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2005 Nov;34(6):732-4.

[Detection of genetically modified organisms in food and animal feed by
polymerase chain reaction]

[Article in Chinese]

Zhou JC, Yang MJ, Yang XF, Huang JM.

Toxicological Laboratory, Guangdong Center for Disease Control and Prevention,
Guangzhou 510300, China.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the presence of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in
the foods and animal feed samples in Guangzhou market. METHODS: The presence of
GMO were investigated by PCR detection of camv 35S promoter and nos terminator,
and the presence of RoundUp Ready Soybean (RRS), Bt176 Maximaizer or Mon810
YieldGard in GMO-positive samples were further determined by PCR detecting their 
specific DNA fragments respectively. RESULTS: One corn soup sample, two soybean
samples, one potato fries sample as well as two animal feed samples were revealed
to be GMO-positive in twenty-two food samples and three animal feed samples, and 
the presence of RRS in the GMO-positive soybean samples and the two positive
animal feed samples were verified by PCR detection of a 129 bp RRS-specific DNA
fragment, however, no Bt176 Maximaizer or Mon810 YieldGard specific PCR products 
were obtained with the GMO-positive corn soup and animal feed DNA samples used as
PCR templates. CONCLUSION: Genetically modified organism presented in foods and
animal feeds even though they were not been labelled.

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

PMID: 16535848 [PubMed - in process]

190: 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.

Lü 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]

191: J Chem Ecol. 2006 Jan;32(1):1-13. Epub 2006 Feb 26.

Potato expressing beetle-specific Bacillus thuringiensis Cry3Aa toxin reduces
performance of a moth.

Hussein HM, Habustová O, Turanli F, Sehnal F.

Institute of Entomology, Academy of Sciences, Branisovská 31, 370 05, Ceské
Budejovice, Czech Republic.

Expression of the Bacillus thuringiensis beetle-specific toxin Cry3Aa, which
renders a genetically modified potato cultivar resistant to the Colorado potato
beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata, exerts a deleterious effect on the polyphagous 
moth Spodoptera littoralis. The caterpillars of S. littoralis feed less and
produce smaller pupae on the genetically modified cultivar (NewLeaf Superior)
than on the parental nontransgenic cultivar (Superior). The conversion
efficiencies of total dry matter, combustion heat, carbon, and nitrogen from
leaves to insect biomass are similar on both cultivars. In spite of similar food 
utilization and a relatively small difference in the body mass at pupation,
female adults that developed from caterpillars fed on NewLeaf Superior lay a mean
of 309 eggs compared to a mean of 713 eggs deposited by females that developed
from caterpillars fed on Superior. Because of this difference and a simultaneous 
reduction in fertility (egg hatchability) from 78 to 48%, a pair of adults that
fed as larvae on NewLeaf Superior produces only 148 larvae, whereas a pair of
adults that fed as larvae on Superior produces 556 larvae. We suggest that small 
amounts of Cry3Aa that accumulate in insect tissue and persist until the adult
stage are responsible for the decline in reproduction.

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

PMID: 16525866 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

192: 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]

193: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Feb 22;54(4):1158-65.

Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) quantitative detection of Brassica
napus using a locked nucleic acid TaqMan probe.

Schmidt AM, Rott ME.

Sidney Laboratory, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 8801 East Saanich Road,
Sidney, British Columbia V8L 1H3, Canada.

Several countries have introduced mandatory labeling requirements on foods
derived from genetically modified organisms. Real-time quantitative Polymerase
Chain Reaction (PCR) has quickly become the method of choice in support of these 
regulations and requires the development of separate PCR assays targeting the
transgenic sequence as well as a specific endogenous gene sequence. To develop a 
Brassica napus-specific PCR assay, partial sequences of the acetyl-CoA
carboxylase BnACCg8 gene from B. napus and the closely related Brassica rapa were
determined and compared, and a region of unique nucleotide sequence was
identified. Universal amplification primers were designed to either side of this 
region, and a locked nucleic acid TaqMan probe was designed to the B.
napus-specific sequence. Evaluation of this primer/probe combination indicated a 
high level of specificity to B. napus: no amplification signal was observed with 
any other species tested, including five closely related Brassica species. The
method was assayed with 14 different B. napus cultivars, and comparable
amplification curves were consistently obtained for all. The assay was highly
sensitive, with a limit of detection between 1 and 10 haploid copies.
Practically, the method was demonstrated to be effective for the detection of
processed food samples and for the quantification of Roundup Ready canola content
in mixed samples.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 16478231 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

194: 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]

195: 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]

196: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Feb 8;54(3):682-7.

Novel reference gene, PKABA1, used in a duplex real-time polymerase chain
reaction for detection and quantitation of wheat- and barley-derived DNA.

Rønning SB, Berdal KG, Andersen CB, Holst-Jensen A.

Section for Feed and Food Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute,
Ullevålsveien 68, Post Office Box 8156 Dep., 0033 Oslo, Norway.

We report the development of a duplex real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
for the simultaneous detection and quantification of wheat- and barley-derived
DNA. We used a single primer pair to amplify the single-copy gene PKABA1 from
wheat and barley, using minor-groove-binding probes to distinguish between the
two cereals. The assay was fully specific, and different wheat and barley
cultivars exhibited similar Ct values, indicating stability across cultivars with
respect to allelic and copy number composition. The limits of detection were 5
and 10 PCR-forming units for wheat and barley, respectively, making the duplex
assay as sensitive as other singleplex reference gene systems published. We were 
able to detect both wheat and barley simultaneously in real food samples, and the
duplex assay is considered to be suitable as an endogenous reference gene system 
for the detection and quantification of wheat and barley in genetically modified 
organisms (GMO) and other food and feed analyses.

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

PMID: 16448168 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

197: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Feb 8;54(3):678-81.

Validated method for quantification of genetically modified organisms in samples 
of maize flour.

Kunert R, Gach JS, Vorauer-Uhl K, Engel E, Katinger H.

Institute of Applied Microbiology, University of Natural Resources and Applied
Life Sciences, Muthgasse 18, A-1190 Vienna, Austria. Renate.Kunert@boku.ac.at

Sensitive and accurate testing for trace amounts of biotechnology-derived DNA
from plant material is the prerequisite for detection of 1% or 0.5% genetically
modified ingredients in food products or raw materials thereof. Compared to ELISA
detection of expressed proteins, real-time PCR (RT-PCR) amplification has easier 
sample preparation and detection limits are lower. Of the different methods of
DNA preparation CTAB method with high flexibility in starting material and
generation of sufficient DNA with relevant quality was chosen. Previous RT-PCR
data generated with the SYBR green detection method showed that the method is
highly sensitive to sample matrices and genomic DNA content influencing the
interpretation of results. Therefore, this paper describes a real-time DNA
quantification based on the TaqMan probe method, indicating high accuracy and
sensitivity with detection limits of lower than 18 copies per sample applicable
and comparable to highly purified plasmid standards as well as complex matrices
of genomic DNA samples. The results were evaluated with ValiData for homology of 
variance, linearity, accuracy of the standard curve, and standard deviation.

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

PMID: 16448167 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

198: Clin Exp Allergy. 2006 Feb;36(2):238-48.

Evaluation of allergenicity of genetically modified soybean protein extract in a 
murine model of oral allergen-specific sensitization.

Gizzarelli F, Corinti S, Barletta B, Iacovacci P, Brunetto B, Butteroni C,
Afferni C, Onori R, Miraglia M, Panzini G, Di Felice G, Tinghino R.

Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto
Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.

BACKGROUND: With the development of genetically modified crop plants there has
been a growing interest in the approaches available to assess the potential
allergenicity of novel gene products. For additional assessment of the potential 
allergenicity of expressed proteins, informative data can be generated using
animal models. Soybean is one of the major source of protein in human and animal 
nutrition, and has also been well characterized as a major allergenic source.
Advances in biotechnology have resulted in an increasing number of genetically
engineered foods, and among these soybean is one of the most widespread.
OBJECTIVE: To develop and characterize a murine model of IgE-mediated soybean
sensitization induced by intragastric immunization, in the presence of Cholera
Toxin, with wild-type soybean extract (wt-SE) or with genetically modified
soybean extract (gm-SE). METHODS: Balb/c mice born in our animal facilities, from
females fed on soy-free food, were fed with the same soy-free food and used in
all the experiments. Mice were sensitized by gavages with soybean extracts, and
allergen-specific IgE and IgG responses were studied by direct ELISA and ELISA
inhibition. Antigen-specific cell proliferation and cytokine production were
evaluated in spleen cell cultures. Results Sensitization with both soybean
extracts induced high levels of antigen-specific IgE and IgG1 and low levels of
specific IgG2a. Both wt-SE and gm-SE were able to inhibit the binding of specific
IgE from mice immunized with gm-SE to the same antigen used for the ELISA
coating. A comparable proliferative response was obtained with the homologous as 
well as with the heterologous extracts. CONCLUSION: In sensitized mice, we
observed a predominantly T-helper type 2 (Th2)-type immune response, with
increased soybean-specific IgE and IgG1 antibodies and a concomitant increase of 
IL-4 and IL-5 production. RESULTS: obtained by specific IgE ELISA inhibition and 
by antigen-specific T cell proliferation demonstrated that wt-SE and gm-SE shared
B and T epitopes. The present murine model of soybean sensitization established
by the oral route should provide valuable information about risk assessment for
food allergy from new proteins of genetically modified foods.

PMID: 16433863 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

199: Therapie. 2005 Sep-Oct;60(5):469-76.

[Mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs: importance of genetically modified 
mice in the pharmacological in vivo approach]

[Article in French]

Gardier A.

Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie EA3544, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université
Paris-Sud, Chatenay-Malabry, France. alain.gardier@cep.u-psud.fr

The main hypothesis regarding the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs is 
monoaminergic and mainly involves two neurotransmitters, serotonin and
noradrenaline. Despite the well-recognized therapeutic efficacy of selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), some disadvantages still occur. For
example, they often require 4-6 weeks to achieve clinical benefits in depressed
patients. In the past, some molecules that could shorten this long delay of
action have been identified. The role of presynaptic autoreceptors - the
activation of which leads to an inhibitory feedback control on neurotransmitter
synthesis and release - has been extensively studied for antidepressant effects. 
In our laboratory, we studied the combined effects of an SSRI and a serotonin
autoreceptor antagonist of the 5-HT1B subtype using intracerebral in vivo
microdialysis in awake, freely moving mice. Important information on SSRIs has
been obtained by applying this technique to genetically modified animals, such as
constitutive knockout (KO) mice lacking 5-HT1B receptors (5-HT1B KO) generated by
homologous recombination: we compared the effects of a combined treatment on
extracellular/intrasynaptic levels of serotonin in various nerve terminals area
in wild-type control and KO mice. Thus, we found that indirect activation of
5-HT1B autoreceptors limits the effects of SSRIs on dialysate 5-HT levels at
serotonergic nerve terminals such as the ventral hippocampus. The study of
substance P (neurokinin 1 receptor [R-NK1]) offers another example of the use of 
KO mice in the development of a new class of antidepressant drugs. NK1 receptor
antagonists may display anxiolytic/antidepressant-like properties. The lack of
selective compounds for each tachykinin receptor subtype (R-NK 1, R-NK2 or R-NK3)
and differences in their affinity between animal species have made R-NK1 KO mice 
a very useful experimental tool. In collaborative work we found that genetic
(R-NK1 KO mice) or pharmacological (GR205171) blockade of R-NK1 is associated
with several changes: the increase in cortical 5-HT outflow caused by systemic
injection of paroxetine was 4- to 6-fold higher in freely moving R-NK1 KO mice
than in wild-type controls. The constitutive lack of NK1 receptors is associated 
with a functional desensitization of somatodendritic 5-HT1A autoreceptors,
resembling that induced by chronic treatment with SSRI antidepressants. These
results highlight the link between a neurotransmitter (serotonin) and a
neuropeptide (substance P). This genetic strategy allowed us to point out that
multiple targets participate to the effects of classical antidepressant drugs
within the brain. We hope that, soon, some mice lines (constitutive or tissue
specific, conditional rescue mice having alterations of sleep/wakefulness and/or 
food intake, altered central serotonin and/or noradrenaline neurotransmission,
deficit in neurotrophic factors, but increases in intrasynaptic concentrations of
substance P) could be a relevant model of the physiopathology of depressive
disorders, and could help us understand the appearance of some symptoms. These
recent findings suggest that instead of being rejected, the monoaminergic
hypothesis of depression should be improved, corrected and completed by studying 
the role of other neurotransmitter, neuromodulatory compounds (substance P, BDNF 
[brain-derived neurotrophic factor]). By doing so, it thus could be possible to
improve antidepressant drug treatment, i.e. shorten their long delay of action
and/or to decrease treatment resistance or improve its tolerance.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 16433012 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

200: Methods. 2006 Feb;38(2):144-9.

Mucosal vaccine delivery of antigens tightly bound to an adjuvant particle made
from food-grade bacteria.

van Roosmalen ML, Kanninga R, El Khattabi M, Neef J, Audouy S, Bosma T, Kuipers
A, Post E, Steen A, Kok J, Buist G, Kuipers OP, Robillard G, Leenhouts K.

BiOMaDe Technology Foundation, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.

Mucosal immunization with subunit vaccines requires new types of antigen delivery
vehicles and adjuvants for optimal immune responses. We have developed a
non-living and non-genetically modified gram-positive bacterial delivery particle
(GEM) that has built-in adjuvant activity and a high loading capacity for
externally added heterologous antigens that are fused to a high affinity binding 
domain. This binding domain, the protein anchor (PA), is derived from the
Lactococcus lactis AcmA cell-wall hydrolase, and contains three repeats of a
LysM-type cell-wall binding motif. Antigens are produced as antigen-PA fusions by
recombinant expression systems that secrete the hybrid proteins into the culture 
growth medium. GEM particles are then used as affinity beads to isolate the
antigen-PA fusions from the complex growth media in a one step procedure after
removal of the recombinant producer cells. This procedure is also highly suitable
for making multivalent vaccines. The resulting vaccines are stable at room
temperature, lack recombinant DNA, and mimic pathogens by their bacterial size,
surface display of antigens and adjuvant activity of the bacterial components in 
the GEM particles. The GEM-based vaccines do not require additional adjuvant for 
eliciting high levels of specific antibodies in mucosal and systemic
compartments.

PMID: 16414272 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

201: 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]

202: 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]

203: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Dec 28;53(26):10239-43.

Degradation of endogenous and exogenous genes of roundup-ready soybean during
food processing.

Chen Y, Wang Y, Ge Y, Xu B.

Institute of Food Safety, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing
100025, People's Republic of China.

Roundup-Ready soybeans have been genetically modified to resist the effects of
the herbicidal glyphosate and have become the most prevalent transgenic crop in
the world. In this work, Roundup-Ready soybeans were used as raw material to
study the effects of critical processing procedures such as grinding, cooking,
blending, homogenization, sterilization, and spray-drying on the length of DNA
fragments of an endogenous gene (lectin) and an exogenous gene (epsps) examined
in material from three soybean foods of bean curd, soy milk, and soy powder and
from samples taken during their processing. The results showed that various
processing procedures caused degradations of both the endogenous and exogenous
genes to different degrees. In the grinding procedure, endogenous gene DNA was
degraded from 1883 to approximately 836 bp, and exogenous gene DNA was degraded
from 1512 to approximately 408 bp. In the blending and squeeze-molding
procedures, exogenous gene DNA was also degraded from about 408 to 190 bp, but
there was no obvious action on the endogenous gene. After the endogenous and
exogenous genes had been degraded to some degree, such as 836 and 408 bp,
respectively, they were not evidently affected by cooking procedure at 100
degrees C for 15 min. However, the endogenous gene was further considerably
degraded from around 836 to 162 bp in the sterilization procedure at 121 degrees 
C for 30 s. The effect of the homogenization step on endogenous and exogenous
genes was similar to that of the cooking procedure. The coagulation procedure,
principally a biochemical reaction, did not greatly affect the exogenous gene but
did affect endogenous gene, reducing DNA size from about 836 to 407 bp.
Furthermore, the spray-drying procedure, a process of physical shearing, high
temperature, and sudden high pressure, distinctly caused degradation of both the 
lectin and epsps genes, rapidly decreasing the sizes from about 836 to 162 bp for
the endogenous gene and from about 408 to 190 bp for the exogenous gene.

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

PMID: 16366721 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

204: 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]

205: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2006 Mar;44(2):182-8. Epub 2005 Dec 20.

Improved ELISA method for screening human antigen-specific IgE and its
application for monitoring specific IgE for novel proteins in genetically
modified foods.

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

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

For monitoring the occurrence of IgE antibody specific for novel proteins in
genetically modified (GM) foods, ELISA is the most convenient method. The levels 
of IgE specific for recombinant proteins, phosphinothricin-N-acetyltransferase
(PAT), CP4-EPSPS, and Cry9C were determined by ELISA using the sera from patients
allergic to known allergens. Ovalbumin (OVA) and OVA-positive patient sera were
used as positive control. In the ELISA, 20-fold-diluted sera tested were mostly
negative for the specific IgE. However, the PAT-specific, but not CP4-EPSPS- or
Cry9C-specific IgE in some patients was apparently higher than that of the
healthy volunteers. To clarify the binding specificity of the antibody, we
pre-incubated the sera with soluble PAT, but the inhibition was marginal,
suggesting that the binding was non-specific. Therefore, we used 1M NaCl as a
washing buffer to remove IgE non-specifically bound to the coated PAT. This
washing step efficiently decreased non-specific binding. In contrast,
OVA-specific IgE binding to OVA-coated plate was not affected by the washing.
Finally, in this pilot study significant levels of IgE antibodies specific for
the three proteins were not detected in the sera of Japanese food-allergy
patients.

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

PMID: 16364525 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

206: 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]

207: J Chromatogr A. 2006 Apr 21;1112(1-2):353-60. Epub 2005 Dec 15.

Quinolizidine alkaloids and phomopsins in lupin seeds and lupin containing food.

Reinhard H, Rupp H, Sager F, Streule M, Zoller O.

Swiss Federal Office of Public Health, Division of Food Science, CH-3003 Bern,
Switzerland. hans.reinhard@bag.admin.ch

In recent years there has been growing interest in replacing (genetically
modified) soya by lupin. Lupin seeds, flours and lupin containing food have been 
analyzed in order to assess the relevance of a potential health hazard given by
mycotoxins and/or naturally occurring alkaloids. Since not all important
alkaloids used for quantitation were commercially available, isolation of
lupanine, 13alpha-hydroxylupanine and angustifoline from lupin flours of high
alkaloid contents was performed. Alkaloids were analyzed by GC-MS/GC-FID in
parallel, while the phomopsin mycotoxins were analyzed by ELISA, since
chromatographic methods were not sensitive enough and required time-consuming
sample cleanup. The analyzed lupin containing foods were free of phomopsins. In
foods where lupin was only a minor constituent the alkaloid content was of no
concern. However, roasted lupin beans intended as coffee surrogate had alkaloid
contents close to the Australian intervention limit of 200 microg/g.

PMID: 16359686 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

208: Peptides. 2006 Jun;27(6):1179-86. Epub 2005 Dec 13.

Design of genetically modified soybean proglycinin A1aB1b with multiple copies of
bioactive peptide sequences.

Prak K, Maruyama Y, Maruyama N, Utsumi S.

Laboratory of Food Quality Design and Development, Graduate School of
Agriculture, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan.

The peptide IIAEK derived from beta-lactoglobulin has a hypocholesterolemic
activity greater than that of beta-sitosterol. To create food proteins with
multiple copies of this valuable peptide sequence, we introduced tandem multimers
of the nucleotide sequence encoding the peptide into DNA regions corresponding to
the five variable regions of soybean glycinin A1aB1b subunit, and expressed the
mutants in Escherichia coli. The expression level and solubility of the five
mutants, each containing four IIAEK sequences in each of the variable regions,
were compared. Overall, the expression level and solubility of the mutants with
four IIAEK sequences in the variable regions IV and V were the best followed by
II > III > I. Further, introduction of the fifth IIAEK sequence to the variable
region IV did not decrease expression level and solubility. Increasing the number
of IIAEK to 7 and 10 slightly decreased expression level, while their solubility 
decreased to as low as 40 and 1%, respectively. Various mutations were combined
to get a mutant containing as many IIAEK sequences as possible. Some of the
resulting mutants were expressed in the soluble form. The mutant containing eight
IIAEK from the combination of variable regions IV and V (IV-4 + V-4) showed the
best balance of the expression level and solubility, followed by the combination 
of variable regions II and III (II-4 + III-4). The soluble fractions of these
mutants were purified by hydrophobic, gel filtration and ion-exchange column
chromatography. Yields of IIAEK peptide released by in vitro digestion with
trypsin from both mutants were around 80%. This is the first report that a large 
amount of a physiologically active peptide could be introduced into food protein.

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

PMID: 16356590 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

209: 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]

210: 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]

211: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):458-64.

The canine model of dietary hypersensitivity.

Day MJ.

Division of Veterinary Pathology, Infection and Immunity, School of Clinical
Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, UK. m.j.day@bristol.ac.uk

IgE-mediated dietary hypersensitivity affects approximately 1% of the canine
population. There are no breed associations and < or =50% of the patients are
aged <1 year at presentation. The most common causative allergens are beef,
chicken, milk, eggs, maize, wheat and soyabean. Affected dogs generally display
cutaneous disease and 10-15% of the patients may have concurrent alimentary
involvement. Diagnosis is currently based on dietary restriction followed by
provocation. Procedures for the detection of serum allergen-specific IgE and IgG 
antibodies are widely available, but these tests correlate poorly with clinical
presentation and dietary testing. Recent studies have demonstrated the allergen
specificity of IgE antibodies by immunoblotting and have described blood
lymphocyte proliferative responses to food allergens. In addition to
investigations of spontaneously-arising dietary hypersensitivity, it has also
proved possible to study this disorder experimentally. Small colonies of dogs
sensitive to particular dietary proteins have been used to study clinical and
serological responses to allergen challenge. Hypersensitivity has been
experimentally induced in dogs of an atopic phenotype by repeated subcutaneous
injection of alum-adjuvanted dietary allergen during neonatal life. These models 
have been used to trial a range of modified protein or hydrolysate diets. The dog
provides a unique large-animal model for investigation of the immunopathogenesis 
of human dietary hypersensitivity. The dog is closely related genetically to man 
and shares environmental disease triggers with man. Spontaneously arising canine 
dietary hypersensitivity is a good clinical mimic of the human disease, and
ability to therapeutically manipulate this adverse response in the dog might lead
to benefits for human patients.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16313687 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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

Biological and biomedical aspects of genetically modified food.

Celec P, Kukucková M, Renczésová V, Natarajan S, Pálffy R, Gardlík R, Hodosy J,
Behuliak M, Vlková B, Minárik G, Szemes T, Stuchlík 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]

213: 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]

214: 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]

215: Anal Chem. 2005 Nov 15;77(22):7421-8.

Quantitative detection system for maize sample containing combined-trait
genetically modified maize.

Akiyama H, Watanabe T, Wakabayashi K, Nakade S, Yasui S, Sakata K, Chiba R,
Spiegelhalter F, Hino A, Maitani T.

National Institute of Health Sciences, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
akiyama@nihs.go.jp

Various countries have established regulations that stipulate the labeling of
agricultural commodities, feed, and food products that contain or are made from
genetically modified (GM) material or that contain adventitious GM material in
amounts that exceed certain threshold levels. While regulations in some countries
refer to GM material on a weight per weight (w/w) percentage, the currently
applied detection methods do not directly measure the w/w percentage of the GM
material. Depending on the particular method and the sample matrix it is applied 
to, the conversion of analytical results to a w/w percentage is challenging or
not possible. The first rapid PCR system for GM maize detection on a single
kernel basis has been developed. The equipment for the grinding of individual
kernels and a silica membrane-based 96-well DNA extraction kit were both
significantly revised and optimized for this particular purpose, respectively. We
developed a multiplex real-time PCR method for the rapid quantification of GM DNA
sequences in the obtained DNA solutions. In addition, a multiplex qualitative PCR
detection method allows for the simultaneous detection of different GM maize
traits in each kernel and thereby for identification of individual kernels that
contain a combination of two or more GM traits. Especially for grain samples that
potentially contain combined-trait GM maize kernels, the proposed methods can
deliver informative results in a rapid, precise, and reliable manner.

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

PMID: 16285695 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

216: Eubios J Asian Int Bioeth. 2000 Jul;10(4):106-13.

Attitudes of the public and scientists to biotechnology in Japan at the start of 
2000.

Ng MA, Takeda C, Watanabe T, Macer D.

Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba Science City
305-8572, Japan.

This survey on biotechnology and bioethics was carried out on national random
samples of the public and scientists in November 2000-January 2000
[sic]throughout Japan, and attendees at the Novartis Life Science Forum held on
29 September 1999 in Tokyo. The sample size was 297, 370, and 74 respectively.
While there is a better awareness of GMOs in 2000 compared to 1991; the trend
shows an increase in the perceived risks of GMOs followed by growing resistance
in Japan. While a majority of persons believed genetic engineering would make
life better over the next twenty years (57%), the proportion of respondents who
thought genetic engineering would make life worse over the next twenty years
doubled from 1997 to 2000 (from 12% to 25%). Respondents were asked whether they 
had heard about applications in several areas and the order of familiarity
(high-low) was: pest-resistant crops, human genes in bacteria, mouse to develop
cancer, food and drinks, pigs with human hearts and pre-implantation diagnosis. A
divide of opinion can be seen when the results on benefit, risk and moral
acceptability of applications of biotechnology by the public are compared to the 
forum and scientist samples. A significant change in the acceptance of the public
occurred in 2000 where only 22% agreed on the moral acceptability of GM food
compared to 41% in 1997. In 2000 fewer people said they are willing (20%) to buy 
genetically modified fruits that taste better compared to 1997 (36%). The results
show less public support for use of gene therapy than 1993 and twice as many
scientists rejected gene therapy than they did in 1991. When asked who is best
placed to regulate modern biotechnology, the respondents were overwhelmingly in
favor of international regulatory bodies, such as the United Nations and the
World Health Organization (72%), rather than national bodies. The comparison
between scientists and public is interesting, however the more enthusiastic
sample were participants from the Novaritis Life Science Forum with its mixed
occupations.

PMID: 16273712 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

217: Biotechnol Adv. 2006 Mar-Apr;24(2):143-60. Epub 2005 Oct 27.

Baculoviruses-- re-emerging biopesticides.

Szewczyk B, Hoyos-Carvajal L, Paluszek M, Skrzecz I, Lobo de Souza M.

Department of Molecular Virology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of the
University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Kladki 24, 80-822 GDANSK, 
Poland. szewczyk@biotech.univ.gda.pl

Biological control of agricultural pests has gained importance in recent years
due to increased pressure to reduce the use of agrochemicals and their residues
in the environment and food. Viruses of a few families are known to infect
insects but only those belonging to the highly specialized family Baculoviridae
have been used as biopesticides. They are safe to people and wildlife, their
specificity is very narrow. Their application as bioinsecticides was limited
until recently because of their slow killing action and technical difficulties
for in vitro commercial production. Two approaches for the wider application of
baculoviruses as biopesticides will be implemented in future. In countries where 
use of genetically modified organisms is restricted, the improvements will be
mainly at the level of diagnostics, in vitro production and changes in
biopesticide formulations. In the second approach, the killing activity of
baculoviruses may be augmented by genetic modifications of the baculovirus genome
with genes of another natural pathogen. It is expected that the baculoviruses
improved by genetic modifications will be gradually introduced in countries which
have fewer concerns towards genetically modified organisms.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16257169 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

218: J Comp Neurol. 2005 Dec 5;493(1):63-71.

Identifying hypothalamic pathways controlling food intake, body weight, and
glucose homeostasis.

Elmquist JK, Coppari R, Balthasar N, Ichinose M, Lowell BB.

Department of Medicine and Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism,
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Harvard Medical School, Boston,
Massachusetts 02115, USA. jelmquis@bidmc.harvard.edu

The past decade has greatly increased our understanding and appreciation of the
ability of the central nervous system (CNS) to regulate food intake and body
weight. This was spearheaded by the discovery of key molecules regulating body
weight homeostasis. It is now also apparent that the CNS, especially the
hypothalamus, plays a primary role in directly regulating glucose homeostasis,
independently of effects on body weight. These discoveries are important given
the increasing incidences of obesity and type II diabetes in Western societies.
In this article, we will highlight recent data from genetically modified mice.
These data and other models have helped to dissect the CNS pathways regulating
body weight and glucose homeostasis. Finally, although these studies have been
illustrative, they also underscore our relative lack of knowledge and highlight
the need for more definitive approaches to unravel the functional significance of
these pathways. (c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16254991 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

219: 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, Università 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]

220: 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, Paternò 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]

221: J Appl Microbiol. 2005;99(5):1082-9.

Growth of Lactobacillus plantarum in media containing hydrolysates of fish
viscera.

Horn SJ, Aspmo SI, Eijsink VG.

Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of 
Life Sciences, As, Norway. svein.horn@umb.no

AIMS: To compare growth of Lactobacillus plantarum on media containing
hydrolysates (peptones) from cod viscera with growth on commercial media. METHODS
AND RESULTS: Growth of Lact. plantarum on various fish peptones and commercial
peptones/extracts was evaluated using both a Bioscreen apparatus (microtiter
plates, no pH control) and fermentors (with pH control). Generally, the
performance of the fish peptones was good and only beaten by the performance of
yeast extract. Replacement of the 22 g l(-1) complex nitrogen source in standard 
MRS medium with only 5 g l(-1) fish peptone reduced the biomass yield with only
10%, whereas replacement with a mixture of 2.5 g l(-1) fish peptone and 2.5 g
l(-1) yeast extract increased the biomass yield by 10%. CONCLUSIONS: Peptones
derived from cod viscera support excellent growth of Lact. plantarum.
SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: We show that peptones derived from cod
viscera are promising constituents of growth media for fastidious food bacteria
such as lactobacilli. Media containing these peptones show excellent performance 
while problems associated with the use of meat-derived peptones (BSE, kosher
status) or plant-derived peptones (genetically modified organisms) are avoided.

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

PMID: 16238738 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

222: J Biosci Bioeng. 2002;94(6):536-44.

Genetically modified industrial yeast ready for application.

Akada R.

Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering,
Yamaguchi University, Tokiwadai, Ube 755-8611, Japan. rinji@yamaguchi-u.ac.jp

Tremendous progress in the genetic engineering of yeast had been achieved at the 
end of 20th century, including the complete genome sequence, genome-wide gene
expression profiling, and whole gene disruption strains. Nevertheless,
genetically modified (GM) baking, brewing, wine, and sake yeasts have not, as
yet, been used commercially, although numerous industrial recombinant yeasts have
been constructed. The recent progress of genetic engineering for the construction
of GM yeast is reviewed and possible requirements for their application are
discussed. 'Self-cloning' yeast will be the most likely candidate for the first
commercial application of GM microorganisms in food and beverage industries.

PMID: 16233347 [PubMed]

223: 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]

224: Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2005;11:335-54.

Detection of metazoan species as a public health issue: simple methods for the
validation of food safety and quality.

Vassioukovitch O, Orsini M, Paparini A, Gianfranceschi G, Cattarini O, Di Michele
P, Montuori E, Vanini GC, Romano Spica V.

University of Movement Sciences (IUSM), Section of Hygiene, Department, Human
Movement and Sport Sciences, P.zza L. De Bosis 6, 00194 Foro Italico-Rome, Italy.

Species identification represents a critical issue in food chain safety and
quality control. Several procedures are available to detect animal proteins in
cattle feed or to trace transgenic foods. The most effective approach is based on
the use of DNA as a marker. Amplification of DNA provides rapid, sensitive and
specific protocols. Several target genes can be used, but new insights come from 
the mitochondrial genome, which is naturally amplified in each cell and shows a
remarkable resistance to degradation. These are key points when analysing complex
matrices such as foods, animal feedstuff or environmental samples. Traceability
is important to prevent BSE or to monitor novel foods, such as genetically
modified organisms. Amplification is commonly performed, but it requires
expertise and a molecular biology laboratory to perform restriction analysis,
electrophoresis or gel staining for the visualisation of results. Hereby, we
consider a strategy based on multiple nested amplification and reverse
hybridisation assay that virtually requires only a thermocycler and a water bath.
The protocol is rapid and simple and can simultaneously detect different species 
in a DNA sample. This promising approach allows microarray developments, opening 
up to further perspectives. An international application has been published under
the patent cooperation treaty. Presently, a ban on feeding ruminants on
cattle-derived proteins is in force in Europe and USA. The identification of
metazoan traces in a sample is not only a mere preventive measure for BSE, but
represents a possible screening system for monitoring biotechnology products and 
procedures, as well as a quality control strategy to assure consumer's rights.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16216782 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

225: Res Microbiol. 2005 Sep;156(8):837-42. Epub 2005 Jun 22.

Genomic fingerprinting of bacteriocin-producer strains of Staphylococcus aureus.

Nascimento Jdos S, Giambiagi-deMarval M, de Oliveira SS, Ceotto H, dos Santos KR,
Bastos Mdo C.

Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Prof. Paulo de
Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Among 363 strains of Staphylococcus aureus, 21 were shown to produce bacteriocins
(Bac), antimicrobial peptides with potential biotechnological applications. This 
collection includes strains which are either isolated from food, patients and
healthy cattle, or are involved in subclinical bovine mastitis. From these 21
strains, 17 were shown to carry closely-related 8.0-kb Bac plasmids encoding
bacteriocins either identical to or similar to aureocin A70, a bacteriocin able
to inhibit strains of Listeria monocytogenes, a food-borne pathogen. Such
findings prompted us to investigate the genetic relationships among these Bac+
strains. To obtain more discriminatory results, a combined analysis of AP-PCR,
rep-PCR, and a modified PCR technique that we designated SD-PCR was employed. The
17 Bac+ strains harboring 8.0-kb Bac plasmids exhibited seven fingerprint
patterns. One such genotype was composed of 8 out of the 11 strains associated
with bovine mastitis, which suggests the prevalence of a clone of Bac+ strains
involved in this animal infection carrying 8.0-kb Bac plasmids. Our data support 
the assumption that Bac+ strains of S. aureus carrying genetically related 8.0-kb
Bac plasmids do not belong to a single clone. It seems, therefore, that 8.0-kb
Bac plasmids have spread horizontally among different S. aureus strains. There
also seems to be genetic diversity among the remaining Bac+ strains analyzed.

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

PMID: 16171981 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

226: 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]

227: Pest Manag Sci. 2005 Dec;61(12):1186-92.

Beetle-specific Bacillus thuringiensis Cry3Aa toxin reduces larval growth and
curbs reproduction in Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.).

Hussein HM, Habustová O, Sehnal F.

Institute of Entomology, Academy of Sciences, Branisovská 31, 37005 Ceské
Budejovice, Czech Republic.

Application of Bacillus thuringiensis tenebrionis (Bt) and expression of the Bt
protein Cry3Aa in genetically modified crops are used for targeted control of the
Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say). The Cry3A proteins are
selectively toxic for the beetles but the present study describes effects of
Cry3Aa on the Egyptian armyworm, Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval). Cry3Aa
expressed in potatoes or added to an agar-base wheat-germ diet reduced the growth
of S. littoralis caterpillars and the fertility of adults. The effect of 1.4 mg
kg(-1) Cry3Aa in potato leaves was comparable with that of 3.3 mg kg(-1) in the
diet. This difference in activity was correlated with better digestibility and
higher conversion efficiency of the diet that also supported higher reproduction 
rate: S. littoralis grown on the potatoes reached a similar size to those on the 
diet but laid only 702 instead of 1077 eggs per female. Cry3Aa consumption
reduced body growth as a consequence of lower food intake without significantly
affecting food digestibility and the conversion efficiency of nutrients. The 11% 
and 5% body weight reductions caused by 1.4 mg kg(-1) Cry3Aa in potatoes and 3.3 
mg kg(-1) in the diet, respectively, were associated with 74% and 65% reduction
in the number of progeny; S littoralis grown on a diet with 9.1 mg kg(-1) Cry3Aa 
were 10% smaller and produced no viable progeny. These data suggest that the
curtailment of reproduction was not caused by a general shortage of nutrient
reserves but by a more direct Cry3Aa effect on the reproduction process.

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

PMID: 16152673 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

228: 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]

229: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Sep 7;53(18):7003-9.

Erratum in:
    J Agric Food Chem. 2006 May 31;54(11):4076.

Real-time polymerase chain reaction based assays for quantitative detection of
barley, rice, sunflower, and wheat.

Hernández M, Esteve T, Pla M.

Molecular Genetics Department, Institut de Biologia Molecular de Barcelona
(IBMB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Jordi Girona Salgado
18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.

Quality assurance is a major issue in the food industry. The authenticity of food
ingredients and their traceability are required by consumers and authorities.
Plant species such as barley (Hordeum vulgare), rice (Oryza sativa), sunflower
(Helianthus annuus), and wheat (Triticum aestivum) are very common among the
ingredients of many processed food products; therefore the development of
specific assays for their specific detection and quantification are needed.
Furthermore, the production and trade of genetically modified lines from an
increasing number of plant species brings about the need for control within
research, environmental risk assessment, labeling/legal, and consumers'
information purposes. We report here the development of four independent
real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays suitable for identification and 
quantification of four plant species (barley, rice, sunflower, and wheat). These 
assays target gamma-hordein, gos9, helianthinin, and acetyl-CoA carboxylase
sequences, respectively, and were able to specifically detect and quantify DNA
from the target plant species. In addition, the simultaneous amplification of
RALyase allowed bread from durum wheat to be distinguished. Limits of detection
were 1 genome copy for barley, sunflower, and wheat and 3.3 copies for rice
real-time PCR systems, whereas limits of quantification were 10 genome copies for
barley, sunflower, or wheat and approximately 100 haploid genomes for rice
real-time PCR systems. Real-time PCR cycling conditions of the four assays were
stated as standard to facilitate their use in routine laboratory analyses. The
assays were finally adapted to conventional PCR for detection purposes, with the 
exception of the wheat assay, which detects rye simultaneously with similar
sensitivity in an agarose gel.

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

PMID: 16131102 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

230: 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]

231: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):265-74.

[Confinement and consumption of cloned and transgenic animals]

[Article in French]

Houdebine LM, Renard JP.

UMR Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Institut National de la Recherche 
Agronomique, 78352 Jouyen-Josas, France.

Reproduction by cloning can eliminate some of the problems inherent to sexual
reproduction, but it creates others. The genetic heritage of nucleus donor cells 
and the genetic status of clones are not precisely known. Furthermore,
reprogramming of the genome of nucleus donor cells by the ovocyte cytoplasm is
often incomplete. Animals obtained through cloning are thus essentially
genetically identical to their genitors, but they are often epigenetically
modified, with unpredictable effects. Transgenesis results in most cases from the
addition to a genome of one or more known genes. The direct and indirect effects 
of transgenesis cannot all be predicted. Specific confinement measures make it
possible to raise animals in high-security conditions, preventing their
dissemination in the human food chain, in animal feed or in the environment. The 
toxicity, allergenicity and infectiousness of cloned ortransgenic animals can be 
evaluated by means of tests.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 16110894 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

232: 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]

233: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):201-13.

DNA vaccines for aquacultured fish.

Lorenzen N, LaPatra SE.

Danish Institute for Food and Veterinary Research, Hangovej 2, DK-8200 Aarhus N, 
Denmark.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) vaccination is based on the administration of the
gene encoding the vaccine antigen, rather than the antigen itself. Subsequent
expression of the antigen by cells in the vaccinated hosts triggers the host
immune system. Among the many experimental DNA vaccines tested in various animal 
species as well as in humans, the vaccines against rhabdovirus diseases in fish
have given some of the most promising results. A single intramuscular (IM)
injection of microgram amounts of DNA induces rapid and long-lasting protection
in farmed salmonids against economically important viruses such as infectious
haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) and viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus
(VHSV). DNA vaccines against other types of fish pathogens, however, have so far 
had limited success. The most efficient delivery route at present is IM
injection, and suitable delivery strategies for mass vaccination of small fish
have yet to be developed. In terms of safety, no adverse effects in the
vaccinated fish have been observed to date. As DNA vaccination is a relatively
new technology, various theoretical and long-term safety issues related to the
environment and the consumer remain to be fully addressed, although inherently
the risks should not be any greater than with the commercial fish vaccines that
are currently used. Present classification systems lack clarity in distinguishing
DNA-vaccinated animals from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which could
raise issues in terms of licensing and public acceptance of the technology. The
potential benefits of DNA vaccines for farmed fish include improved animal
welfare, reduced environmental impacts of aquaculture activities, increased food 
quality and quantity, and more sustainable production. Testing under commercial
production conditions has recently been initiated in Canada and Denmark.

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

PMID: 16110889 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

234: Ambio. 2005 Jun;34(4-5):366-70.

Consumer preferences for food product quality attributes from Swedish
agriculture.

Carlsson F, Frykblom P, Lagerkvist CJ.

Department of Economics, School of Economics and Commercial Law, Gothenburg
University, Sweden. Fredrik.Carlsson@economics.gu.se

This paper employs a choice experiment to obtain consumer preferences and
willingness to pay for food product quality attributes currently not available in
Sweden. Data were obtained from a large mail survey and estimated with a random
parameter logit model. We found evidence for intraproduct differences in consumer
preferences for identical attributes, as well as interproduct discrepancies in
ranking of attributes. Furthermore, we found evidence of a market failure
relating to the potential use of genetically modified animal fodder. Finally, we 
found support for the idea that a cheap-talk script can alleviate problems of
external validity of choice experiments. Our results are useful in forming
product differentiation strategies within the food industry, as well as for the
formation of food policy.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16092270 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

235: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2005 Sep;383(2):282-90. Epub 2005 Oct 12.

Quantitative determination of Roundup Ready soybean (Glycine max) extracted from 
highly processed flour.

Corbisier P, Trapmann S, Gancberg D, Hannes L, Van Iwaarden P, Berben G, Schimmel
H, Emons H.

Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, European Commission, Joint
Research Centre, Retieseweg 111, 2440, Geel, Belgium.
philippe.corbisier@cec.eu.int

Roundup Ready soybean powder has been subjected to different amounts of DNA
fragmentation to assess the accuracy of real-time PCR on processed food.
Certified reference material (CRM) containing 10 g kg(-1) of Roundup Ready
soybean (ERM-BF410d) prepared by a dry-mixing processing method was exposed to
water at two temperatures, using three different mixing devices, or to baking
temperature (250 degrees C) for 30 min. The amount of DNA extracted from the
different samples was quantified by fluorimetry. The amount of fragmentation of
the extracted DNA was characterised by gel and capillary electrophoresis and the 
percentage of genetically modified (GM) soybean was determined by a double
quantitative real-time PCR method. Measurement of the event GTS 40-3-2 (RUR) was 
possible in all the treated materials, because small amplicons were amplified.
Correct RUR percentages could be measured for intact powders with little or no
DNA fragmentation. For samples with a high level of DNA degradation, however, the
accuracy of the measurement was found to depend on the method used for DNA
extraction. Genomic DNA isolated by use of silica resin resulted in statistically
significant overestimation of the amount of GM.

PMID: 16091947 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

236: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2005 Aug;116(2):403-10.

Lack of detectable allergenicity of transgenic maize and soya samples.

Batista R, Nunes B, Carmo M, Cardoso C, José HS, de Almeida AB, Manique A, Bento 
L, Ricardo CP, Oliveira MM.

Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr Ricardo Jorge, Lisboa, Portugal.
rbatista@itqb.unl.pt

BACKGROUND: The safety issues regarding foods derived from genetically modified
(GM) plants are central to their acceptance into the food supply. The potential
allergenicity of proteins newly introduced in GM foods is a major safety concern.
OBJECTIVE: We sought to monitor, in potentially sensitive human populations, the 
allergenicity effects of 5 GM materials obtained from sources with no allergenic 
potential and already under commercialization in the European Union. METHODS: We 
have performed skin prick tests with protein extracts prepared from transgenic
maize (MON810, Bt11, T25, Bt176) and soya (Roundup Ready) samples and from
nontransgenic control samples in 2 sensitive groups: children with food and
inhalant allergy and individuals with asthma-rhinitis. We have also tested IgE
immunoblot reactivity of sera from patients with food allergy to soya (Roundup
Ready) and maize (MON810, Bt11, Bt176) samples, as well as to the pure transgenic
proteins (CryIA[b] and CP4 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase). RESULTS:
None of the individuals undergoing tests reacted differentially to the transgenic
and nontransgenic samples under study. None of the volunteers tested presented
detectable IgE antibodies against pure transgenic proteins. CONCLUSION: The
transgenic products under testing seem to be safe in terms of allergenic
potential. We propose postmarket testing as an important screening strategy for
putative allergic sensitization to proteins introduced in transgenic plants.

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

PMID: 16083797 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

237: Anal Biochem. 2005 Sep 15;344(2):174-82.

Development of a peptide nucleic acid polymerase chain reaction clamping assay
for semiquantitative evaluation of genetically modified organism content in food.

Peano C, Lesignoli F, Gulli M, Corradini R, Samson MC, Marchelli R, Marmiroli N.

Department of Environmental Sciences, Division of Genetics and Environmental
Biotechnology, University of Parma, 43100, Parma, Italy.

In the present study a peptide nucleic acid (PNA)-mediated polymerase chain
reaction (PCR) clamping method was developed and applied to the detection of
genetically modified organisms (GMO), to test PCR products for band identity and 
to obtain a semiquantitative evaluation of GMO content. The minimal concentration
of PNA necessary to block the PCR was determined by comparing PCRs containing a
constant amount of DNA in the presence of increasing concentration of
target-specific PNA. The lowest PNA concentration at which specific inhibition
took place, by the inhibition of primer extension and/or steric hindrance, was
the most efficient condition. Optimization of PCR clamping by PNA was observed by
testing five different PNAs with a minimum of 13 bp to a maximum of 15 bp,
designed on the target sequence of Roundup Ready soybean. The results obtained on
the DNA extracted from Roundup Ready soybean standard flour were verified also on
DNA extracted from standard flours of maize GA21, Bt176, Bt11, and MON810. A
correlation between the PNA concentration necessary for inducing PCR clamping and
the percentage of the GMO target sequence in the sample was found.

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

PMID: 16055074 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

238: Anal Chem. 2005 Aug 1;77(15):4785-91.

High-throughput double quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction for
determination of genetically modified organisms.

Mavropoulou AK, Koraki T, Ioannou PC, Christopoulos TK.

Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of
Athens, Greece 15771.

Quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR), especially the double
competitive PCR methods (DC-PCR), have evolved as reliable approaches to
quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in food. However, DC-PCR
is a low-throughput method because it requires titration of each sample with
various amounts of a competitive internal standard, a protocol that involves
several PCRs per sample followed by electrophoresis and densitometry. To address 
this drawback, we have developed a new method for GMO quantification, namely, a
high-throughput double quantitative competitive PCR (HT-DCPCR). In HT-DCPCR,
electrophoresis and densitometry are replaced by a rapid, microtiter well-based
bioluminometric hybridization assay and there is no need for titration of each
sample. The determination of GM soya was chosen as a model. We have constructed
internal standards (DNA competitors) both for the 35S promoter sequence and for a
plant-specific reference gene (lectin). The competitors have identical size and
share the same primer binding sites with the target sequences but differ in a
24-bp internal segment. Each target sequence (35S and lectin) is coamplified with
a constant amount (1000 copies) of the respective competitor. The four amplified 
fragments are hybridized with specific probes and captured on a universal solid
phase to achieve simplicity and high throughput. The hybrids are determined by
using streptavidin conjugated to the photoprotein aequorin. The ratio of the
luminescence values obtained for the target and the competitor is linearly
related to the starting amount of target DNA. The limit of quantification for the
35S promoter is 24 copies. The proposed method was evaluated by determining the
GMO content of soybean powder certified reference materials. Also HT-DCPCR was
compared to real-time PCR in a variety of real samples.

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

PMID: 16053289 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

239: Environ Biosafety Res. 2004 Oct-Dec;3(4):215-23.

Effect of food components and processing parameters on DNA degradation in food.

Bauer T, Hammes WP, Haase NU, Hertel C.

Institute of Food Technology, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany.

The effect of food components on degradation of DNA by DNase I (EC 3.1.21.1) was 
monitored by electrotransformation of Escherichia coil, making it possible to
determine the number of plasmid molecules capable of giving rise to transformed
cells. The transformation frequency increased linearly with the plasmid number
within the range of 2 x 10(6) to 2 x 10(10). DNA degradation was reduced by one
order of magnitude in the presence of 0.05% (w.v(-1)) maltol or 1 mM putrescine. 
Complete inhibition of degradation was observed with > or = 0.2% (w.v(-1))
maltol, > or = 0.01% (w.v(-1)) octyl gallate or > or = 0.5 mM of spermine. To
monitor degradation of plant DNA during food processing, a real-time PCR system
was established. The ratio of copy numbers of a potato gbss DNA fragment of 325
bp and a nested 96 bp fragment was determined. The latter served as internal
reference for normalization. The system made it possible to exclude
process-dependent changes of DNA concentration in the food matrix. Processing of 
genetically modified potatoes to dried potato sticks, crisps or flakes was
studied and drying steps were shown to exert the strongest effect on DNA
degradation, resulting in a drop of the ratio from 0.73 to 0.16.

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

PMID: 16028798 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

240: Appetite. 2005 Aug;45(1):40-6.

Food and the relation between values and attitude characteristics.

Dreezens E, Martijn C, Tenbült 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]

241: 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 Medicină şi Farmacie Iuliu Haţieganu Cluj-Napoca Facultatea de
Farmacie, Disciplina de Chimie sanitară.

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]

242: J AOAC Int. 2005 May-Jun;88(3):877-87.

Chromatographic determination of amino acids in foods.

Peace RW, Gilani GS.

Health Canada, Nutrition Research Division, Food Directorate, Health Products and
Food Branch, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0L2, Canada. bob_peace@hc-sc.gc.ca

Amino acids in foods exist in a free form or bound in peptides, proteins, or
nonpeptide bonded polymers. Naturally occurring L-amino acids are required for
protein synthesis and are precursors for essential molecules, such as co-enzymes 
and nucleic acids. Nonprotein amino acids may also occur in animal tissues as
metabolic intermediates or have other important functions. The development of
bacterially derived food proteins, genetically modified foods, and new methods of
food processing; the production of amino acids for food fortification; and the
introduction of new plant food sources have meant that protein amino acids and
amino acid enantiomers in foods can have both nutritional and safety implications
for humans. There is, therefore, a need for the rapid and accurate determination 
of amino acids in foods. Determination of the total amino acid content of foods
requires protein hydrolysis by various means that must take into account
variations in stability of individual amino acids and resistance of different
peptide bonds to the hydrolysis procedures. Modern methods for separation and
quantitation of free amino acids either before or after protein hydrolysis
include ion exchange chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography (LC),
gas chromatography, and capillary electrophoresis. Chemical derivatization of
amino acids may be required to change them into forms amenable to separation by
the various chromatographic methods or to create derivatives with properties,
such as fluorescence, that improve their detection. Official methods for
hydrolysis and analysis of amino acids in foods for nutritional purposes have
been established. LC is currently the most widely used analytical technique,
although there is a need for collaborative testing of methods available. Newer
developments in chromatographic methodology and detector technology have reduced 
sample and reagent requirements and improved identification, resolution, and
sensitivity of amino acid analyses of food samples.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 16001866 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

243: 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]

244: 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.
ifhp@chadzombe.u-net.com

It has been predicted that by 2025 there will be an annual shortfall of cereals
for feeding the human population of 68.5 million tones. 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 liberalization (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.

Publication Types: 
    Lectures

PMID: 15982686 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

245: Vet Parasitol. 2005 Aug 10;131(3-4):207-11.

First isolation and molecular characterization of Toxoplasma gondii from
finishing pigs from São Paulo State, Brazil.

de A Dos Santos CB, de Carvalho AC, Ragozo AM, Soares RM, Amaku M, Yai LE, Dubey 
JP, Gennari SM.

Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e
Veterinárias da Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil.

Toxoplasma gondii infection is widely prevalent in humans in Brazil. Among the
food animals, pigs are considered the most important meat source of T. gondii for
infection in humans. In the present study, we report the first isolation of
viable T. gondii from finishing pigs in Brazil. Antibodies to T. gondii were
found in 49 (17%) of 286 pigs prior slaughter using the modified agglutination
test (MAT) at a serum dilution of 1:25. Attempts were made to isolate T. gondii
from 28 seropositive pigs. Samples of heart, brain, and tongue from each pig were
pooled, digested in acid pepsin, and bioassayed in five mice per pig. Viable T.
gondii was isolated from seven pigs; all isolates were lethal for mice.
Restriction fragment length polymorphism on products of SAG2 locus amplified by
PCR revealed that two isolates were Type I and five were Type III. The results
indicate that phenotypically and genetically T. gondii isolates from pigs from
Brazil are distinct from isolates of T. gondii from pigs in the USA.

PMID: 15951111 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

246: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):167-80. Epub 2005 Jun 8.

Comment in:
    Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2005 Jun;137(2):151-2.

Suggestions for the assessment of the allergenic potential of genetically
modified organisms.

Spök A, Gaugitsch H, Laffer S, Pauli G, Saito H, Sampson H, Sibanda E, Thomas W, 
van Hage M, Valenta R.

Inter-University Research Centre for Technology, Work, and Culture, Graz,
Austria.

The prevalence of allergic diseases has been increasing continuously and,
accordingly, there is a great desire to evaluate the allergenic potential of
components in our daily environment (e.g., food). Although there is almost no
scientific evidence that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) exhibit increased 
allergenicity compared with the corresponding wild type significant concerns have
been raised regarding this matter. In principle, it is possible that the
allergenic potential of GMOs may be increased due to the introduction of
potential foreign allergens, to potentially upregulated expression of allergenic 
components caused by the modification of the wild type organism or to different
means of exposure. According to the current practice, the proteins to be
introduced into a GMO are evaluated for their physiochemical properties, sequence
homology with known allergens and occasionally regarding their allergenic
activity. We discuss why these current rules and procedures cannot predict or
exclude the allergenicity of a given GMO with certainty. As an alternative we
suggest to improve the current evaluation by an experimental comparison of the
wild-type organism with the whole GMO regarding their potential to elicit
reactions in allergic individuals and to induce de novo sensitizations. We also
recommend that the suggested assessment procedures be equally applied to GMOs as 
well as to natural cultivars in order to establish effective measures for allergy
prevention.

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

PMID: 15947472 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

247: 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]

248: Biosens Bioelectron. 2006 Jan 15;21(7):1069-76. Epub 2005 Jun 2.

Nanoparticle-based DNA biosensor for visual detection of genetically modified
organisms.

Kalogianni DP, Koraki T, Christopoulos TK, Ioannou PC.

Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Patras 26500, Greece.

Although screening of raw ingredients and food products for genetically modified 
organisms (GMO) may be accomplished by detecting either the exogenous DNA or the 
novel protein, DNA is the preferred analyte because of its superior stability
during food processing. The development of DNA biosensors is of increasing
importance due to the growing demand for rapid and reliable methods for GMO
detection. We report the first DNA biosensor in a dry-reagent dipstick
configuration for visual detection and confirmation of GMO-related sequences by
hybridization within minutes. The sensor is disposable and does not require
special instrumentation. It detects the 35S promoter and nopaline synthase (NOS) 
terminator sequences that are present in the majority of transgenic plants. The
target sequences are amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and
hybridized (7min) with probes bearing oligo(dA) tail. The biotinylated product is
applied to the sensor followed by immersion in the appropriate buffer. Migration 
of the buffer rehydrates gold nanoparticles conjugated to oligo(dT), which
hybridize with the oligo(dA) tails. The hybrids are captured by immobilized
streptavidin at the test zone of the sensor giving a characteristic red line due 
to the accumulation of the nanoparticles. The excess of nanoparticle conjugates
are captured at the control zone by immobilized oligo(dA) strands. Amplified 35S 
or NOS DNA is detectable at 0.16nM. Soybean powder certified reference material
with 0.1% GMO content is clearly detectable after 35 and 40 amplification cycles 
for 35S and NOS sequence, respectively. The sensor was also applied to real
samples from various sources.

Publication Types: 
    Validation Studies

PMID: 15935636 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

249: Eur J Neurosci. 2005 May;21(9):2600-4.

Mice lacking dopamine D1 receptors express normal lithium chloride-induced
conditioned taste aversion for salt but not sucrose.

Cannon CM, Scannell CA, Palmiter RD.

Department of Biochemistry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of
Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-7370, USA. caesia@u.washington.edu

Conditioned taste aversion (CTA), is a form of Pavlovian learning wherein a novel
flavour is powerfully associated with subsequent feelings of illness, and is
afterwards avoided. In rats, pharmacological blockade of dopamine D1 receptors
has been reported to prevent the expression of a CTA to the sweet taste of
sucrose or saccharine. We used genetically modified mice to determine whether
dopamine D1 receptors are necessary for the expression of a CTA. Food-deprived
mice lacking the dopamine D1 receptor (D1r-/-) did not express a LiCl-induced
(125 or 254 mg/kg) CTA to the sweet taste of 0.5 m sucrose, in agreement with
previous pharmacological studies. However, water-deprived D1r-/- mice did express
normal LiCl-induced (40, 150 and 254 mg/kg) CTA to a salty taste (0.2 m NaCl).
Our results suggest that activation of D1 receptors might contribute to the
strength of an aversive gustatory association, but might not be required for the 
formation of a CTA in general.

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

PMID: 15932618 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

250: Environ Health Perspect. 2005 Jun;113(6):716-20.

Comment in:
    Environ Health Perspect. 2005 Oct;113(10):A657-8; author reply A658.

Differential effects of glyphosate and roundup on human placental cells and
aromatase.

Richard S, Moslemi S, Sipahutar H, Benachour N, Seralini GE.

Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moleculaire, USC-INCRA, Université de Caen, 
Caen, France.

Roundup is a glyphosate-based herbicide used worldwide, including on most
genetically modified plants that have been designed to tolerate it. Its residues 
may thus enter the food chain, and glyphosate is found as a contaminant in
rivers. Some agricultural workers using glyphosate have pregnancy problems, but
its mechanism of action in mammals is questioned. Here we show that glyphosate is
toxic to human placental JEG3 cells within 18 hr with concentrations lower than
those found with agricultural use, and this effect increases with concentration
and time or in the presence of Roundup adjuvants. Surprisingly, Roundup is always
more toxic than its active ingredient. We tested the effects of glyphosate and
Roundup at lower nontoxic concentrations on aromatase, the enzyme responsible for
estrogen synthesis. The glyphosate-based herbicide disrupts aromatase activity
and mRNA levels and interacts with the active site of the purified enzyme, but
the effects of glyphosate are facilitated by the Roundup formulation in
microsomes or in cell culture. We conclude that endocrine and toxic effects of
Roundup, not just glyphosate, can be observed in mammals. We suggest that the
presence of Roundup adjuvants enhances glyphosate bioavailability and/or
bioaccumulation.

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

PMID: 15929894 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

251: 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 España, 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]

252: J Environ Sci Health B. 2005;40(3):463-73.

The fate of the recombinant DNA in corn during composting.

Guan J, Spencer JL, Ma BL.

Ottawa Laboratory-Fallowfield, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa, Ontario, 
Canada. guanj@inspection.gc.ca

In order to make regulations that safeguard food and the environment, an
understanding of the fate oftransgenes from genetically modified (GM) plants is
of crucial importance. A compost experiment including mature transgenic corn
plants and seeds of event Bt 176 (Zea mays L.) was conducted to trace the fate of
the transgene cryIA(b) during the period of composting. In bin 1, shredded corn
plants including seeds were composted above a layer of cow manure and samples
from the corn layer were collected at intervals during a 12-month period. The
samples were tested for the transgene persistence and microbial counts and also
the compost was monitored for temperature. In bin 2, piles of corn seeds,
surrounded by sheep manure and straw, were composted for 12 months. A method
combining nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and southern hybridization was
developed for detection of the transgene in compost. The detection sensitivity
was 200 copies of the transgene per gram of dry composted corn material.
Composting commenced on day 0, and the transgene was detected in specimens from
bin 1 on days 0 and 7 but not on day 14 or thereafter. The transgene in corn
seeds was not detectable after 12 months of composting in bin 2. Temperatures in 
both bins rose to about 50 degrees C within 2 weeks and remained above that
temperature for about 3 months, even when the ambient temperature dropped below
-20 degrees C. Extracts from compost were inoculated onto culture plates and then
were incubated at 23 to 55 degrees C. Within the first 2 weeks of composting in
bin 1, the counts of bacteria incubated at 55 degrees C increased from 3.5 to 7.5
log10, whereas those incubated at 23 degrees C remained at about 7.5 log10. The
counts of fungi incubated at 45 degrees C increased slightly from 2.5 to 3.1
log10, but those incubated at 23 degrees C decreased from 6.3 to 3.0 log10. The
rapid degradation of the transgene during composting of Bt corn plants suggested 
that the composting process could be used for safe disposal of transgenic plant
wastes.

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

PMID: 15913018 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

253: Appetite. 2005 Aug;45(1):47-50.

Perceived naturalness and acceptance of genetically modified food.

Tenbült 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]

254: Arch Anim Nutr. 2005 Feb;59(1):1-40.

Animal nutrition with feeds from genetically modified plants.

Flachowsky G, Chesson A, Aulrich K.

Institute of Animal Nutrition, Federal Agricultural Research Centre (FAL),
Braunschweig, Germany. gerhard.flachowsky@fal.de

Plant breeders have made and will continue to make important contributions toward
meeting the need for more and better feed and food. The use of new techniques to 
modify the genetic makeup of plants to improve their properties has led to a new 
generation of crops, grains and their by-products for feed. The use of
ingredients and products from genetically modified plants (GMP) in animal
nutrition properly raises many questions and issues, such as the role of a
nutritional assessment of the modified feed or feed additive as part of safety
assessment, the possible influence of genetically modified (GM) products on
animal health and product quality and the persistence of the recombinant DNA and 
of the 'novel' protein in the digestive tract and tissues of food-producing
animals. During the last few years many studies have determined the nutrient
value of GM feeds compared to their conventional counterparts and some have
additionally followed the fate of DNA and novel protein. The results available to
date are reassuring and reveal no significant differences in the safety and
nutritional value of feedstuffs containing material derived from the so-called
1st generation of genetically modified plants (those with unchanged gross
composition) in comparison with non-GM varieties. In addition, no residues of
recombinant DNA or novel proteins have been found in any organ or tissue samples 
obtained from animals fed with GMP. These results indicate that for
compositionally equivalent GMP routine-feeding studies with target species
generally add little to nutritional and safety assessment. However, the
strategies devised for the nutritional and safety assessment of the 1st
generation products will be much more difficult to apply to 2nd generation GMP in
which significant changes in constituents have been deliberately introduced
(e.g., increased fatty acids or amino acids content or a reduced concentration of
undesirable constituents). It is suggested that studies made with animals will
play a much more important role in insuring the safety of these 2nd generation
constructs.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 15889650 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

255: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 May 18;53(10):3958-62.

Development of a peptide nucleic acid array platform for the detection of
genetically modified organisms in food.

Germini A, Rossi S, Zanetti A, Corradini R, Fogher C, Marchelli R.

Dipartimento di Chimica Organica e Industriale, Università di Parma, Parco area
delle Scienze 17/A, 43100 Parma, Italy.

Two previously developed platforms, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
and a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) array, the former allowing for the simultaneous 
detection of five transgenes and two endogenous controls in food and feed
matrices and the latter for the assessment of the identity of amplified PCR
products, were combined in order to develop a PNA array device for the screening 
of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food. PNA probes were opportunely
designed, synthesized, and deposited on commercial slides. The length of the
probes as well as the distance of the probes from the surface were evaluated and 
found to be critical points. The most suitable probes were found to be 15-mer
PNAs linked to the slide surface by means of two 2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethoxyacetic
acids as spacers. The device was tested on a model system constituted by flour
samples containing a mixture of standards at known concentrations of transgenic
material, in particular Roundup Ready soybean and Bt11, Bt176, Mon810, and GA21
maize: The DNA was amplified using the specific multiplex PCR method and tested
on the PNA array. The method proposed was found to be able to correctly identify 
every GMO present in the tested samples.

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

PMID: 15884823 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

256: Br J Nutr. 2005 Apr;93 Suppl 1:S91-8.

The SYNCAN project: goals, set-up, first results and settings of the human
intervention study.

Van Loo J, Clune Y, Bennett M, Collins JK.

Orafti, Tienen, Belgium. jan.van.loo@orafti.com

Experimental evidence on the anticancer properties of dietary prebiotics such as 
chicory inulin and oligofructose and dietary probiotics has accumulated in recent
years. Various experimental models ranging from chemoprevention studies, tumour
implantation models to genetically modified mice models, etc. have systematically
shown the protective effects of these food ingredients. In some studies it
appeared that synbiotics (combination of pre- and probiotics) exerted synergistic
activity against processes of carcinogenesis. The logical next step in research
was to find out if these observations also would be valid for human volunteers.
This was the principal goal of the EU-sponsored SYNCAN project (QLK1-1999-346)
which involved the integration of an in vitro study to select the most suitable
synbiotic preparation, the application of this synbiotic in an in vivo rat model 
of chemically induced colon cancer, and, as the heart of the project, the
investigation of the synbiotic effects in a human intervention study. The in
vitro tests consisted of fermentation studies where the interaction of pre- and
probiotics was studied. Cell-free supernatants were generated from various
synbiotic combinations fermented by faecal slurry, which were then used to
optimise a series of bioassays. In the rat study the anticarcinogenic effect of
prebiotics and synbiotics but not of probiotics was demonstrated. Using tissue
samples generated in this model, attempts were made to gain a better insight into
the mechanisms underlying cancer development. The human intervention study
consisted of two groups of volunteers. One group was composed of people at high
risk (polypectomised subjects) for colon cancer and the other of volunteers
(colon cancer subjects) who had previously undergone 'curative resection' for
colon cancer but were not currently receiving treatment. The present paper
describes the experimental design of the SYNCAN study, and demonstrates a
functional effect of the synbiotic preparation (probiotic survival during
gastrointestinal transit and modification of the intestinal flora). Detailed
experimental outcome of the human intervention study will be reported elsewhere.

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

PMID: 15877901 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

257: 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]

258: 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]

259: J AOAC Int. 2005 Mar-Apr;88(2):558-73.

Quantitation of 35S promoter in maize DNA extracts from genetically modified
organisms using real-time polymerase chain reaction, part 2: interlaboratory
study.

Feinberg M, Fernandez S, Cassard S, Bertheau Y.

Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, 16 Rue Claude Bernard, 75231
Paris, France. feinberg@inapg.inra.fr

The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the European Network of GMO 
Working Laboratories have proposed development of a modular strategy for stepwise
validation of complex analytical techniques. When applied to the quantitation of 
genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food products, the instrumental
quantitation step of the technique is separately validated from the DNA
extraction step to better control the sources of uncertainty and facilitate the
validation of GMO-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. This paper
presents the results of an interlaboratory study on the quantitation step of the 
method standardized by CEN for the detection of a regulatory element commonly
inserted in GMO maize-based foods. This is focused on the quantitation of P35S
promoter through using the quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR). Fifteen French
laboratories participated in the interlaboratory study of the P35S quantitation
operating procedure on DNA extract samples using either the thermal cycler ABI
Prism 7700 (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA) or Light Cycler (Roche
Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN). Attention was focused on DNA extract samples used
to calibrate the method and unknown extract samples. Data were processed
according to the recommendations of ISO 5725 standard. Performance criteria,
obtained using the robust algorithm, were compared to the classic data processing
after rejection of outliers by the Cochran and Grubbs tests. Two laboratories
were detected as outliers by the Grubbs test. The robust precision criteria gave 
values between the classical values estimated before and after rejection of the
outliers. Using the robust method, the relative expanded uncertainty by the
quantitation method is about 20% for a 1% Bt176 content, whereas it can reach 40%
for a 0.1% Bt176. The performances of the quantitation assay are relevant to the 
application of the European regulation, which has an accepted tolerance interval 
of about +/-50%. These data were fitted to a power model (r2 = 0.96). Thanks to
this model, it is possible to propose an estimation of uncertainty of the QRT-PCR
quantitation step and an uncertainty budget depending on the analytical
conditions.

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

PMID: 15859084 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

260: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2005 Aug;68(3):292-304. Epub 2005 Apr 26.

The use of genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains in the wine
industry.

Schuller D, Casal M.

Centro de Biologia (CB-UM), Departamento de Biologia, Universidade do Minho,
Braga, Portugal. dschuller@bio.uminho.pt

In recent decades, science and food technology have contributed at an accelerated
rate to the introduction of new products to satisfy nutritional, socio-economic
and quality requirements. With the emergence of modern molecular genetics, the
industrial importance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is continuously extended. The 
demand for suitable genetically modified (GM) S. cerevisiae strains for the
biofuel, bakery and beverage industries or for the production of biotechnological
products (e.g. enzymes, pharmaceutical products) will continuously grow in the
future. Numerous specialised S. cerevisiae wine strains were obtained in recent
years, possessing a wide range of optimised or novel oenological properties,
capable of satisfying the demanding nature of modern winemaking practise. The
unlocking of transcriptome, proteome and metabolome complexities will contribute 
decisively to the knowledge about the genetic make-up of commercial yeast strains
and will influence wine strain improvement via genetic engineering. The most
relevant advances regarding the importance and implications of the use of GM
yeast strains in the wine industry are discussed in this mini-review. In this
work, various aspects are considered including the strategies used for the
construction of strains with respect to current legislation requirements, the
environmental risk evaluations concerning the deliberate release of genetically
modified yeast strains, the methods for detection of recombinant DNA and protein 
that are currently under evaluation, and the reasons behind the critical public
perception towards the application of such strains.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 15856224 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

261: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 May 4;53(9):3333-7.

Interlaboratory transfer of a PCR multiplex method for simultaneous detection of 
four genetically modified maize lines: Bt11, MON810, T25, and GA21.

Hernández M, Rodríguez-Lázaro D, Zhang D, Esteve T, Pla M, Prat S.

Departament de Genètica Molecular, Institut de Biologia Molecular de Barcelona,
Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.

The number of cultured hectares and commercialized genetically modified organisms
(GMOs) has increased exponentially in the past 9 years. Governments in many
countries have established a policy of labeling all food and feed containing or
produced by GMOs. Consequently, versatile, laboratory-transferable GMO detection 
methods are in increasing demand. Here, we describe a qualitative PCR-based
multiplex method for simultaneous detection and identification of four
genetically modified maize lines: Bt11, MON810, T25, and GA21. The described
system is based on the use of five primers directed to specific sequences in
these insertion events. Primers were used in a single optimized multiplex PCR
reaction, and sequences of the amplified fragments are reported. The assay allows
amplification of the MON810 event from the 35S promoter to the hsp intron
yielding a 468 bp amplicon. Amplification of the Bt11 and T25 events from the 35S
promoter to the PAT gene yielded two different amplicons of 280 and 177 bp,
respectively, whereas amplification of the 5' flanking region of the GA21 gave
rise to an amplicon of 72 bp. These fragments are clearly distinguishable in
agarose gels and have been reproduced successfully in a different laboratory.
Hence, the proposed method comprises a rapid, simple, reliable, and sensitive
(down to 0.05%) PCR-based assay, suitable for detection of these four GM maize
lines in a single reaction.

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

PMID: 15853368 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

262: 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, Vaïtilingom 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]

263: 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]

264: 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]

265: 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]

266: J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Mar 23;53(6):2060-9.

Comparative studies of the quantification of genetically modified organisms in
foods processed from maize and soy using trial producing.

Yoshimura T, Kuribara H, Kodama T, Yamata S, Futo S, Watanabe S, Aoki N, Iizuka
T, Akiyama H, Maitani T, Naito S, Hino A.

Analytical Technology Laboratory, Asahi Breweries, Ltd., 1-1-21 Midori, Moriya,
Ibaraki 302-0106, Japan.

Seven types of processed foods, namely, cornstarch, cornmeal, corn puffs, corn
chips, tofu, soy milk, and boiled beans, were trial produced from 1 and 5% (w/w) 
genetically modified (GM) mixed raw materials. In this report, insect resistant
maize (MON810) and herbicide tolerant soy (Roundup Ready soy, 40-3-2) were used
as representatives of GM maize and soy, respectively. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
was extracted from the raw materials and the trial-produced processed food using 
two types of methods, i.e., the silica membrane method and the anion exchange
method. The GM% values of these samples were quantified, and the significant
differences between the raw materials and the trial-produced processed foods were
statistically confirmed. There were some significant differences in the
comparisons of all processed foods. However, our quantitative methods could be
applied as a screening assay to tofu and soy milk because the differences in GM% 
between the trial-produced processed foods and their raw materials were lower
than 13 and 23%, respectively. In addition, when quantitating with two primer
pairs (SSIIb 3, 114 bp; SSIIb 4, 83 bp for maize and Le1n02, 118 bp; Le1n03, 89
bp for soy), which were targeted within the same taxon specific DNA sequence with
different amplicon sizes, the ratios of the copy numbers of the two primer pairs 
(SSIIb 3/4 and Le1n02/03) decreased with time in a heat-treated processing model 
using an autoclave. In this report, we suggest that the degradation level of DNA 
in processed foods could be estimated from these ratios, and the probability of
GM quantification could be experimentally predicted from the results of the trial
producing.

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

PMID: 15769136 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

267: 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]

268: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2004 Nov;33(6):710-2.

[Study on the teratogenicity effects of genetically modified rice with Xa21 on
rats]

[Article in Chinese]

Li Y, Piao J, Zhuo Q, Chen X, Mao D, Yang L, Yang X.

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

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of genetically modified rice with Xa21 on the
development of rat embryos. METHODS: According to sex, weanling rats were divided
into four groups: transgenic rice group, non-transgenic rice group, AIN93G
negative control group and MATDA positive control group. The rats were fed with
corresponding food for 90 days and mated. The development of maternal rats and
embryos were observed. RESULTS: The body weight gain of pregnant rats and the
body weight, body length and tail length of fetal rats in transgenic rice group
were significant increased than those in positive control group. The number of
death embryos and adsorption embryos, the malformation rate (appearance, viscera,
skeleton) in transgenic rice group were lower than those in positive control
group. There were no significant difference of all indicators among transgenic
rice group, non-transgenic rice group and AIN93G negative control group.
CONCLUSION: Compared with the non-transgenic rice, transgenic rice modified with 
Xa21 gene showed no significant differences in rat pregnant rate and embryo
development.

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

PMID: 15727184 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

269: Mutat Res. 2005 Mar 1;570(2):205-14.

The effect of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 expression on the mutagenicity and 
metabolism of the cooked-food carcinogen
2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine in CHO cells.

Malfatti MA, Wu RW, Felton JS.

Biology and Biotechnology Research Program, Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory, P.O. Box 808, L-452, Livermore, CA 94551-9900, USA.

UDP-glucuronosyltransferase proteins (UGT) catalyze the glucuronidation of both
endogenous and xenobiotic compounds. In previous studies, UGT1A1 has been
implicated in the detoxification of certain food-borne carcinogenic-heterocyclic 
amines. To determine the importance of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1)
in the biotransformation of the cooked-food carcinogen
2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), genetically modified CHO 
cells that are nucleotide excision repair-deficient, and express cytochrome
P4501A2 (UV5P3 cell line) were transfected with a cDNA plasmid of human UGT1A1 to
establish the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 expressing 5P3hUGT1A1 cell line.
Expression of the UGT1A1 gene was verified by screening neo gene expressing
clonal isolates (G-418 resistant) for their sensitivity to cell killing from PhIP
exposure. Five of 11 clones were chosen for further analysis due to their
resistance to cell killing. Western blot analysis was used to confirm the
presence of the UGT1A1 and CYP1A2 proteins. All five clones displayed a 52-kDa
protein band, which corresponded to a UGT1A1 control protein. Only four of the
clones had a protein band that corresponded to the CYP1A2 control protein.
Correct fragment size of the cDNAs in the remaining four clones was confirmed by 
RT-PCR and quantification of the mRNA product was accomplished by real-time
RT-PCR. Expression of UGT1A1 in the transfected cells was 10(4)-10(5)-fold higher
relative to the UV5P3 parental cells. One clone (#14) had a 10-fold higher
increase in expression at 1.47 x 10(5) over the other three clones. This clone
was also the most active in converting N-hydroxy-PhIP to N-hydroxy-PhIP
glucuronide conjugates in microsomal metabolism assays. Based on the D50 values, 
the cytotoxic effect of PhIP was decreased approximately 350-fold in the
5P3hUGT1A1 cells compared to the UV5P3 control cells. In addition, no significant
increase in mutation frequency was observed in the transfected cells. These
results clearly indicate that UGT1A1 plays a critical role in PhIP
biotransformation, providing protection against PhIP-mediated cytotoxicity and
mutagenicity.

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

PMID: 15708579 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

270: Proc Biol Sci. 2005 Jan 22;272(1559):111-9.

Management of genetically modified herbicide-tolerant sugar beet for spring and
autumn environmental benefit.

May MJ, Champion GT, Dewar AM, Qi A, Pidgeon JD.

Broom's Barn Research Station, Higham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6NP, UK.
mike.may@bbsrc.ac.uk

When used in genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops, glyphosate
provides great flexibility to manipulate weed populations with consequences for
invertebrates and higher trophic levels, for example birds. A range of timings of
band and overall spray treatments of glyphosate to GMHT sugar beet were compared 
with a conventional weed control programme in four field trials over 2 years.
Single overall sprays applied between 200 and 250 accumulated day degrees (above 
a base air temperature of 3 degrees C; degrees Cd) and band applied treatments
applied at 10% or 20% ground cover within the crop rows generally gave
significantly greater weed biomass and seed rain than conventional treatments,
while later band sprays (more than 650 degrees Cd) reduced seed return. Two
overall sprays of glyphosate produced low weed biomass and generally lowest seed 
return of all treatments but tended to give some of the highest yields. However, 
the early overall sprays (200-250 degrees Cd) and band sprays gave as good or
better yields than the conventional and were generally equivalent to the two
overall-spray programme. Viable seeds in the soil after the experiment were
generally higher following the early overall (200-250 degrees Cd) and the band
spray treatments than following the conventional. The results show that altered
management of GMHT sugar beet can provide alternative scenarios to those of the
recent Farm Scale Evaluation trials. Without yield loss they can enhance weed
seed banks and autumn bird food availability compared with conventional
management, or provide early season benefits to invertebrates and nesting birds, 
depending on the system chosen. Conventional weed control does not have the
flexibility to enable these scenarios that benefit both agriculture and
environment, although there may be some options for increasing weed seed return
in autumn.

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

PMID: 15695200 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

271: 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]

272: J AOAC Int. 2004 Nov-Dec;87(6):1342-55.

Real-time polymerase chain reaction-based approach for quantification of the pat 
gene in the T25 Zea mays event.

Weighardt F, Barbati C, Paoletti C, Querci M, Kay S, De Beuckeleer M, Van den
Eede G.

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Health and Consumer
Protection (JRC-IHCP), Via Enrico Fermi, 1, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy.

In Europe, a growing interest for reliable techniques for the quantification of
genetically modified component(s) of food matrixes is arising from the need to
comply with the European legislative framework on novel food products. Real-time 
polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is currently the most powerful technique for the 
quantification of specific nucleic acid sequences. Several real-time PCR
methodologies based on different molecular principles have been developed for
this purpose. The most frequently used approach in the field of genetically
modified organism (GMO) quantification in food or feed samples is based on the
5'-3'-exonuclease activity of Taq DNA polymerase on specific degradation probes
(TaqMan principle). A novel approach was developed for the establishment of a
TaqMan quantification system assessing GMO contents around the 1% threshold
stipulated under European Union (EU) legislation for the labeling of food
products. The Zea mays T25 elite event was chosen as a model for the development 
of the novel GMO quantification approach. The most innovative aspect of the
system is represented by the use of sequences cloned in plasmids as reference
standards. In the field of GMO quantification, plasmids are an easy to use,
cheap, and reliable alternative to Certified Reference Materials (CRMs), which
are only available for a few of the GMOs authorized in Europe, have a relatively 
high production cost, and require further processing to be suitable for analysis.
Strengths and weaknesses of the use of novel plasmid-based standards are
addressed in detail. In addition, the quantification system was designed to avoid
the use of a reference gene (e.g., a single copy, species-specific gene) as
normalizer, i.e., to perform a GMO quantification based on an absolute instead of
a relative measurement. In fact, experimental evidences show that the use of
reference genes adds variability to the measurement system because a second
independent real-time PCR-based measurement must be performed. Moreover, for some
reference genes no sufficient information on copy number in and among genomes of 
different lines is available, making adequate quantification difficult. Once
developed, the method was subsequently validated according to IUPAC and ISO 5725 
guidelines. Thirteen laboratories from 8 EU countries participated in the trial. 
Eleven laboratories provided results complying with the predefined study
requirements. Repeatability (RSDr) values ranged from 8.7 to 15.9%, with a mean
value of 12%. Reproducibility (RSDR) values ranged from 16.3 to 25.5%, with a
mean value of 21%. Following Codex Alimentarius Committee guidelines, both the
limits of detection and quantitation were determined to be <0.1%.

Publication Types: 
    Multicenter Study

PMID: 15675446 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

273: 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]

274: 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]

275: Lett Appl Microbiol. 2005;40(1):37-43.

Avoidance of oxidative-stress perturbation in yeast bioprocesses by proteomic and
genomic biostrategies?

Wiseman A.

Molecular Toxicology Group, School of Biomedical & Life Sciences, University of
Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK. Helen.Wiseman@kcl.ac.uk

AIMS: Bioprocess oxidative stress caused by many reactive oxygen species (ROS)
can lead to largely irreversible perturbation of yeast bioprocesses. These
include the production of proteins derived from recombinant DNA yeast technology 
(aerobically grown Saccharomyces cerevisiae). These proteins include rennin,
amyloglucosidases (glucamylases), interferons, interleukins, insulin, monoclonal 
antibodies, tissue plasminogen activators (t-PA), sexually transmitted disease
antigens, and measles, mumps and rubella antigens, growth hormones, somatotropin,
blood clotting factors VIII and XIII. In addition, there may be a demand for
severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus antigens, hepatitis A, B and C
viral-selected antigens, HIV retroviral antigens, influenza antigens,
trypanosomal antigens, and foot and mouth disease antigens. Prevention of
oxidative stress has been achieved by application of antioxidant redox
metalloenzymes such as superoxide dismutases (containing Cu/Zn cytosolic, Mn
mitochondrial and Fe bacterial) glutathione peroxidases (and other Se-containing 
proteins and enzymes such as the thioredoxins), catalases (Fe-containing),
cytochrome c peroxidases (Fe-containing), ceruloplasmins (Cu-containing),
metallothionines (these cysteine thiol-rich proteins bind ions of cadmium and
mercury) and tyrosinases(Cu-containing). METHODS AND RESULTS: ROS are generated
inadvertently by single metal valency couples such as FeII/FeIII and by FeIII/FeV
present in 2700 (including 57 human) isoforms in cytochromes P450 mixed-function 
oxidases (EC 1.14.14.1; O2 : mono-oxygenase NADPH/NADH requiring). In addition,
mixed-metal couples such as valency unmatched forms in CuI/FeII and FeIII/MnIV
can recycle electrons. Moreover, proteins/protein chaperone couples can recycle
electrons, often where futile-recycling systems have been instigated.
Furthermore, oxidized membrane phospholipids (R) can form ROOH (lipid
hydroperoxides) and ROH (lipid alkoxides) that can generate ROS through Fenton
chemistry (iron-catalysed) chain reactions. Utilization of chain-breaking
antioxidants such as vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) in the lipid phase and vitamin 
C (ascorbate) in the aqueous phase can terminate these ROS-producing reactions.
CONCLUSIONS: The main significance of the study is that proteomic strategies of
relief from bioprocess perturbation by ROS of yeast fermentations (used to
manufacture proteins required in the food and therapeutic bioindustries) may
become possible through addition of selected proteins (including metalloenzymes).
The main impact of the study is that the utilization of genetically modified (GM)
yeast produced by recombinant DNA technology genomic strategies could circumvent 
the bioprocessing problems that otherwise result from the bioprocess
perturbations: this is as a result of oxidative stress caused by ROS, which is
avoidable by deployment of appropriate antioxidants such as vitamins E, C and D
(and antioxidant proteins and enzymes often of microbial origin via recombinant
DNA technology).

PMID: 15613000 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

276: Environ Biosafety Res. 2003 Jul-Sep;2(3):161-71.

Making the EU "risk window" transparent: the normative foundations of the
environmental risk assessment of GMOs.

Jensen KK, Gamborg C, Madsen KH, Jørgensen RB, von Krauss MK, Folker AP, Sandøe
P.

Centre for Bioethics and Risk Assessment, Department of Education, Philosophy and
Rhetoric, University of Copenhagen, Njalsgade 80, 2300 Copenhagen S, Denmark.
kkjensen@hum.ku.dk

In Europe, there seems to be widespread, morally based scepticism about the use
of GMOs in food production. In response to this scepticism, the revised EU
directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of
genetically modified organisms stresses the importance of respecting ethical
principles recognized in the Member States. However, the directive fails to
reflect the critical role of value judgements in scientific risk assessment and
any subsequent approval procedure. In this paper we argue that it is important to
make all ethically relevant assumptions involved in the approval procedure
transparent and thus available for public scrutiny. Mapping the value judgements 
that are made in an environmental risk assessment and approval procedure, we
describe the political liberal nature of the EU legislation. We then look more
closely at the prescriptions for environmental risk assessment and approval of
GMOs outlined in the directive. An environmental risk assessment views the world 
through a "risk window" that only makes visible that which has been predefined as
a relevant risk. The importance of the value judgements that define the risk
window consists in limiting the information the risk assessment can provide. In
the penultimate section of the paper, the significance of the risk window is
demonstrated through a case study of the approval of glyphosate resistant fodder 
beets (Beta vulgaris L. ssp. vulgaris) in Denmark.

PMID: 15612414 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

277: 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, Tenbült 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]

278: Toxicology. 2005 Jan 15;206(2):195-205.

Evaluation of an in vitro method for the measurement of specific IgE antibody
responses: the rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cell assay.

Dearman RJ, Skinner RA, Deakin N, Shaw D, Kimber I.

Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire
SK10 4TJ, UK. rebecca.dearman@syngenta.com

The evaluation of allergenic potential is a key parameter in the safety
assessment of novel proteins, including those expressed in genetically modified
crops and foodstuffs. The majority of allergic reactions to food proteins are
immediate type hypersensitivity reactions in which the principal biological
effector is IgE antibody; the accurate measurement of specific IgE antibody is
therefore a critical factor in experimental systems designed to characterize
protein allergenic potential. Due to the presence of much higher concentrations
of other immunoglobulin isotypes, the assessment of specific serum IgE antibody
poses substantial technical challenges. We have examined the utility of the rat
basophilic leukemia (RBL) cell line for the measurement of murine IgE responses. 
RBL cells were sensitized with mouse monoclonal anti-dinitrophenyl (DNP) IgE
antibody and challenged with DNP-albumin conjugates with various hapten
substitution ratios (SR). Polyclonal anti-OVA IgE antisera were also assessed for
activity in the RBL assay. Results were compared with titers measured in
homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) assay. Marked degranulation of RBL
cells was induced by conjugates with SRs of between 16 and 32, whereas conjugates
with lower SRs (of 10 or 3) failed to elicit significant serotonin release. All
conjugates were able to induce mast cell degranulation in vivo in a PCA assay.
Anti-OVA antisera with PCA titers of 1/32 to 1/64 failed to stimulate RBL cell
degranulation, whereas high titer antibody (1/2048 to 1/4096 by PCA) induced a
positive RBL cell response. Successful stimulation of RBL cell degranulation
requires not only appropriate epitope densities but also high affinity antibody. 
These data indicate that this assay is inappropriate for the routine analysis of 
specific polyclonal IgE antibody responses such as those that are induced by
exposure to complex protein allergens.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study
    Evaluation Studies

PMID: 15588913 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

279: 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]

280: Arh Hig Rada Toksikol. 2004 Nov;55(4):301-12.

[Genetically modified organisms in food--production, detection and risks]

[Article in Croatian]

Zeljezić 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]

281: J Nutr. 2004 Dec;134(12):3264-9.

Metabolic adaptations of three inbred strains of mice (C57BL/6, DBA/2, and 129T2)
in response to a high-fat diet.

Funkat A, Massa CM, Jovanovska V, Proietto J, Andrikopoulos S.

The University of Melbourne, Department of Medicine, (AH/NH), Heidelberg
Repatriation Hospital, Heidelberg Heights, Victoria 3081 Australia.

Although it is now becoming more evident that the strain of mouse used to
generate genetically modified models for the study of endocrine disorders
contributes to the ensuing phenotype, metabolic characterization of these common 
strains used to produce genetically altered mice has been limited. The aim of
this study therefore was to measure various metabolic parameters in C57BL/6,
DBA/2, and 129T2 mice fed a control or a high-fat diet. Mice were fed either a
control (7 g/100 g) or a high-fat (60 g/100 g) diet for 6 wk. During wk 6,
spontaneous and voluntary physical activity and resting energy expenditure were
determined. DBA/2 mice that consumed the control diet gained more weight and had 
larger regional fat pad depots than either C57BL/6 or 129T2 mice (P < 0.05).
Spontaneous and voluntary activity was lower in 129T2 mice compared with DBA/2 or
C57BL/6 mice (P < 0.05). Resting energy expenditure (corrected for body weight)
was greater in C57BL/6 mice than in DBA/2 or 129T2 mice (P < 0.05), whereas
glucose and fat oxidation did not differ among the 3 strains of mice. Plasma
glucose concentrations in food-deprived mice were higher and insulin
concentrations lower in 129T2 compared with C57BL/6 mice (P < 0.05), but were not
affected by the high-fat diet in any of the 3 strains tested. This study shows
that these 3 commonly used inbred strains of mice have different inherent
metabolic characteristics. It further highlights that the background strain used 
to produce genetically modified mice is critical to the resultant phenotype.

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

PMID: 15570023 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

282: 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]

283: 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]

284: 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]

285: 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]

286: 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]

287: J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Nov 17;52(23):6962-8.

Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the genomic DNA extracted from GMO and
non-GMO foodstuffs with four different extraction methods.

Peano C, Samson MC, Palmieri L, Gulli M, Marmiroli N.

Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Parma, Italy.

The presence of DNA in foodstuffs derived from or containing genetically modified
organisms (GMO) is the basic requirement for labeling of GMO foods in Council
Directive 2001/18/CE (Off. J. Eur. Communities 2001, L1 06/2). In this work, four
different methods for DNA extraction were evaluated and compared. To rank the
different methods, the quality and quantity of DNA extracted from standards,
containing known percentages of GMO material and from different food products,
were considered. The food products analyzed derived from both soybean and maize
and were chosen on the basis of the mechanical, technological, and chemical
treatment they had been subjected to during processing. Degree of DNA degradation
at various stages of food production was evaluated through the amplification of
different DNA fragments belonging to the endogenous genes of both maize and
soybean. Genomic DNA was extracted from Roundup Ready soybean and maize MON810
standard flours, according to four different methods, and quantified by real-time
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), with the aim of determining the influence of the
extraction methods on the DNA quantification through real-time PCR.

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

PMID: 15537304 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

288: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2004 Nov;48(6):434-40.

Evaluation of the potential allergenicity of the enzyme microbial
transglutaminase using the 2001 FAO/WHO Decision Tree.

Pedersen MH, Hansen TK, Sten E, Seguro K, Ohtsuka T, Morita A, Bindslev-Jensen C,
Poulsen LK.

Laboratory of Medical Allergology, Allergy Clinic, National University Hospital, 
Copenhagen, Denmark.

All novel proteins must be assessed for their potential allergenicity before they
are introduced into the food market. One method to achieve this is the 2001
FAO/WHO Decision Tree recommended for evaluation of proteins from genetically
modified organisms (GMOs). It was the aim of this study to investigate the
allergenicity of microbial transglutaminase (m-TG) from Streptoverticillium
mobaraense. Amino acid sequence similarity to known allergens, pepsin resistance,
and detection of protein binding to specific serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) (RAST) 
have been evaluated as recommended by the decision tree. Allergenicity in the
source material was thought unlikely, since no IgE-mediated allergy to any
bacteria has been reported. m-TG is fully degraded after 5 min of pepsin
treatment. A database search showed that the enzyme has no homology with known
allergens, down to a match of six contiguous amino acids, which meets the
requirements of the decision tree. However, there is a match at the five
contiguous amino acid level to the major codfish allergen Gad c1. The potential
cross reactivity between m-TG and Gad c1 was investigated in RAST using sera from
25 documented cod-allergic patients and an extract of raw codfish. No binding
between patient IgE and m-TG was observed. It can be concluded that no safety
concerns with regard to the allergenic potential of m-TG were identified.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study
    Evaluation Studies

PMID: 15508178 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

289: 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]

290: QJM. 2004 Nov;97(11):705-16.

Biopharmaceuticals derived from genetically modified plants.

Goldstein DA, Thomas JA.

Monsanto Company A2NE, 800 N. Lindbergh Blvd, St Louis, MO 63167, USA.
daniel.a.goldstein@monsanto.com

Modern biotechnology has resulted in a resurgence of interest in the production
of new therapeutic agents using botanical sources. With nearly 500 biotechnology 
products approved or in development globally, and with production capacity
limited, the need for efficient means of therapeutic protein production is
apparent. Through genetic engineering, plants can now be used to produce
pharmacologically active proteins, including mammalian antibodies, blood product 
substitutes, vaccines, hormones, cytokines, and a variety of other therapeutic
agents. Efficient biopharmaceutical production in plants involves the proper
selection of host plant and gene expression system, including a decision as to
whether a food crop or a non-food crop is more appropriate. Product safety issues
relevant to patients, pharmaceutical workers, and the general public must be
addressed, and proper regulation and regulatory oversight must be in place prior 
to commercial plant-based biopharmaceutical production. Plant production of
pharmaceuticals holds great potential, and may become an important production
system for a variety of new biopharmaceutical products.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 15496527 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

291: 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 für 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]

292: 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]

293: 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]

294: 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]

295: 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]

296: 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]

297: Bioinformatics. 2005 Jan 1;21(1):39-50. Epub 2004 Aug 19.

Supervised identification of allergen-representative peptides for in silico
detection of potentially allergenic proteins.

Björklund AK, Soeria-Atmadja D, Zorzet A, Hammerling U, Gustafsson MG.

Division of Toxicology, National Food Administration, P.O. Box 622, SE-751 26
Uppsala, Sweden.

MOTIVATION: Identification of potentially allergenic proteins is needed for the
safety assessment of genetically modified foods, certain pharmaceuticals and
various other products on the consumer market. Current methods in bioinformatic
allergology exploit common features among allergens for the detection of amino
acid sequences of potentially allergenic proteins. Features for identification
still unexplored include the motifs occurring commonly in allergens, but rarely
in ordinary proteins. In this paper, we present an algorithm for the
identification of such motifs with the purpose of biocomputational detection of
amino acid sequences of potential allergens. RESULTS: Identification of
allergen-representative peptides (ARPs) with low or no occurrence in proteins
lacking allergenic properties is the essential component of our new method,
designated DASARP (Detection based on Automated Selection of
Allergen-Representative Peptide). This approach consistently outperforms the
criterion based on identical peptide match for predicting allergenicity
recommended by ILSI/IFBC and FAO/WHO and shows results comparable to the
alignment-based criterion as outlined by FAO/WHO. AVAILABILITY: The detection
software and the ARP set needed for the analysis of a query protein reported here
are properties of the Swedish National Food Agency and are available upon
request. The protein sequence sets used in this work are publicly available on
http://www.slv.se/templatesSLV/SLV_Page____9343.asp. Allergenicity assessment for
specific protein sequences of interest is also possible via ulfh@slv.se

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

PMID: 15319257 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

298: 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]

299: Gastroenterology. 2004 Aug;127(2):502-13.

Comment in:
    Gastroenterology. 2004 Aug;127(2):667-8.

Active delivery of trefoil factors by genetically modified Lactococcus lactis
prevents and heals acute colitis in mice.

Vandenbroucke K, Hans W, Van Huysse J, Neirynck S, Demetter P, Remaut E, Rottiers
P, Steidler L.

Department for Molecular Biomedical Research, Flanders Interuniversity Institute 
for Biotechnology and Ghent University, Belgium.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Effective therapeutics for treating acute colitis, caused by
disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier, are scarce. Trefoil factors
(TFF) are cytoprotective and promote epithelial wound healing and reconstitution 
of the gastrointestinal tract, which makes them good candidate therapeutics for
acute colitis. However, orally administered TFF stick to the mucus of the small
intestine and are absorbed at the cecum. METHODS: We have engineered the
food-grade bacterium Lactococcus lactis to secrete bioactive murine TFF. The
protective and therapeutic potentials of these TFF-secreting L. lactis were
evaluated in parallel with purified TFF in the dextran sodium sulfate
(DSS)-induced murine model for acute colitis and in established chronic colitis
in interleukin (IL)-10(-/-) mice. Disease was evaluated by blinded macroscopic
and microscopic inflammatory scores and by myeloperoxidase activity. RESULTS:
Intragastric administration of TFF-secreting L. lactis led to active delivery of 
TFF at the mucosa of the colon and, in contrast to administration of purified
TFF, proved to be very effective in prevention and healing of acute DSS-induced
colitis. The in situ secreted murine TFF significantly decreased morbidity and
mortality and stimulated prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 expression, which 
represents a major therapeutic pathway. In addition, this approach was successful
in improving established chronic colitis in IL-10(-/-) mice. CONCLUSIONS: We have
positively evaluated a new therapeutic approach for acute and chronic colitis
that involves in situ secretion of murine TFF by orally administered L. lactis.
This novel approach may lead to effective management of acute and chronic colitis
and epithelial damage in humans.

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

PMID: 15300583 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

300: 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]

301: Electrophoresis. 2004 Jul;25(14):2219-26.

Sensitive and simultaneous analysis of five transgenic maizes using multiplex
polymerase chain reaction, capillary gel electrophoresis, and laser-induced
fluorescence.

García-Cañas V, González R, Cifuentes A.

Institute of Industrial Fermentations (CSIC), Madrid, Spain.

The benefits of using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by
capillary gel electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescence (CGE-LIF) for the
simultaneous detection of five transgenic maizes (Bt11, T25, MON810, GA21, and
Bt176) are demonstrated. The method uses a hexaplex PCR protocol to amplify the
five mentioned transgenic amplicons plus the zein gene used as reference,
followed by a CGE-LIF method to analyze the six DNA fragments. CGE-LIF was
demonstrated very useful and informative for optimizing multiplex PCR parameters 
such as time extension, PCR buffer concentration and primers concentration. The
method developed is highly sensitive and allows the simultaneous detection in a
single run of percentages of transgenic maize as low as 0.054% of Bt11, 0.057% of
T25, 0.036% of MON810, 0.064% of GA21, and 0.018% of Bt176 in flour obtaining
signals still far from the detection limit (namely, the signal/noise ratios for
the corresponding DNA peaks were 41, 124, 98, 250, 252, and 473, respectively).
These percentages are well below the minimum threshold marked by the European
Regulation for transgenic food labeling (i.e., 0.5-0.9%). A study on the
reproducibility of the multiplex PCR-CGE-LIF procedure was also performed. Thus, 
values of RSD lower than 0.67 and 6.80% were obtained for migration times and
corrected peak areas, respectively, for the same sample and three different days 
(n = 12). On the other hand, the reproducibility of the whole procedure,
including four different multiplex PCR amplifications, was determined to be
better than 0.66 and 23.3% for migration times and corrected peak areas,
respectively. Agarose gel electrophoresis (AGE) and CGE-LIF were compared in
terms of resolution and sensitivity for detecting PCR products, demonstrating
that CGE-LIF can solve false positives induced by artifacts from the multiplex
PCR reaction that could not be addressed by AGE. Moreover, CGE-LIF provides
better resolution and sensitivity. To our knowledge, these results demonstrate
for the first time that multiplex PCR-CGE-LIF is a solid alternative to determine
multiple genetically modified organisms in maize flours in a single run.

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

PMID: 15274006 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

302: Appetite. 2004 Aug;43(1):75-83.

Willingness to try new foods as predicted by social representations and attitude 
and trait scales.

Bäckström A, Pirttilä-Backman AM, Tuorila H.

Department of Food Technology, P.O. Box 66 (Agnes Sjöbergin 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]

303: Exp Neurol. 2004 Aug;188(2):292-9.

Treatment with immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents delays onset of
canine genetic narcolepsy and reduces symptom severity.

Boehmer LN, Wu MF, John J, Siegel JM.

Department of Psychiatry, University of California at Los Angeles, 90095, USA.

All Doberman pinschers and Labrador retrievers homozygous for a mutation of the
hypocretin (orexin) receptor-2 (hcrtr2) gene develop narcolepsy under normal
conditions. Degenerative changes and increased display of major
histocompatibility complex class II antigens have been linked to symptom onset in
genetically narcoleptic Doberman pinschers. This suggests that the immune system 
may contribute to neurodegenerative changes and narcoleptic symptomatology in
these dogs. We therefore attempted to alter the course of canine genetic
narcolepsy, as an initial test of principle, by administering a combination of
three immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory drugs chosen to suppress the immune
response globally. Experimental dogs were treated with a combination of
methylprednisolone, methotrexate and azathioprine orally starting within 3 weeks 
after birth, and raised in an environment that minimized pathogen exposure.
Symptoms in treated and untreated animals were quantified using the food elicited
cataplexy test (FECT), modified FECT and actigraphy. With drug treatment, time to
cataplexy onset more than doubled, time spent in cataplexy during tests was
reduced by more than 90% and nighttime sleep periods were consolidated.
Short-term drug administration to control dogs did not reduce cataplexy symptoms,
demonstrating that the drug regimen did not directly affect symptoms. Treatment
was stopped at 6 months, after which experimental animals remained less
symptomatic than controls until at least 2 years of age. This treatment is the
first shown to affect symptom development in animal or human genetic narcolepsy. 
Our findings show that hcrtr2 mutation is not sufficient for the full symptomatic
development of canine genetic narcolepsy and suggest that the immune system may
play a role in the development of this disorder.

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

PMID: 15246829 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

304: J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Jul 14;52(14):4535-40.

Detection of genetically modified soybean using peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) and 
microarray technology.

Germini A, Mezzelani A, Lesignoli F, Corradini R, Marchelli R, Bordoni R,
Consolandi C, De Bellis G.

Dipartimento di Chimica Organica e Industriale, Università degli Studi di Parma, 
Parco Area delle Scienze 17/A, 43100 Parma, Italy.

Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) microarrays for the detection of Roundup Ready
soybeans in food have been prepared. PNA probes are known to be more efficient
and selective in binding DNA sequences than the analogous oligonucleotides and
are very suitable to be used for diagnostics in food. PNAs of different lengths
were carefully designed and synthesized by solid-phase synthesis on an automatic 
synthesizer adopting the BOC strategy. PNAs were purified by HPLC and
characterized by HPLC/MS. The probes were spotted on a functionalized surface to 
produce a microarray to be hybridized with PCR products. DNA extracted from
reference material was amplified using Cy3- and Cy5-labeled primers, and the
fluorescent PCR products obtained were hybridized on the microarray. Two
protocols were adopted: the hybridization with dsDNA or with ssDNA obtained by
digestion with the enzyme lambda exonuclease. The best results were obtained
using a 15-mer PNA probe in combination with the ssPCR product derived from
enzymatic digestion. The method was applied to the analysis of a sample of
certified transgenic soybean flour.

PMID: 15237963 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

305: Physiol Behav. 2004 Jul;81(5):741-8.

Is dopamine required for natural reward?

Cannon CM, Bseikri MR.

Department of Biochemistry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of
Washington, Box 357370, Seattle, WA 98195-7370, USA. caesia@u.washington.edu

Reward is fundamental to the organization of behavior, and the neurotransmitter
dopamine (DA) is widely recognized to be critical to the neurobiology of reward, 
learning and addiction. Virtually all drugs of abuse, including heroin and other 
opiates, alcohol, cocaine, amphetamine and nicotine activate dopaminergic
systems. So called "natural" rewards such as food, positive social interactions
and even humor, likewise activate DA neurons and are powerful aids to attention
and learning. Sweet solutions are a well-characterized natural reward. When a
source of sugar is encountered, animals will consume substantial amounts, return 
to it preferentially, and will work to obtain access. Dopamine systems are
activated in animals drinking sugar solutions, and lesions of dopaminergic
neurons or pharmacological blockade of DA receptors seem to reduce the reward
value of both sweet tastes and drugs of abuse. However, we have recently
demonstrated that genetically modified mice that cannot make DA (DD mice)
manifest normal sucrose preference. During preference tests, mutant mice
initiated licking less frequently than did normal mice, but the rate of licking
by DD mice for sweets was actually higher than that of normal mice, indicating
that their motor ability to lick is intact. We conclude that DA is not required
for the hedonic response to sweets nor for their discrimination. This brief and
slightly humorous review discusses these findings in the context of current and
historical answers to the question, "What is the role of DA in reward?"

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

PMID: 15234179 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

306: 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]

307: 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]

308: 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]

309: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2004 Mar;33(2):176-9.

[Study on food safety of genetically modified rice which expressed cowpea trypsin
inhibitor by 90 day feeding test on rats]

[Article in Chinese]

Zhuo Q, Chen X, Piao J, Gu L.

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

OBJECTIVE: Rats were fed by transgenic rice which expressed insecticidal protein 
CPTI (cowpea trypsin inhibitor) to study if the transgenic rice possessed
potential toxic or adverse effects. METHODS: Weanling Wistar rats were randomly
divided into three groups: T, N and C group. The diet of T group contained 78.3% 
transgenic rice. The diet of N group contained 74.7% non transgenic rice which
was the parent line of the transgenic one. The diet formula of C group was
AIN93G. The macro- and micronutrient content were equal in three diets. The rats 
were fed for 90 days. Food intakes were weight every day, body-weight were weight
and body-length were measured every week. In the middle and at the end of feeding
period, haematological value and clinical chemistry parameters were measured, at 
the end of the 90th day, post-mortem organ coefficient were measured, organ
tissues analysis was performed and bone density was measured. RESULTS: In most
situation, there were no significant differences among the three groups(P > 0.05)
and no histopathological damage were detected. At the end of the 1st month, the
male rats' body length of the T group was longer than the other two groups and at
the end of the test period, the male rats' blood glucose and ALT were lower than 
the other two groups. In the middle of the test period, the female rats' red
blood cell number and hemoglobin were higher than the other two groups and at the
end of the test period, the female rats' monocyte number was higher than the
other two groups (P < 0.05). But all of the results were in the normal range
which had been reported before. CONCLUSION: From the results of the 90 days
feeding test of transgenic rice on rats there did not reveal any signs of toxic
and adverse effects.

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

PMID: 15208998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

310: 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, Université 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]

311: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2004 Jun 22;101(25):9303-8. Epub 2004 Jun 10.

Population effects of growth hormone transgenic coho salmon depend on food
availability and genotype by environment interactions.

Devlin RH, D'Andrade M, Uh M, Biagi CA.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 4160 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC, Canada V7V
1N6. devlinr@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Environmental risk assessment of genetically modified organisms requires
determination of their fitness and invasiveness relative to conspecifics and
other ecosystem members. Cultured growth hormone transgenic coho salmon
(Oncorhynchus kisutch) have enhanced feeding capacity and growth, which can
result in large enhancements in body size (>7-fold) relative to nontransgenic
salmon, but in nature, the ability to compete for available food is a key factor 
determining survival fitness and invasiveness of a genotype. When transgenic and 
nontransgenic salmon were cohabitated and competed for different levels of food, 
transgenic salmon consistently outgrew nontransgenic fish and could affect the
growth of nontransgenic cohorts except when food availability was high. When food
abundance was low, dominant individuals emerged, invariably transgenic, that
directed strong agonistic and cannibalistic behavior to cohorts and dominated the
acquisition of limited food resources. When food availability was low, all groups
containing transgenic salmon experienced population crashes or complete
extinctions, whereas groups containing only nontransgenic salmon had good (72.0
+/- 4.3% SE) survival, and their population biomass continued to increase. Thus, 
effects of growth hormone transgenic salmon on experimental populations were
primarily mediated by an interaction between food availability and population
structure. These data, while indicative of forces which may act on natural
populations, also underscore the importance of genotype by environment
interactions in influencing risk assessment data for genetically modified
organisms and suggest that, for species such as salmon which are derived from
large complex ecosystems, considerable caution is warranted in applying data from
individual studies.

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

PMID: 15192145 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

312: Appl Environ Microbiol. 2004 Jun;70(6):3239-45.

Metabolism of zearalenone by genetically modified organisms expressing the
detoxification gene from Clonostachys rosea.

Takahashi-Ando N, Ohsato S, Shibata T, Hamamoto H, Yamaguchi I, Kimura M.

Laboratory for Remediation Research, Plant Science Center, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa,
Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan.

Zearalenone (ZEN) is converted to a nontoxic product by a lactonohydololase
encoded by zhd101. An enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene was fused to
zhd101 (i.e., egfp::zhd101) and expressed in Escherichia coli. Both recombinant
ZHD101 and EGFP::ZHD101 were purified to homogeneity and characterized. Maximal
activity of ZHD101 toward ZEN was measured at approximately 37 to 45 degrees C
and pH 10.5 (k(cat) at 30 degrees C, 0.51 s(-1)). The enzyme was irreversibly
inactivated at pH values below 4.5 or by treatment with serine protease
inhibitors. ZHD101 was also active against five ZEN cognates, although the
efficiencies were generally low; e.g., the k(cat) was highest with zearalanone
(1.5 s(-1)) and lowest with beta-zearalenol (0.075 s(-1)). EGFP::ZHD101 had
properties similar to those of the individual proteins with regard to the EGFP
fluorescence and lactonohydrolase activity. Fortuitously, EGFP::ZHD101 exhibited 
a good correlation between the fluorescence intensity and reaction velocity under
various pH conditions. We therefore used egfp::zhd101 to visually monitor the
lactonohydrolase activity in genetically modified organisms and evaluated the
usefulness of zhd101 for in vivo detoxification of ZEN. While recombinant E. coli
and transgenic rice calluses exhibited strong EGFP fluorescence and completely
degraded ZEN in liquid media, recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae gave poor
fluorescence and did not eliminate all the toxicity of the mycotoxin in the
medium; i.e., the rest of ZEN was transformed into an unfavorable substrate,
beta-zearalenol, by an as-yet-unidentified reductase and remained in the medium. 
Even so, as much as 75% of ZEN was detoxified by the yeast transformant, which is
better than the detoxification system in which food-grade Lactobacillus strains
are used (H. El-Nezami, N. Polychronaki, S. Salminen, and H. Mykkuäne, Appl.
Environ. Microbiol. 68:3545-3549, 2002). An appropriate combination of a
candidate host microbe and the codon-optimized synthetic gene may contribute
significantly to establishing a mycotoxin detoxification system for food and
feed.

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

PMID: 15184117 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

313: Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2004 Jul;28(7):858-69.

Role of parents in the determination of the food preferences of children and the 
development of obesity.

Benton D.

Department of Psychology, University of Wales Swansea, Swansea, Wales, UK.
d.benton@swansea.ac.uk

The role of parental behaviour in the development of food preferences is
considered. Food preferences develop from genetically determined predispositions 
to like sweet and salty flavours and to dislike bitter and sour tastes.
Particularly towards the second year of life, there is a tendency to avoid novel 
foods (neophobia). Food aversions can be learnt in one trial if consumption is
followed by discomfort. There is a predisposition to learn to like foods with
high-energy density. However, from birth genetic predispositions are modified by 
experience and in this context during the early years parents play a particularly
important role. Parental style is a critical factor in the development of food
preferences. Children are more likely to eat in emotionally positive atmospheres.
Siblings, peers and parents can act as role models to encourage the tasting of
novel foods. Repeated exposure to initially disliked foods can breakdown
resistance. The offering of low-energy-dense foods allows the child to balance
energy intake. Restricting access to particular foods increases rather than
decreases preference. Forcing a child to eat a food will decrease the liking for 
that food. Traditionally, educational strategies have typically involved attempts
to impart basic nutritional information. Given the limited ability of information
to induce changes in behaviour, an alternative strategy would be to teach parents
about child development in the hope that an understanding of the characteristic
innate tendencies and developmental stages can be used to teach healthy food
preferences.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 15170463 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

314: J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Jun 2;52(11):3275-80.

Erratum in:
    J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Jun 30;52(13):4350.

Development of a seven-target multiplex PCR for the simultaneous detection of
transgenic soybean and maize in feeds and foods.

Germini A, Zanetti A, Salati C, Rossi S, Forré C, Schmid S, Marchelli R, Fogher
C.

Dipartimento di Chimica Organica e Industriale, Università di Parma, Italy.

The detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feed is an
important issue for all the subjects involved in raw material control, food
industry, and distribution. Because the number of GMOs authorized in the EU
increased during the past few years, there is a need for methods that allow a
rapid screening of products. In this paper, we propose a method for the
simultaneous detection of four transgenic maize (MON810, Bt11, Bt 176, and GA21) 
and one transgenic soybean (Roundup Ready), which allows routine control analyses
to be sped up. DNA was extracted either from maize and soybean seeds and leaves
or reference materials, and the recombinant DNA target sequences were detected
with 7 primer pairs, accurately designed to be highly specific for each
investigated transgene. Cross and negative controls were performed to ensure the 
specificity of each primer pair. The method was validated on an interlaboratory
ring test and good analytical parameters were obtained (LOD = 0.25%,
Repeatability, (r) = 1; Reproducibility, (R) = 0.9). The method was then applied 
to a model biscuit made of transgenic materials baked for the purpose and to real
samples such as feed and foodstuffs. On account of the high recognition
specificity and the good detection limits, this multiplex PCR represents a fast
and reliable screening method directly applicable in all the laboratories
involved in raw material and food control.

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

PMID: 15161182 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

315: 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]

316: Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol. 2004 Mar;36(3):88-91.

[Animal models for assessment of GMO allergenicity: advantages and limitations]

[Article in French]

Adel-Patient K, Wal JM.

Laboratoire d'Immuno-Allergie Alimentaire, INRA, CEA-Service de Pharmacologie et 
d'Immunologie CEA de Saclay, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette.

Incidence of IgE-mediated allergic reactions to foods is increasing as well as
the severity of associated symptoms and numerous foods are now incriminated,
probably in relation with modifications of dietary habits and increased exposure 
to new or modified food ingredients. Therefore, the introduction on the market of
food composed of or derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) raised the
question of their potential allergenicity. Particularly with regards to the
allergenicity of a newly expressed protein, it is necessary to obtain, from
several steps in the risk assessment process, a cumulative body of evidence which
minimises any uncertainty. This may include the use of animal model despite no
fully reliable validated model is available yet. Such animal models should allow 
to address 3 major issues: Is the novel protein a sensitizer, i.e. does it
possess intrinsic properties that allow to sensitize a predisposed individual? Is
the protein an elicitor i.e. is it able to elicit an allergic reaction in a
sensitised individual? And is the protein an adjuvant, i.e. can it facilitate or 
enhance the sensitisation to an other protein? Animal models under investigation 
currently include mice, rats and guinea pigs but models such as dogs and swine
also appeared a few years ago. The aim is to mimic the mechanism and
characteristics of the sensitisation phase and/or the elicitation phase of the
allergic reaction as it occurs in atopic humans. They are necessary because
sensitisation studies can obviously not be done in human and because in vitro
tests cannot reproduce the complexity of the immune system. We propose a mouse
model which mimics both phases of the allergic reaction. It has permitted to
evidence that biochemical and clinical manifestations occuring during the active 
phases of the allergic reaction differ according to the structure of the allergen
used for the challenge. This may allow to compare the allergenic potential of a
genetically modified protein with that of the conventional one and to identify
possible unintended effects. However, pathogenesis of food allergy in human is
very complex and multifactorial, including individual differences in
susceptibility, environmental factors, conditions of exposure, ... No animal
model can take into account all these factors and allow a reliable prediction of 
the prevalence and severity of allergic reactions which would result from the
exposure to a (novel) protein. Nevertheless, point by point analysis using the
different models available may provide useful informations on the potential
allergenicity of a novel protein.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 15137477 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

317: 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, König 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]

318: 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 Sanitá, 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]

319: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1127-56.

The relevance of gene transfer to the safety of food and feed derived from
genetically modified (GM) plants.

van den Eede G, Aarts H, Buhk HJ, Corthier G, Flint HJ, Hammes W, Jacobsen B,
Midtvedt T, van der Vossen J, von Wright A, Wackernagel W, Wilcks A.

European Commission Directorate General Joint Research Centre, Institute for
Health and Consumer Protection, Biotechnology and GMOs Unit, Via E. Fermi 1-T.P. 
331, I-21020 Ispra (VA), Italy. guy.van-den-eede@cec.eu.int

In 2000, the thematic network ENTRANSFOOD was launched to assess four different
topics that are all related to the testing or assessment of food containing or
produced from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Each of the topics was
linked to a European Commission (EC)-funded large shared cost action (see
http://www.entransfood.com). Since the exchange of genetic information through
horizontal (lateral) gene transfer (HGT) might play a more important role, in
quantity and quality, than hitherto imagined, a working group dealing with HGT in
the context of food and feed safety was established. This working group was
linked to the GMOBILITY project (GMOBILITY, 2003) and the results of the
deliberations are laid down in this review paper. HGT is reviewed in relation to 
the potential risks of consuming food or feed derived from transgenic crops.
First, the mechanisms for obtaining transgenic crops are described. Next, HGT
mechanisms and its possible evolutionary role are described. The use of marker
genes is presented in detail as a special case for genes that may pose a risk.
Furthermore, the exposure to GMOs and in particular to genetically modified (GM) 
deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is discussed as part of the total risk assessment.
The review finishes off with a number of conclusions related to GM food and feed 
safety. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview to assist
risk assessors as well as regulators and the general public in understanding the 
safety issues related to these mechanisms. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Publication Types: 
    Multicenter Study
    Review

PMID: 15123384 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

320: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1047-88.

Assessment of the safety of foods derived from genetically modified (GM) crops.

König 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]

321: J Agric Food Chem. 2004 May 5;52(9):2709-14.

Safety assessment by in vitro digestibility and allergenicity of genetically
modified maize with an amaranth 11S globulin.

Sinagawa-García SR, Rascón-Cruz Q, Valdez-Ortiz A, Medina-Godoy S,
Escobar-Gutiérrez A, Paredes-López O.

Departamento de Biotecnología y Bioquímica, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios
Avanzados del IPN, Apdo. Postal 629, 36500 Irapuato, Gto., México.

Prospective testing for allergenicity of proteins obtained from sources with no
prior history of causing allergy has been difficult to perform. Thus, the
objective of this work was to assess the food safety of genetically modified
maize with an amaranth globulin protein termed amarantin. Transgenic maize lines 
evaluated showed, in relation to nontransgenic, 4-35% more protein and 0-44%
higher contents of specific essential amino acids. Individual sequence analysis
with known amino acid sequences, reported as allergens, showed that none of these
IgE elicitors were identified in amarantin. Amarantin was digested within the
first 15 min by Simulated Gastric Fluid treatment as observed by Western blot.
Expressed amarantin did not induce important levels of specific IgE antibodies in
BALB/c mice, as analyzed by ELISA. We conclude that the transgenic maize with
amarantin is not an important allergenicity inducer, just as nontransgenic maize.

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

PMID: 15113180 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

322: 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,
Universitätstrasse 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]

323: Anal Chem. 2004 Apr 15;76(8):2306-13.

Quantitation of transgenic Bt event-176 maize using double quantitative
competitive polymerase chain reaction and capillary gel electrophoresis
laser-induced fluorescence.

García-Cañas V, Cifuentes A, González R.

Institute of Industrial Fermentations (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, 
Spain.

In this work, a new procedure useful to quantitatively analyze genetically
modified organisms (GMOs) in foods is described and applied to analyze transgenic
Bt Event-176 maize. The method developed consists of coamplifications of specific
DNA maize sequences with internal standards using quantitative competitive PCR
(QC-PCR). The QC-PCR products are quantitatively analyzed using a capillary gel
electrophoresis (CGE) with laser-induced fluorescence detection (LIF) method
developed at our laboratory that utilizes a physically adsorbed coating. The
CGE-LIF procedure allows the use of internal standards differing by only 10 bp
from the original target fragments, to our knowledge, the smallest size
difference that can be found in the bibliography for QC-PCR of GMOs. A
spectrofluorometric procedure using ROX reference dye is proposed to solve
calibration problems of input DNA concentration. It is demonstrated that the use 
of ROX drastically enhances the accuracy of the quantitative analysis by QC-PCR. 
Reproducibility of analysis times and corrected peak areas (measured as
target/competitor PCR products ratio) for the CGE-LIF separations are determined 
to be better than 0.91 and 1.93% (RSD, n = 15) respectively, for three different 
days. It is shown that CGE-LIF provides better resolution and a signal/noise
ratio improvement of approximately 700-fold compared to slab gel electrophoresis.
The good possibilities in terms of quantitative analysis of GMOs provided by this
new method are confirmed by determining the Bt Event-176 maize content in
certified reference maize powder and food samples of known composition. This
procedure opens the possibility for accurate quantitation of multiple GMOs in a
single run.

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

PMID: 15080742 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

324: Toxicol Rev. 2003;22(2):83-90.

Biopesticides.

Sudakin DL.

Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University,
Corvallis, Oregon, USA. sudakind@ace.orst.edu

The term 'biopesticide' encompasses a broad array of microbial pesticides,
biochemicals derived from micro-organisms and other natural sources, and
processes involving the genetic incorporation of DNA into agricultural
commodities that confer protection against pest damage (plant-incorporated
protectants). Some microbial pesticides, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, have a
long history of safe and effective use as a biological insecticide. More recent
developments in microbial pest control include the utilisation of other bacterial
and fungal species that may competitively inhibit the growth of pathogenic and
toxigenic micro-organisms on important agricultural commodities. The use of
microbes and their gene products introduces additional considerations to the
toxicological dose-response relationship, including a need to determine the
plausibility of infectious and immunological effects in association with human
exposure to these biopesticides in food or the environment. Studies of
substantial equivalence suggest that foods currently derived from
plant-incorporated protectants are not likely to differ from conventional foods. 
However, there is general consensus that the scientific methods to assess risks
from genetically modified foods and micro-organisms will continue to evolve in
the future.

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

PMID: 15071818 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

325: J Basic Microbiol. 2004;44(2):147-56.

Microbial detoxification of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol.

Völkl A, Vogler B, Schollenberger M, Karlovsky P.

Max-Planck-Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie, Spemannstr. 35, D-72076 Tübingen,
Germany.

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a trichothecene secondary metabolite produced by Fusarium
species infecting cereal crops. As a mycotoxin, DON causes losses in livestock
production and poses a health risk to humans consuming contaminated cereal
products. DON also acts as a virulence factor, facilitating the colonization of
host plants by Fusarium spp. Enzymatic detoxification of mycotoxins in feed
additives and genetically modified crops is a promising approach for the
reduction of mycotoxin contamination of feeds and food. A prerequisite for the
development of biotechnological strategies for DON detoxification is the
availability of genes encoding suitable enzymatic activities. With the goal of
isolating microbial cultures that can be used as a source of such activities, we 
screened 1285 microbial cultures from farmland soil, cereal grains, insects and
other sources for DON transformation under aerobic conditions. One mixed culture 
transformed DON into two chromatographically separable products. The main product
of the transformation was purified and its structure was elucidated by mass
spectroscopy, (1)H-NMR, (13)C-NMR and proton-proton and carbon-proton correlated 
NMR spectroscopy. The structure of this product was determined to be
3-keto-4-deoxynivalenol. The DON-transforming mixed culture survived and retained
its transforming activity during a starvation period of six months at 20 degrees 
C. Transformation of DON was suppressed by low concentrations of glucose and high
concentrations of tryptone and yeast extract. Cell-free supernatants obtained
either by filtration through a 0.22 microm membrane filter or by centrifugation
did not exert DON-transforming activity. Trichothecenes 15-acetyl-DON,
3-acetyl-DON and fusarenon-X were also transformed. Copyright 2004 WILEY-VCH
Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim

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

PMID: 15069674 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

326: 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]

327: Eur Ann Allergy Clin Immunol. 2004 Feb;36(2):46-51.

Severe food anaphylaxis: 107 cases registered in 2002 by the Allergy Vigilance
Network.

Moneret-Vautrin DA, Kanny G, Morisset M, Rancé F, Fardeau MF, Beaudouin E.

Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Immunology and Allergology, University 
Hospital, Avenue de Lattre de Tassigny, 54035 Nancy Cedex, France.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of food allergies increases, relating to diet
modifications. The consumption of new foods--exotic foods or foods originally
used for animal feed, new proteins, neo allergens due to the use of new
technologies and soon, Genetically Modified Foods--are in the spotlight.
OBJECTIVE: It is essential to develop a system of food allergy vigilance
encompassing the full range of foods being consumed. Understanding this
imperative leads logically to the suggestion of developing an allergy vigilance
network taking advantage of the ongoing experience of allergists "on the ground".
METHODS: The French Allergy Vigilance Network is subscribed to by 302
allergologists (267 of whom are French). The aims of the Network are to record
cases of severe anaphylaxis, to establish an epidemiological data bank from
prospective multicenter studies, and to monitor the allergic risk from novel
foods. RESULTS: In 2002, 107 cases of severe anaphylaxis were recorded:
anaphylactic shock--59.8% (one fatal), systemic reaction--18.7%, laryngeal
angio-edema--15.9%, acute severe asthma--5.6% (one fatal). The main allergens
identified were peanuts, nuts, shellfish, lupine flour and wheat flour. Action
has been taken as a result: information by industry on inadequate labeling,
withdrawal of wrongly labeled batches, and university hospital centers have been 
encouraged to establish the allergenic safety of their catering services.
CONCLUSION: Setting up such a network in other countries would lead to a
significant advance in knowledge of the peculiarities of allergies relating to a 
wide variety of eating habits.

PMID: 15061394 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

328: Nahrung. 2004 Feb;48(1):13-8.

Quality and safety evaluation of genetically modified potatoes spunta with Cry V 
gene: compositional analysis, determination of some toxins, antinutrients
compounds and feeding study in rats.

El Sanhoty R, El-Rahman AA, Bögl KW.

Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BFR), Thielallee 88-92, D-14195 Berlin,
Germany. r.sanhoty@bfr.bund.de

The aim of this study was to evaluate the composition, nutritional and toxicology
safety of GM potato Spunta lines compared to that of conventional potato Spunta. 
Compositional analyses were conducted to measure the proximate chemical
composition with references to 14 components, total solid, protein, lipid, crude 
fibre, ash, carbohydrate, starch, reducing sugar, nonreducing sugar, sodium,
calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and ascorbic acid. Some toxins and anti-nutrients
compounds were determined. Feeding study of GM potatoes line (G2 and G3) in rats 
were done for 30 days. Four groups of albino rats were used for studying the
effect and the safety assessment of GM potatoes Spunta G2 and G3. Group (I) was
fed on control basal diet, group (II) was fed on control diet plus 30%
freeze-dried nongenetically modified potato Spunta, group (III) was fed on
control diet plus 30% freeze-dried genetically modified potato Spunta, and group 
(IV) was fed on control diet plus 30% freeze-dried genetically modified potato
Spunta GMO G3. There were no significant differences between GM potatoes G2, G3, 
and Spunta control potato line in the proximate chemical composition. The levels 
of glycoalkaloids in transgenic potato tubers and nontransgenic were determined
and there were also no significant differences between the GM potatoes and
conventional potato line, the levels were in agreement with a safety level
recommended by FAO/WHO (200 mg/ kg) for acute toxicity. Protease inhibitor
activity and total phenol were estimated and no significant differences between
the GM potatoes line and conventional potato Spunta line were found. During the
period tested, rats in each group (I, II, III, IV) grew well without marked
differences in appearance. No statistical difference were found in food intake,
daily body weight gain and feed efficiency. But there is a slightly significant
difference in finally body weight between the control group and experimental
groups. No significant difference were found in serum biochemical value between
each groups, and also between relative organs weight (liver, spleen, heart,
kidney, testes). From these results, it can be concluded that the GM potatoes
Spunta line (G2 and G3) with Cry V gene are confirmed to have nearly the
composition and biochemical characteristics as non-GM potato Spunta.

PMID: 15053345 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

329: 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]

330: 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]

331: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2003;12 Suppl:S31.

Modern pork production - Balancing efficient growth and feed conversion with
product quality requirements and consumer demands.

Van Barneveld RJ.

Barneveld Nutrition Pty Ltd, South Maclean, QLD 4280.

Background - Profitable pork production in an environment of increasing global
competitiveness, diverse markets and heightened consumer awareness is an ongoing 
challenge. The modern pork producer needs to balance the use of emerging
technologies and intensive farming practices, which have the potential to
significantly decrease the cost of production, with specific market requirements 
for a quality product. Manipulation of fat content and distribution, nutritional 
enrichment of pork products, use of 'clean and green' feed ingredients, and
hormone and antibiotic free production practices are high on the list of
requirements of most markets as is the relative cost of Australian pork to
imports and other meats. As some of these requirements are conflicting, modern
pork producers must adopt some innovative nutritional and production strategies
if they are to remain commercially viable. Review - In a modern Australian pig
production system, a sale liveweight of 96 kg for the domestic market can be
achieved in approximately 160 days with a feed conversion ratio of 2.60:1. This
level of efficiency has been achieved through intense genetic selection for fast 
growing, lean animals over the past 30 years, an advanced knowledge of the
nutritional value of feed ingredients and the nutritional requirements of pigs,
and sophisticated production tools including advanced growth simulation models
such as AUSPIG. Consumer demands for reduced levels of fat in pork has
contributed to this efficiency given the high energetic cost of fat deposition
relative to lean meat deposition. The development of export markets for
Australian pork in 1996 coupled with a concurrent increase in consumer awareness 
of food production has prompted a renewed focus on factors influencing pork
product quality traits in addition to the cost of production, particularly
manipulation of fat quality, fat composition and fat distribution. For example,
higher levels of intramuscular fat or marbling in pork, largely influenced by
genetics, can positively affect the juiciness, tenderness and flavour of pork. In
addition, a focus on dietary fat sources for growing pigs has been shown to
influence fat quality and composition. Restricting the level of dietary
unsaturated fats can reduce the incidence of soft fat, and restricting the use of
dietary fish oils to 0.5% for at least two weeks prior to slaughter will maintain
the processing and keeping qualities of the pork. In contrast, modified forms of 
fishmeal as a dietary source of long chain n-3 PUFA can effectively be used to
produce n-3 enriched pork, a factor with potential to greatly increase the
attractiveness of pork to some markets. As well as manipulation of the fat
attributes of pork, other nutritional strategies that have potential to improve
the quality of pork products include enrichment using dietary supplements of
minerals such as selenium and a reduced reliance on antibiotics through improved 
nutrition and herd health status. Conclusions - Modern pork production involves
rapid responses to changing market demands. A major issue faced by Australian
producers is the need balance product quality requirements with increased costs
of production. This is further confounded by the fact that modern technologies
such as immunocastration, and the use of porcine somatotropin and genetically
modified feed ingredients, all of which could potentially further enhance product
quality while offsetting some of the costs of production, are poorly accepted in 
the market place.

PMID: 15023634 [PubMed - in process]

332: J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Mar 10;52(5):1049-54.

Detection and quantitation of genetically modified maize (Bt-176 transgenic
maize) by applying ligation detection reaction and universal array technology.

Bordoni R, Mezzelani A, Consolandi C, Frosini A, Rizzi E, Castiglioni B, Salati
C, Marmiroli N, Marchelli R, Rossi Bernardi L, Battaglia C, De Bellis G.

Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Tecnologie Biomediche and
Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biomediche, Università degli Studi di
Milano, LITA, Via F.lli Cervi, 93 20090 Segrate, Milan, Italy.

We have applied the ligation detection reaction (LDR) combined with a universal
array approach to the detection and quantitation of the polymerase chain reaction
(PCR) amplified cry1A(b) gene from Bt-176 transgenic maize. We demonstrated
excellent specificity and high sensitivity. Down to 0.5 fmol (nearly 60 pg) of
PCR amplified transgenic material was unequivocally detected with excellent
linearity within the 0.1-2.0% range with respect to wild-type maize. We suggest
the feasibility of extending the LDR/universal array format to detect in parallel
several transgenic sequences that are being developed for food applications.

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

PMID: 14995096 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

333: 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]

334: Proteomics. 2004 Jan;4(1):193-200.

Proteomics as a tool to improve investigation of substantial equivalence in
genetically modified organisms: the case of a virus-resistant tomato.

Corpillo D, Gardini G, Vaira AM, Basso M, Aime S, Accotto GP, Fasano M.

Laboratorio Integrato Metodologie Avanzate, Bioindustry Park Canavese, Colleretto
Giacosa, Italy.

At present, the so-called "substantial equivalence" is the only widely accepted
criterion for deciding whether or not a transgenic food is, from an alimentary
point of view, to be considered totally correspondent to the "traditional" one
from which it derives. Although never exactly defined, it deals with a comparison
between the chemical composition of the two foods. A more in-depth analysis can
be performed by one of the most suitable methods that allows for the simultaneous
screening of many components without prior identification, the analysis of the
proteome. As a model for testing this kind of approach, we compared protein
expression of two types of tomato plants, having the same genetic background,
except for a virus resistance trait introduced by genetic engineering. When
proteins extracted from seedlings of the two types were analyzed by
two-dimensional electrophoresis, no significant differences, either qualitative
or quantitative, were detected, indicating that in this case the expression of
major proteins was unmodified by the genetic manipulation. Fifteen proteins were 
identified by peptide mass fingerprinting.

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

PMID: 14730681 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

335: 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]

336: Trends Plant Sci. 2003 Dec;8(12):591-7.

Tracking genes from seed to supermarket: techniques and trends.

Auer CA.

Department of Plant Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-4163,
USA. carol.auer@uconn.edu

Analytical techniques to track plant genes in the environment and the food chain 
are essential for environmental risk assessment, government regulation and
production and trade of genetically modified (GM) crops. Here, I review
laboratory techniques to track plant genes during pre-commercialization research 
on gene flow and post-commercialization detection, identification and
quantification of GM crops from seed to supermarket. At present, DNA- and
protein-based assays support both activities but the demand for fast,
inexpensive, sensitive methods is increasing. Part of the demand has been
generated by stringent food labeling and traceability regulations for GM crops.
The increase in GM crops, changes in GM crop design, evolution of government
regulations and adoption of risk-assessment frameworks will continue to drive
development of analytical techniques.

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

PMID: 14659708 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

337: 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]

338: Public Underst Sci. 2002 Apr;11(2):93-111.

Controversial medical and agri-food biotechnology: a cultivation analysis.

Bauer MW.

Social Psychology, London School of Economics, Department of Social Psychology,
UK. M.Bauer@lse.ac.uk

Whether biotechnology is one or several developments is not clear. Once
distinctions are required, the question is: Which one prevails? When the good,
the bad, and the ugly settle, where do they fall? Evaluation implies distinction,
and representation drives attitude. The controversies over biotechnology are
fertile ground on which to study these issues. The imports of genetically
modified (GM) soya into Europe in 1996-97 and the cloning of Dolly the sheep from
adult cells in 1997 changed the symbolic environment for genetic engineering. The
ensuing public controversies came to focus mainly on field trials of GM crops and
food labeling. This paper will explore the relationship between quality press
coverage and public perception, in particular the cultivation of the contrast
between "desirable" biomedical (RED) and "undesirable" agri-food (GREEN)
biotechnology in Britain. The argument draws on a systematic analysis of the
British press coverage of biotechnology from 1973 to 1999 and analysis of public 
perceptions in 1996 and 1999. The paper concludes that the debate over GM crops
and food ingredients fostered the RED-GREEN contrast among the newspaper-reading 
public, thereby shielding RED biotechnology from public controversy, and ushered 
in a realignment of the regulatory framework in 2000.

Publication Types: 
    Historical Article

PMID: 14621673 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

339: J Nutr. 2003 Nov;133(11):3319-22.

Biotechnology and food systems in developing countries.

Timmer CP.

Development Alternatives, Incorporated (DAI), Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
Peter_Timmer@dai.com

Even in a world with adequate food supplies in global markets, which is the
situation today, biotechnology offers important opportunities to developing
countries in four domains. First, many agronomically hostile or degraded
environments require major scientific breakthroughs to become productive
agricultural systems. Few of these breakthroughs are likely to be achieved
through traditional breeding approaches. Second, biofortification offers the
promise of greater quantities and human availabilities of micronutrients from
traditional staple foods, with obvious nutritional gains for poor consumers,
especially their children. Third, many high yielding agricultural systems are
approaching their agronomic potential. Radically new technologies will be
required to sustain productivity growth in these systems, and only modern genetic
technology offers this hope. Finally, many cropping systems use large quantities 
of chemical inputs, such as herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers that can be
unhealthy for people and soils alike. Biotechnology offers the potential to
reduce the need for these inputs in economically and environmentally sustainable 
ways. Applying these new technologies to society's basic foods raises obvious
concerns for both human and ecological health. For some, these concerns have
become outright fear, and this has mobilized a backlash against genetically
modified foods in any form. These concerns (and fears) must be addressed
carefully and rationally so that the public understands the risks (which are not 
zero) and benefits (which might be enormous). Only the scientific community has
the expertise and credibility to build this public understanding.

Publication Types: 
    Lectures

PMID: 14608038 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

340: Riv Biol. 2003 May-Aug;96(2):207-23.

The ecological risks of transgenic plants.

Giovannetti M.

Department of Chemistry and Agricultural Biotechnology, University of Pisa, Via
del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy. mgiova@agr.unipi.it

Biotechnologies have been utilized "ante litteram" for thousands of years to
produce food and drink and genetic engineering techniques have been widely
applied to produce many compounds for human use, from insulin to other medicines.
The debate on genetically modified (GM) organisms broke out all over the world
only when GM crops were released into the field. Plant ecologists,
microbiologists and population geneticists carried out experiments aimed at
evaluating the environmental impact of GM crops. The most significant findings
concern: the spread of transgenes through GM pollen diffusion and its
environmental impact after hybridisation with closely related wild species or
subspecies; horizontal gene transfer from transgenic plants to soil microbes; the
impact of insecticide proteins released into the soil by transformed plants on
non-target microbial soil communities. Recent developments in genetic engineering
produced a technology, dubbed "Terminator", which protects patented genes
introduced in transgenic plants by killing the seeds in the second generation.
This genetic construct, which interferes so heavily with fundamental life
processes, is considered dangerous and should be ex-ante evaluated taking into
account the data on "unexpected events", as here discussed, instead of relying on
the "safe until proven otherwise" claim. Awareness that scientists,
biotechnologists and genetic engineers cannot answer the fundamental question
"how likely is that transgenes will be transferred from cultivated plants into
the natural environment?" should foster long-term studies on the ecological risks
and benefits of transgenic crops.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 14595899 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

341: J Theor Biol. 2003 Nov 21;225(2):241-55.

Spatially explicit modelling of transgenic maize pollen dispersal and
cross-pollination.

Loos C, Seppelt R, Meier-Bethke S, Schiemann J, Richter O.

Department of Environmental System Analysis, Institute of Geoecology, Technical
University of Braunschweig, Langer Kamp 19c, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany.

Modelling of pollen dispersal and cross-pollination is of great importance for
the ongoing discussion on thresholds for the adventitious presence of genetically
modified material in food and feed. Two different modelling approaches for pollen
dispersal are used to simulate the cross-pollination rate of pollen emerged from 
an adjacent transgenic crop field. The models are applied to cross-pollination
data from field experiments with transgenic maize (Zea mays). The data were
generated by an experimental setup specifically designed to suit the demands of
mathematical modelling. First a Gaussian plume model is used for the simulation
of pollen transport in and from plant canopies. This is a semiempirical approach 
combining the atmospheric diffusion equation and Lagrangian methodology. The
second model is derived from the localised near field (LNF) theory and based on
the physical processes in the canopy. Both modelling approaches prove to be
appropriate for the simulation of the cross-pollination rates at distances of
about 7.5m and more from the transgene source. The simulation of the
cross-pollination rate is less precise at the edge of the source plot especially 
with the LNF theory. However, the simulation results lie within the range of
variability of the observations. Concluding can be pointed out that both models
might be adapted to other pollen dispersal experiments of different crops and
plot sizes.

PMID: 14575658 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

342: Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 2003 Oct;27(10):1554-62.

Hypericum perforatum CO2 extract and opioid receptor antagonists act
synergistically to reduce ethanol intake in alcohol-preferring rats.

Perfumi M, Santoni M, Cippitelli A, Ciccocioppo R, Froldi R, Massi M.

Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Experimental Medicine, University of
Camerino, Camerino (Macerata), Italy. marina.perfumi@unicam.it

BACKGROUND: Hypericum perforatum extracts attenuate ethanol intake in
alcohol-preferring rats. The opioid receptor antagonists, naloxone and
naltrexone, reduce ethanol intake in rats and humans. The combination of
different agents that reduce ethanol intake has been proposed as an approach to
the pharmacotherapy of alcoholism. This study evaluated the effect on ethanol
intake of the combined administration of a CO2 H. perforatum extract and naloxone
or naltrexone in genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian alcohol-preferring
rats. METHODS: Ten percent (v/v) ethanol intake was offered 2 hr per day at the
beginning of the dark phase of the reverse light-dark cycle. H. perforatum CO2
extract was given intragastrically, 1 hr before access to ethanol. Naloxone or
naltrexone was given by intraperitoneal injection 10 min before the extract.
RESULTS: H. perforatum CO2 extract reduced ethanol intake at 31 or 125 mg/kg, but
not 7 mg/kg. These doses neither modified food or water intake during access to
ethanol, nor reduce 0.2% saccharin intake. Naloxone reduced ethanol and food
intake at 3 or 5 mg/kg, but not 1 mg/kg. When naloxone 1 mg/kg was combined with 
the three doses of H. perforatum CO2 extract, the attenuation of ethanol intake
was more pronounced than that observed after the administration of the extract
alone. Alcohol intake was also significantly reduced by 7 mg/kg of H. perforatum 
CO2 extract combined with naloxone 1 mg/kg. The combined treatments never
modified the rat's locomotor activity nor the simultaneous intake of food, water 
or 0.2% saccharin. Naltrexone reduced ethanol intake at 1 and 3 mg/kg, but not at
0.5 mg/kg. When naltrexone 0.5 mg/kg was combined with H. perforatum CO2 extract 
7 mg/kg, ethanol intake was markedly reduced. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide
evidence that H. perforatum CO2 extract and opiate receptor antagonists act
synergistically to induce a pronounced and selective reduction of voluntary
ethanol consumption in alcohol-preferring rats.

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

PMID: 14574225 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

343: Protein Sci. 2003 Nov;12(11):2434-42.

Identification of transglutaminase-mediated deamidation sites in a recombinant
alpha-gliadin by advanced mass-spectrometric methodologies.

Mazzeo MF, De Giulio B, Senger S, Rossi M, Malorni A, Siciliano RA.

Centro di Spettrometria di Massa Proteomica e Biomolecolare, Istituto di Scienze 
dell'Alimentazione del CNR, Avellino, Italy.

Celiac disease is a permanent immune-mediated food intolerance triggered by
ingestion of wheat gliadins in genetically susceptible individuals. It has been
reported that tissue transglutaminase plays an important role in the onset of
celiac disease by converting specific glutamine residues within gliadin fragments
into glutamic acid residues. This process increases binding affinity of gliadin
peptides to HLA-DQ2/DQ8 molecules, thus enhancing the immune response. The aim of
the present study was to achieve a detailed structural characterization of
modifications induced by transglutaminase on gliadin peptides. Therefore,
structural analyses were carried out on a recombinant alpha-gliadin and on a
panel of 26 synthetic peptides, overlapping the complete protein sequence.
Modified glutamine residues were identified by means of advanced
mass-spectrometric methodologies on the basis of MALDI-TOF-MS and tandem mass
spectrometry. Results led to the identification of 19 of 94 glutamine residues
present in the recombinant alpha-gliadin, which were converted into glutamic acid
residues by a transglutaminase-mediated reaction. This allowed us to achieve a
global view of the modifications induced by the enzyme on this protein.
Furthermore, results gathered could likely be utilized as relevant information
for a better understanding of processes leading to T-cell recognition of gliadin 
peptides involved in celiac disease.

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

PMID: 14573857 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

344: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2003 Nov 29;358(1439):1899-913.

Responses of plants and invertebrate trophic groups to contrasting herbicide
regimes in the Farm Scale Evaluations of genetically modified herbicide-tolerant 
crops.

Hawes C, Haughton AJ, Osborne JL, Roy DB, Clark SJ, Perry JN, Rothery P, Bohan
DA, Brooks DR, Champion GT, Dewar AM, Heard MS, Woiwod IP, Daniels RE, Young MW, 
Parish AM, Scott RJ, Firbank LG, Squire GR.

Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK.
chawes@scri.sari.ac.uk

Effects of genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) and conventional crop
management on invertebrate trophic groups (herbivores, detritivores, pollinators,
predators and parasitoids) were compared in beet, maize and spring oilseed rape
sites throughout the UK. These trophic groups were influenced by season, crop
species and GMHT management. Many groups increased twofold to fivefold in
abundance between early and late summer, and differed up to 10-fold between crop 
species. GMHT management superimposed relatively small (less than twofold), but
consistent, shifts in plant and insect abundance, the extent and direction of
these effects being dependent on the relative efficacies of comparable
conventional herbicide regimes. In general, the biomass of weeds was reduced
under GMHT management in beet and spring oilseed rape and increased in maize
compared with conventional treatments. This change in resource availability had
knock-on effects on higher trophic levels except in spring oilseed rape where
herbivore resource was greatest. Herbivores, pollinators and natural enemies
changed in abundance in the same directions as their resources, and detritivores 
increased in abundance under GMHT management across all crops. The result of the 
later herbicide application in GMHT treatments was a shift in resource from the
herbivore food web to the detritivore food web. The Farm Scale Evaluations have
demonstrated over 3 years and throughout the UK that herbivores, detritivores and
many of their predators and parasitoids in arable systems are sensitive to the
changes in weed communities that result from the introduction of new herbicide
regimes.

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

PMID: 14561321 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

345: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2003 Nov 29;358(1439):1779-99.

On the rationale and interpretation of the Farm Scale Evaluations of genetically 
modified herbicide-tolerant crops.

Squire GR, Brooks DR, Bohan DA, Champion GT, Daniels RE, Haughton AJ, Hawes C,
Heard MS, Hill MO, May MJ, Osborne JL, Perry JN, Roy DB, Woiwod IP, Firbank LG.

Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK.
g.squire@scri.sari.ac.uk

Farmland biodiversity and food webs were compared in conventional and genetically
modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops of beet (Beta vulgaris L.), maize (Zea
mays L.) and both spring and winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). GMHT and
conventional varieties were sown in a split-field experimental design, at 60-70
sites for each crop, spread over three starting years beginning in 2000. This
paper provides a background to the study and the rationale for its design and
interpretation. It shows how data on environment, field management and the biota 
are used to assess the current state of the ecosystem, to define the typical
arable field and to devise criteria for selecting, sampling and auditing
experimental sites in the Farm Scale Evaluations. The main functional and
taxonomic groups in the habitat are ranked according to their likely sensitivity 
to GMHT cropping, and the most responsive target organisms are defined. The value
of the seedbank as a baseline and as an indicator of historical trends is
proposed. Evidence from experiments during the twentieth century is analysed to
show that large changes in field management have affected sensitive groups in the
biota by ca. 50% during a year or short run of years--a figure against which to
assess any positive or negative effects of GMHT cropping. The analysis leads to a
summary of factors that were, and were not, examined in the first 3 years of the 
study and points to where modelling can be used to extrapolate the effects to the
landscape and the agricultural region.

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

PMID: 14561314 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

346: Mol Genet Genomics. 2003 Dec;270(4):362-8. Epub 2003 Oct 11.

Uptake of amplifiable fragments of retrotransposon DNA from the human alimentary 
tract.

Forsman A, Ushameckis D, Bindra A, Yun Z, Blomberg J.

Section of Virology, Department of Medical Sciences, Academic Hospital, Uppsala
University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.

Few attempts have been made to study the transfer of DNA from ingested food
across the intestinal barrier. A low uptake of ingested DNA has been observed in 
mice, cattle and poultry. There have been no reports on humans so far.
Maintenance of species barriers, protection against retrotransposons,
optimisation of oral DNA vaccines and the fate of genetically modified foodstuffs
are issues where this topic is of importance. We therefore used the
high-copy-number rabbit retrotransposon RERV-H, and rabbit mitochondrial DNA, to 
study the transfer of DNA from ingested rabbit meat into the bloodstream of two
human volunteers. A quantitative PCR was used to measure RERV-H levels in food
and in the blood. Amplification with the primers selected results in the
generation of a 250-bp fragment of RERV-H. Transfer across the intestinal
epithelium could be demonstrated in both subjects. Levels of the fragment in the 
bloodstream peaked at 1-3 h after ingestion of the experimental meal. One hour
after a meal of rabbit meat containing 10(14) copies of RERV-H DNA, a maximum
concentration of 200 copies of RERV-H DNA per ml of peripheral blood was
observed, which corresponds to the uptake of approximately 10(6) RERV-H DNA
copies in 1 h. RERV-H DNA was detected in both cellular and plasma compartments. 
Both rabbit retrotransposon and mitochondrial DNA was taken up from the human
alimentary tract. The size of the fragments detected is similar to that of SINE
retrotransposons (approximately 300 bp). The fate and functionality of alimentary
DNA in humans will require further study.

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

PMID: 14556071 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

347: Biotechnol Adv. 1999 Dec 30;17(8):647-78.

Biotechnology products and European consumers.

Moses V.

Division of Life Sciences, King's College, London, SE1 8WA, UK. v.moses@qmw.ac.uk

More than 100 interviews conducted during 1997 with European food manufacturers
and retailers, trade associations, government departments, consumer groups,
environmental organizations and some individual academic scientists revealed how 
differences in the perceived attitudes of consumers gave rise to varying
approaches by suppliers to the possible introduction of transgenic foods.
European consumers generally are not against the pharmaceutical products of
biotechnology but are much less willing to accept food and food ingredients,
especially when derived from genetically modified plants. Objections are mainly
based on fears for the health and safety of the consumer, worries about the
possibility of deleterious effects on the environment, and a range of moral and
ethical concerns often deriving from a distaste, however expressed, at the
concept of interfering with nature. Consumer understanding of the science
underlying biotechnology is patchy; in no country does more than a small
proportion of the population claim a good grasp. Partly no doubt as a consequence
of these attitudes, the introduction of genetically modified foods into Europe
has occurred slowly and, during the period of this study, perhaps only in the
Netherlands and the UK.

PMID: 14538121 [PubMed]

348: Biotechnol Adv. 2000 May;18(3):179-206.

The impact of genetic modification of human foods in the 21st century: a review.

Uzogara SG.

Bioanalytical-PK Department, Alkermes Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
uzogara_stella@alkermes.com

Genetic engineering of food is the science which involves deliberate modification
of the genetic material of plants or animals. It is an old agricultural practice 
carried on by farmers since early historical times, but recently it has been
improved by technology. Many foods consumed today are either genetically modified
(GM) whole foods, or contain ingredients derived from gene modification
technology. Billions of dollars in U.S. food exports are realized from sales of
GM seeds and crops. Despite the potential benefits of genetic engineering of
foods, the technology is surrounded by controversy. Critics of GM technology
include consumer and health groups, grain importers from European Union (EU)
countries, organic farmers, environmentalists, concerned scientists, ethicists,
religious rights groups, food advocacy groups, some politicians and trade
protectionists. Some of the specific fears expressed by opponents of GM
technology include alteration in nutritional quality of foods, potential
toxicity, possible antibiotic resistance from GM crops, potential allergenicity
and carcinogenicity from consuming GM foods. In addition, some more general
concerns include environmental pollution, unintentional gene transfer to wild
plants, possible creation of new viruses and toxins, limited access to seeds due 
to patenting of GM food plants, threat to crop genetic diversity, religious,
cultural and ethical concerns, as well as fear of the unknown. Supporters of GM
technology include private industries, research scientists, some consumers, U.S. 
farmers and regulatory agencies. Benefits presented by proponents of GM
technology include improvement in fruit and vegetable shelf-life and organoleptic
quality, improved nutritional quality and health benefits in foods, improved
protein and carbohydrate content of foods, improved fat quality, improved quality
and quantity of meat, milk and livestock. Other potential benefits are: the use
of GM livestock to grow organs for transplant into humans, increased crop yield, 
improvement in agriculture through breeding insect, pest, disease, and weather
resistant crops and herbicide tolerant crops, use of GM plants as bio-factories
to yield raw materials for industrial uses, use of GM organisms in drug
manufacture, in recycling and/or removal of toxic industrial wastes. The
potential risks and benefits of the new technology to man and the environment are
reviewed. Ways of minimizing potential risks and maximizing the benefits of GM
foods are suggested. Because the benefits of GM foods apparently far outweigh the
risks, regulatory agencies and industries involved in GM food business should
increase public awareness in this technology to enhance worldwide acceptability
of GM foods. This can be achieved through openness, education, and research.

PMID: 14538107 [PubMed]

349: Biotechnol Adv. 2001 Nov;19(7):539-54.

Management strategies for agricultural biotechnology in small countries. A case
study of Israel.

Shalhevet S, Haruvy N, Spharim I.

Department of Economics, Agricultural Research Organization, Bet Dagan, Israel.
sarit@agri.gov.il

Agricultural biotechnology is concentrated in four major countries. This paper
suggests strategies for developing it in small countries, based on analysis of
the world trends and the characteristics of small countries. Israel is presented 
as a specific case study. The main relevant trends are domination by big
companies, consumer concerns on genetically modified foods, and focusing on
consumer benefits and specific market niches. Small countries' disadvantages
include companies that are too small to benefit fully from research, difficulty
in raising funds, lack of infrastructures and experienced management personnel,
and public sector research organizations that are unsuitable for commercializing 
research. The recommended strategies include: developing a large number of
low-volume products and small market niches, forming partnerships with
intermediaries (such as food companies), specializing in intermediate products
(such as the seed or the gene patent), and conducting market research and
cost-benefit analysis in advance. Additional strategies include developing
benefits that are unique to genetically modified foods and focusing on benefits
specifically for consumers who accept genetically modified foods, rather than on 
benefits for the average consumer. A national representative organization could
buy and rent out expensive equipment, finance specific projects in return for the
commercial rights, and perform collective marketing research and marketing.
Israel has the advantages of a successful agricultural sector and complementary
scientific research, and should focus on those fruits, vegetables, and flowers
for which it already has the experience and infrastructure.

PMID: 14538065 [PubMed]

350: 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 Sanità Pubblica, Patologia Comparata e Igiene Veterinaria,
Università degli Studi di Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy. enrico.novelli@unipd.it

PMID: 14535501 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

351: Nat Rev Genet. 2003 Oct;4(10):839-43.

GM crops: science, politics and communication.

Arntzen CJ, Coghlan A, Johnson B, Peacock J, Rodemeyer M.

Center for Production of Vacccines from Applied Crop Science, Arizona Biodesign
Institute at Arizona State University, United States.

As the public debate in Europe about genetically modified (GM) crops heats up and
the trade row between the United States and the European Union over GM food
escalates, what better time to examine the issues with an international group of 
experts (Box 1). Their views are diverse, but they all agree that we need more
impartial communication, less propaganda and an effective regulatory regime that 
is based on a careful case-by-case consideration of GM technology. It seems that 
GM crops are here to stay, so let us hope that these requirements are met and
that the developing nations that perhaps have the most to gain from this
technology can start to reap its benefits.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 14526380 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

352: Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2003 Oct;17(5):861-76.

Genetically engineered probiotics.

Steidler L.

Department of Medicine, Alimentary Pharmabiotic Center, University College Cork, 
Western Road, Cork, Ireland. l.steidler@ucc.ie

Probiotic micro-organisms have been used for many years. Originating as food
supplements, they are now most often administered orally and offer an attractive 
alternative for treating of intestinal disorders. A better understanding of the
mechanisms by which these micro-organisms act has now opened up possibilities for
designing new probiotic strains. Through genetic engineering, it is possible not 
only to strengthen the effects of existing strains, but also to create completely
new probiotics. These need not necessarily be composed only of bacterial products
but can also include elements of regulatory systems or enzymes derived from a
foreign-human-source. If designed carefully and with absolute attention to
biological safety in its broadest sense, the development of genetically modified 
probiotics has the potential to revolutionize alimentary health.

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

PMID: 14507594 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

353: 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]

354: Genet Mol Res. 2003 Mar 31;2(1):112-6.

Challenges when transferring technology from Lactococcus laboratory strains to
industrial strains.

Johansen E.

Applied Biotechnology, Chr Hansen A/S, 10-12 Bøge Allé, Hørsholm, Denmark.
Eric.Johansen@dk.chr-hansen.com

Many genetically modified Lactococcus strains have been constructed in research
laboratories around the world. Most of these have originated from laboratory
strains and therefore there are several barriers to using them in an industrial
setting. Laboratory strains are often plasmid-free and consequently Lac- and
Prt-, rendering them unable to grow in milk. Many of the commonly used techniques
have been optimised for laboratory strains and their application to industrial
strains may require a great deal of effort. Often genetically modified organisms 
produced in the laboratory do not fit the published definition of 'food-grade'
(Johansen, 1999, Encyclopedia of Food Microbiology, Academic Press, London, pp.
917-921) and a great deal of effort is required to eliminate undesirable DNA
sequences. As a consequence, it is often necessary to recreate the strains in
industrial backgrounds before the innovations described in the scientific
literature can be applied to the real-world dairy industry.

PMID: 12917807 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

355: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2003 Oct;377(3):496-506. Epub 2003 Aug 6.

Biosensors based on enzyme field-effect transistors for determination of some
substrates and inhibitors.

Dzyadevych SV, Soldatkin AP, Korpan YI, Arkhypova VN, El'skaya AV, Chovelon JM,
Martelet C, Jaffrezic-Renault N.

Laboratory of Biomolecular Electronics, Institute of Molecular Biology &
Genetics, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 150 Zabolotnogo Str., 03143,
Kiev, Ukraine. dzyad@yahoo.com

This paper is a review of the authors' publications concerning the development of
biosensors based on enzyme field-effect transistors (ENFETs) for direct
substrates or inhibitors analysis. Such biosensors were designed by using
immobilised enzymes and ion-selective field-effect transistors (ISFETs). Highly
specific, sensitive, simple, fast and cheap determination of different substances
renders them as promising tools in medicine, biotechnology, environmental
control, agriculture and the food industry.The biosensors based on ENFETs and
direct enzyme analysis for determination of concentrations of different
substrates (glucose, urea, penicillin, formaldehyde, creatinine, etc.) have been 
developed and their laboratory prototypes were fabricated. Improvement of the
analytical characteristics of such biosensors may be achieved by using a
differential mode of measurement, working solutions with different buffer
concentrations and specific agents, negatively or positively charged additional
membranes, or genetically modified enzymes. These approaches allow one to
decrease the effect of the buffer capacity influence on the sensor response in an
aim to increase the sensitivity of the biosensors and to extend their dynamic
ranges.Biosensors for the determination of concentrations of different toxic
substances (organophosphorous pesticides, heavy metal ions, hypochlorite,
glycoalkaloids, etc.) were designed on the basis of reversible and/or
irreversible enzyme inhibition effect(s). The conception of an enzymatic
multibiosensor for the determination of different toxic substances based on the
enzyme inhibition effect is also described.We will discuss the respective
advantages and disadvantages of biosensors based on the ENFETs developed and also
demonstrate their practical application.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12904953 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

356: J Immunol. 2003 Aug 15;171(4):2116-26.

A plant-based allergy vaccine suppresses experimental asthma via an IFN-gamma and
CD4+CD45RBlow T cell-dependent mechanism.

Smart V, Foster PS, Rothenberg ME, Higgins TJ, Hogan SP.

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

Allergic asthma is currently considered a chronic airway inflammatory disorder
associated with the presence of activated CD4(+) Th2-type lymphocytes,
eosinophils, and mast cells. Interestingly, therapeutic strategies based on
immune deviation and suppression have been shown to successfully attenuate the
development of the asthma phenotype. In this investigation, we have for the first
time used a genetically modified (GM) plant, narrow leaf lupin (Lupinus
angustifolius L.), expressing a gene for a potential allergen (sunflower seed
albumin) (SSA-lupin) to examine whether a GM plant/food-based vaccine strategy
can be used to suppress the development of experimental asthma. We show that oral
consumption of SSA-lupin promoted the induction of an Ag-specific IgG2a Ab
response. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the plant-based vaccine attenuated the
induction of delayed-type hypersensitivity responses and pathological features of
experimental asthma (mucus hypersecretion, eosinophilic inflammation, and
enhanced bronchial reactivity (airways hyperreactivity). The suppression of
experimental asthma by SSA-lupin was associated with the production of CD4(+) T
cell-derived IFN-gamma and IL-10. Furthermore, we show that the specific
inhibition of experimental asthma was mediated via CD4(+)CD45RB(low) regulatory T
cells and IFN-gamma. Thus, our data demonstrate that a GM plant-based vaccine can
promote a protective immune response and attenuate experimental asthma,
suggesting that plant-based vaccines may be potentially therapeutic for the
protection against allergic diseases.

PMID: 12902518 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

357: 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]

358: 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]

359: 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]

360: 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]

361: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1125-30.

Assessment of protein allergenicity on the basis of immune reactivity: animal
models.

Kimber I, Dearman RJ, Penninks AH, Knippels LM, Buchanan RB, Hammerberg B,
Jackson HA, Helm RM.

Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire,
United Kingdom. ian.kimber@syngenta.com

Because of the public concern surrounding the issue of the safety of genetically 
modified organisms, it is critical to have appropriate methodologies to aid
investigators in identifying potential hazards associated with consumption of
foods produced with these materials. A recent panel of experts convened by the
Food and Agriculture Organization and World Health Organization suggested there
is scientific evidence that using data from animal studies will contribute
important information regarding the allergenicity of foods derived from
biotechnology. This view has given further impetus to the development of suitable
animal models for allergenicity assessment. This article is a review of what has 
been achieved and what still has to be accomplished regarding several different
animal models. Progress made in the design and evaluation of models in the rat,
the mouse, the dog and in swine is reviewed and discussed.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12826485 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

362: 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]

363: 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]

364: 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]

365: Nucleic Acids Res. 2003 Jun 1;31(11):e62.

A novel multiplex quantitative DNA array based PCR (MQDA-PCR) for quantification 
of transgenic maize in food and feed.

Rudi K, Rud I, Holck A.

MATFORSK, Norwegian Food Research Institute, Osloveien 1, N-1430 AAS, Norway.
knut.rudi@matforsk.no

We have developed a novel multiplex quantitative DNA array based PCR method
(MQDA-PCR). The MQDA-PCR is general and may be used in all areas of biological
science where simultaneous quantification of multiple gene targets is desired. We
used quantification of transgenic maize in food and feed as a model system to
show the applicability of the method. The method is based on a two-step PCR. In
the first few cycles bipartite primers containing a universal 5' 'HEAD' region
and a 3' region specific to each genetically modified (GM) construct are
employed. The unused primers are then degraded with a single-strand DNA-specific 
exonuclease. The second step of the PCR is run containing only primers consisting
of the universal HEAD region. The removal of the primers is essential to create a
competitive, and thus quantitative PCR. Oligo nucleotides hybridising to internal
segments of the PCR products are then sequence specifically labelled in a cyclic 
linear signal amplification reaction. This is done both to increase the
sensitivity and the specificity of the assay. Hybridisation of the labelled
oligonucleotides to their complementary sequences in a DNA array enables
multiplex detection. Quantitative information was obtained in the range 0.1-2%
for the different GM constructs tested. Seventeen different food and feed samples
were screened using a twelve-plex system for simultaneous detection of seven
different GM maize events (Bt176, Bt11, Mon810, T25, GA21, CBH351 and DBT418).
Ten samples were GM positive containing mainly mixtures of Mon810, Bt11 and Bt176
DNA. One sample contained appreciable amounts of GA21. An eight-plex MQDA-PCR
system for detection of Mon810, Bt11 and Bt176 was evaluated by comparison with
simplex 5' nuclease PCRs. There were no significant differences in the
quantifications using the two approaches. The samples could, by both methods, be 
quantified as containing >2%, between 1 and 2%, between 0.1 and 1%, or <0.1% in
43 out of 47 determinations. The described method is modular, and thus suited for
future needs in GM detection.

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

PMID: 12771226 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

366: 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]

367: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2003 May;12(5):419-25.

Alcohol consumption, alcohol dehydrogenase 3 polymorphism, and colorectal
adenomas.

Tiemersma EW, Wark PA, Ocké MC, Bunschoten A, Otten MH, Kok FJ, Kampman E.

Division of Human Nutrition and Epidemiology, Wageningen University, 6700 EV
Wageningen, The Netherlands.

Alcohol is a probable risk factor with regard to colorectal neoplasm and is
metabolized to the carcinogen acetaldehyde by the genetically polymorphic alcohol
dehydrogenase 3 (ADH3) enzyme. We evaluated whether the association between
alcohol and colorectal adenomas is modified by ADH3 polymorphism. We recruited
433 cases with adenomatous polyps and 436 polyp-free controls among Caucasians
undergoing endoscopy between 1995 and 2000. Frequency and amount of habitual
alcohol consumption were assessed by beverage type, using a validated
self-administered food frequency questionnaire. All participants provided blood
for genotyping of ADH3. Multivariate analyses adjusting for gender, age, and
indication for endoscopy showed that alcohol increased the risk of colorectal
adenomas among women [odds ratio (OR), 1.8; 95% confidence interval (CI),
1.0-3.2, >/=10 versus <1 drink/week]. Among men, the risk of adenomas was
increased only for those consuming > 21 drinks/week (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 0.9-3.8,
compared with men drinking < 1 drink/week). Among subjects in the highest tertile
of alcohol consumption, those with the ADH3*1/*1 genotype were at higher risk
(OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.0-3.1) than those with other ADH3 genotypes (OR, 1.2; 95% CI,
0.7-1.9) when compared with those in the lowest tertile with ADH3*1/*2 or
ADH3*2/*2 genotypes. In conclusion, our findings are consistent with results of
other studies, suggesting that alcohol consumption elevates the risk of
adenomatous colorectal polyps. ADH3 polymorphism may modify the association
between alcohol consumption and colorectal adenomas.

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

PMID: 12750236 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

368: 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]

369: J Nutr. 2003 May;133(5 Suppl 1):1490S-3S.

Genetically modified plants for improved trace element nutrition.

Lönnerdal B.

Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
bllonnerdal@ucdavis.edu

Deficiencies of iron and zinc are common worldwide. Various strategies have been 
used to combat these deficiencies including supplementation, food fortification
and modification of food preparation and processing methods. A new possible
strategy is to use biotechnology to improve trace element nutrition. Genetic
engineering can be used in several ways; the most obvious is to increase the
trace element content of staple foods such as cereals and legumes. This may be
achieved by introduction of genes that code for trace element-binding proteins,
overexpression of storage proteins already present and/or increased expression of
proteins that are responsible for trace element uptake into plants. However, even
very high levels of expression may not substantially increase the iron and zinc
contents unless many atoms of trace elements are bound per protein molecule.
Another possibility is to introduce a protein that specifically enhances trace
element absorption even in the presence of naturally occurring inhibitors, thus
improving bioavailability. Genetically modifying plants so that their contents of
inhibitors of trace element absorption such as phytate are substantially reduced 
is another approach. Increasing the expression of compounds that enhance trace
element absorption such as ascorbic acid is also a possibility, although this has
received limited attention so far. Iron absorption may be increased by higher
ascorbic or citric acid content but require overexpression of enzymes that are
involved in the synthetic pathways. Finally, a combination of all of these
approaches perhaps complemented with conventional breeding techniques may prove
successful.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12730450 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

370: J Exp Bot. 2003 May;54(386):1317-9.

Genetically modified soybeans and food allergies.

Herman EM.

Plant Genetics Unit, USDA/ARS, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 N.
Warson Road, St Louis, MO 63132, USA. eherman@danforthcenter.org

Allergenic reactions to proteins expressed in GM crops has been one of the
prominent concerns among biotechnology critics and a concern of regulatory
agencies. Soybeans like many plants have intrinsic allergens that present
problems for sensitive people. Current GM crops, including soybean, have not been
shown to add any additional allergenic risk beyond the intrinsic risks already
present. Biotechnology can be used to characterize and eliminate allergens
naturally present in crops. Biotechnology has been used to remove a major
allergen in soybean demonstrating that genetic modification can be used to reduce
allergenicity of food and feed. This provides a model for further use of GM
approaches to eliminate allergens.

PMID: 12709477 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

371: Parassitologia. 2002 Dec;44(3-4):131-5.

An alternative focus in strategic research on disease vectors: the potential of
genetically modified non-biting mosquitoes.

Coluzzi M, Costantini C.

Dipartimento di Scienze di Sanità Pubblica, Sezione di Parassitologia, Università
La Sapienza, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy. mario.coluzzi@uniroma1.it

We examine the constraints and the feasibility of field experiments involving the
release of genetically modified (GM) pathogen-resistant mosquitoes, and whether
there are alternatives to the research line based on the production of refractory
strains. The production of a GM mosquito strain characterized instead by obligate
primiparous and parous autogeny and by disrupted host seeking and biting
behaviour could make the release more acceptable by the general public. Genetic
transformation should act in this case to reverse some of the essential steps of 
the evolutionary process that gave rise to hematophagy. The replacement strategy 
could be based on the mass release of both sexes in a well defined ecological
niche made temporarily empty of the natural population, thus avoiding the
problems related to the need of sexual competitiveness of the released material. 
This option is encouraged by the growing evidence that competitive exclusion
mechanisms influence the pattern of distribution of different taxa within
Anopheles gambiae s.s. and by the fact that the plesiomorphic characteristics of 
vitellogenesis without a blood meal (autogeny), which exploits fat body reserve
accumulated during larval life and food other than blood in adult life, persist
as genetic variants in various hematophagous insect groups, and it has been found
secondarily fixed in others showing stable reversions to primiparous and parous
autogeny. If this has been the result of natural selection, then the artificial
production of non-biting mosquito strains, by selection and/or transgenesis,
should be feasible.

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

PMID: 12701373 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

372: 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]

373: J Agric Food Chem. 2003 Apr 23;51(9):2438-46.

Characterization and content of flavonoid glycosides in genetically modified
tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) fruits.

Le Gall G, DuPont MS, Mellon FA, Davis AL, Collins GJ, Verhoeyen ME, Colquhoun
IJ.

Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich NR4 7UA,
United Kingdom.

There is a growing interest in producing food plants with increased amounts of
flavonoids because of their potential health benefits. Tomatoes contain small
amounts of flavonoids, most of which are located in the peel of the fruit. It has
been shown that flavonoid accumulation in tomato flesh, and hence an overall
increase in flavonoid levels in tomato fruit, can be achieved by means of
simultaneous overexpression of the maize transcription factors LC and C1. Fruit
from progeny of two modified lines (2027 and 2059) was selected for a detailed
analysis and individual identification of flavonoids, at different stages of
maturity. Nine major flavonoids were detected in the flesh of transgenic ripe
tomatoes. LC/NMR, LC/MS, and LC/MS/MS enabled us to identify these as
kaempferol-3,7-di-O-glucoside (1), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside-7-O-glucoside (2),
two dihydrokaempferol-O-hexosides (3 and 4), rutin (5), kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside
(6), kaempferol-3-O-glucoside (7), naringenin-7-O-glucoside (8) and naringenin
chalcone (9), which were quantified by HPLC/DAD. All but 5, 6, and 9 were
detected in tomato for the first time. The total flavonoid glycoside content of
ripe transgenic tomatoes of line 2059 was about 10-fold higher than that of the
controls, and kaempferol glycosides accounted for 60% of this. Kaempferol
glycosides comprised around 5% of the flavonoid glycoside content of ripe control
tomatoes (the rest was rutin and naringenin chalcone). The rutin concentration in
both transgenic and control fruits was similar.

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

PMID: 12696918 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

374: Toxicol Lett. 2003 Apr 11;140-141:297-302.

Assessment of the allergenic potential of proteins.

Kimber I, Betts CJ, Dearman RJ.

Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Cheshire SK10 4TJ,
Macclesfield, UK. ian.kimber@syngenta.com

The development of novel foods, including foods derived from genetically modified
plants, has generated considerable interest in the design and application of
appropriate safety assurance measures. A specific focus of attention has been on 
allergenicity, and in particular the need to determine whether the products of
novel genes introduced into food plants have the potential to cause allergic
sensitisation. Among the approaches applied currently are considerations of
whether a new protein has structural, sequence and/or antigenic similarities with
known food allergens, and whether or not it displays resistance to digestion
within a simulated gastric fluid, or by pepsin. Although such data are useful in 
an overall hazard assessment, they are neither individually, nor collectively,
able to provide a direct evaluation of inherent sensitising potential. For this
reason there is a need to develop and apply appropriate animal models that will
offer a more holistic view of sensitising activity. Several methods have been
suggested, but as yet none has been evaluated fully or validated. Nevertheless,
significant progress has been made and in this article an experimental approach
using BALB/c strain mice in which animals are exposed to the test protein via
systemic (intraperitoneal, or in certain circumstances, intradermal)
administration is described. Inherent sensitising potential is measured as a
function of induced IgE antibody responses. Experience to date is encouraging and
the data available reveal that this method is able to distinguish between
proteins of different allergenic potential.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12676477 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

375: 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]

376: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2003 Mar;375(6):799-804. Epub 2003 Feb 27.

Erratum in:
    Anal Bioanal Chem. 2003 Jul;376(5):763-4.

Evaluation of glycoalkaloids in tubers of genetically modified virus Y-resistant 
potato plants (var. Désirée) by non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis coupled
with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (NACE-ESI-MS).

Bianco G, Schmitt-Kopplin P, Crescenzi A, Comes S, Kettrup A, Cataldi TR.

Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi della Basilicata, Via N. Sauro
85, 85100 Potenza, Italy.

The glycoalkaloid content of transgenic potatoes was evaluated by an optimised
method based on non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis coupled on-line with
electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (NACE-ESI-MS). The potato material
consisted of tubers from a conventional cv. Désirée and from three lines of
modified plants resistant, intermediate and susceptible to infection by potato
virus Y (PVY). The main glycoalkaloids were confirmed to be alpha-solanine and
alpha-chaconine with parent ion masses m/z 852 and 868, respectively. In
addition, an unknown minor peak at m/z 850.6 was found both in conventional
(control) and susceptible line potato tubers. Such a compound exhibited an MS(2) 
spectrum with fragments ions at 704 and 396 m/z derived by loss of two ions, i.e.
m/z 146 and 307, most likely corresponding to a rhamnose unit and a
[glucose-(rhamnose)(2)] moiety, respectively. Up to 30-80-fold higher
concentrations of total glycoalkaloids were found in the peel compared to flesh
samples of all tubers examined. TGA content was nearly doubled in peel samples of
resistant compared to control lines, and these levels were lower than the limit
recommended for food safety, i.e. 20-60 mg of TGA per 100 g fresh weight.
Moreover, it was established that tubers produced by virus-resistant clones are
substantially equivalent in glycoalkaloid contents to those produced by
conventional potato varieties.

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

PMID: 12664181 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

377: 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]

378: Metab Eng. 2002 Oct;4(4):263-72.

Genetic engineering of a zeaxanthin-rich potato by antisense inactivation and
co-suppression of carotenoid epoxidation.

Römer S, Lübeck J, Kauder F, Steiger S, Adomat C, Sandmann G.

Universität Konstanz, Lehrstuhl für Physiologie und Biochemie der Pflanzen,
Fachbereich Biologie, Germany.

Zeaxanthin is an important dietary carotenoid but its abundance in our food is
low. In order to provide a better supply of zeaxanthin in a staple crop, two
different potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties were genetically modified. By
transformation with sense and antisense constructs encoding zeaxanthin epoxidase,
zeaxanthin conversion to violaxanthin was inhibited. Both approaches (antisense
and co-suppression) yielded potato tubers with higher levels of zeaxanthin.
Depending on the transgenic lines and tuber development, zeaxanthin content was
elevated 4 to 130-fold reaching values up to 40 microg/g dry weight. As a
consequence of the genetic manipulation, the amount of violaxanthin was
diminished dramatically and in some cases the monoepoxy intermediate
antheraxanthin accumulated. Between one and eight copies of the sense or
antisense epoxidase gene fragments were integrated into the genome. In addition, 
most of the transformants with higher zeaxanthin levels showed also increased
total carotenoid contents (up to 5.7-fold) and some of them exhibited reduced
amounts of lutein. The increase in total carotenoids suggests that the genetic
modification affects the regulation of the whole carotenoid biosynthetic pathway 
in potato tubers. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that upregulation of
carotenogenesis in the transgenics is accompanied by substantial higher phytoene 
synthase transcript levels in 6-week-old tubers and a very slight increase of the
beta-carotene hydroxylase transcript. The amount of the deoxyxylulose 5-phosphate
synthase mRNA was very similar in wild type and transformed tubers. Abscisic acid
content of tubers remained unchanged whereas alpha-tocopherol was 2 to 3 fold
elevated in the transformants.

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

PMID: 12646321 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

379: Proc Biol Sci. 2003 Feb 22;270(1513):335-40.

A novel approach to the use of genetically modified herbicide tolerant crops for 
environmental benefit.

Dewar AM, May MJ, Woiwod IP, Haylock LA, Champion GT, Garner BH, Sands RJ, Qi A, 
Pidgeon JD.

Broom's Barn Research Station, Higham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6NP, UK.
alan.dewar@bbsrc.ac.uk

The proposed introduction of genetically modified herbicide tolerant (GMHT)
crops, with claims of improved weed control, has prompted fears about possible
environmental impacts of their widespread adoption, particularly on arable weeds,
insects and associated farmland birds. In response to this, we have developed a
novel weed-management system for GMHT sugar beet, based on band spraying, which
exploits the flexibility offered by the broad-spectrum partner herbicides. Here, 
we show the results from two series of field experiments which, taken together,
demonstrate that, by using this system, crops can be managed for enhanced weed
and insect biomass without compromising yield, thus potentially offering food and
shelter to farmland birds and other wildlife. These results could be applicable
widely to other row crops, and indicate that creative use of GMHT technology
could be a powerful tool for developing more sustainable farming systems in the
future.

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

PMID: 12639311 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

380: In Silico Biol. 2002;2(4):525-34.

Prediction of food protein allergenicity: a bioinformatic learning systems
approach.

Zorzet A, Gustafsson M, Hammerling U.

Division of Toxicology, National Food Administration, P.O. Box 622, SE-751 26
Uppsala, Sweden.

Food hypersensitivity is constantly increasing in Western societies with a
prevalence of about 1-2% in Europe and in the USA. Among children, the incidence 
is even higher. Because of the introduction of foods derived from genetically
modified crops on the marketplace, the scientific community, regulatory bodies
and international associations have intensified discussions on risk assessment
procedures to identify potential food allergenicity of the newly introduced
proteins. In this work, we present a novel biocomputational methodology for the
classification of amino acid sequences with regard to food allergenicity and
non-allergenicity. This method relies on a computerised learning system trained
using selected excerpts of amino acid sequences. One example of such a successful
learning system is presented which consists of feature extraction from sequence
alignments performed with the FASTA3 algorithm (employing the BLOSUM50
substitution matrix) combined with the k-Nearest-Neighbour (kNN) classification
algorithm. Briefly, the two features extracted are the alignment score and the
alignment length and the kNN algorithm assigns the pair of extracted features
from an unknown sequence to the prevalent class among its k nearest neighbours in
the training (prototype) set available. 91 food allergens from several
specialised public repositories of food allergy and the SWALL database were
identified, pre-processed, and stored, yielding one of the most extensively
characterised repositories of allergenic sequences known today. All allergenic
sequences were classified using a standard one-leave-out cross validation
procedure yielding about 81% correctly classified allergens and the
classification of 367 non-allergens in an independent test set resulted in about 
98% correct classifications. The biocomputational approach presented should be
regarded as a significant extension and refinement of earlier attempts suggested 
for in silico food safety assessment. Our results show that the framework
described here is powerful enough to become useful as part of a
multiple-procedure test scheme that also depicts other evaluation approaches such
as solid phase immunoassay and tests for stability to digestions.

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

PMID: 12611632 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

381: 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]

382: 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]

383: Biochimie. 2002 Nov;84(11):1073-87.

Genetically modified lactic acid bacteria: applications to food or health and
risk assessment.

Renault P.

Génétique microbienne, Inra, domaine de Vilvert, 78352 Jouy-en-Josas, France.
renault@jouy.inra.fr

Lactic acid bacteria have a long history of use in fermented food products.
Progress in gene technology allows their modification by introducing new genes or
by modifying their metabolic functions. These modifications may lead to
improvements in food technology (bacteria better fitted to technological
processes, leading to improved organoleptic properties em leader ), or to new
applications including bacteria producing therapeutic molecules that could be
delivered by mouth. Examples in these two fields will be discussed, at the same
time evaluating their potential benefit to society and the possible risks
associated with their use. Risk assessment and expected benefits will determine
the future use of modified bacteria in the domains of food technology and health.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12595135 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

384: 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]

385: 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, Università 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]

386: Phytochemistry. 2003 Mar;62(6):939-47.

Identification and quantification of carotenoids, tocopherols and chlorophylls in
commonly consumed fruits and vegetables.

Burns J, Fraser PD, Bramley PM.

School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Surrey
TW20 0EX, UK.

The carotenoid, tocopherol and chlorophyll metabolic profiles and content of a
selection of fruits and vegetables found commonly in the diet, have been
determined using a rapid RP-HPLC technique with on-line PDA detection.
Information gathered from the screening of secondary plant metabolites is vital
for the accurate determination of the dietary intake of these micro-nutrients,
and in the development of comprehensive food tables. Determination of basal
levels is also necessary for the rational engineering of health-promoting
phytochemicals in food crops. In addition this approach can also be applied to
the routine screening of products to determine metabolic differences between
varieties and cultivars, as well as between genetically modified and the
corresponding non-genetically modified tissue.

PMID: 12590121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

387: 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]

388: Br Poult Sci. 2002 Dec;43(5 Suppl):687-95.

Improvement of growth and nutritive value in chicks with non-genetically modified
phytase product from Aspergillus niger.

Murai A, Kobayashi T, Okada T, Okumura J.

Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences,
Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan. atsushi@agr.nagoya-u.ac.jp

1. Non-genetically modified (non-GM) phytase product derived from Aspergillus
niger possesses various side active enzymes including alpha-amylase, protease,
cellulase and hemicellulase. In contrast, the product of genetically modified
(GM) phytase product has much less side active enzyme since the capacity of
phytase production is reinforced by gene modification. In the present study we
have tried to determine whether the difference of side enzyme activity of phytase
product affects growth performances and nutritive value in chicks; in addition we
tried to characterise the physiological change induced by the difference of side 
active enzymes. 2. Single Comb White Leghorn male chicks at 7 d of age were fed
on experimental barley-based diets for 10 d. The feeding trial was of a factorial
design (3 x 2 x 2), having three types of dietary phytase products (control,
non-GM or GM phytase products derived from A. niger at 1000 U/kg diet), two
levels of dietary available P supplement (0 or 6 g/kg diet) and two levels of
dietary protein (CP 180 or 120 g/kg). 3. The non-GM phytase product caused a 6%
increase in final body weight and feed efficiency compared with the control and
the GM phytase product without interacting with dietary protein and available P
level. However, in birds given available P-free diet, both non-GM and GM phytase 
products induced a 20% increase in plasma P concentration, suggesting no
difference in phytase activity between the non-GM and GM phytase products. 4. The
balance study showed that the metabolisable energy of the non-GM phytase product 
(15.6 +/- 0.05 kJ/g diet) was significantly higher among the treatments (control,
15.1 +/- 0.05; GM phytase product 15.3 +/- 0.07). The non-GM phytase product also
increased the rate of food passage through the crop, and caused a drastic
reduction in intestinal weight, perhaps as a consequence of digestion of
non-starch polysaccharides. 5. We conclude that the side active enzymes in non-GM
phytase product improve growth performance and nutritive value of the diet in
chicks. However, the efficacy of phytase activity should not be different between
non-GM and GM phytase products.

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

PMID: 12555893 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

389: 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]

390: 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, Höhne M, Meyer R.

Department of Quality and Safety Assurance, Nestlé 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]

391: 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]

392: 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]

393: 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]

394: Biosens Bioelectron. 2003 Mar;18(2-3):129-40.

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) affinity biosensor for genetically modified
organisms (GMOs) detection.

Mannelli I, Minunni M, Tombelli S, Mascini M.

Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Polo Scientifico-Via 
della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino-Florence 50019, Italy.

A DNA piezoelectric sensor has been developed for the detection of genetically
modified organisms (GMOs). Single stranded DNA (ssDNA) probes were immobilised on
the sensor surface of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) device and the
hybridisation between the immobilised probe and the target complementary sequence
in solution was monitored. The probe sequences were internal to the sequence of
the 35S promoter (P) and Nos terminator (T), which are inserted sequences in the 
genome of GMOs regulating the transgene expression. Two different probe
immobilisation procedures were applied: (a) a thiol-dextran procedure and (b) a
thiol-derivatised probe and blocking thiol procedure. The system has been
optimised using synthetic oligonucleotides, which were then applied to samples of
plasmidic and genomic DNA isolated from the pBI121 plasmid, certified reference
materials (CRM), and real samples amplified by the polymerase chain reaction
(PCR). The analytical parameters of the sensor have been investigated
(sensitivity, reproducibility, lifetime etc.). The results obtained showed that
both immobilisation procedures enabled sensitive and specific detection of GMOs, 
providing a useful tool for screening analysis in food samples.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 12485759 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

395: 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]

396: J Appl Microbiol. 2002;93(6):954-64.

Monitoring transfer of recombinant and nonrecombinant plasmids between
Lactococcus lactis strains and members of the human gastrointestinal microbiota
in vivo--impact of donor cell number and diet.

Tuohy K, Davies M, Rumsby P, Rumney C, Adams MR, Rowland IR.

TNO BIBRA International Ltd, Carshalton, Surrey, UK. k.m.tuohy@reading.ac.uk

AIMS: The generation of data of real relevance to the purported risks of DNA
transfer from food-borne genetically modified microorganisms (GMMOs) using the
human biota associated (HBA) rat model. Plasmid transfer between Lactococcus
lactis strains and between donor strains and human gut bacteria was monitored.
METHODS AND RESULTS: Transfer of the recombinant plasmid pCK1 and/or the
promiscuous nonrecombinant plasmid pAMbeta1 between L. lactis strains was
monitored in vivo in HBA rats. No transfer of pCK1 was observed. Transfer of
pAMbeta1 was observed to Enterococcus spp. present in the HBA rats.
Transconjugants persisted for 30 d and were distributed throughout the
gastrointestinal tract. Both HBA rat diet and donor cell numbers impacted on
transconjugant numbers. Fewer transconjugants were observed in animals fed a
high-fat human type diet, while high levels of plasmid transfer were only
observed at doses of donor L. lactis greater than 109 cfu. CONCLUSIONS: The
utility of models of the human gut in monitoring DNA transfer events within the
gut microbiota was demonstrated. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Such
findings give some confidence for the use of GMMOs with recombinant DNA borne on 
nonconjugative elements in fermented foods. HBA rats are a suitable model for
monitoring the fate of food-borne GMMOs.

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

PMID: 12452951 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

397: J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Dec 4;50(25):7187-93.

Milk and dairy products in the 21st century. Prepared for the 50th anniversary of
the journal of agricultural and food chemistry.

Creamer LK, Pearce LE, Hill JP, Boland MJ.

Fonterra Research Centre (formerly the New Zealand Dairy Research Institute),
Private Bag 11 029, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Lawrie.creamer@fonterraresearch.com

Dairying into the 21st century will largely continue with the trends seen in the 
past few decades, although there is always the possibility of an unlikely but
disruptive event. The politics of globalization will potentially be important in 
freeing up global trade in dairy products. Production on the farm will become
increasingly efficient, resulting in continuing price benefits to the consumer.
At the same time, increasing attention will be paid by the consumer, producer,
and manufacturer to safety and quality issues. Environmental concerns will
increase in importance, and the issue of methane production may be important for 
the industry over the next two decades. It is unlikely that genetically modified 
milk will be introduced soon, even if public acceptance ceases to be an issue;
however, the use of genetic markers for accelerated genetic improvement of cows
will have rapidly increasing importance. Despite increasing pressure from nonmilk
alternatives, milk and dairy will still be the best sources of nutrition for the 
young and for traditional dairy products. Consumer concerns will be of overriding
importance for the industry, and the safety of dairy foods must become absolute. 
Recent advances in the chemical, physical, and information sciences and
technologies will be utilized to gain greater understanding of the increasingly
complex food systems and to support the consumer objectives.

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

PMID: 12452630 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

398: 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]

399: 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]

400: Public Underst Sci. 2002 Jul;11(3):273-91.

"It just goes against the grain." Public understandings of genetically modified
(GM) food in the UK.

Shaw A.

Division of Primary Health Care, University of Bristol, UK.
AlisonShaw@bristol.ac.uk

This paper reports on one aspect of qualitative research on public understandings
of food risks, focusing on lay understandings of genetically modified (GM) food
in the UK context. A range of theoretical, conceptual, and empirical literature
on food, risk, and the public understanding of science are reviewed. The
fieldwork methods are outlined and empirical data from a range of lay groups are 
presented. Major themes include: varying "technical" knowledge of science, the
relationship between knowledge and acceptance of genetic modification, the
uncertainty of scientific knowledge, genetic modification as inappropriate
scientific intervention in "nature", the acceptability of animal and human
applications of genetic modification, the appropriate boundaries of scientific
innovation, the necessity for GM foods, the uncertainty of risks in GM food,
fatalism about avoiding risks, and trust in "experts" to manage potential risks
in GM food. Key discussion points relating to a sociological understanding of
public attitudes to GM food are raised and some policy implications are
highlighted.

Publication Types: 
    Historical Article

PMID: 12430532 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

401: Nahrung. 2002 Oct;46(5):360-3.

Genetically modified maize and soybean on the Egyptian food market.

el Sanhoty R, Broll H, Grohmann L, Linke B, Spiegelberg A, Bögl KW, Zagon J.

Food Technology Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt.

The results of a survey study on food samples produced from genetically modified 
soybean and maize collected from the Egyptian market are presented. Forty samples
of soybean and 40 samples of maize products have been gathered randomly from
markets in Cairo and Giza. The genetic modification was detected by polymerase
chain reaction (PCR) using official detection methods according to section 35 of 
the German Foodstuffs Act. Samples were investigated for the presence of material
derived from the following genetically modified organisms (GMOs) all of which are
approved for food use in Europe: Roundup Ready soybean (RRS) and maize lines
Bt176, Bt11, T25 and MON810. In addition, samples were examined in qualitative
and quantitative analysis for the presence of material derived from the
transgenic maize line StarLink (Aventis) which was approved for animal feed use
exclusively in the US. Twenty % of 40 investigated soy samples contained Roundup 
Ready soybean; 15% of 40 maize samples tested positive for Bt176 and 12.5%
positive for Bt11 maize. Furthermore, the presence of StarLink maize could
clearly be demonstrated in four samples mixed with Bt176 and Bt11. The percentage
of StarLink was less than 1% in quantitative analysis. The maize lines T25 and
MON810 were not detected.

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

PMID: 12428455 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

402: Dig Liver Dis. 2002 Sep;34 Suppl 2:S29-33.

Interactions between novel micro-organisms and intestinal flora.

Aureli P, Franciosa G.

Food Department, Food Microbiology Laboratory, Istituto Superiore della Sanità,
Rome, Italy. p.aureli@iss.it

Microbial strains traditionally used to ferment food have a long history of safe 
use and are, therefore, considered as generally recognised as safe. Many of these
micro-organisms have also functional attributes and are included among
probiotics. New species and strains of bacteria with desirable technological and 
functional properties are constantly being identified; in addition,
micro-organisms can be engineered by recently developed biotechnological tools in
order to accelerate strain improvement. Although the potentialities of novel
micro-organisms with better probiotic and technological properties are promising,
it cannot be assumed that they share the safety record of traditional
micro-organisms, since they may pose unique challenges for human health. The risk
assessment and safety evaluation of novel micro-organisms must focus, primarily, 
on their potential harmful effects, both direct and indirect, upon host resident 
intestinal microflora. Genetically modified micro-organisms need further
assessment for the complete characterisation of the DNA rearrangement and of the 
final product, in order to establish the "substantial equivalence" with the
parental strain.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12408436 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

403: 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]

404: J AOAC Int. 2002 Sep-Oct;85(5):1070-6.

Determination of Cry9C protein in processed foods made with StarLink corn.

Diaz C, Fernandez C, McDonald R, Yeung JM.

National Food Processors Association, Washington, DC 20005, USA.

StarLink (Aventis CropScience US) hybrid corn has been genetically modified to
contain a pesticidal protein, Cry9C, which makes it more resistant than
traditional varieties to certain types of corn insect pests. Unlike other
varieties of genetically engineered corn, the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency authorized the use of StarLink corn for animal feed and industrial use
only, not for human consumption. However, some Cry9C-containing corn was
mistakenly or inadvertently comingled with yellow corn intended for human food
use. Because corn containing the Cry9C construct was not approved for human use, 
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers food containing it to be
adulterated. Consequently, this regulatory violation resulted in hundreds of
recalls of corn-based products, such as taco shells, containing cry9C DNA.
Detecting the novel protein in StarLink corn is an emerging issue; therefore,
there is no standardized or established analytical method for detecting Cry9C
protein in processed foods. We developed a procedure for quantitation of Cry9C
protein, with validation data, in processed food matrixes with a limit of
quantitation at 1.7 ng/g (ppb), using a commercial polyclonal antibody-based
Cry9C kit that was intended for corn grain samples. Intra- and interassay
coefficients of variation were 2.8 and 11.8%, respectively. Mean recoveries were 
73 and 85% at 2 and 5 ng/g Cry9C fortifications, respectively, for 19 control
non-StarLink corn-based matrixes. Our data demonstrate only 0-0.5% of Cry9C
protein survived the processing of tortilla chips and soft tortillas made from
100% StarLink corn, resulting in levels from below the detection limit to 45 ppb.

PMID: 12374406 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

405: Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek. 2002 Aug;82(1-4):291-302.

Product development strategies for foods in the era of molecular biotechnology.

Kondo JK, Johansen E.

Chr. Hansen, Inc., 9015 W. Maple St., Milwaukee, WI 53214, USA.
jkondo@chrhansen-us.com

Breakthroughs in science and technology are accelerating development of new
products that are impacting our regulatory systems. Genetically modified or
bioengineering plant varieties have entered the food supply on a global basis,
especially in the U.S. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates on the
premise of 'substantial equivalence' and has developed premarket notification
procedures and voluntary labeling guidelines. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor
and Welfare regulates biotechnology products and has imposed biotechnology
labeling regulations. However, the EU continues to be in a regulatory gridlock
between member states and has proposed strict traceability and labeling
guidelines. These requirements are currently restricting imports of bioengineered
foods and are creating an international debate. In contrast to bioengineered
plant varieties, to our knowledge, there are no strains of lactic acid bacterial 
starter cultures on the market that contain rDNA. The majority of strains have
been improved via selection and mutagenesis. However, conjugation and
electroporation have been used to transfer native lactococcal phage resistance
plasmids to industrial strains. In addition, plasmids have been introduced to
allow for selection of certain characteristics and then been eliminated by
curing. The potential benefits of bioengineered foods are far reaching and are
one of the most important opportunities of this century. However, bioengineered
foods remain an emotional debate that is affecting world trade.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12369196 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

406: J Agric Saf Health. 2002 Aug;8(3):277-87.

The impact of biotechnology on agricultural worker safety and health.

Shutske JM, Jenkins SM.

Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Department, University of Minnesota, St
Paul 55108, USA. shutske@umn.edu

Biotechnology applications such as the use and production of genetically modified
organisms (GMOs) have been widely promoted, adopted, and employed by agricultural
producers throughout the world. Yet, little research exists that examines the
implications of agricultural biotechnology on the health and safety of workers
involved in agricultural production and processing. Regulatory frameworks do
exist to examine key issues related to food safety and environmental protection
in GMO applications. However, based on the lack of research and regulatory
oversight, it would appear that the potential impact on the safety and health of 
workers is of limited interest. This article examines some of the known worker
health and safety implications related to the use and production of GMOs using
the host, agent, and environment framework. The characteristics of employers,
workers, inputs, production practices, and socio-economic environments in which
future agricultural workers perform various tasks is likely to change based on
the research summarized here.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12363179 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

407: 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]

408: 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]

409: 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 für Ernährung,
Haid-und-Neu-Strasse 9, 76131 Karlsruhe. klaus-dieter.jany@bfe.uni-karlsruhe.de

PMID: 12219684 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

410: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2002 Sep;374(1):25-32. Epub 2002 Jun 11.

Biosensors designed for environmental and food quality control based on
screen-printed graphite electrodes with different configurations.

Avramescu A, Andreescu S, Noguer T, Bala C, Andreescu D, Marty JL.

Centre de Phytopharmacie, Université de Perpignan, UMR CNRS 5054, 66860 Perpignan
Cedex, France.

Graphite electrodes fabricated by screen-printing have been used as amperometric 
detectors in biosensors based on NAD(+)-dependent dehydrogenases, tyrosinase, or 
genetically modified acetylcholinesterases. The mono-enzyme sensors have been
optimized as disposable or reusable devices for detection of a variety of
substrates important in the food industry ( D-lactic acid, L-lactic acid,
acetaldehyde) or in environmental pollution control (phenols and dithiocarbamate,
carbamate and organophosphorus pesticides). The sensors were prepared in four
configurations differing in enzyme confinement, enzyme immobilization and
location of the immobilization agent in the biosensor assembly. Tests on real
samples have been performed with the biosensors; D-lactic acid and acetaldehyde
have been detected in wine and phenols in air.

PMID: 12207236 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

411: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2002 Aug;128(4):280-91.

Bioinformatic methods for allergenicity assessment using a comprehensive allergen
database.

Hileman RE, Silvanovich A, Goodman RE, Rice EA, Holleschak G, Astwood JD, Hefle
SL.

Monsanto Company, Product Safety Center, St. Louis, Mo., USA.

BACKGROUND: A principal aim of the safety assessment of genetically modified
crops is to prevent the introduction of known or clinically cross-reactive
allergens. Current bioinformatic tools and a database of allergens and gliadins
were tested for the ability to identify potential allergens by analyzing 6
Bacillus thuringiensis insecticidal proteins, 3 common non-allergenic food
proteins and 50 randomly selected corn (Zea mays) proteins. METHODS: Protein
sequences were compared to allergens using the FASTA algorithm and by searching
for matches of 6, 7 or 8 contiguous identical amino acids. RESULTS: No
significant sequence similarities or matches of 8 contiguous amino acids were
found with the B. thuringiensis or food proteins. Surprisingly, 41 of 50 corn
proteins matched at least one allergen with 6 contiguous identical amino acids.
Only 7 of 50 corn proteins matched an allergen with 8 contiguous identical amino 
acids. When assessed for overall structural similarity to allergens, these 7 plus
2 additional corn proteins shared >or=35% identity in an overlap of >or=80 amino 
acids, but only 6 of the 7 were similar across the length of the protein, or
shared >50% identity to an allergen. CONCLUSIONS: An evaluation of a protein by
the FASTA algorithm is the most predictive of a clinically relevant
cross-reactive allergen. An additional search for matches of 8 amino acids may
provide an added margin of safety when assessing the potential allergenicity of a
protein, but a search with a 6-amino-acid window produces many random, irrelevant
matches. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study
    Evaluation Studies

PMID: 12218366 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

412: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2002 Aug;128(4):271-9.

Allergies to cross-reactive plant proteins. Latex-fruit syndrome is comparable
with pollen-food allergy syndrome.

Yagami T.

Division of Medical Devices, National Institute of Health Sciences, Kamiyoga,
Setagaya-Ku, Tokyo, Japan. yagami@nihs.go.jp

Both latex-fruit syndrome and oral allergy syndrome concomitant with pollinosis
(pollen-food allergy syndrome) are considered to be caused by cross-reactivity
between sensitizers and symptom elicitors. The cross-reactive food allergens
relevant to these syndromes are mostly sensitive to heat and digestive enzymes.
Such a vulnerable antigen cannot sensitize people perorally but provokes allergic
reactions in already sensitized patients based on its cross-reactivity to the
corresponding sensitizer. These types of food allergens are often called
incomplete food allergens or nonsensitizing elicitors. Their features contrast
with those of complete food allergens that have the capacity for peroral
sensitization as well as symptom elicitation. Although highly antigenic and
cross-reactive, carbohydrate epitopes do not generally elicit allergic reactions 
and often disturb in vitro IgE tests. Recent research has revealed that some of
the cross-reactive allergens responsible for the two syndromes are proteins
related to the defense responses of higher plants. Plant defense-related proteins
are relatively conserved in the course of evolution and can supply cross-reactive
epitopes. It is important to note that various stresses can stimulate the
expression of these proteins, which implies that allergens increase in plants
under stressful conditions like severe growing situations and exposure to some
kinds of chemicals. Because defense-related proteins usually provide a plant with
resistance to stresses, varieties that are apt to intensively induce such
proteins are agriculturally valuable. Less toxic substances that cause crops to
express defensive proteins are being investigated as a new type of agrochemical. 
Moreover, some defense-related proteins are going to be constantly produced in
genetically modified plants. Even though these proteins can be useful
agriculturally, their allergenicity should be evaluated carefully. Copyright 2002
S. Karger AG, Basel

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study
    Review

PMID: 12218365 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

413: Pol J Vet Sci. 2002;5(2):123-5.

Contaminants in feed for food-producing animals.

Moreno-López J.

Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Swedish University of Agricultural
Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 585, Uppsala, 75 123 Sweden.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and food borne microbial
infections, dioxin contaminated animal products, the presence of veterinary drug 
residues, microbial resistance to antibiotics, mycotoxins, agricultural and
industrial chemicals, etc. are serious concerns for the food industry in many
countries. Since the direct links between feed safety and safety of foods of
animal origin are obvious, feed production and manufacture should be considered
as an integral part of the food production chain. Industry is responsible for the
quality and safety of food and feed that is produced. This paper is a brief
review of some microorganisms as source of infections for farm animals that could
result in human illnesses. These include Salmonella enterica, Bacillus anthracis,
Toxoplasma gondii, Trichinella spiralis, prions, Listeria monocytogenes, EHEC,
Campylobacter, Clostridium botulinum, Hog Cholera virus, Foot and Mouth Disease
virus, etc. as well as other contaminants associated with animal feed such as
mycotoxins, veterinary drugs, dioxins and PCB and Genetically Modified Organisms.

PMID: 12189948 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

414: Exp Toxicol Pathol. 2002 Jul;54(1):57-9.

Genetically modified foods: hazard identification and risk assessment. Session
summary.

Ito N.

First Department of Pathology, Nagoya City University, Aichi, Japan.
nobi-i@hkg.odn.ne.jp

During a Joint Society of Toxicologic Pathology (STP)/International Federation of
Societies of Toxicologic Pathologists (IFSTP) International Symposium, held
between June 24 and 28, 2001, in Orlando, FL, USA, there was a session entitled
as "Genetically Modified Foods: Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment". The
purpose of this session was to present and discuss the current situations in the 
US, European Union and Japan for the public concerns, safety assessments and
regulations on genetically modified (GM) products used as foods or food
ingredients. Assuming the wide and fast growing of the usage of GM products, it
is the duty for us as toxicologic pathologists, to supply reliable data on their 
safety and possible risks or hazards as a world-wide basis to not only
governments or regulatory agencies but also general public of our countries.

Publication Types: 
    Congresses

PMID: 12180803 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

415: Pathol Biol (Paris). 2002 Jul;50(6):380-7.

[Transgenes and their medical applications]

[Article in French]

Houdebine LM.

Unité de biologie du développement et biotechnologie, institut national de la
recherche agronomique, 78352 Jouy-en-Josas, France. houdebine@jouy.inra.fr

Transgenesis consists of introducing stably a foreign genetic information into
the genome of a multicellular organism. These techniques used for the first time 
in 1980 for the animals and 1983 for plants have multiple applications of which
many are directly or not related to medicine. Transgenesis has become one of the 
essential tools to study the role of genes in the control of biological
functions. This approach is logically accompanied by the generation of transgenic
animal lines for the study of human diseases and the test of new pharmaceuticals.
Milk from transgenic animals as well as leaves and seeds from transgenic plants
are ready to become an essential source of proteins having essential
therapeutical effects. Genetically modified pigs are expected to be resistant to 
rejection mechanisms to become the source of organs or cells for patients. The
application of transgenesis in agriculture and breeding is still in infancy. It
may contribute quite significantly to provide human communities with food in
sufficient amount, having improved nutritional properties and produced using a
milder and less polluting methods.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 12168256 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

416: 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]

417: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Aug;20(8):338-43.

Biological substitutes for pesticides.

Gerhardson B.

Plant Pathology & Biocontrol Unit, P.O. Box 7035, S-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
Berndt.Gerhardson@vpat.slu.se

In the 20th century an increasing number of pesticides, based on biocidal
molecules, were the means for a substantial increase in food and fibre production
and quality. Because of health and environmental concerns continued extensive use
of such molecules is intensively debated and substitutes are often urgently
required. Beside crop plant resistance, various biological control methods based 
on natural pest suppressing organisms are regarded as main alternatives. Several 
approaches and concepts also have been tested and commercial organism-based
preparations are steadily increasing. However, further biotechnological efforts
are required to give them status of being practical substitutes to pesticides. At
present they are not comparable to pesticides in meeting efficacy, market and
other expectations, but they still have a promising future, especially where
genetically modified organisms can be used.

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

PMID: 12127281 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

418: 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]

419: J Biotechnol. 2002 Sep 11;98(1):3-8.

People's concerns about biotechnology: some problems and some solutions.

Braun R.

BIOLINK, Enggisteinstrasse 19, CH 3076, Worb, Switzerland. rdbraun@bluewin.ch

Pharmaceuticals and vaccines made by genetic engineering are well accepted all
over the world. In contrast, there are many people, particularly in Europe, who
are worried that food, made by the same new technology, may harm their health or 
cause damage to the environment. This is despite the growing evidence that
genetically modified crops have the potential to improve world food security and 
the fact that there have, as yet, been no adverse results of their use in the
food chain. Because of these worries and the mechanisms of politics, agricultural
biotechnology has become the target of concerns about food safety (BSE, Foot &
Mouth Disease), along with globalisation and the power of multinational
companies. These concerns will, hopefully, be overcome by a more open and
well-informed dialogue between scientists, opinion leaders, educators and the
public. If judiciously applied, genetically modified crops will help increase
sustainability and the fight against hunger in the world.

PMID: 12126801 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

420: 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]

421: 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]

422: 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]

423: 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]

424: 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]

425: 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]

426: 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]

427: 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]

428: 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]

429: J AOAC Int. 2002 May-Jun;85(3):646-53.

Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction methods for four genetically
modified maize varieties and maize DNA content in food.

Brodmann PD, Ilg EC, Berthoud H, Herrmann A.

Kantonales Laboratorium Basel-Stadt, Basel, Switzerland. peter.brodmann@kl.bs.ch

Quantitative detection methods are needed for enforcement of the recently
introduced labeling threshold for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food
ingredients. This labeling threshold, which is set to 1% in the European Union
and Switzerland, must be applied to all approved GMOs. Four different varieties
of maize are approved in the European Union: the insect-resistant Bt176 maize
(Maximizer), Btl 1 maize, Mon810 (YieldGard) maize, and the herbicide-tolerant
T25 (Liberty Link) maize. Because the labeling must be considered individually
for each ingredient, a quantitation system for the endogenous maize content is
needed in addition to the GMO-specific detection systems. Quantitative real-time 
polymerase chain reaction detection methods were developed for the 4 approved
genetically modified maize varieties and for an endogenous maize (invertase) gene
system.

PMID: 12083257 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

430: Toxicol Sci. 2002 Jul;68(1):4-8.

Approaches to assessment of the allergenic potential of novel proteins in food
from genetically modified crops.

Kimber I, Dearman RJ.

Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire
SK10 4TJ, United Kingdom. ian.kimber@syngenta.com

The safety assessment of food derived from genetically modified plants continues 
to attract considerable attention. Among the important issues that need to be
considered is whether the products of novel genes introduced into crop plants
will have the potential to induce allergic sensitization or to elicit allergic
disease. Hierarchical approaches to allergenicity testing have been proposed, and
these incorporate evaluation of the structural and sequence homology and
serological identity of novel proteins with known allergens, measurement of
resistance to proteolytic digestion, and assessment of allergenic potential using
animal models. Accounts of these approaches are available elsewhere, and it is
not the purpose of this article to provide a detailed critique of specific
methods. Our intention is rather to look more broadly at the strategy for
assessment of allergenic potential, the challenges such assessments pose for the 
practicing toxicologist, and how some of these might best be addressed.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12075104 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

431: J Am Coll Nutr. 2002 Jun;21(3 Suppl):212S-217S.

Foods as production and delivery vehicles for human vaccines.

Korban SS, Krasnyanski SF, Buetow DE.

Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois,
Urbana 61801, USA. s-korban@uiuc.edu

Vaccination is a great asset for eradication of infectious diseases in humans and
animals. With the prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacterial strains and an
alarming increase in new and re-emerging pathogens, the need for vaccination
continues to be a high priority for mammalian diseases. In the last several
years, a novel approach for developing improved mucosal subunit vaccines has
emerged by exploiting the use of genetically modified plants. It has been
demonstrated that plant-derived antigens are functionally similar to conventional
vaccines and can induce neutralizing antibodies in mammalian hosts. Using
genetically engineered plants for the production of immunogenic peptides also
provides a new approach for the delivery of a plant-based subunit vaccine, i.e., 
oral delivery, provided these immunogenic peptides are expressed in an edible
part of the plant, such as grain or fruit. Thus, food crops can play a
significant new role in promoting human health by serving as vehicles for both
production and delivery of vaccines.

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

PMID: 12071307 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

432: J Am Coll Nutr. 2002 Jun;21(3 Suppl):199S-204S.

Increased production of nutriments by genetically engineered crops.

Sévenier R, van der Meer IM, Bino R, Koops AJ.

Business Unit Cell Cybernetics, Plant Research International, Wageningen, The
Netherlands.

Plants are the basis of human nutrition and have been selected and improved to
assure this purpose. Nowadays, new technologies such as genetic engineering and
genomics approaches allow further improvement of plants. We describe here three
examples for which these techniques have been employed. We introduced the first
enzyme involved in fructan synthesis, the sucrose sucrose fructosyltransferase
(isolated from Jerusalem artichoke), into sugar beet. The transgenic sugar beet
showed a dramatic change in the nature of the accumulated sugar, 90% of the
sucrose being converted into fructan. The use of transgenic sugar beet for the
production and isolation of fructans will result in a more efficient plant
production system of fructans and should promote their use in human food. The
second example shows how the over-expression of the key enzyme of flavonoid
biosynthesis could increase anti-oxidant levels in tomato. Introduction of a
highly expressed chalcone isomerase led to a seventyfold increase of the amount
of quercetin glucoside, which is a strong anti-oxidant in tomato. We were also
able to modify the essential amino acid content of potato in order to increase
its nutritional value. The introduction of a feedback insensitive bacterial gene 
involved in biosynthesis of aspartate family amino acids led to a sixfold
increase of the lysine content. Because the use of a bacterial gene could appear 
to be controversial, we also introduced a mutated form of the plant key enzyme of
lysine biosynthesis (dihydrodipicolinate synthase) in potato. This modification
led to a 15 times increase of the lysine content of potato. This increase of the 
essential amino acid lysine influences the nutritional value of potato, which
normally has low levels of several essential amino acids. These three examples
show how the metabolism of primary constituents of the plant cell such as sugar
or amino acids, but also of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, can be
modified by genetic engineering. Producing fructan, a soluble fiber, increasing
the level of flavonoids, an antioxidant, in tomato or increasing the level of
essential amino acids in potato are all clear examples of plant genetic
modifications with possible positive effects on human nutrition.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12071305 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

433: J Am Coll Nutr. 2002 Jun;21(3 Suppl):174S-177S.

The impact of consumer food biotechnology training on knowledge and attitude.

Santerre CR, Machtmes KL.

Foods and Nutrition, 4-H Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
47907-1264, USA. santerre@purdue.edu

OBJECTIVE: Consumer education is an important aspect in the adoption of any new
technology. The objective of this work was to determine whether consumer's
knowledge and attitudes would be influenced by a face-to-face presentation
involving food biotechnology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants (576) were
requested to complete a pre-test prior to receiving a 45-80 minute presentation, 
which was then followed by a post-test. Participants included members from a
community organization, undergraduate and graduate college students and
cooperative extension educators (county agents). RESULTS: Following training, 98%
to 99% correctly indicated that fruits and vegetables contain chromosomes and
that foods from biotech crops were currently sold in grocery stores. Prior to
training, only 31% felt that these crops were properly regulated by federal
agencies, and only 25% were confident that bioengineering was unlikely to make an
existing food allergenic. Following training, 83% felt that these crops were
properly regulated, and 63% believed that biotechnology was unlikely to add new
allergens to our food supply. In addition, 90% of those trained would eat or
serve genetically-modified foods to their family, and 90% believed that they or
their family would benefit from genetically-modified foods within the next five
years. CONCLUSIONS: It is apparent from these results that when provided sound,
science-based information, participants are more accepting of this technology and
the regulatory process.

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

PMID: 12071301 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

434: 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]

435: Toxicol Lett. 2002 Feb 28;127(1-3):341-9.

Regulatory control of genetically modified (GM) foods: likely developments.

Schilter B, Constable A.

Food Safety Group, Nestlé Research Center, Vers-chez-les-Blanc, CH-1000 Lausanne 
26, Switzerland. benoit.schilter@rdls.nestle.com

The placing of genetically modified (GM) crops on the European market requires a 
regulatory approval supported by a thorough safety evaluation. This approach has 
been applied to all GM crops presently on the market. Despite this stringent
process there has been an increasing public concern about the impact of GM foods 
on human health and the environment. In this context, regulatory control may
develop in several directions. One response to the public concern is to
strengthen the data requirements for the risk assessment process. Several avenues
have been proposed. They include the application of technologies such as
proteomics and metabolomics to assess unintended changes, and the development of 
predictive methods to evaluate allergenicity. Obligations for post-launch
surveillance have appeared in regulations. Criteria are required to define when
and why such approaches are necessary. Significant challenges including
feasibility and validation of the methods, and safety relevance of the data
generated will have to be addressed before any general application of these new
approaches. Effective monitoring requires the ability to identify the presence of
GM products and trace their origin. Traceability and labeling are therefore
important developments in the GM food regulatory arena. Both require the
development of reliable analytical detection tools.

PMID: 12052676 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

436: Toxicol Lett. 2002 Feb 28;127(1-3):337-40.

Clinical risk assessment of GM foods.

Lack G.

Department of Paediatric Allergy and Immunology, Imperial College at St Mary's
Hospital, Praed Street, London W2 1NY, UK. gideon.lack@st-marys.nhs.uk

The main concerns about adverse effects of genetically modified (GM) foods on
health are the transfer of antibiotic resistance, toxicity and allergenicity.
There are two issues from an allergic standpoint. First, the transfer of a known 
allergen may occur from a crop into a non-allergenic target crop. The second
scenario is the creation of a neo-allergen where de novo sensitisation occurs in 
the population. The first scenario occurred in 1996 when the 2S albumen protein
from Brazil nut was transferred into soy bean (N. Engl. J. Med. 334 (1996) 688). 
2S albumen was found to be a major Brazil nut allergen and the newly expressed
protein in transgenic soy retained its allergenicity. Patients allergic to Brazil
nuts and not to soy bean now showed an IgE mediated response towards GM soy bean.
We argue that it is possible to prevent such occurrences by doing IgE-binding
studies and taking into account physico-chemical characteristics of proteins and 
referring to known allergen databases. The second possible scenario of de novo
sensitisation does not easily lend itself to risk assessment. We compare GM
technology to traditional plant breeding and food processing methods. There is no
evidence that the technology used for the production of GM foods poses an
allergic threat per se compared to other methodologies widely accepted in the
food industry. We need to proceed cautiously in the future, assessing individual 
GM foods on the basis of their individual merits and risks prior to introducing
them into the market.

PMID: 12052675 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

437: Toxicol Lett. 2002 Feb 28;127(1-3):329-36.

Current and future benefits from the use of GM technology in food production.

Engel KH, Frenzel T, Miller A.

Technische Universität München, Lehrstuhl für Allgemeine Lebensmitteltechnologie,
Am Forum 2, D-85350 Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany. k.h.engel@lrz.tu-muenchen.de

For the current generation of genetically modified (GM) crops the improvement of 
agronomic traits (e.g. herbicide tolerance, insect resistance) has been a major
objective. The lack of obvious and direct benefits for the consumer has been a
main point of criticism. Future trends will increasingly encompass the
modification of quality traits, such as the improvement of sensory and especially
nutritional properties. Some of the ongoing developments try to meet the desire
of consumers for 'healthy' or 'high-tech' foods in developed countries. Others
are intended to assist in adjusting the nutritional status of foods to the needs 
of consumers in developing countries. Considering the increasing world population
and the limited amount of arable land, GM technology may also become a valuable
tool to ensure food security. The major prerequisite for the applicability of the
technique is the safety of the resulting products. The increasing complexity of
modifications intended might require adjustments and improvements of the
strategies applied to the safety assessment of GM foods. Present research
activities try to meet these new challenges.

PMID: 12052674 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

438: Toxicol Lett. 2002 Feb 28;127(1-3):307-13.

Ethical issues for bioscientists in the new millennium.

Purchase IF.

Institute of Medicine, Law and Bioethics, School of Biological Sciences, The
University of Manchester, Oxford Road, M13 9PT, UK. ifhp@chadzombe.u-net.com

The scientific understanding of biological processes is developing extremely
fast, providing opportunities for changing people's lives in many ways-through
health care, food and the environment. The speed with which these changes are
occurring means that even bioscientists can only keep up with their own narrow
field of science. It is not surprising that members of the public are frightened 
about the rapidity and impact of the changes arising from the biological
revolution. These concerns are often expressed in ethical terms. Decision making 
about the direction of research and its application is becoming more transparent.
This means that bioscientists will have to engage in the debate about their work 
with members of the public, including those who are opposed to it, in order to
create acceptance of their work and its products. At the moment, bioscientists
are often ill equipped to enter this debate because of their lack of training in 
ethics and lack of understanding of the impact of ethics on their work. A better 
understanding of bioethics will be necessary for entering this debate with
vigour. A comprehensive ethical analysis is outside the scope of this text. Some 
of the principal arguments about the ethics of two aspects of bioscience
research-genetically modified crops and the use of experimental animals-will be
discussed to illustrate a few of the issues that derive from ethical analyses. I 
hope that this will encourage toxicologists to take a greater interest in
bioethics.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12052671 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

439: Cas Lek Cesk. 2002 Mar 1;141(4):107-11.

[Genetically modified organisms--problems and legislation]

[Article in Czech]

Drobník J.

drobnik@mbox.cesnet.cz

Genetically modified organisms are defined by law as entities capable of
replication and/or transmission of hereditary material that had been altered by
the insertion or removal of a DNA fragment. By the EU legal regulation as well as
by the Czech law, such organisms are considered risky whereas other products of
breeding, though obtained by, e.g., induced mutagenesis, are claimed as safe.
Organisms transferred from other ecosystems are also considered safe. The Czech
law on the use of genetically modified organisms is based on registers of users
and organisms for specific use. Application for the registration that is valid as
an approval should be submitted to the Ministry of Environment. The applicant is 
obliged to present the risk assessment of the particular use of genetically
modified organisms. Genetically modified organisms are connected with certain
risk to ecology, however health risks are brought about almost exclusively by
microorganisms. Modified organisms used for food production are thoroughly tested
for substantial equivalency with standard crops and with respect to health
parameters of the protein(s) newly introduced due to genetic modification. Detail
tests as well as their cost are close to the testing of new drugs. European as
well as Czech rules for food labelling are motivated by the psychology of
consumers rather than by health impact. They result to absurdities but do not
meet the task of public psychology. This is why the EU authorities are looking
for measures to change the present situation that other wise would bring Europe
well behind the developed countries.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 12046253 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

440: 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]

441: J Nutr. 2002 Jun;132(6):1384-90.

Food biotechnology: benefits and concerns.

Falk MC, Chassy BM, Harlander SK, Hoban TJ 4th, McGloughlin MN, Akhlaghi AR.

Life Sciences Research Office, 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA.
falkm@isro.faseb.org

Recent advances in agricultural biotechnology have highlighted the need for
experimental evidence and sound scientific judgment to assess the benefits and
risks to society. Nutrition scientists and other animal biologists need a
balanced understanding of the issues to participate in this assessment. To date
most modifications to crop plants have benefited producers. Crops have been
engineered to decrease pesticide and herbicide usage, protect against stressors, 
enhance yields and extend shelf life. Beyond the environmental benefits of
decreased pesticide and herbicide application, consumers stand to benefit by
development of food crops with increased nutritional value, medicinal properties,
enhanced taste and esthetic appeal. There remains concern that these benefits
come with a cost to the environment or increased risk to the consumer. Most U.S. 
consumers are not aware of the extent that genetically modified foods have
entered the marketplace. Consumer awareness of biotechnology seems to have
increased over the last decade, yet most consumers remain confused over the
science. Concern over the impact on the safety of the food supply remains low in 
the United States, but is substantially elevated in Europe. Before a genetically 
engineered crop is introduced into commerce it must pass regulatory scrutiny by
as many as four different federal regulatory bodies to ensure a safe food supply 
and minimize the risk to the environment. Key areas for more research are
evaluation of the nutritional benefits of new crops, further investigation of the
environmental impact, and development of better techniques to identify and track 
genetically engineered products.

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

PMID: 12042463 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

442: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 May;964:173-83.

The dog as a model for food allergy.

Buchanan BB, Frick OL.

Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley
94720, USA. view@nature.berkeley.edu

Research during the past decade has shown the dog to be an excellent model for
human food allergies. Humans and dogs share many of the same allergies to foods. 
Furthermore, the dog model shows clinical symptoms typical of humans, that is,
both experience vomiting and diarrhea. Present results suggest that the dog may
provide a means to test genetically modified foods for unsuspected allergens.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12023204 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

443: 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]

444: Proc Nutr Soc. 2002 Feb;61(1):25-9.

Genetically modified foods, science, consumers and the media.

Rowland IR.

Northern Ireland Centre for Diet and Health, School of Biomedical Sciences,
University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK. I.Rowlands@ulst.ac.uk

In contrast to the situation in the USA, where a wide range of genetically
modified (GM) foods is available, in Europe very few GM products have been
approved for marketing as foods, and there is widespread public concern about
their safety and environmental impact. The marketing of a GM crop for food use in
Europe falls under the EC novel foods regulations, and applications require the
submission of an extensive dossier of information. The safety evaluation of GM
foods presents considerable problems both in the conduct and interpretation of
experimental studies, because conventional toxicity tests used in the evaluation 
of simple chemicals may not be appropriate for whole foods. To rationalise the
safety evaluation process and to circumvent the difficulties in toxicological
assessment of food materials, the concept of substantial equivalence has been
developed. The concept is that if it can be demonstrated that the novel food is
essentially similar to its conventional counterpart in terms of critical
nutritional or anutritional components, then it is likely to be no more or less
toxic than the latter. The possible introduction of unintended effects by the
genetic modification process is particularly problematic for the safety
evaluation process. The new genomic and post-genomic techniques are potentially
valuable in the safety evaluation of GM foods, although they are as yet in their 
infancy.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 12002791 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

445: 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]

446: Tech Vasc Interv Radiol. 2001 Jun;4(2):99-106.

Alteplase and tenecteplase: applications in the peripheral circulation.

Semba CP, Sugimoto K, Razavi MK; Society of Cardiovascular and Interventional
Radiology (SCVIR).

Cardiovascular Clinical Research, Genentech Inc., MS 59, 1 DNA Way, South San
Francisco, CA 94080-4990, USA.

Alteplase (t-PA), a recombinant analogue of human tissue plasminogen activator,
became the first genetically engineered thrombolytic approved by the Food and
Drug Administration in 1987 for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In addition to
AMI, alteplase is currently approved for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke
and pulmonary embolism, and we anticipate approval for catheter clearance in late
2001 in a 2-mg vial configuration. With the withdrawal of human neonatal kidney
cell-derived urokinase, alteplase has become an alternative agent in peripheral
vascular applications. Because few interventionalists had prior experience with
the handling and dosage of alteplase, the Advisory Panel to the Society of
Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology established practice guidelines for
use in noncoronary applications. Emerging clinical experience with contemporary
dosing regimens shows a safety and efficacy profile similar to urokinase but with
significantly reduced drug costs. Tenecteplase (TNK) is a genetically modified
version of alteplase. TNK is the only plasminogen activator available that has
shown a significantly enhanced safety profile versus alteplase in AMI. Approved
for a 5-second, single-bolus injection in AMI, TNK possesses a longer half-life, 
increased resistance to plasminogen activator inhibitor, and improved fibrin
specificity compared with alteplase. Because of its enhanced safety profile, TNK 
may be a desirable agent for peripheral vascular applications. Initial clinical
studies with TNK in acute arterial and venous disease are ongoing. This article
outlines the Advisory Panel guidelines for using alteplase and highlights
features of tenecteplase. Copyright 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company

Publication Types: 
    Guideline
    Practice Guideline
    Review

PMID: 11981795 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

447: 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]

448: 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]

449: 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]

450: 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]

451: 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]

452: 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]

453: Toxicol Pathol. 2002 Jan-Feb;30(1):117-25.

Current methods for assessing safety of genetically modified crops as exemplified
by data on Roundup Ready soybeans.

Nair RS, Fuchs RL, Schuette SA.

Monsanto Company, St Louis, Missouri 63167, USA. rashmi.s.nair@Monsanto.com

Several laboratories have used recombinant DNA technology in plant breeding to
improve compositional, processing, and agronomic characteristics of plants. These
transformed plants have been extensively tested in field trials, have gained full
regulatory approvals and are currently being marketed in a number of countries
around the world. This paper briefly summarizes the approach used to assure the
safety of foods and feeds derived from these genetically modified crops, as
exemplified by data on Roundup Ready soybeans that has been developed by Monsanto
Company using biotechnology in order to confer tolerance to glyphosate, the
active ingredient in Roundup herbicide, by the production of the CP4
enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase protein. The results of the studies
demonstrate that Roundup Ready soybeans are as safe as traditional soybeans with 
respect to food and feed safety.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11890463 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

454: Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 2001;52(4):313-20.

[Usefulness of an immunoassay test TRAIT for detection of genetically modified
Roundup ready soybean in food products]

[Article in Polish]

Urbanek-Karłowska B, Fonberg-Broczek M, Sawilska-Rautenstrauch D, Badowski P,
Jedra M.

Zakład Badania Zywności i Przedmiotów Uzytku Państwowy Zakład Higieny 00-791
Warszawa. u.l. Chocimska 24

The test based on immunoassay TRAIT Test for the specific detection of Roundup
Ready Soybean was used for reference material in the form of dried powdered soy
beans contained 0, 0.3, 1.25, 2.5% of genetically modified material, for soy
beans declared as Roundup Ready and for soy products from Warsaw market. The
detection limit was approximately 0.1% GMO on dry weight basis. Experiment was
also carried out on heated soybeans. The positive results was obtained since
temperature was under 65 degrees C during 15 minutes of heating grounded beans;
above this temperature specific protein was not recognisable by the antibody. The
TRAIT Test should be regarded as a qualitative method and could be recommended
for screening purposes. Investigation demonstrated that above mentioned test was 
useful for detection of protein of genetically modified soybean in unprocessed
products.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 11878012 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

455: 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]

456: J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Feb 27;50(5):1016-21.

Detection of genetically modified maize by the polymerase chain reaction and
capillary gel electrophoresis with UV detection and laser-induced fluorescence.

García-Cañas V, González R, Cifuentes A.

Institute of Industrial Fermentations (CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, 
Spain.

In this paper, the possibilities of capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE) to detect
transgenic maize in flours are shown. The method is based on the extraction and
amplification by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of a specific DNA fragment
from transgenic maize and its subsequent analysis by CGE with UV detection or
laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). Some useful considerations regarding the
optimization of DNA extraction and amplification conditions are given. Also, a
comparison is established between the two CGE protocols for DNA detection based
on ultraviolet absorption (CGE-UV) and LIF (CGE-LIF). The requirements,
advantages, and limitations of both CGE methods are discussed. To our knowledge, 
this is the first paper on the use of CGE-LIF to detect transgenic food.

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

PMID: 11853473 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

457: J Food Prot. 2002 Feb;65(2):426-31.

Analysis of flour and food samples for cry9C from bioengineered corn.

Orlandi PA, Lampel KA, South PK, Assar SK, Carter L, Levy DD.

Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Food and Drug Administration,
Washington, DC 20204, USA.

StarLink corn is a variety of yellow corn that has been genetically modified by
the insertion of an altered cry9C gene into the plant genome. resulting in
expression of the insecticidal Cry9C protein. The U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency has approved StarLink corn for use in animal feed but not in food intended
for human consumption. Therefore, under the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act,
any food intended for human consumption in which the presence of StarLink corn is
indicated by the presence of either the Cry9C protein or the cry9C gene would be 
considered adulterated. Extraction and PCR-based methods were used to detect the 
presence of the cry9C DNA initially in corn flour and corn meal, and then these
methods were extended to the analysis of processed corn products, including taco 
shells, cereals, baby foods, party snacks, and chips, for the presence of this
modified genetic material. In a survey of 63 products, the cry9C transgene was
detected in 4 taco shells.

PMID: 11848580 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

458: Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand). 2001 Dec;47(8):1343-51.

The future of transgenic plants in developing countries.

Weil A.

Cirad, Paris, France. alain.weil@cirad.fr

Whatever their own policies may be, developing countries will inevitably be
affected by the development of genetically-modified organisms in industrialized
countries. While maintaining a cautious attitude, most of these countries wish to
keep their options open, thus protecting themselves from the risk of being
deprived of future technologies that might allow them to achieve self-sufficiency
in food production, to resolve certain problems confronting their most vulnerable
populations and to preserve the international competitiveness of their products. 
Companies should see that it is in their interest to help these countries
implement their own policies, notably through an open attitude to industrial
property. If the value of genetic engineering is thus confirmed, then it perhaps 
in this manner that GMOs will earn the legitimacy required to make them
acceptable to the people of Northern countries where the majority of solvent
markets are located.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11838954 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

459: Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand). 2001 Dec;47(8):1329-42.

Identity, traceability, acceptability and substantial equivalence of food.

Pascal G, Mahé S.

INRA, Direction Scientifique Nutrition Humaine et Sécurité des Aliments
(DS-NHISA), Paris, France. hermet@paris.inra.fr

The numerous food crises that Europe has experienced during the past five years
have raised new consumer demands concerning the characterization, traceability,
and safety of foods which are proposed on the market. The consumer has, at the
same time, vigorously placed into question the modes of agricultural production
in industrialized countries, as well as the structures and means of evaluating
the food risks and the conditions of the consumer's participation in the public
debate in these domains. For certain groups of consumers, one also attends a
contestation of the expertise and the application to the food domain of the
considerable progress that has taken place in the field of biotechnology. So it
is that the development of genetically modified organisms (mainly plants, the raw
material of food products) has experienced a slowing down in the European Union. 
The answers afforded to these new exigencies of consumers in matter of identity, 
traceability, and acceptability of the foods are dealt with in this paper, as
well as the elements which may concur with the evaluation of their safety. The
positive role that biotechnology can afford to the different domains is
emphasized. A source of uneasiness, biotechnology is also a powerful tool for
ameliorating the evaluation of the sanitary risks and for answering the hopes of 
the citizen in the food domain.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11838953 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

460: Peptides. 2002 Jan;23(1):117-25.

Pharmacological characterization of the nociceptin receptor which mediates
reduction of alcohol drinking in rats.

Ciccocioppo R, Polidori C, Antonelli L, Salvadori S, Guerrini R, Massi M.

Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Experimental Medicine, University of
Camerino, 62032, Camerino, Italy. r.ciccocioppo@ca

Chronic intracerebroventricular (ICV) treatment with nociceptin/orphanin FQ (NC),
the endogenous ligand for the opioid receptor-like 1 (ORL1) receptor, reduces
ethanol intake in alcohol-preferring rats and abolishes the rewarding properties 
of ethanol in the place conditioning paradigm. To pharmacologically characterize 
the receptor involved, the present study evaluated the effect on ethanol drinking
in genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian alcohol-preferring (msP) rats of ICV
injections for 8 days of NC or of the NC analogs NC(1-17)NH(2), NC(1-13)NH(2),
NC(1-12)NH(2) and [Nphe(1)]NC(1-13)NH(2). In vitro studies indicate that NC,
NC(1-17)NH(2), NC(1-13)NH(2) and NC(1-12)NH(2) are agonists, while
[Nphe(1)]NC(1-13)NH(2) is a selective antagonist at the ORL1 receptor. Freely
feeding and drinking rats were offered 10% ethanol 30 min/day at the beginning of
the dark phase of the light cycle. NC significantly attenuated ethanol intake at 
500 or 1000 ng/rat (210 or 420 pmol/rat). NC(1-17)NH(2), markedly reduced ethanol
intake, but its effect was statistically significant at 1000 (420 pmol/rat), not 
at 500 ng/rat (210 pmol/rat). After the end of treatment ethanol drinking
promptly came back to baseline level. Ethanol consumption was also reduced by
NC(1-13)NH(2); however, its effect was less potent and pronounced. NC(1-12)NH(2) 
did not modify ethanol intake at doses up to 4000 ng/rat (2339 pmol/rat). Water
and food consumption were not modified. Treatment with [Nphe(1)]NC(1-13)NH(2), 66
or 99 microg/rat, did not modify ethanol intake; however, [Nphe(1)]NC(1-13)NH(2),
66 microg/rat, given just before 1000 ng/rat of NC(1-17)NH(2), abolished the
effect of the agonist. The present results show that the 13 amino acid N-terminal
sequence of NC is essential for the effect on ethanol intake and indicate that
[Nphe(1)]NC(1-13)NH(2) acts as an antagonist to block the effect of NC. These
findings provide further evidence that selective agonists at the ORL-1 receptor
attenuate ethanol intake in alcohol-preferring rats and suggest that the NC/ORL1 
system may represent an interesting target for treatment of alcohol abuse.

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

PMID: 11814626 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

461: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2002 Jan;109(1):143-9.

Linear IgE epitope mapping of the English walnut (Juglans regia) major food
allergen, Jug r 1.

Robotham JM, Teuber SS, Sathe SK, Roux KH.

Department of Biological Science and Structural Biology Program, Florida State
University, Tallahassee 32306-4370, USA.

BACKGROUND: Peanut and tree nut allergies can be life-threatening, and they
appear to be growing in prevalence. Jug r 1, a 2S albumin seed storage protein,
was previously characterized as a major English walnut food allergen. OBJECTIVE: 
We sought to identify the linear IgE-binding epitopes of Jug r 1 and to determine
which, if any, amino acids are necessary for this binding to occur. METHODS:
Pools of sera from walnut-allergic patients and overlapping peptides synthesized 
on an activated cellulose membrane were used to screen for IgE-binding epitopes. 
Mutational analysis of the immunodominant epitope was carried out through single 
and multisite amino acid substitutions. Inhibition assays were performed through 
use of affinity-purified IgE, soluble forms of the epitope peptide, and the
recombinant 2S albumin, rJug r 1. RESULTS: One immunodominant linear epitope was 
identified. Amino acid mutations to the epitope demonstrated that the residues
RGEE, at positions 36 through 39, were minimally required for IgE binding.
Probing of this epitope with sera from each of 20 patients revealed 15 of the
sera to be positive. Binding of patients' IgE to the epitope was inhibited with a
soluble form of the peptide; however, soluble peptide did not completely inhibit 
the binding of IgE to the intact rJug r 1. CONCLUSION: One major linear
IgE-reactive epitope and its critical core amino acid residues have been
identified. Mutation of any of these core amino acids resulted in loss of IgE
binding to the epitope, and this points toward the feasibility of reducing
allergenicity in genetically modified walnuts. However, strong evidence for the
existence of conformational epitopes was also obtained.

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

PMID: 11799381 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

462: Ann Nutr Metab. 2001;45(6):235-54.

Safety considerations of DNA in food.

Jonas DA, Elmadfa I, Engel KH, Heller KJ, Kozianowski G, König A, Müller 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]

463: Bioelectrochemistry. 2002 Jan;55(1-2):107-12.

Recent biotechnological developments of electropulsation. A prospective review.

Teissié J, Eynard N, Vernhes MC, Bénichou A, Ganeva V, Galutzov B, Cabanes PA.

IPBS CNRS (UMR 5089), 205 Route de Narbonne, 31077 Toulouse Cedex, France.
justin@ipbs.fr

During the last 25 years, basic research has improved our knowledge on the
molecular mechanisms triggered at the membrane level by electric pulses. Applied 
aspects may now be used under safe conditions. Electropulsation is known as a
very efficient tool for obtaining gene transfer in many species to produce
genetically modified organisms (GMO). This is routinely used for industrial
purposes to transfer exogenous activities in bacteria, yeasts and plants. The
method is simple and of a low cost. But electropulsation is not limited to this
application for biotechnological purposes. It is known that the field-associated 
membrane alterations can be irreversible. The pulsed species cannot recover after
the treatment. Their viability is strongly affected. This appears as a very
promising technology for the eradication of pathogenic microorganisms. Recent
developments are proposed for sterilization purposes. New flow technologies of
field generation allow the treatment of large volumes of solution. When high flow
rates are used, microorganisms are submitted both to a hydromechanical and to an 
electrical stress. The synergy of the two effects may be present when suitable
pulsing conditions are chosen. Several examples for the treatment of domestic
water and in the food industry are described. Walled microorganisms are affected 
not only at the membrane level. We observed that alterations are present on the
cell wall. A very promising technology is the associated controlled leakage of
the cytoplasmic soluble proteins. Large dimeric proteins such as
beta-galactosidases can be extracted at a high yield. High volumes can be treated
by using a flow process. Extraction of proteins is obtained with many systems
including mammalian cells.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11786352 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

464: Cell Mol Neurobiol. 2001 Aug;21(4):389-401.

A potential role of central insulin in learning and memory related to feeding.

Gerozissis K, Rouch C, Lemierre S, Nicolaidis S, Orosco M.

Laboratoire de Physiopathologie de la Nutrition, Université Paris 7, France.
gerozi@paris7.jussieu.fr

1. Hypothalamic insulin (HI) is well known for its role in feeding regulation. In
addition, its concentration is modified in response to meals. Recent studies
suggest that brain insulin participates in memory processes, possibly through
stimulation by glucose. 2. The present microdialysis study focused on local in
vivo regulation of HI by glucose and on the effects of aging on HI, since aging
is characterized by deterioration of memory, body weight regulation, and central 
glucose utilization. Glucose (8 mM) infused for 5 min increased extracellular HI 
levels rapidly, by 4.6-fold, and cerebellar insulin levels by 0.4-fold only,
suggesting a specific area-dependent regulation of HI by glucose. Neither
insulinemia nor glycemia were affected, suggesting a central mechanism. The same 
dose of glucose induced a modest (0.4-fold), delayed (45 min) increase in
hypothalamic serotonin, suggesting that the effect of glucose on HI is
independent of a previously defined local serotonin-induced insulin release. HI
levels in old normal weight rats were half the levels of young rats. In
genetically old obese (fa/fa) Zucker rats, HI concentration was 30% of that in
young normal rats, suggesting a deterioration of HI availability when aging and
obesity are combined. 3. The above results, in line with recent considerations on
a potential role of central insulin in learning and memory, suggest particular
effects of HI on feeding and memory and probably on a specific "memory for food."

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 11775068 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

465: 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]

466: J AOAC Int. 2001 Nov-Dec;84(6):1855-64.

Validation of PCR methods for quantitation of genetically modified plants in
food.

Hübner P, Waiblinger HU, Pietsch K, Brodmann P.

Kantonales Labor Zürich, 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]

467: Food Addit Contam. 2001 Dec;18(12):1135-40.

Contribution of European research to risk analysis.

Boenke A.

European Commission, DG Research, Directorate E-Life Sciences, Unit 2-Health,
Food and Environment, Brussels, Belgium. Achim.Boenke@cec.eu.int

The European Commission's, Quality of Life Research Programme, Key Action
1-Health, Food & Nutrition is mission-oriented and aims, amongst other things, at
providing a healthy, safe and high-quality food supply leading to reinforced
consumer confidence in the safety, of European food. Its objectives also include 
the enhancing of the competitiveness of the European food supply. Key Action 1 is
currently supporting a number of different types of European collaborative
projects in the area of risk analysis. The objectives of these projects range
from the development and validation of prevention strategies including the
reduction of consumers risks; development and validation of new modelling
approaches, harmonization of risk assessment principles methodologies and
terminology; standardization of methods and systems used for the safety
evaluation of transgenic food; providing of tools for the evaluation of human
viral contamination of shellfish and quality control; new methodologies for
assessing the potential of unintended effects of genetically modified
(genetically modified) foods; development of a risk assessment model for
Cryptosporidium parvum related to the food and water industries, to the
development of a communication platform for genetically modified organism,
producers, retailers, regulatory authorities and consumer groups to improve
safety assessment procedures, risk management strategies and risk communication; 
development and validation of new methods for safety testing of transgenic food; 
evaluation of the safety and efficacy of iron supplementation in pregnant women, 
evaluation of the potential cancer-preventing activity of pro- and pre-biotic
('synbiotic') combinations in human volunteers. An overview of these projects is 
presented here.

PMID: 11761126 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

468: Food Addit Contam. 2001 Dec;18(12):1130-4.

Risk communication--the perceptions and realities.

Trautman TD.

General Mills, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55426-1350, USA. tom.trautman@genmills.com

This paper defines risk communication and puts it into the perspective of risk
analysis as a whole. Case studies originating for the food industry are described
in the areas of food colours, pesticides and genetically, modified foods to
exemplify both the difficulties of risk communication and the lessons that can be
learned. This paper concludes by suggesting ways in which successful risk
communication should be managed.

PMID: 11761125 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

469: Food Addit Contam. 2001 Dec;18(12):1099-107.

Food allergy--towards predictive testing for novel foods.

Oehlschlager S, Reece P, Brown A, Hughson E, Hird H, Chisholm J, Atkinson H,
Meredith C, Pumphrey R, Wilson P, Sunderland J.

Central Science Laboratory, Sand Hutton, York, UK. s.oehlschlager@csl.gov.uk

The risks associated with IgE-mediated food allergy highlight the need for
methods to screen for potential food allergens. Clinical and immunological tests 
are available for the diagnosis of food allergy to known food allergens, but this
does not extend to the evaluation, or prediction of allergenicity in novel foods.
This category, includes foods produced using novel processes genetically modified
(GM) foods, and foods that might be used as alternatives to traditional foods.
Through the collation and analysis of the protein sequences of known allergens
and their epitopes, it is possible to identify related groups which correlate
with observed clinical cross-reactivities. 3-D modelling extends the use of
sequence data and can be used to display eptiopes on the surface of a molecule.
Experimental models support sequence analysis and 3-D modelling. Observed
cross-reactivities can be examined by Western blots prepared from native 2-D gels
of a whole food preparation (e.g. hazelnut, peanut), and common proteins
identified. IgEs to novel proteins can be raised in Brown Norway rat (a high IgE 
responder strain) and the proteins tested in simulated digest to determine
epitope stability. Using the CSL serum bank, epitope binding can be examined
through the ability of an allergen to cross-link the high affinity IgE receptor
and thereby release mediators using in vitro cell-based models. This range of
methods, in combination with data mining, provides a variety of screening options
for testing the potential of a novel food to be allergenic, which does not
involve prior exposure to the consumer.

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

PMID: 11761121 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

470: Qual Assur. 2000 Jan-Mar;8(1):33-6.

Controversy over genetically modified organisms: the governing laws and
regulations.

Keatley KL.

Gilead Sciences, 2860 Wilderness Place, Boulder, CO 80301, USA. klkeat@juno.com

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are increasingly becoming a topic of
controversy in the U.S. and abroad. The public is questioning their safety and
wanting the products labeled as genetically modified. There are other concerns
from some of the scientific world and some government officials and organizations
such as the Food & Agricultural Organization (FAO) that question whether adequate
research has been done to qualify GMOs as safe for long-term use. Of particular
concern are the allergenic properties, a GMO may impart, possible transfer
effects of antibiotic resistance (given that antibiotic resistant marker genes
are used for many GMOs), the expression of previously unexpressed traits, and the
drift of pollen from genetically modified crops. It has also been noted that the 
laws and regulations governing the biotechnology world are outdated, are not
comprehensive, and span too many agencies. The primary agencies currently
regulating biotechnology are the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Food 
and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

PMID: 11710306 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

471: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2001;10 Suppl:S4-12.

Comment in:
    Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2001;10 Suppl:S1-3.

Achieving household nutrition security in societies in transition: an overview.

Gopalan C.

Nutrition Foundation of India, New Delhi. nfi@ren02.nic.in

The achievement of nutrition security at the household level involves adequacy of
food supply at the national level and equitable distribution of food among the
population in accordance with their physiological needs. The emergence of
globalization and market liberalization and the increasing power of some
transnational corporations that are advocating pharmaceutical shortcuts have
raised concerns in many developing countries. In order to achieve adequacy of
food production, earlier mistakes (such as a reliance on unsustainable new
technologies) need to be corrected and the resultant imbalances with respect to
food production need to be reversed. Emerging new technologies, including genetic
modifications, need to be effectively harnessed and adapted with due
consideration to safety and sustainability. There is a need to collect convincing
evidence of the efficacy and safety of genetically modified foods before they can
gain general public acceptance. Information technology will play an important
role in future programmes of food production and developing countries must strive
to achieve access to this technology. There is considerable scope and need for
the expansion of agro-based industries in villages and townships. This could
create job opportunities and could also lead to better production and more
effective utilization of local food resources by the community and reduce the
present considerable loss of perishable food items. Household nutrition security 
means more than avoidance of chronic starvation. Policy makers of developing
countries should set, as their target in the next century, the achievement of
adequate nutrition rather than mere survival.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11708581 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

472: 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]

473: Biomed Environ Sci. 2001 Jun;14(1-2):66-74.

Perspectives on nutrition needs for the new millennium for South Asian regions.

Krishnaswamy K.

National Institute of Nutrition, Indian Council of Medical Research, Hyderabad,
AP, India.

South Asia is the most populated region of the world with several nutritional
challenges. Though per capita food energy supply, child survival and life
expectancy have improved, and even today large segments of the population are
below the poverty line with high infant and maternal mortality rates. It is
important to recognize the crucial role of nutrition throughout the life
cycle-from conception to old age. It is very necessary now to move from food
security to nutrition security and improve the quality of foods both in macro-
and micronutrients in order to break the transgenerational effects of
malnutrition. The key solutions to the problems should address the issue of
social development, population stabilization, environmental degradation and
inadequate health and nutritional services. Strategies for empowering women and
actuating community participation as sustainable programmes for human
development, measures to reduce underweight and stunting in children and
prevention of micronutrient malnutrition across the population are required.
Enhancing food and nutrition security through innovative diversified agriculture 
and dietary practices, prevention and control of infection, promotion of food
safety and fortification of staples with appropriate attention on emerging
chronic disorders are essential. Population control measures to stabilize the
fertility rates, biotechnological approaches for genetically modified foods,
nutrition surveillance based on assessment, analysis and action to address the
logistic, technical and compliance issues with emphasis on promotion of breast
feeding and complementary foods with adequate attention on the reproductive needs
of adolescent girls, pregnant mothers and lactating women would eliminate low
birth weight, stunting, and chronic energy deficiency in vulnerable groups.
Focused studies on bioavailability of micronutrients and its enhancement,
innovative horticulture interventions, fortifications, social marketing
strategies would promote the intake of micronutrient and phytonutrient rich
foods. In-depth epidemiological research, an insight into foetal origins of adult
disease and nutrition-genes interaction and life style alterations will avert the
emerging epidemic of chronic diet related disorders. An investment in preventing 
foetal malnutrition improves nutrition of women in reproductive age, infant and
child nutrition and prevents the onset of chronic disease in adult life. Human
resource development, IEC measures, technology transfer, operational and logistic
research, building of databases, integrated, intersectoral, multidisciplinary
plans and sound management information system and surveillance with net working
and experience sharing in the region will help to overcome the common challenges 
and lay the foundation for a better scenario in these regions in the near future.

PMID: 11594482 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

474: Biomed Environ Sci. 2001 Jun;14(1-2):14-20.

Practical approaches to risk assessment.

Brooke-Taylor S.

Australia New Zealand Food Authority, Canberra, ACT.

The importance of using risk assessment in developing food regulations is growing
with the globalization of our food supply. The World Trade Organization has
entrenched the principles of science-based risk assessment in the Agreement on
Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures. The relevant international organization for 
food standards, the Codex Alimentarius Commission, recognises risk analysis, and 
its component parts risk assessment, risk management and risk communication, as
the basis for scientific decision-making. Risk assessment comprises two
activities: hazard evaluation; and exposure estimation. A hazard may be chemical,
microbiological or nutritional in origin. The practical application of risk
assessment in Australia is illustrated in this presentation by four examples
involving: (1) food additives, (2) microbiological safety of imported raw milk
cheeses, (3) genetically modified foods and (4) imported food inspection.

PMID: 11594473 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

475: Plant J. 2001 Sep;27(6):503-28.

Assessment of the food safety issues related to genetically modified foods.

Kuiper HA, Kleter GA, Noteborn HP, Kok EJ.

National Institute for Quality Control of Agricultural Products (RIKILT),
Wageningen University and Research Centre, PO Box 230, NL 6700 AE Wageningen, The
Netherlands. h.a.kuiper@rikilt.wag-ur.nl

International consensus has been reached on the principles regarding evaluation
of the food safety of genetically modified plants. The concept of substantial
equivalence has been developed as part of a safety evaluation framework, based on
the idea that existing foods can serve as a basis for comparing the properties of
genetically modified foods with the appropriate counterpart. Application of the
concept is not a safety assessment per se, but helps to identify similarities and
differences between the existing food and the new product, which are then subject
to further toxicological investigation. Substantial equivalence is a starting
point in the safety evaluation, rather than an endpoint of the assessment.
Consensus on practical application of the principle should be further elaborated.
Experiences with the safety testing of newly inserted proteins and of whole
genetically modified foods are reviewed, and limitations of current test
methodologies are discussed. The development and validation of new profiling
methods such as DNA microarray technology, proteomics, and metabolomics for the
identification and characterization of unintended effects, which may occur as a
result of the genetic modification, is recommended. The assessment of the
allergenicity of newly inserted proteins and of marker genes is discussed. An
issue that will gain importance in the near future is that of post-marketing
surveillance of the foods derived from genetically modified crops. It is
concluded, among others that, that application of the principle of substantial
equivalence has proven adequate, and that no alternative adequate safety
assessment strategies are available.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11576435 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

476: Toxicol Sci. 2001 Oct;63(2):153-6.

Genetically modified plants and human health risks: Can additional research
reduce uncertainties and increase public confidence?

Hodgson E.

Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Box 7633, North Carolina
State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA. ernest_hodgson@ncsu.edu

So long as the risks to human health from transgenic plants remain potential
rather than actual, and, in any event, appear lower than those from traditional
plant breeding, hazard assessment need not be extensive. However, in view of
current public attitudes to transgenic plants, it is necessary that those tests
that are required, be based on logic, on sound science, and in accordance with
the best scientific methodology. This is particularly the case with testing for
food allergenicity. Current testing is largely indirect and based on comparisons 
with other known food allergens. Development of direct tests that involve
interaction between the actual transgenic protein in question and the immune
system is essential if confidence in the regulatory system is to be restored.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 11568357 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

477: J Hazard Mater. 2001 Sep 14;86(1-3):205-22.

Democracy and the governance of uncertainty. The case of agricultural gene
technologies.

Pellizzoni L.

Department of Human Sciences, University of Trieste, Piazzale Europa 1, 34127,
Trieste, Italy. pellizzonil@sp.univ.trieste.it

The use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture and food
production is the object of an intense and divisive debate. Drawing on a study on
the public perception of agricultural gene technologies carried out in five
European countries, the article deals with the policy aspects of the issue, and
more precisely on the relation between institutions, experts and the public in a 
context of deep uncertainty. A theoretical framework is developed and compared
with the study findings, suggesting that issues like the GMOs one represent a
strong case for a more participatory policy-making. My conclusions suggest a
style of governance based on the principles of deliberative democracy, as a
suitable approach to the confrontation of different viewpoints and forms of
knowledge. This appears to be the best way to improve the overall quality of
policy-making: in this I include its legitimacy, the degree of public trust, and 
also the actual quality of its products. Strengthening the role of the public
sphere seems more effective than simply increasing direct decision-making by the 
populace, and it offers an alternative to the 'elitist' solutions to the crisis
of representative democracy.

PMID: 11532367 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

478: Aust N Z J Public Health. 2001 Aug;25(4):371-5.

Health and safety issues pertaining to genetically modified foods.

Goodyear-Smith F.

Division of General Practice and Primary Health Care, Faculty of Medical and
Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
f.goodyear-smith@auckland.ac.nz

Genetic modification involves the insertion of genes from other organisms (within
or between species) into host cells to select for desirable qualities. Potential 
benefits of GM foods include increased nutritional value; reduced allergenicity; 
pest and disease-resistance; and enhanced processing value. Possible detrimental 
outcomes include producing foods with novel toxins, allergens or reduced
nutritional value, and development of antibiotic resistance or
herbicide-resistant weeds. Benefits to individuals or populations need to be
weighed against adverse health and environmental risks, and may differ between
developing and Westernised countries. Whether testing and monitoring should
exceed requirements for conventional foods is under debate. While not necessarily
scientifically justifiable, consumer concerns have resulted in Australian and New
Zealand requirements to label foods containing GM-produced proteins. Dissatisfied
consumer advocacy groups are calling for all foods involving GM technology to be 
labelled, irrelevant of whether the final product contains novel protein. Goals
to improve the quantity, quality and safety of foods are laudable; however, the
primary aim of the bio-food industry is financial gain. GM foods may be as safe
as conventional foods but public distrust runs high. It is important that
discussion is informed by science and that claims of both benefits and risks are 
evidence-based, to ensure that the process is driven neither by the vested
interest of the bio-technical multinational companies on the one hand, nor
ill-informed public fears on the other.

PMID: 11529622 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

479: J Environ Monit. 1999 Dec;1(6):108N-110N.

Genetically modified organisms and monitoring.

Diamand E.

The genetic modification of organisms for food use has raised serious concern
about the potential for adverse effects on the environment, ecosystems and on the
health of humans and animals. As a relatively new technology, its impacts remain 
uncertain but could range from disturbances to the genetic functioning of
individual organisms to a reduction in the biodiversity of farmland. As a result,
the question of how to monitor for potential impacts is beset with problems. The 
fact that genetic modification can be used on a range of organisms for a variety 
of purposes means that those developing monitoring systems will need to be as
imaginative as those developing GMOs. In the case of genetically modified
organisms (GMOs) for food use, concern has focussed on the transfer of genes to
other organisms, the potential for effects on non-target organisms, or on the
health of humans and animals, and the likelihood of adverse effects on wildlife
due to changes in farming practice. As with other new and unfamiliar
technologies, genetic modification is also plagued by the problem of uncertainty.
Novel genes are inserted randomly into the genome of the host organisms, and this
leads to the possibility of unexpected effects. Unanticipated environmental
disasters, such as the concentration of persistent organic pollutants in
ecosystems at high latitudes, have highlighted the need for monitoring despite
the obvious difficulties inherent in monitoring for unexpected effects.

PMID: 11529177 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

480: J Agric Food Chem. 2001 Aug;49(8):3622-7.

A rapeseed-specific gene, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, can be used as a reference for 
qualitative and real-time quantitative PCR detection of transgenes from mixed
food samples.

Hernández M, Río A, Esteve T, Prat S, Pla M.

Instituto de Biología Molecular de Barcelona-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones 
Científicas, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods are very useful techniques for the
detection and quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food
samples. These methods rely on the amplification of transgenic sequences and
quantification of the transgenic DNA by comparison to an amplified reference
gene. Reported here is the development of specific primers for the rapeseed
(Brassica napus) BnACCg8 gene and PCR cycling conditions suitable for the use of 
this sequence as an endogenous reference gene in both qualitative and
quantitative PCR assays. Both methods were assayed with 20 different rapeseed
varieties, and identical amplification products were obtained with all of them.
No amplification products were observed when DNA samples from other Brassica
species, Arabidopsis thaliana, maize, and soybean were used as templates, which
demonstrates that this system is specific for rapeseed. In real-time quantitative
PCR analysis, the detection limit was as low as 1.25 pg of DNA, which indicates
that this method is suitable for use in processed food samples which contain very
low copies of target DNA.

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

PMID: 11513638 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

481: Ital J Biochem. 2000 Sep-Dec;49(3-4):52-6.

The use of biotechnology in agriculture and the methods for the detection of
genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food.

Motti C, Dainese E, Mascini M, Minunni M, De Santis P, Cozzani I.

Department of Structure, Function and Pathology of Animals and Biotechnology,
University of Teramo, Italy.

PMID: 11508058 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

482: Br J Nutr. 2001 Aug;86(2):123-39.

Uncoupling proteins: their roles in adaptive thermogenesis and substrate
metabolism reconsidered.

Dulloo AG, Samec S.

Institute of Physiology, Department of Medicine, University of Fribourg, Rue du
Musée 5, Fribourg, Switzerland. abdul.dulloo@unifr.ch

During the past few years, there have been two major developments, if not
revolutions, in the field of energy balance and weight regulation. The first at
the molecular level, which was catalysed by developments in DNA screening
technology together with the mapping of the human genome, has been the tremendous
advances made in the identification of molecules that play a role in the control 
of food intake and metabolic rate. The second, at the systemic level, which
centered upon the use of modern technologies or more robust analytical techniques
for assessing human energy expenditure in response to starvation and overfeeding,
has been the publication of several papers providing strong evidence that
adaptive thermogenesis plays a much more important role in the regulation of body
weight and body composition than previously thought. Within these same few years,
several new members of the mitochondrial carrier protein family have been
identified in a variety of tissues and organs. All apparently possess uncoupling 
properties in genetically-modified systems, with two of them (uncoupling protein 
(UCP) 2 and UCP3) being expressed in adipose tissues and skeletal muscles, which 
are generally recognised as important sites for variations in thermogenesis
and/or in substrate oxidation. Considered as breakthrough discoveries, the
cloning of these genes has generated considerable optimism for rapid advances in 
our molecular understanding of adaptive thermogenesis, and for the identification
of new targets for pharmacological management of obesity and cachexia. The
present paper traces first, from a historical perspective, the landmark events in
the field of thermogenesis that led to the identification of these genes encoding
candidate UCP, and then addresses the controversies and on-going debate about
their physiological importance in adaptive thermogenesis, in lipid oxidation or
in oxidative stress. The general conclusion is that UCP2 and UCP3 may have
distinct primary functions, with UCP3 implicated in regulating the flux of lipid 
substrates across the mitochondria and UCP2 in the control of mitochondrial
generation of reactive oxygen species. The distinct functions of these two UCP1
homologues have been incorporated in a conceptual model to illustrate how UCP2
and UCP3 may act in concert in the overall regulation of lipid oxidation
concomitant to the prevention of lipid-induced oxidative damage.

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

PMID: 11502224 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

483: 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]

484: Appl Environ Microbiol. 2001 Aug;67(8):3434-9.

Location effects of a reporter gene on expression levels and on native protein
synthesis in Lactococcus lactis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Thompson A, Gasson MJ.

Institute of Food Research, Colney, Norwich NR4 7UA, United Kingdom.
arthur.thompson@bbsrc.ac.uk

The engineering of industrially important genetically modified organisms by the
integration of heterologous genes into the chromosome is often the method of
choice for several reasons concerned with long-term stability, homogeneous
population distribution, and the enabling of selection without the addition of
antibiotics. However, integration may disrupt endogenous gene expression, giving 
rise to increased levels of toxic metabolic byproducts or activating otherwise
silent genes. The position of integration of a foreign gene in the chromosome can
also influence its expression levels, and this effect will be of relevance in
terms of optimizing protein production parameters. In this study, we determine
how the random integration of a foreign reporter gene might affect expression
levels and assess the use of proteome analysis to investigate possible effects on
synthesis of endogenous proteins in two important food-relevant microorganisms,
Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactococcus lactis. Eleven L. lactis integrants
carrying the gusA gene were analyzed, and expression levels were found to vary by
a factor of threefold in contrast to expression levels of lacZ in 18 S.
cerevisiae integrants, which showed a 14-fold variation. Of relevance to industry
is whether any changes in expression levels might occur as a consequence of
storage of the modified strains. Here it is also shown that the above differences
in expression levels were not significantly affected by storage of frozen
cultures over a period of several months. Analysis of the protein composition of 
the yeast and lactococcal integrant strains by separation on one-dimensional (1D)
and 2D gels showed no significant variations in position beyond those observed in
control samples.

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

PMID: 11472915 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

485: Vopr Pitan. 2000;69(6):37-40.

[Organization of State sanitary inspection of food products from genetically
modified sources]

[Article in Russian]

Petukhov AI.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 11452373 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

486: Med Law. 2001;20(1):133-41.

Ethical acceptability, health policy and foods biotechnology based foods: is
there a third way between the precaution principle and an overly enthusiastic
dissemination of GMO?

Meningaud JP, Moutel G, Hervé C.

Department of Medical Ethics and Public Health, Necker University Hospital,
Paris, France.

The demand for consumer safety with regard to the food-processing industry is
becoming, legitimately, more and more urgent. If ingested drugs can carry
deleterious effects that exceed the beneficial effect that the research was
initially undertaken for, then the same can only be the case for foods that stem 
from the same new biotechnologies, zero risk being non existent. There are two
conflicting viewpoints about the possible risks linked to genetically modified
organisms: a posteriori protection (based on vigilance once the product is on the
market) and an a priori protection (at present usually supported by the
precaution principle). We suggest a third way, which ensures consumer safety, but
doesn't hinder scientific progress. Just as there are regulations for the
protection of human subjects in biomedical research and regulations for the use
of drugs after they are marketed, so should such regulations be introduced in the
domains of food production that use biotechnologies. We therefore suggest that
the scientific community and the food-processing industry develop evaluation
protocols for new foods like the ones that exist for drugs. We thus offer
thirteen regulations, based on the Helsinki declaration, in order to establish
these protocols. These proposals, applied to food-processing research, would
enable the industry to return confidence to consumers and thus avoid the random
blocking of scientific progress, which is a source of health for the greater
population.

PMID: 11401233 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

487: FEBS Lett. 2001 May 18;497(1):50-4.

Design and production of genetically modified soybean protein with
anti-hypertensive activity by incorporating potent analogue of ovokinin(2-7).

Matoba N, Doyama N, Yamada Y, Maruyama N, Utsumi S, Yoshikawa M.

Research Institute For Food Science, Kyoto University, Uji, 611-0011, Kyoto,
Japan.

The potent anti-hypertensive peptide, RPLKPW, has been designed based on the
structure of ovokinin(2-7). The sequence encoding this peptide was introduced
into three homologous sites in the gene for soybean beta-conglycinin alpha'
subunit. The native alpha' subunit as well as the modified, RPLKPW-containing
alpha' subunit were expressed in Escherichia coli, recovered from the soluble
fraction and then purified by ion-exchange chromatography. The RPLKPW peptide was
released from recombinant RPLKPW-containing alpha' subunit after in vitro
digestion by trypsin and chymotrypsin. Moreover, the undigested RPLKPW-containing
alpha' subunit given orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg exerted an anti-hypertensive
effect in spontaneously hypertensive rats, unlike the native alpha' subunit.
These results provide evidence for the first time that a physiologically active
peptide introduced into a food protein by site-directed mutagenesis could
practically function in vivo even at a low dose.

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

PMID: 11376661 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

488: Arh Hig Rada Toksikol. 2001 Mar;52(1):49-59.

Electrochemical biosensors for evaluation of contaminants in food.

Mascini M, Palchetti I.

University of Florence, Department of Public Health, Epidemiology, and
Environmental Analytical Chemistry, Florence, Italy. mascini@unifi.it

This paper describes the application of electrochemical disposable biosensors in 
food analysis, which have recently been developed in our laboratory. Disposable
biosensors, based on acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity, were exploited for
testing the presence of organophosphorus and carbamate pesticides in water,
fruit, and vegetable samples. The paper further describes preliminary tests for
the detection of genetically modified organisms and hybridisation by coupling the
DNA biosensors with the polymerase chain reaction.

PMID: 11370299 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

489: Arh Hig Rada Toksikol. 2001 Mar;52(1):11-21.

Quality of Life Programme--food, nutrition, and health--projects promotion.

Boenke A.

European Commission, Brussels, Belgium. achim.boenke@cec.eu.int

The EC Quality of Life Programme (QoL), Key Action 1--Food, Nutrition & Health
aims at providing a healthy, safe, and high-quality food supply leading to
reinforced consumer's confidence in the safety of the European food. Key Action 1
is currently supporting several European projects investigating analytical
methods for food control including sensors, risk analysis, and food safety
standardisation. Their objectives range from the development and validation of
prevention strategies for mycotoxin formation via the development of a
communication platform for Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO), validation and
standardisation of diagnostic Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for food-borne
pathogens, up to the evaluation of the potential cancer-preventing activity of
pro- and pre-biotic ("SYNBIOTIC") combinations in human volunteers. This paper
also informs on future research needs in food safety.

PMID: 11370294 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

490: J Environ Monit. 2001 Feb;3(2):26N-32N.

Environmental and food safety issues of genetically modified crops.

Kuiper HA.

Publication Types: 
    News

PMID: 11354743 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

491: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001 May;107(5):765-71.

Comment in:
    J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001 Oct;108(4):654.    J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001 Oct;108(4):655-6.

Will genetically modified foods be allergenic?

Taylor SL, Hefle SL.

University of Nebraska, Food Allergy Research and Resource Program, Lincoln, USA.

Foods produced through agricultural biotechnology, including such staples as
corn, soybeans, canola, and potatoes, are already reaching the consumer
marketplace. Agricultural biotechnology offers the promise to produce crops with 
improved agronomic characteristics (eg, insect resistance, herbicide tolerance,
disease resistance, and climatic tolerance) and enhanced consumer benefits (eg,
better taste and texture, longer shelf life, and more nutritious). Certainly, the
products of agricultural biotechnology should be subjected to a careful and
complete safety assessment before commercialization. Because the genetic
modification ultimately results in the introduction of new proteins into the food
plant, the safety, including the potential allergenicity, of the newly introduced
proteins must be assessed. Although most allergens are proteins, only a few of
the many proteins found in foods are allergenic under the typical circumstances
of exposure. The potential allergenicity of the introduced proteins can be
evaluated by focusing on the source of the gene, the sequence homology of the
newly introduced protein to known allergens, the expression level of the novel
protein in the modified crop, the functional classification of the novel protein,
the reactivity of the novel protein with IgE from the serum of individuals with
known allergies to the source of the transferred genetic material, and various
physicochemical properties of the newly introduced protein, such as heat
stability and digestive stability. Few products of agricultural biotechnology
(and none of the current products) will involve the transfer of genes from known 
allergenic sources. Applying such criteria provides reasonable assurance that the
newly introduced protein has limited capability to become an allergen.

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

PMID: 11344340 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

492: Int J Parasitol. 2001 May 1;31(5-6):621-7.

Bacterial symbiosis and paratransgenic control of vector-borne Chagas disease.

Beard CB, Dotson EM, Pennington PM, Eichler S, Cordon-Rosales C, Durvasula RV.

Division of Parasitic Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
Atlanta, GA, USA. cbeard@cdc.gov

The triatomine vectors of Chagas disease are obligate haematophagous insects,
feeding on vertebrate blood throughout their entire developmental cycle. As a
result of obtaining their nutrition from a single food source, their diet is
devoid of certain vitamins and nutrients. Consequently, these insects harbour
populations of bacterial symbionts within their intestinal tract, which provide
the required nutrients that are lacking from their diet. We have isolated and
characterised symbiont cultures from various triatomine species and developed a
method for genetically transforming them. We can then reintroduce them into their
original host species, thereby producing stable paratransgenic insects in which
we are able to express heterologous gene products. Using this methodology, we
have generated paratransgenic Rhodnius prolixus that are refractory for infection
with Trypanosoma cruzi. Two examples of potentially refractory genes are
currently being expressed in paratransgenic insects. These include the insect
immune peptide cecropin A and active single chain antibody fragments. We have
also developed an approach that would allow introduction of genetically modified 
bacterial symbionts into natural populations of Chagas disease vectors. This
approach utilises the coprophagic behaviour of these insects, which is the way in
which the symbionts are transmitted among bug populations in nature. The
production and ultimate release of transgenic or paratransgenic insects for
public health applications is potentially very promising but also worthy of much 
careful consideration with respect to environmental, political, and human safety 
concerns.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11334952 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

493: Risk Anal. 2001 Feb;21(1):189-98.

Limits of knowledge and the limited importance of trust.

Sjöberg 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]

494: Toxicol Lett. 2001 Mar 31;120(1-3):165-70.

Food allergy: what are the issues?

Kimber I, Dearman RJ.

Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Cheshire SK10 4TJ,
Macclesfield, UK. ian.kimber@syngenta.com

With a growing interest in the development of genetically modified crop plants
there is a need for appropriate approaches to safety assessment. Among the issues
that have to be addressed is consideration of whether the products of novel genes
have the potential to cause allergic sensitization. Resulting from a
collaboration between the International Food Biotechnology Council and the
International Life Sciences Institute recommendations have been made for a
step-wise approach to the assessment of allergenic potential based upon
considerations of serological identity, and sequence or structural homology, with
known allergens and examination of the stability of the test protein in a
simulated gastric fluid. In parallel there has been interest in the development
of animal models, which would permit a more direct evaluation of potential
allergenic activity. Progress in these areas is reviewed briefly in the context
of what is known of food allergy and some of the important issues, which must be 
addressed in designing safety assessment strategies identified.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11323174 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

495: J Agric Food Chem. 2000 Dec;48(12):5936-45.

Compositional analysis of tubers from insect and virus resistant potato plants.

Rogan GJ, Bookout JT, Duncan DR, Fuchs RL, Lavrik PB, Love SL, Mueth M, Olson T, 
Owens ED, Raymond PJ, Zalewski J.

Monsanto Company, 700 Chesterfield Village Parkway, St. Louis, Missouri 63198,
USA. j.rogan@monsanto.com

Genetically modified potato plants that are resistant to the Colorado potato
beetle, plus either the potato leaf roll virus or potato virus Y, have recently
been commercialized. As part of the safety assessment for plants produced by
modern biotechnology, the composition of the food/feed must be compared to that
of the food/feed produced by an equivalent plant variety from a conventional
source. The composition of important nutritional and antinutritional factors in
tubers produced by virus- and insect-resistant potato plants were compared to
tubers produced by conventional potato plants. Key nutritional, quality, and
antinutritional components measured were total solids, vitamin C, dextrose,
sucrose, soluble protein, and glycoalkaloids. Proximate analyses included fat,
ash, calories, total protein, and crude fiber. Minor nutrients measured were
vitamin B6, niacin, copper, magnesium, potassium, and amino acids. The results
from these analyses confirm that tubers produced by insect- and virus-protected
varieties are substantially equivalent to tubers produced by conventional potato 
varieties.

PMID: 11312768 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

496: Allergy. 2001;56 Suppl 67:61-3.

How to make foods safer--genetically modified foods.

Moseley BE.

Reading, Berkshire, UK.

It is the responsibility of companies developing genetically modified foods, and 
of regulatory authorities that approve their marketing, to ensure that they are
at least as safe as the traditional foods they are intended to replace in the
diet. This requires that any novel material introduced into the food material
should not be allergenic. If the novel gene has come from an allergenic source,
e.g. nuts, it is necessary to demonstrate using immunological procedures applied 
to the IgE fractions of pooled sera from individuals with confirmed allergies
that the novel protein is non-allergenic. When the novel gene is from a
non-allergenic source then it is necessary to demonstrate lack of significant
amino acid sequence homology to known allergens together with sensitivity to food
manufacturing and digestive processes. Consumer confidence in genetically
modified foods would be significantly improved if hypoallergenic varieties of
crops and food products that are currently allergenic could be developed.
Techniques such as antisense technology and single site amino acid substitution
have been shown to have such potential.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11298012 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

497: Bull Acad Natl Med. 2000;184(7):1477-86; discussion 1487-90.

[Endocrine disruption agents: environment, health, public policies, and the
precautionary principle]

[Article in French]

Vandelac L.

Département de sociologie Institut des sciences de l'environnement de
l'Université du Québec à Montréal.

The already substantial body of evidence and growing web of suspicions as to the 
scale and severity of the cascade effects of endocrine disrupters (related to
persistent organic pollutants or POPs) on the health of ecosystems and humans
have sparked such concern that in June 1998, representatives of 94 countries
meeting in Montreal under the aegis of UNEP signed a draft international
agreement to phase out the most harmful POPs. Related to particular persistent
organic pollutants--toxic semi-volatile and persistent chemical compounds now
found everywhere in the environment, such as BPCs, organochlorine pesticides,
dioxins and furans, that build up in the bodies of organisms that consume other
contaminated organisms along the food chain--endocrine disrupters are strongly
suspected of affecting the health of animals and adversely impacting the health, 
fertility and even intellectual faculties of humans. For example, very low-level 
exposure to some POPs is associated with some hormone-dependent cancers, damage
to the central and peripheral nervous systems, impaired immune system function,
reproductive disorders and developmental disruptions in newborns and infants, who
can be affected in utero or through breast-feeding. Considering the extreme
complexity of the scientific and socio-economic effects of POP-related endocrine 
disrupters, there are those who, advocate a wait-and-see approach, claiming that 
there is not enough formal scientific proof. There are others who use the
available evidence to advance the research, press for bans on incriminated
substances and look for global, integrated and viable alternatives. And there are
other still who, with careless disregard for the Precautionary Principle, are
quite prepared to talk about the perverse effects of POPs in order to justify the
increased use of artificial means of reproduction or the replacement of chemical 
pesticides by pest-resistant genetically modified organisms (GMOs), thereby
opening the door to "solutions" that are potentially more biologically and
ethically dangerous than the problems they purport to remedy. This paper provides
an overview of the current understanding of the main sources and suspected
effects of POPs on animal life and human health, explores the complexity of the
scientific, economic and political issues involved in any international process
to do away with the incriminated products, discusses the risks and perverse
consequences of some of the proposed alternatives, and stresses the importance,
in the light of these risks and consequences, of placing renewed emphasis on
public and environmental health approaches based on the Precautionary Principle.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 11261252 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

498: 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]

499: Arch Insect Biochem Physiol. 2000 Dec;45(4):175-9.

Modulation of a lectin insecticidal activity by carbohydrates.

Triguéros V, Wang M, Père D, Paquereau L, Chavant L, Fournier D.

Université Paul Sabatier, Laboratoire de Synthèse et Physicochimie des Molécules 
d'Intérêt Biologique, UMR CNRS 5068, Groupe de Biochimie des Protéines, Toulouse,
France.

Lectins from plants present an insecticidal activity most probably through their 
carbohydrate binding properties; as a consequence, their toxicity should vary
with the presence of a competitive sugar in the ingested food. In order to test
this hypothesis, we performed competition experiments between insecticidal
activity and carbohydrate binding. For this purpose, we used a lectin from
Lathyrus ochrus and the specific carbohydrate for this protein, glucose. In
toxicological tests with Drosophila melanogaster, we observed a decrease of
lectin toxicity when glucose was added to the larva-rearing medium. This result
suggests that the toxicity of the lectin is correlated to its ability to bind
sugar in the insect digestive tract and stresses the importance of sugar
composition of the nutriment used for toxicological testing of lectins or in
genetically modified plants.

PMID: 11223937 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

500: 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]

501: Berl Munch Tierarztl Wochenschr. 2000 Nov-Dec;113(11-12):454-8.

[Detection of genetically modified soy (Roundup-Ready) in processed food
products]

[Article in German]

Hagen M, Beneke B.

Staatliches Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Detmold.

In this study, the application of a qualitative and a quantitative method of
analysis to detect genetically modified RR-Soy (Roundup-Ready Soy) in processed
foods is described. A total of 179 various products containing soy such as baby
food and diet products, soy drinks and desserts, tofu and tofu products, soy
based meat substitutes, soy protein, breads, flour, granules, cereals, noodles,
soy bean sprouts, fats and oils as well as condiments were investigated following
the pattern of the section 35 LMBG-method L 23.01.22-1. The DNA was extracted
from the samples and analysed using a soybean specific lectin gene PCR as well as
a PCR, specific for the genetic modification. Additional, by means of PCR in
combination with fluorescence-detection (TaqMan 5'-Nuclease Assay), suspicious
samples were subjected to a real-time quantification of the percentage of
genetically modified RR-Soy. The methods of analysis proved to be extremely
sensitive and specific in regard to the food groups checked. The fats and oils,
as well as the condiments were the exceptions in which amplifiable soy DNA could 
not be detected. The genetic modification of RR-Soy was detected in 34 samples.
Eight of these samples contained more than 1% of RR-Soy. It is necessary to
determine the percentage of transgenic soy in order to assess whether genetically
modified ingredients were deliberately added, or whether they were caused by
technically unavoidable contamination (for example during transportation and
processing).

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 11153227 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

502: Prog Lipid Res. 2000 Nov;39(6):477-506.

Analysis of genetically modified oils.

Hazebroek JP.

Trait and Technology Development, Analytical/Biochemistry Department, Pioneer
Hi-Bred International, Inc., PO Box 1004, 7300 NW 62nd Avenue, 50131, Johnston,
IA, USA.

Genetically modified oils with altered functional or nutritional characteristics 
are being introduced into the marketplace. A wide array of analytical techniques 
has been utilized to facilitate developing these oils. This article attempts to
review the utilization of these analytical procedures for characterizing both the
chemistry and some functionality of these oils. Although techniques to assess
oxidative stability in frying and food applications are covered, measurement of
nutritional characteristics are not.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11106811 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

503: Curr Opin Immunol. 2000 Dec;12(6):647-53.

Mechanisms of food allergy.

Helm RM, Burks AW.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Hospital
Research Institute, 1120 Marshall Street, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA.
helmrickim@exchange.uams.edu

The prevalence of food allergy continues to rise, particularly in 'westernized'
societies; it has been linked to the 'hygiene hypothesis' and the increased
diversity of food consumption worldwide. The pathogenic mechanisms and Th1/Th2
paradigm are being closely examined with respect to the occurrence of
inflammatory and injury/repair responses at different mucosal sites. Genetically 
modified plants as potential food sources and allergenicity are current topics of
controversy.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 11102767 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

504: Pediatr Int. 2000 Oct;42(5):461-3.

Child health in the new millennium.

Gracey M.

School of Public Health, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, WA, Australia.

In today's modern, industrialized and affluent countries, like Japan and
Australia, better living conditions and hygiene, plentiful nutritious food and
rapid advances in biology and medical technologies have helped to bring about
dramatic improvements in child health. The previous heavy burdens of infections
and undernutrition have been eliminated or can now be controlled or effectively
treated. In these countries, child health standards are higher than ever and
expectation of life at birth is much higher than in the past. Some of the
technological advances that have helped bring about this transformation are
immunization, antimicrobial therapy, successful treatment of childhood leukemias,
transplantation of vital organs and implementation of genetic diagnosis and gene 
therapy. The use of genetically modified foods and the prospects for cloning of
humans are areas of intense interest and controversy. However, these advances
have their disadvantages (e.g. antibiotic-induced drug resistance). Urbanization 
has encouraged the 'westernization' of dietary patterns and the long-term
'lifestyle diseases' that can follow in adults. Accidents, violence and drug
abuse are major problems in many parts of the world. Changes in attitudes to
sexuality and the spread of HIV/AIDS is another major problem, especially in
Africa and Asia. Environmental pollution and the degradation of agricultural
lands, rivers and seas are also important. Ironically, standards of child health 
and the prospects for long life in countries like Japan are better than ever
before, but social and environmental changes are presenting children and their
carers with new and unanswered challenges as we enter the 21 st century and the
new millennium.

PMID: 11059531 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

505: Biotechniques. 2000 Oct;29(4):832-6, 838-43.

Transgenic plants and biosafety: science, misconceptions and public perceptions.

Stewart CN Jr, Richards HA 4th, Halfhill MD.

Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Greensboro 27402-6174, USA. 
nstewart@uncg.edu

One usually thinks of plant biology as a non-controversial topic, but the
concerns raised over the biosafety of genetically modified (GM) plants have
reached disproportionate levels relative to the actual risks. While the
technology of changing the genome of plants has been gradually refined and
increasingly implemented, the commercialization of GM crops has exploded. Today's
commercialized transgenic plants have been produced using Agrobacterium
tumefaciens-mediated transformation or gene gun-mediated transformation.
Recently, incremental improvements of biotechnologies, such as the use of green
fluorescent protein (GFP) as a selectable marker, have been developed.
Non-transformation genetic modification technologies such as chimeraplasty will
be increasingly used to more precisely modify germplasm. In spite of the
increasing knowledge about genetic modification of plants, concerns over
ecological and food biosafety have escalated beyond scientific rationality. While
several risks associated with GM crops and foods have been identified, the
popular press, spurred by colorful protest groups, has left the general public
with a sense of imminent danger. Reviewed here are the risks that are currently
under research. Ecological biosafety research has identified potential risks
associated with certain crop/transgene combinations, such as intra- and
interspecific transgene flow, persistence and the consequences of transgenes in
unintended hosts. Resistance management strategies for insect resistance
transgenes and non-target effects of these genes have also been studied. Food
biosafety research has focused on transgenic product toxicity and allergenicity. 
However, an estimated 3.5 x 10(12) transgenic plants have been grown in the U.S. 
in the past 12 years, with over two trillion being grown in 1999 and 2000 alone. 
These large numbers and the absence of any negative reports of compromised
biosafety indicate that genetic modification by biotechnology poses no immediate 
or significant risks and that resulting food products from GM crops are as safe
as foods from conventional varieties. We are increasingly convinced that
scientists have a duty to conduct objective research and to effectively
communicate the results--especially those pertaining to the relative risks and
potential benefits--to scientists first and then to the public. All stakeholders 
in the technology need more effective dialogues to better understand risks and
benefits of adopting or not adopting agricultural biotechnologies.

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

PMID: 11056815 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

506: Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2000 Sep;64(9):1881-6.

Safety assessment of rice genetically modified with soybean glycinin by feeding
studies on rats.

Momma K, Hashimoto W, Yoon HJ, Ozawa S, Fukuda Y, Kawai S, Takaiwa F, Utsumi S,
Murata K.

Research Institute for Food Science, Kyoto University, Uji, Japan.
momma@food2.food.kyoto-u.ac.jp

Feeding studies on rice genetically modified with soybean glycinin were performed
on rats for four weeks. The rats were divided into three groups, each being fed
on (I) only a commercial diet, (II) this diet plus control rice and (III) this
diet plus rice genetically modified with glycinin. The rats were fed with 10
g/kg-weight of rice every day by oral administration. During the test period, the
rats in every group grew well without marked differences in appearance, food
intake, body weight, or cumulative body weight gain. There were also no
significant differences in the blood count, blood composition or internal organ
weights among the rats. Necropsy at the end of the experiment indicated neither
pathological symptoms nor histopathological abnormalities in the liver and
kidney. Judging from these results, the rice genetically modified with glycinin
is considered to have been essentially the same in nutritional and biochemical
characteristics as the control rice.

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

PMID: 11055391 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

507: J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2000 Oct;106(4):752-62.

Digestibility of allergens extracted from natural rubber latex and vegetable
foods.

Yagami T, Haishima Y, Nakamura A, Osuna H, Ikezawa Z.

Division of Medical Devices, National Institute of Health Sciences, Tokyo, Japan.

BACKGROUND: Several cross-reactive allergens are now known to be involved in the 
defense responses of higher plants. Such proteins are drawing the attention of
plant breeders because of their antimicrobial or stress-alleviating activities.
Plants genetically modified to express defense-related proteins are being
developed. The current concern is focused on the allergenicity of these
intentionally expressed proteins. OBJECTIVE: It is believed that food allergens
are proteins resistant to digestion. Digestibility tests have been accepted as an
appropriate method for evaluating the allergenicity of newly introduced proteins.
In this study we investigated the usefulness of this method for detecting
allergens from natural rubber latex and vegetable foods. METHODS: Proteins were
extracted from rubber latex, potato, and 5 kinds of fruits. Simulated gastric
fluid (SGF) and simulated intestinal fluid (SIF) were used for the digestibility 
test. An aliquot of each digest was periodically withdrawn and analyzed.
Allergens were detected with pooled sera from individuals with latex allergy or
patients given a diagnosis of oral allergy syndrome. RESULTS: Most latex and
vegetable food proteins were digested by the SGF within 4 minutes. Numerous
allergens were also decomposed by the SGF within 8 minutes. Although vegetable
food allergens were relatively stable in the SIF, kiwi allergens were
substantially degraded by the SIF within 16 hours. CONCLUSION: The pronounced
lability of the plant-derived allergens was thought to reflect the discrete
sensitization and elicitation processes of patients with latex-fruit syndrome or 
oral allergy syndrome. These results indicate that the allergenicity of a newly
expressed protein should be carefully evaluated according to not only its
digestibility but also other important properties.

PMID: 11031347 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

508: 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]

509: Behav Brain Res. 2000 Oct;115(1):1-8.

Temporal and spatial adaptation to food restriction in mice under naturalistic
conditions.

Dell'Omo G, Ricceri L, Wolfer DP, Poletaeva II, Lipp H.

Institute of Anatomy and Center for Neuroscience, University of Zürich-Irchel,
Winterhurerstrasse 190, CH-8057, Zurich, Switzerland.

Free-living female laboratory mice, adapted to outdoor life in large pens
providing a naturalistic environment, were tested for their ability to modify
their foraging habits to controlled food supply. An automatic feeder box
delivered a small portion of the daily quantity of seeds to each individual
mouse. Eight such boxes were placed into an outdoor pen. Each day, mice had to
visit all boxes to gather the daily amount of food and were rewarded only at the 
first visit to each box. Mice were individually recognised by an implanted
microchip. Throughout a 16-day period, feeding activity concentrated in an
interval time around the beginning of the daily session. During the same period, 
the number of different feeders visited every day by mice increased irrespective 
of variation in exploratory activity. The experimental set-up allowed detecting
temporal and spatial adaptations to the food restriction, as well as behavioural 
differences due to territorial and social factors. These data permit the design
of novel tests assessing behavioural changes, memory and learning in normal and
genetically modified mice, both in the laboratory and in naturalistic settings.

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

PMID: 10996402 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

510: 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]

511: J AOAC Int. 2000 Jul-Aug;83(4):919-27.

Validation of an immunoassay for detection and quantitation of a genetically
modified soybean in food and food fractions using reference materials:
interlaboratory study.

Lipp M, Anklam E, Stave JW, Lipp M, Anklam E, Stave JW.

European Commission, Joint Research Center, Institute for Health and Consumer
Protection, Food Products and Consumer Goods Unit, Ispra (Va), Italy.

An immunoassay for detection of a specific genetically modified soybean
(Roundup-Ready) was validated on dried soybean powder in an interlaboratory
study. Different percentages of genetically modified soybeans in nonmodified
soybean matrix were evaluated in a blind study. Thirty-eight laboratories from 13
countries participated. The immunoassay was evaluated for 2 endpoints: (1) To
give a semiquantitative result, i.e., determination of a given sample above or
below a given threshold, or (2) to compute a quantitative result, i.e.,
percentage of genetically modified soybeans in the sample. Semiquantitative
results showed that a given sample which contained <2% genetically modified
soybeans was identified as below 2% with a 99% confidence level. Quantitative use
of the assay resulted in a repeatability (r) and reproducibility (R) that were
computed to be RSDr = 7% and RSDR = 10%, respectively, for a sample containing 2%
genetically modified soybeans. Application of this method depends on availability
of appropriate reference materials for a specific food matrix. Only
matrix-matched reference materials can be used for analysis of food or food
fractions.

PMID: 10995116 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

512: Science. 2000 Aug 25;289(5483):1279-81.

Comment in:
    Science. 2000 Nov 24;290(5496):1505-6.

Agrobiotechnology. Asia gets a taste of genetic food fights.

Normile D.

Despite the need to feed growing populations in Asia, controversy over
genetically modified foods is putting a damper on efforts to develop and test new
crops. The signs of opposition are scattered and vary from country to country.
But they are enough to be worrisome to the region's leaders.

Publication Types: 
    News

PMID: 10979850 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

513: Science. 2000 Sep 1;289(5484):1554-7.

Comment in:
    Science. 2000 Sep 1;289(5484):1481-2.

Predictions of biodiversity response to genetically modified herbicide-tolerant
crops.

Watkinson AR, Freckleton RP, Robinson RA, Sutherland WJ.

Schools of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia,
Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK. a.watkinson@uea.ac.uk

We simulated the effects of the introduction of genetically modified
herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) crops on weed populations and the consequences for
seed-eating birds. We predict that weed populations might be reduced to low
levels or practically eradicated, depending on the exact form of management.
Consequent effects on the local use of fields by birds might be severe, because
such reductions represent a major loss of food resources. The regional impacts of
GMHT crops are shown to depend on whether the adoption of GMHT crops by farmers
covaries with current weed levels.

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

PMID: 10968791 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

514: Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2000 Jun;73 Suppl:S14-8.

Safety evaluation of genetically modified foods.

Martens MA.

Monsanto Europe SA, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium.

The concept of substantial equivalence has been accepted as the cornerstone of
the health hazard assessment of genetically modified (GM) foods (OECD 1993).
Substantial equivalence is the most practical approach to address the safety of
foods or food components derived from GM crops and is based on comparison of the 
phenotypic and compositional characteristics of the parent crop and the GM crop. 
Basically, three categories of GM crops can be considered (FAO/WHO 1996; EU
1997): (a) GM crops which have the same composition as the parent crop, (b) GM
crops which have the same composition as the parent crop with the exception of a 
well-defined trait, and (c) GM crops which are different from the parent crop.
For the safety assessment of the first category of GM foods only a molecular
characterisation of the genetic insert is sufficient, whereas for the second
category a safety assessment of the expressed protein(s) is also required. For
the last category an extensive evaluation including bioavailability and
wholesomeness studies are required, beside the molecular characterisation and
safety assessment of the expressed protein(s) and their products. By molecular
characterisation is meant the position, nature, stability and number of copies of
the inserted DNA. Substantial equivalence is established by the determination of 
the phenotypic characteristics (e.g. resistance against diseases, agronomic
properties) and the complete chemical composition of the plant including
nutrients, toxicants, antinutrients, and allergens. The toxicity of the expressed
protein(s) is assessed by their homology with known protein toxins, degradation
in the gastro-intestinal tract, stability to food processing and acute toxicity
in rodents. The possible allergenicity of the expressed proteins is evaluated by 
comparison of their amino acid sequence with that of known allergens and
determination of their stability to digestion and food processing. If the source 
of the genetic insert is allergenic then the use of solid-state immunoassays,
skin prick tests and even food challenge tests can be considered.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 10968554 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

515: Anal Chem. 2000 Jul 1;72(13):454A-459A.

Detecting genetically modified products in food.

Erickson BE.

PMID: 10905286 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

516: Br Med Bull. 2000;56(1):254-68.

The future relationship between the media, the food industry and the consumer.

Anderson WA.

Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.

The relationship between the media, the food industry and the consumer is
probably at its lowest point as we start the new millennium. The frequency of
food scares appears to be increasing and news reports sometimes seem both
sensational and polarised. High profile issues like the development of bovine
spongiform encephalopathy in the UK and the dioxin contamination of poultry
products in Belgium have undermined consumer confidence in the food industry. The
recent genetically modified foods' debate has served to demonstrate the gulf that
has grown between the food industry, food safety experts and the public. This is 
a rift that has been exploited by environmental pressure groups and fuelled by
the media. This paper examines some of the underlying causes of the current air
of mistrust that seems to exist between the media, the food industry and the
consumer. Also, by examining the projected trends in these root causes, it draws 
some conclusions for the future relationship between the parties involved and
suggests some changes that may improve the present situation.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 10885119 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

517: Br Med Bull. 2000;56(1):62-73.

Genetically modified crops: methodology, benefits, regulation and public
concerns.

Halford NG, Shewry PR.

IACR-Long Ashton Research Station, Department of Agricultural Sciences,
University of Bristol, UK.

The genetic modification of crop plants from the methodology involved in their
production through to the current debate on their use in agriculture are
reviewed. Techniques for plant transformation by Agrobacterium tumefaciens and
particle bombardment, and for the selection of transgenic plants using marker
genes are described. The benefits of currently available genetically modified
(GM) crops in reducing waste and agrochemical use in agriculture, and the
potential of the technology for further crop improvement in the future are
discussed. The legal requirements for containment of novel GM crops and the roles
of relevant regulatory bodies in ensuring that GM crops and food are safe are
summarized. Some of the major concerns of the general public regarding GM crops
and food: segregation of GM and non-GM crops and cross-pollination between GM
crops and wild species, the use of antibiotic resistance marker genes, the
prevention of new allergens being introduced in to the food chain and the
relative safety of GM and non-GM foods are considered. Finally, the current
debate on the use of GM crops in agriculture and the need for the government,
scientists and industry to persevere with the technology in the face of
widespread hostility is studied.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 10885105 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

518: World Health Organ Tech Rep Ser. 2000;891:i-viii, 1-168.

Evaluation of certain food additives. Fifty-first report of the Joint FAO/WHO
Expert Committee on Food Additives.

[No authors listed]

This report presents the conclusions of a Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee convened
to evaluate the safety of various food additives, with a view to recommending
Acceptable Daily Intakes (ADIs) for humans, and to prepare specifications for the
identity and purity of food additives. The first part of the report contains a
general discussion of the principles governing the toxicological evaluation of
food additives, the assessment of intake of food additives, and the establishment
and revision of specifications, including comments concerning enzyme preparations
derived from genetically modified microorganisms and limits for heavy metals. A
summary follows of the Committee's evaluations of toxicological data on specific 
food additives, including enzyme preparations (alpha-acetolactate decarboxylase
and maltogenic amylase), flavouring agents (trans-anethole, furfural and
menthol), food colours (curcumin and riboflavin from genetically modified
Bacillus subtilis), glazing agents (medium- and low-viscosity mineral oils),
preservatives (sulfur dioxide and sulfites), a sweetening agent (stevioside),
thickening agents (carrageenan, processed Eucheuma seaweed and enzymatically
hydrolysed sodium carboxymethyl cellulose), gamma-cyclodextrin,
glucono-delta-lactone and the calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium salts of
gluconic acid, and polyglycitol syrup. The Committee also evaluated the safety of
various groups of flavouring agents and assessed the intake of specific food
additives, including benzoates, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated
hydroxytoluene (BHT), sulfites and tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ). Annexed to the 
report are tables summarizing the Committee's recommendations for ADIs of the
food additives considered, changes in the status of specifications for these
substances and specific flavouring agents, and further toxicological studies and 
other information required or desired.

Publication Types: 
    Technical Report

PMID: 10876377 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

519: Curr Opin Microbiol. 2000 Jun;3(3):276-82.

Lactic acid bacteria: the bugs of the new millennium.

Konings WN, Kok J, Kuipers OP, Poolman B.

Department of Molecular Microbiology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and
Biotechnology Institute, Biology Centre, University of Groningen, Haren, 9751 NN,
The Netherlands. W.N.Konings@Biol.Rug.nl

Lactic acid bacteria (LABs) are widely used in the manufacturing of fermented
food and are among the best-studied microorganisms. Detailed knowledge of a
number of physiological traits has opened new potential applications for these
organisms in the food industry, while other traits might be beneficial for human 
health. Important new developments have been made in the research of LABs in the 
areas of multidrug resistance, bacteriocins and quorum sensing, osmoregulation,
proteolysis, autolysins and bacteriophages. Recently, progress has been made in
the construction of food-grade genetically modified LABs.

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

PMID: 10851157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

520: Med Confl Surviv. 2000 Jan-Mar;16(1):104-7.

Feeding the world in the new millennium.

Waterlow J.

Department of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical
Medicine.

Food production per head in the world as a whole has begun to level off in the
last decade, while the world population continues to grow, risking malnutrition, 
perhaps even starvation, civil unrest and environmental damage. Very little more 
land suitable for agriculture is available, and the factors behind the 'green
revolution' may not produce further increases. Genetically modified crops offer
the possibility of increased yields, but also present major problems. In
developing countries, where yields are well below what is theoretically possible,
the best approach may be better management by small farmers through improvements 
in their traditional methods. Much more financial support for and research in
agriculture is needed, together with more equitable distribution of existing
production and an end to trade practices designed to make the rich richer.

PMID: 10824526 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

521: Proc Nutr Soc. 1999 Nov;58(4):807-12.

Social determinants of food choice.

Shepherd R.

Department of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
R.Shepherd@surrey.ac.uk

Food choice is influenced by a large number of factors, including social and
cultural factors. One method for trying to understand the impact of these factors
is through the study of attitudes. Research is described which utilizes social
psychological attitude models of attitude-behaviour relationships, in particular 
the Theory of Planned Behaviour. This approach has shown good prediction of
behaviour, but there are a number of possible extensions to this basic model
which might improve its utility. One such extension is the inclusion of measures 
of moral concern, which have been found to be important both for the choice of
genetically-modified foods and also for foods to be eaten by others. It has been 
found to be difficult to effect dietary change, and there are a number of
insights from social psychology which might address this difficulty. One is the
phenomenon of optimistic bias, where individuals believe themselves to be at less
risk from various hazards than the average person. This effect has been
demonstrated for nutritional risks, and this might lead individuals to take less 
note of health education messages. Another concern is that individuals do not
always have clear-cut attitudes, but rather can be ambivalent about food and
about healthy eating. It is important, therefore, to have measures for this
ambivalence, and an understanding of how it might impact on behaviour.

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

PMID: 10817147 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

522: 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]

523: 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]

524: 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]

525: J Biotechnol. 2000 Mar 31;78(3):251-8.

Genomics, molecular genetics and the food industry.

Pridmore RD, Crouzillat D, Walker C, Foley S, Zink R, Zwahlen MC, Brüssow H,
Pétiard V, Mollet B.

Nestec Ltd., Nestlé Research Center, Vers-chez-les-Blanc, 1000, Lausanne,
Switzerland. raymond-david.primore@rdls.nestle.com

The production of foods for an increasingly informed and selective consumer
requires the coordinated activities of the various branches of the food chain in 
order to provide convenient, wholesome, tasty, safe and affordable foods. Also,
the size and complexity of the food sector ensures that no single player can
control a single process from seed production, through farming and processing to 
a final product marketed in a retail outlet. Furthermore, the scientific advances
in genome research and their exploitation via biotechnology is leading to a
technology driven revolution that will have advantages for the consumer and food 
industry alike. The segment of food processing aids, namely industrial enzymes
which have been enhanced by the use of biotechnology, has proven invaluable in
the production of enzymes with greater purity and flexibility while ensuring a
sustainable and cheap supply. Such enzymes produced in safe GRAS microorganisms
are available today and are being used in the production of foods. A second
rapidly evolving segment that is already having an impact on our foods may be
found in the new genetically modified crops. While the most notorious examples
today were developed by the seed companies for the agro-industry directed at the 
farming sector for cost saving production of the main agronomical products like
soya and maize, its benefits are also being seen in the reduced use of herbicides
and pesticides which will have long term benefits for the environment.
Technology-driven advances for the food processing industry and the consumer are 
being developed and may be divided into two separate sectors that will be
presented in greater detail: 1. The application of genome research and
biotechnology to the breeding and development of improved plants. This may be as 
an aid for the cataloging of industrially important plant varieties, the rapid
identification of key quality traits for enhanced classical breeding programs, or
the genetic modification of important plants for improved processing properties
or health characteristics. 2. The development of advanced microorganisms for food
fermentations with improved flavor production, health or technological
characteristics. Both yeasts and bacteria have been developed that fulfill these 
requirements, but are as yet not used in the production of foods.

PMID: 10751686 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

526: 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]

527: 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]

528: Appetite. 1999 Dec;33(3):343-60.

Consumers' cognitions with regard to genetically modified foods. Results of a
qualitative study in four countries.

Bredahl L.

MAPP, The Aarhus School of Business, Denmark. lone.bredahl@mar.hha.dk

The objective of this research was to gain insight into consumers>> attitudes
towards genetic modification in food production. With means-end chain theory as
the theoretical basis, laddering interviews were conducted with 400 consumers in 
Denmark, Germany, the United Kingdom and Italy. Perceived risks and benefits of
genetic modification in foods were investigated using beer and yoghurt as
examples. German and Danish responses revealed more complex cognitive structures 
than did the results from the United Kingdom and Italy. In all four countries,
however, applying genetic modification was associated with unnaturalness and low 
trustworthiness of the resulting products, independently of whether the
genetically modified material was traceable in the product. Moral considerations 
were voiced as well, as were a number of other consequences that were perceived
to conflict with both individual and social values. Copyright 1999 Academic
Press.

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

PMID: 10625527 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

529: J Agric Food Chem. 1999 Dec;47(12):5261-6.

Real-time quantitative PCR detection of genetically modified Maximizer maize and 
Roundup Ready soybean in some representative foods.

Vaïtilingom M, Pijnenburg H, Gendre F, Brignon P.

Tepral, Beverage Division Research Center of Danone Group, 68 Route
d'Oberhausbergen, 67037 Strasbourg Cedex, France.

A fast and quantitative method was developed to detect transgenic "Maximizer"
maize "event 176" (Novartis) and "Roundup Ready" soybean (Monsanto) in food by
real-time quantitative PCR. The use of the ABI Prism 7700 sequence detection
system allowed the determination of the amplified product accumulation through a 
fluorogenic probe (TaqMan). Fluorescent dyes were chosen in such a way as to
coamplify total and transgenic DNA in the same tube. Using real-time quantitative
PCR, 2 pg of transgenic or total DNA per gram of starting sample was detected in 
3 h after DNA extraction and the relative amounts of "Maximizer" maize and
"Roundup Ready" soybean in some representative food products were quantified.

PMID: 10606606 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

530: J Agric Food Chem. 1999 Dec;47(12):5038-43.

Erratum in:
    J Agric Food Chem 2001 Jul;49(7):3508.

Genetically modified organisms in food-screening and specific detection by
polymerase chain reaction.

Vollenhofer S, Burg K, Schmidt J, Kroath H.

Austrian Research Centers Seibersdorf, Biotechnology Unit, A-2444 Seibersdorf,
Austria. sabine.vollenhofer@arcs.ac.at

PCR methods for the detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) were
developed that can be used for screening purposes and for specific detection of
glyphosate-tolerant soybean and insect-resistant maize in food. Primers were
designed to amplify parts of the 35S promoter derived from Cauliflower Mosaic
Virus, the NOS terminator derived from Agrobacterium tumefaciens and the
antibiotic marker gene NPTII (neomycin-phosphotransferase II), to allow for
general screening of foods. PCR/hybridization protocols were established for the 
detection of glyphosate-tolerant RoundUp Ready soybean and insect-resistant
Bt-maize. Besides hybridization, confirmation of the results using restriction
analysis was also possible. The described methods enabled a highly sensitive and 
specific detection of GMOs and thus provide a useful tool for routine analysis of
raw and processed food products.

PMID: 10606569 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

531: 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]

532: Nat Biotechnol. 1999 Nov;17(11):1137-8.

Quantitation of genetically modified organisms in food.

Hübner P, Studer E, Lüthy J.

Official food control authority of the Canton of Zurich, Switzerland.
klzh@bluewin.ch

PMID: 10545927 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

533: Alcohol Alcohol. 1999 Sep-Oct;34(5):690-8.

Effects of Hypericum perforatum extraction on alcohol intake in Marchigian
Sardinian alcohol-preferring rats.

Perfumi M, Ciccocioppo R, Angeletti S, Cucculelli M, Massi M.

Department of Pharmacological Sciences and Experimental Medicine, University of
Camerino, Italy.

The present study investigated the effect of acute intragastric (i.g.)
administration of dry Hypericum perforatum extract (HPE), containing 0.3%
hypericin, on ethanol intake in genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian
alcohol-preferring (msP) rats. The i.g. administration of HPE, 125 or 250 mg/kg, 
induced a 30-40% reduction in ethanol intake in rats offered 10% (v/v) ethanol
for 2 h/day. The effect of these doses was selective, since they modified neither
food intake nor food-associated drinking; neither did the same doses modify the
rat's gross behaviour in the open-field test. A dose of 500 mg/kg frequently
induced immobility and a general suppression of ingestive behaviour. In rats
offered 10% ethanol for 12 h/day, ethanol intake following treatment with 250
mg/kg HPE was significantly lower than that of controls for up to 10 h. The
effect on ethanol intake was not related to the antidepressant-like effect of HPE
revealed in the forced swimming test. In this regard, the effect on ethanol
intake was observed after a single administration of 125 mg/kg, whereas the
antidepressant effect was observed only after repeated treatment with doses
higher than 125 mg/kg HPE. The i.g. administration of HPE, 250 mg/kg, did not
affect blood-alcohol levels following i.g. treatment with 0.7 g/kg ethanol, the
amount usually ingested in a single drinking episode; thus, the effect is not
related to changes in the pharmacokinetics of ethanol. The present study shows
that HPE markedly reduces ethanol intake in msP rats, without significantly
modifying food intake.

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

PMID: 10528811 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

534: J AOAC Int. 1999 Jul-Aug;82(4):923-8.

IUPAC collaborative trial study of a method to detect genetically modified soy
beans and maize in dried powder.

Lipp M, Brodmann P, Pietsch K, Pauwels J, Anklam E, Börchers T, Braunschweiger G,
Busch U, Eklund E, Eriksen FD, Fagan J, Fellinger A, Gaugitsch H, Hayes D, Hertel
C, Hörtner H, Joudrier P, Kruse L, Meyer R, Miraglia M, Müller W, Phillipp P,
Pöpping B, Rentsch R, Wurtz A, et al.

Institute for Health and consumer protection, Food Products unit, Ispra(Va),
Italy.

This paper presents results of a collaborative trial study (IUPAC project No.
650/93/97) involving 29 laboratories in 13 countries applying a method for
detecting genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food. The method is based on
using the polymerase chain reaction to determine the 35S promotor and the NOS
terminator for detection of GMOs. reference materials were produced that were
derived from genetically modified soy beans and maize. Correct identification of 
samples containing 2% GMOs is achievable for both soy beans and maize. For
samples containing 0.5% genetically modified soy beans, analysis of the 35S
promotor resulted also in a 100% correct classification. However, 3
false-negative results (out of 105 samples analyzed) were reported for analysis
of the NOS terminator, which is due to the lower sensitivity of this method.
Because of the bigger genomic DNA of maize, the probability of encountering
false-negative results for samples containing 0.5% GMOs is greater for maize than
for soy beans. For blank samples (0% GMO), only 2 false-positive results for soy 
beans and one for maize were reported. These results appeared as very weak
signals and were most probably due to contamination of laboratory equipment.

PMID: 10490320 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

535: Int J Food Microbiol. 1999 Sep 15;50(1-2):25-31.

The safety and social acceptance of novel foods.

Moseley BE.

The regulatory processes employed in the UK and the European Union to assess the 
safety of novel foods and novel food ingredients, including those resulting from 
the application of recombinant DNA technology (genetically modified foods), are
described. Examples are given of yeasts that have been genetically modified and
can be used in food and drink manufacture and food enzymes derived from
genetically modified microorganisms that have been deemed safe for use by the UK 
regulatory system. Social acceptance of such novel foods or food ingredients is
not uniform in countries of the developed world. Consumer concerns can be based
on ethical considerations (scientists "playing God") or safety worries ("more
testing needs to be done"). The general acceptance of such foods and food
ingredients in Europe is still unclear.

PMID: 10488841 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

536: Transgenic Res. 1998 May;7(3):157-63.

Biosafety of E. coli beta-glucuronidase (GUS) in plants.

Gilissen LJ, Metz PL, Stiekema WJ, Nap JP.

Department of Molecular Biology, CPRO-DLO, Wageningen, The Netherlands.

The beta-glucuronidase (GUS) gene is to date the most frequently used reporter
gene in plants. Marketing of crops containing this gene requires prior evaluation
of their biosafety. To aid such evaluations of the GUS gene, irrespective of the 
plant into which the gene has been introduced, the ecological and toxicological
aspects of the gene and gene product have been examined. GUS activity is found in
many bacterial species, is common in all tissues of vertebrates and is also
present in organisms of various invertebrate taxa. The transgenic GUS originates 
from the enterobacterial species Escherichia coli that is widespread in the
vertebrate intestine, and in soil and water ecosystems. Any GUS activity added to
the ecosystem through genetically modified plants will be of no or minor
influence. Selective advantages to genetically modified plants that posses and
express the E. coli GUS transgene are unlikely. No increase of weediness of E.
coli GUS expressing crop plants, or wild relatives that might have received the
transgene through outcrossing, is expected. Since E. coli GUS naturally occurs
ubiquitously in the digestive tract of consumers, its presence in food and feed
from genetically modified plants is unlikely to cause any harm. E. coli GUS in
genetically modified plants and their products can be regarded as safe for the
environment and consumers.

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

PMID: 10461390 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

537: Toxicology. 1999 Feb 15;132(2-3):99-110.

In vitro screening of food peptides toxic for coeliac and other gluten-sensitive 
patients: a review.

Silano M, De Vincenzi M.

III Scuola di Specializzazione in Pediatria, IV Clinica Pediatrica, Ospedale S.
Paolo, Università di Milano, Milan, Italy.

Experience gained through investigations on coeliac disease makes it possible to 
propose a screening method based on agglutination of isolated K562(S) cells to
evaluate the occurrence in food protein of amino acid sequences that are able to 
adversely affect coeliac and related gluten-sensitive patients. The method
consists of in vitro sequential peptic and tryptic digestion of food protein
fractions under optimal pH, temperature and time conditions and in vitro
incubation of the digest with K562(S) cells; the toxic potential is detected as
an agglutination of K 562 (S) cells after a short incubation. Other in vitro test
systems, including atrophic coeliac intestinal mucosa and rat fetal intestine,
can be used to confirm the results obtained with the isolated cells. A
fractionation step of the proteolytic digest on a sepharose-mannan column before 
exposure of the in vitro systems to the separated peptide fractions adds to the
sensitivity of the method. This screening method is not only very useful to
investigate action mechanisms in coeliac disease, but also to assess the safety
of genetically-modified plant foods and novel foods for gluten-sensitive
patients.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 10433373 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

538: Nahrung. 1999 Jun;43(3):168-74.

Assessment of allergic potential of (novel) foods.

Wal JM.

INRA-CEA/SPI, Laboratoire d'Immuno-Allergie Alimentaire, Gif sur Yvette, France.

In safety assessment of Novel Foods such as functional foods, allergy is a
special issue on which particular emphasis has been placed. The reason for such
concern is that incidence of food allergies is constantly and rapidly increasing.
The severity of the reported incidents and the number of foods incriminated are
also on the rise. The outstanding challenge is to understand what makes a common 
innocuous protein or peptide behave as an allergen for some groups of people, or 
why it may suddenly or progressively become a much more potent allergen than
usual. It is therefore necessary to consider the risks of creating or unmasking
new immunoreactive structures, or of overexposure to already reactive substances,
as a result of new food-production and processing technologies. No test such as
the use of animal models, the analysis of structure, function and
physico-chemical properties is as yet available to evaluate or predict the
allergenicity of a "novel" protein in a wholly reliable and objective manner. No 
indication has yet suggested that novel foods, and particularly recombinant
proteins or genetically modified foods, would be more (or less) allergenic than
the corresponding conventional foods. No particular structure can be described as
being solely and intrinsically allergenic. The predictive approaches to
determining the allergenic potential of NFs should therefore be subject to
case-by-case critical appraisal allied to mandatory implementation of monitoring 
of the potential postmarketing impact of these new foodstuffs on public health.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 10399350 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

539: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 1999 Jun;29(3):327-57.

A cancer risk assessment of di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate: application of the new
U.S. EPA Risk Assessment Guidelines.

Doull J, Cattley R, Elcombe C, Lake BG, Swenberg J, Wilkinson C, Williams G, van 
Gemert M.

University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.

The current United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classification of
di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) as a B2 "probable human" carcinogen is based on 
outdated information. New toxicology data and a considerable amount of new
mechanistic evidence were used to reconsider the cancer classification of DEHP
under EPA's proposed new cancer risk assessment guidelines. The total
weight-of-evidence clearly indicates that DEHP is not genotoxic. In vivo
administration of DEHP to rats and mice results in peroxisome proliferation in
the liver, and there is strong evidence and scientific consensus that, in
rodents, peroxisome proliferation is directly associated with the onset of liver 
cancer. Peroxisome proliferation is a transcription-mediated process that
involves activation by the peroxisome proliferator of a nuclear receptor in
rodent liver called the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARalpha).
The critical role of PPARalpha in peroxisomal proliferation and carcinogenicity
in mice is clearly established by the lack of either response in mice genetically
modified to remove the PPARalpha. Several mechanisms have been proposed to
explain how, in rodents, peroxisome proliferation can lead to the formation of
hepatocellular tumors. The general consensus of scientific opinion is that
PPARalpha-induced mitogenesis and cell proliferation are probably the major
mechanisms responsible for peroxisome proliferator-induced hepatocarcinogenesis
in rodents. Oxidative stress appears to play a significant role in this increased
cell proliferation. It triggers the release of TNFalpha by Kupffer cells, which
in turn acts as a potent mitogen in hepatocytes. Rats and mice are uniquely
responsive to the morphological, biochemical, and chronic carcinogenic effects of
peroxisome proliferators, while guinea pigs, dogs, nonhuman primates, and humans 
are essentially nonresponsive or refractory; Syrian hamsters exhibit intermediate
responsiveness. These differences are explained, in part, by marked interspecies 
variations in the expression of PPARalpha, with levels of expression in humans
being only 1-10% of the levels found in rat and mouse liver. Recent studies of
DEHP clearly indicate a nonlinear dose-response curve that strongly suggests the 
existence of a dose threshold below which tumors in rodents are not induced.
Thus, the hepatocarcinogenic effects of DEHP in rodents result directly from the 
receptor-mediated, threshold-based mechanism of peroxisome proliferation, a
well-understood process associated uniquely with rodents. Since humans are quite 
refractory to peroxisomal proliferation, even following exposure to potent
proliferators such as hypolipidemic drugs, it is concluded that the
hepatocarcinogenic response of rodents to DEHP is not relevant to human cancer
risk at any anticipated exposure level. DEHP should be classified an unlikely
human carcinogen with a margin of exposure (MOE) approach to risk assessment. The
most appropriate and conservative point of reference for assessing MOEs should be
20 mg/kg/day, which is the mouse NOEL for peroxisome proliferation and increased 
liver weight. Exposure of the general human population to DEHP is approximately
30 microg/kg body wt/day, the major source being from residues in food. Higher
exposures occur occupationally [up to about 700 microg/kg body wt/day (mainly by 
inhalation) based on current workplace standards] and through use of certain
medical devices [e.g., up to 457 microg/kg body wt/day for hemodialysis patients 
(intravenous)], although these have little relevance because the routes of
exposure bypass critical activation enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract.
Copyright 1999 Academic Press.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 10388618 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

540: Endocrinology. 1999 Jul;140(7):3183-7.

Selective dependence of intracerebroventricular neuropeptide Y-elicited effects
on central glucocorticoids.

Zakrzewska KE, Sainsbury A, Cusin I, Rouru J, Jeanrenaud B, Rohner-Jeanrenaud F.

Laboratoires de Recherches Métaboliques, Geneva University, School of Medicine,
Switzerland. katerina_z@hotmail.com

It has been reported that hyperphagia and excessive body weight gain of
genetically obese rodents were abolished by adrenalectomy. High hypothalamic
levels of neuropeptide Y (NPY) were found in obese rodents. A chronic
intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of NPY in normal rats was shown to produce
most hormono-metabolic abnormalities of genetically obese animals, and to be
inefficient in doing so in adrenalectomized (ADX) rats. The combined presence of 
NPY and of glucocorticoids thus appeared to be necessary for inducing obesity.
This study, therefore, was aimed at determining the consequences of a chronic
i.c.v. NPY infusion in ADX rats receiving or not i.c.v. glucocorticoids. It was
found that the combined i.c.v. infusion of NPY and dexamethasone in ADX rats
increased food intake, body weight, plasma insulin, leptin, and triglyceride
levels relative to vehicle-infused ADX controls. The infusion of NPY alone, or of
dexamethasone alone in ADX rats failed to produce these effects. In contrast, the
icv infusion of NPY alone greatly decreased the expression of brown adipose
tissue uncoupling protein-1 and -3. This was not modified by the superimposed
infusion of dexamethasone. It is concluded that, although many of centrally
elicited NPY effects require the central presence of glucocorticoids, those
bearing on the inhibition of uncoupling proteins expression (energy dissipation) 
do not require central glucocorticoids.

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

PMID: 10385413 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

541: 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]

542: 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]

543: Praxis (Bern 1994). 1999 Apr 1;88(14):609-14, 616-8.

[Food additives and genetically modified food--a risk for allergic patients?]

[Article in German]

Wüthrich B.

Dermatologische Klinik und Poliklinik, Universitätsspital Zürich.

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]

544: Appl Environ Microbiol. 1999 Mar;65(3):1202-6.

A general method for selection of alpha-acetolactate decarboxylase-deficient
Lactococcus lactis mutants to improve diacetyl formation.

Curic M, Stuer-Lauridsen B, Renault P, Nilsson D.

Research and Development, Chr. Hansen A/S, DK-2970 Horsholm, Denmark.

The enzyme acetolactate decarboxylase (Ald) plays a key role in the regulation of
the alpha-acetolactate pool in both pyruvate catabolism and the biosynthesis of
the branched-chain amino acids, isoleucine, leucine, and valine (ILV). This dual 
role of Ald, due to allosteric activation by leucine, was used as a strategy for 
the isolation of Ald-deficient mutants of Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis biovar
diacetylactis. Such mutants can be selected as leucine-resistant mutants in ILV- 
or IV-prototrophic strains. Most dairy lactococcus strains are auxotrophic for
the three amino acids. Therefore, the plasmid pMC004 containing the ilv genes
(encoding the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of IV) of L. lactis NCDO2118
was constructed. Introduction of pMC004 into ILV-auxotrophic dairy strains
resulted in an isoleucine-prototrophic phenotype. By plating the strains on a
chemically defined medium supplemented with leucine but not valine and
isoleucine, spontaneous leucine-resistant mutants were obtained. These mutants
were screened by Western blotting with Ald-specific antibodies for the presence
of Ald. Selected mutants lacking Ald were subsequently cured of pMC004. Except
for a defect in the expression of Ald, the resulting strain, MC010, was identical
to the wild-type strain, as shown by Southern blotting and DNA fingerprinting.
The mutation resulting in the lack of Ald in MC010 occurred spontaneously, and
the strain does not contain foreign DNA; thus, it can be regarded as food grade. 
Nevertheless, its application in dairy products depends on the regulation of
genetically modified organisms. These results establish a strategy to select
spontaneous Ald-deficient mutants from transformable L. lactis strains.

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

PMID: 10049884 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

545: Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 1998;49(3):253-63.

[Genetically modified organisms (GMO): toxicological aspects]

[Article in Polish]

Ludwicki JK.

Zakład Toksykologii Srodowiskowej, Państwowy Zakład Higieny, Warszawa.

The genetically modified organisms (GMO) are one of the major public concerns
partially due to the activity of the non-governmental organizations which believe
that public opinion must be duly informed on what leaves the laboratories and
enters the environment or is proposed as food. This article discusses some major 
toxicological and nutritional aspects of GMO designed as food for humans. The
range of current use of GMOs, potential hazards for humans, safety assessment,
allergenic concerns, and some aspects of the use of marker genes are discussed in
regard to human safety. The need for relevant regulations is stressed.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 9930018 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

546: Transgenic Res. 1998 Sep;7(5):379-86.

Novel and transgenic food crops: overview of scientific versus public perception.

Ruibal-Mendieta NL, Lints FA.

European Interuniversity Association on Society, Science and Technology (ESST),
Université Catholique de Louvain.

Recombinant DNA technology offers opportunities to develop new products in many
different fields, including agriculture and the agro-food area. Transgenic plants
with improved agronomic traits currently grow in field trials and a few varieties
have already reached the European market. By and large, new technologies raise
both concerns and expectations and modern biotechnology is no exception. Indeed, 
a voluntary moratorium on experiments involving recombinant DNA molecules was
called for in 1974. At the present time, although a majority of academic and
industrial scientists agree that transgenic food crops pose no risk for the
environment or human health, some others believe that certain applications of
modern plant biotechnology are hazardous. In particular, deliberate releases of
genetically modified plants are regarded as risky. There is also a disparity
between expert and lay perception of r-DNA technology applications to food crops,
which makes public information a difficult task. This paper aims at exposing
these conflicting points of view on the agricultural applications of modern
biotechnology. We also propose some recommendations pertaining to public
information in Europe. It appears that consensus conferences might be a good
approach to stimulate public information and public debate in Europe, although
this approach has to be adapted to the cultural context of each country.

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

PMID: 9859226 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

547: 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]

548: 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]

549: Food Addit Contam. 1998 Jan;15(1):1-9.

The EC novel foods Regulation--a UK perspective.

Tomlinson N.

Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, London, UK.

On 15 May 1997 the EC novel foods Regulation came into effect introducing a
statutory pre-market approval system for novel foods across the whole of the
European Union. A novel food is defined as a food which has not been consumed to 
a significant degree and includes foods containing or obtained from genetically
modified organisms. The Regulation envisages an initial safety assessment at
Member State level, although centralized procedures are available to resolve any 
objections between Member States. The most controversial aspect of the Regulation
relates to the provisions for labelling genetically modified foods. Within the
framework of the Regulation there is scope for labelling to be considered on a
case by case basis, although the UK is pressing for all foods which may contain
genetically modified material to be clearly labelled. To ensure that all Member
States follow a consistent approach to the safety assessment of novel foods, the 
Commission has published a series of guidelines to accompany the regulation. The 
UK already has a well-developed system for assessing the safety of novel foods
dating back to the approval of the first novel food in the UK in 1983.

PMID: 9534867 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

550: Allerg Immunol (Paris). 1998 Jan;30(1):9-13.

Modifications of allergenicity linked to food technologies.

Moneret-Vautrin DA.

Service de Médecine D, Hôpital Central, Nancy.

The prevalence of food allergies (FA) has increased over the past fifteen years. 
The reasons suggested are changes in dietary behaviour and the evolution of food 
technologies. New cases of FA have been described with chayote, rambutan, arguta,
pumpkin seeds, custard apple, and with mycoproteins from Fusarium.... Additives
using food proteins are at high risk: caseinates, lysozyme, cochineal red,
papaïn, alpha-amylase, lactase etc. Heating can reduce allergenicity or create
neo-allergens, as well as storage, inducing the synthesis of allergenic stress or
PR proteins. Aeroallergens (miles, moulds) contaminate foods and can induce
allergic reactions. Involuntary contamination by peanut proteins on production
lines is a problem which is not yet solved. Genetically modified plants are at
risk of allergenicity, requiring methodological steps of investigations: the
comparison of the amino-acid sequence of the transferred protein with the
sequence of known allergens, the evaluation of thermo degradability and of the
denaturation by pepsin and trypsin are required, as well as the study with sera
from patients allergic to the plant producing the gene. The combination of
enzymatic hydrolysis, heating, or the development of genetically modified plants 
may offer new alternatives towards hypoallergenic foods (57 references).

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 9503097 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

551: Cas Lek Cesk. 1997 May 29;136(11):331-6.

[The safety and usefulness of transgenic plants]

[Article in Czech]

Ondrej M, Drobník M.

Ustav molekulární biologie rostlin AV CR, Ceské Budĕjovice.

Transgenic crop plants, used in food and feed production, carry different
beneficial transgenes, mostly for resistance to pests, herbicides and diseases.
All new transgenic plant varieties, the genes they carry and their products have 
been thoroughly tested before released for agriculture and even more for
marketing. Genetically modified organisms carry the same risk as any other
organism. Food derived from genetically modified organisms due to legal
regulation is most controlled and therefore most safe food ever placed on the
market. In future, transgenic plants offer many new possibilities also for
medical use, like plant vaccines, antibiotics and rare proteins of clinical
importance produced by plants.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 9333501 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

552: J Nutr. 1997 May;127(5 Suppl):943S-947S.

Genetic influences on the response of body fat and fat distribution to positive
and negative energy balances in human identical twins.

Bouchard C, Tremblay A.

Physical Activity Sciences Laboratory, Laval University, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada.

This article summarizes a series of intervention studies conducted with pairs of 
young adult male identical twins and designed to determine whether there is any
evidence for genotype x overfeeding or genotype x negative energy balance
interaction effects in the changes in body weight, body composition, fat
distribution, computerized tomography-assessed abdominal visceral fat, resting
metabolic rate and thermic response to a standardized meal of mixed composition
brought about by chronic exposure to appropriate experimental treatments. These
studies demonstrated that individual differences in response to chronic
alterations in energy balance are common. The comparison of the heterogeneity in 
response between the pairs of twins in contrast to the variance within pairs
revealed that members of the same twin pair are significantly more alike than
individuals who are not genetically related by descent. The intrapair resemblance
in response was particularly strong for the changes in body mass, body
composition, subcutaneous fat distribution and abdominal visceral fat. In
contrast, the results of two long-term intervention studies showed that
variations in resting metabolic rate following exposure to chronic overfeeding or
negative energy balance induced by exercise were accounted for primarily by the
changes in body mass. Finally, the thermic response to food was not modified by
any of the experimental treatments. On the basis of these observations, we
conclude that there are individuals at risk of gaining weight and body fat or who
are resistant to weight loss. These differences in susceptibility to chronic
overfeeding or in sensitivity to negative energy balance seem to be largely
explained by genetic factors whose exact nature remains to be determined.

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

PMID: 9164270 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

553: Rev Sci Tech. 1997 Apr;16(1):83-90.

[The risk of transmission of salmonellae in poultry farming: detection and
prevention in Europe]

[Article in French]

Humbert F, Salvat G.

Centre national d'études vétérinaires et alimentaires, Unité de recherche et
d'appui technique Hygiène et qualité des produits avicoles et porcins,
Ploufragan, France.

While salmonellas can cause disease problems among poultry, they remain
essentially a concern for public health, as a cause of outbreaks of food
poisoning. The principal site of multiplication of these bacteria is the
digestive tract, particularly the caecum, which may result in widespread
contamination of the environment. The pathogenicity of salmonellas depends on the
invasive properties and the ability of the bacteria to survive and multiply
within cells, particularly macrophages. These properties are the source of
vertical transmission which, in the case of survival of the embryo, can result in
contamination of a flock or, in the case of embryonic mortality, can result in an
explosion of contaminated eggs. Salmonella infection can be diagnosed by
isolating the bacteria and/or serological testing of the flock. European Union
Directive 92/117/EC, modified by Directive 97/22/EC, stipulates either the
destruction of infected flocks of breeding birds, or decontamination of the flock
in an effective way, before normal trade in products can be resumed. Noteworthy
examples of effective measures suitable for prophylaxis of Salmonella infection
in poultry flocks include the slaughter of infected breeding stock, the creation 
of sanitary barriers at building entrances, heat treatment of feed, the use of
competitive exclusion, selection of breeds genetically resistant to Salmonella,
and occasional vaccination and antibiotic treatment. However, the most effective 
means of reducing food poisoning remains adequate cooking of food and maintenance
of the cold chain.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 9537745 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

554: Schweiz Med Wochenschr. 1997 Mar 29;127(13):554-60.

[Is molecular biology useful to the practitioner?]

[Article in French]

Waeber G, Haefliger JA.

Département de Médecine Interne B, CHUV, Lausanne.

The relative importance of molecular biology in clinical practice is often
underestimated. However, numerous procedures in clinical diagnosis and new
therapeutic drugs have resulted from basic molecular research. Furthermore,
understanding of the physiological and physiopathological mechanisms underlying
several human diseases has been improved by the results of basic molecular
research. For example, cloning of the gene encoding leptin has provided
spectacular insights into the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the
control of food intake and body weight maintenance in man. In cystic fibrosis,
the cloning and identification of several mutations in the gene encoding the
chloride channel transmembrane regulator (CFTR) have resolved several important
issues in clinical practice: cystic fibrosis constitutes a molecular defect of a 
single gene. There is a strong correlation between the clinical manifestations or
the severity of the disease (phenotype) with the type of mutations present in the
CFTR gene (genotype). More recently, identification of mutations in the gene
encoding a subunit of the renal sodium channel in the Liddle syndrome has
provided important insight into the physiopathological understanding of
mechanisms involved in this form of hereditary hypertension. Salt retention and
secondary high blood pressure are the result of constitutive activation of the
renal sodium channel by mutations in the gene encoding the renal sodium channel. 
It is speculated that less severe mutations in this channel could result in a
less severe form of hypertension which may correspond to patients suffering from 
high blood pressure with low plasma renin activity. Several tools, most notably
PCR, are derived from molecular research and are used in everyday practice, i.e. 
in prenatal diagnosis and in the diagnosis of several infectious diseases
including tuberculosis and hepatitis. Finally, the production of recombinant
proteins at lower cost and with fewer side effects is used in everyday clinical
practice. Gene therapy remains an extraordinary challenge in correcting severe
hereditary or acquired diseases. The use of genetically modified animal cell
lines producing growth factors, insulin or erythropoetin, which are subsequently 
encapsulated and transferred to man, represents an attractive approach for gene
therapy.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 9190668 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

555: Peptides. 1997;18(6):825-33.

Further evidence that the tachykinin PG-KII is a potent agonist at central NK-3, 
but not NK-1, receptors.

Polidori C, Panocka I, Ciccocioppo R, Broccardo M, Improta G, Regoli D, Massi M.

Department of Pharmacological sciences and Experimental Medicine, University of
Camerino, Italy. polidori@cambio.unicam.it

Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of tachykinins (TKs) inhibits ethanol 
intake and angiotensin II-induced water intake; the effects are apparently
mediated by NK-3 and NK-1 receptors, respectively. The present study evaluated
the effect of the TK PG-KII, a novel kassinin-like peptide isolated from the skin
of the Australian frog Pseudophryne güntheri, in these in vivo tests for central 
activity. PG-KII, given by i.c.v. injection, potently inhibited alcohol intake in
genetically selected alcohol-preferring rats, being about 3 times more potent
than the selective NK-3 receptor agonist NH2-SENK. The dose of 100 ng/rat, that
markedly inhibited ethanol intake, did not inhibit food intake and prandial
drinking in food deprived rats, providing evidence that the effect of PG-KII on
ethanol intake is behaviorally selective. The effect on ethanol intake was
inhibited by i.c.v. injection of the NK-3 receptor antagonist R820, but was not
modified by the NK-1 receptor antagonist SR 140333. PG-KII inhibited drinking
induced by angiotensin II only at doses of 300 or 1000 ng/rat, being about 5
times less potent than the selective NK-1 receptor agonist [Sar9, Met(O2)11]
substance P. These doses of PG-KII produced also marked increase in competing
behaviors, such as grooming and locomotion. The dose of 1000 ng/rat evoked a
general inhibition of the ingestive behavior, reducing also food intake. The
i.c.v. injection of the NK-1 receptor antagonist SR 140,333 only slightly
inhibited the effect of PG-KII on angiotensin II-induced drinking, while it
markedly reduced that of [Sar9, Met(O2)11] substance P. These findings, in
accordance with those of previous studies, indicate that PG-KII is endowed with
marked activity at central NK-3 receptors, and low activity at NK-1 receptors.

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

PMID: 9285931 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

556: Nat Biotechnol. 1996 Oct;14(10):1269-73.

Stability of food allergens to digestion in vitro.

Astwood JD, Leach JN, Fuchs RL.

Monsanto Company, St. Louis, MO 63198, USA.

An integral part of the safety assessment of genetically modified plants is
consideration of possible human health effects, especially food allergy.
Prospective testing for allergenicity of proteins obtained from sources with no
prior history of causing allergy has been difficult because of the absence of
valid methods and models. Food allergens may share physicochemical properties
that distinguish them from nonallergens, properties that may be used as a tool to
predict the inherent allergenicity of proteins newly introduced into the food
supply by genetic engineering. One candidate property is stability to digestion. 
We have systematically evaluated the stability of food allergens that are active 
via the gastrointestinal tract in a simple model of gastric digestion,
emphasizing the major allergens of plant-derived foods such as legumes (peanuts
and soybean). Important food allergens were stable to digestion in the gastric
model (simulated gastric fluid). For example, soybean beta-conglycinin was stable
for 60 min. In contrast, nonallergenic food proteins, such as spinach ribulose
bis-phosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, were digested in simulated gastric fluid
within 15 sec. The data are consistent with the hypothesis that food allergens
must exhibit sufficient gastric stability to reach the intestinal mucosa where
absorption and sensitization (development of atopy) can occur. Thus, the
stability to digestion is a significant and valid parameter that distinguishes
food allergens from nonallergens.

Publication Types: 
    In Vitro

PMID: 9631091 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

557: Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek. 1996 Oct;70(2-4):299-316.

Barriers to application of genetically modified lactic acid bacteria.

Verrips CT, van den Berg DJ.

Unilever Research Laboratorium Vlaardingen, Vlaardingen The Netherlands.

To increase the acceptability of food products containing genetically modified
microorganisms it is necessary to provide in an early stage to the consumers that
the product is safe and that the product provide a clear benefit to the consumer.
To comply with the first requirement a systematic approach to analyze the
probability that genetically modified lactic acid bacteria will transform other
inhabitants of the gastro- intestinal (G/I) tract or that these lactic acid
bacteria will pick up genetic information of these inhabitants has been proposed 
and worked out to some degree. From this analysis it is clear that reliable data 
are still missing to carry out complete risk assessment. However, on the basis of
present knowledge, lactic acid bacteria containing conjugative plasmids should be
avoided. Various studies show that consumers in developed countries will accept
these products when they offer to them health or taste benefits or a better
keepability. For the developing countries the biggest challenge for scientists is
most likely to make indigenous fermented food products with strongly improved
microbiological stability due to broad spectra bacteriocins produced by lactic
acid bacteria. Moreover, these lactic acid bacteria may contribute to health.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 8879412 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

558: Int J Food Microbiol. 1996 Jul;30(3):315-24.

Genetically modified starter and protective cultures.

Geisen R, Holzapfel WH.

Federal Research Centre for Nutrition, Institute of Hygiene and Toxicology,
Karlsruhe, Germany.

Modern approaches towards starter and protective culture improvement rely on
advances in molecular biology. For most microorganisms used for food production, 
gene technological methods have been well developed. By recombinant DNA
technology, 'tailor-made' starter and protective cultures may be constructed so
as to combine technically desirable features. A single strain which normally
would fail to accomplish a given 'task' may now be improved so as to meet a set
of requirements necessary for a specific production or preservation process (e.g.
wholesomeness, no off-flavour production, overproduction of bacteriocins or
particular enzymes). In addition, undesirable properties (e.g. mycotoxin or
antibiotic production by cheese moulds) may be eliminated by techniques such as
'gene disruption'.

PMID: 8854184 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

559: J Nutr. 1996 Mar;126(3):702-16.

The composition of glyphosate-tolerant soybean seeds is equivalent to that of
conventional soybeans.

Padgette SR, Taylor NB, Nida DL, Bailey MR, MacDonald J, Holden LR, Fuchs RL.

Monsanto Company, St. Louis, MO 63198, USA.

One important aspect of the safety assessment of genetically engineered crops
destined for food and feed uses is the characterization of the consumed portion
of the crop. One crop currently under development, glyphosate-tolerant soybeans
(GTS), was modified by the addition of a glyphosate-tolerance gene to a
commercial soybean cultivar. The composition of seeds and selected processing
fractions from two GTS lines, designated 40-3-2 and 61-67-1, was compared with
that of the parental soybean cultivar, A5403. Nutrients measured in the soybean
seeds included macronutrients by proximate analyses (protein, fat, fiber, ash,
carbohydrates), amino acids and fatty acids. Antinutrients measured in either the
seed or toasted meal were trypsin inhibitor, lectins, isoflavones, stachyose,
raffinose and phytate. Proximate analyses were also performed on batches of
defatted toasted meal, defatted nontoasted meal, protein isolate, and protein
concentrate prepared from GTS and control soybean seeds. In addition, refined,
bleached, deodorized oil was made, along with crude soybean lecithin, from GTS
and control soybeans. The analytical results demonstrated the GTS lines are
equivalent to the parental, conventional soybean cultivar.

PMID: 8598556 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

560: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1996;36 Suppl:S165-86.

Assessment of the allergenic potential of foods derived from genetically
engineered crop plants.

Metcalfe DD, Astwood JD, Townsend R, Sampson HA, Taylor SL, Fuchs RL.

ILSI Allergy and Immunology Institute, USA.

This article provides a science-based, decision tree approach to assess the
allergenic concerns associated with the introduction of gene products into new
plant varieties. The assessment focuses on the source from which the transferred 
gene was derived. Sources fall into three general categories: common allergenic
food proteins; less common allergenic foods or other known allergen sources; and 
sources with no history of allergenicity. Information concerning the amino acid
sequence identity to known allergenic proteins, in vitro and/or in vivo
immunologic assays, and assessment of key physiochemical properties are included 
in reaching a recommendation on whether food derived from the genetically
modified plant variety should be labeled as to the source of the transferred
gene. In the end, a balanced judgement of all the available data generated during
allergenicity assessment will assure the safety of foods derived from genetically
engineered crops. Using the approaches described here, new plant varieties
generated by genetic modification should be introduced into the marketplace with 
the same confidence that new plant varieties developed by traditional breeding
have been introduced for decades.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 8959382 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

561: Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1995 Nov;36(12):2531-41.

Macular pigment density in monozygotic twins.

Hammond BR Jr, Fuld K, Curran-Celentano J.

Schepens Eye Research Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.

PURPOSE. Research shows wide variation in macular pigment density between
individuals. As are other ocular pigments, this variation may be genetic. To test
this hypothesis, the authors measured macular pigment density, serum carotenoid
concentrations, and general dietary patterns in 10 pairs of identical twins.
METHODS. Macular pigment was measured psychophysically by a 1 degree test
stimulus. Foveal and parafoveal sensitivities to 460-nm and 530-nm light were
compared. Determining the difference in log sensitivity to the 460-nm light for
the fovea (where macular pigment is most dense) and the parafovea (where macular 
pigment is optically immeasurable), after normalizing with respect to 530 nm,
yields a measurement of the optical density of macular pigment. Concentrations of
carotenoids within the serum were measured using reverse-phase, high-performance 
liquid chromatography. Dietary patterns were determined using a food-frequency
questionnaire. RESULTS. Statistically significant differences in macular pigment 
optical density were found for 5 of the 10 twin pairs. For these five pairs,
differences in macular pigment density were moderately related to differences in 
the intake of dietary fat, iron, linoleic and oleic acid, fiber, and total
calories (P < 0.10, individually; P < 0.05, for an equally weighted composite of 
these variables). There was no significant relationship, however, found between
macular pigment density and carotenoids in the blood and diet. CONCLUSIONS. Given
the putative protective role of macular pigment, variations in macular pigment
density may have clinical significance. The conclusion that macular pigment is
not completely determined genetically allows the possibility that macular pigment
density may be modified for the protective purposes. The current data suggest
that dietary fat, iron, and fiber may influence macular pigment levels (perhaps
through their influence on carotenoid metabolism). These data suggest that the
eventual deposition of macular pigment in the retina is complex and probably is
influenced by a number of variables.

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

PMID: 7591643 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

562: Can Vet J. 1995 Aug;36(8):494-502.

The pathogenesis and diagnosis of canine hip dysplasia: a review.

Fries CL, Remedios AM.

Department of Veterinary Anesthesiology, Radiology and Surgery, Western College
of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon.

Hip dysplasia is a common developmental problem affecting the canine population. 
Despite extensive research into the condition, many questions remain unanswered
and numerous misconceptions are present among the general public. The purpose of 
this paper is to review the current knowledge on the development of hip
dysplasia, factors modifying its development, and current diagnostic techniques.A
computerized literature search was conducted for the period of January 1983 to
April 1985 using the MEDLINE and CAB databases, and the keywords hip dysplasia,
hip, dog, and canine. Other articles,wherever possible original research
articles, published before 1983 were also reviewed.Animals affected by hip
dysplasia are born with normal hips, but quickly develop subluxation of the
femoral head. Degenerative joint disease follows.Hip dysplasia is a complex,
inherited, polygenic trait. Selective breeding of only normal dogs with normal
littermates, parents, and grandparents is there commended method of reducing the 
incidence in the general population.Gene expression in affected individuals may
be modified by a number of environmental factors.These factors do not cause hip
dysplasia, but they alter manifestations of the trait and its severity.Nutrition 
is a major environmental factor. Excess energy consumption increases the
frequency and severity of hip dysplasia in genetically predisposed dogs. Food
intake should be regulated to maintain a slender figure with the ribs and dorsal 
vertebral spines easily palpable, but not visible. Excess dietary calcium and
vitamin D contribute to hip dysplasia in genetically predisposed individuals and 
should be avoided. High dose vitamin C supplementation ingrowing puppies does not
prevent hip dysplasia, and this practice should be discontinued.Animals must be 2
years old before they can be certified as normal, but the disease may be
diagnosed earlier. Earlier diagnosis of the condition would be very useful for
the selection of breeding stock, but palpation techniques and the standard
extended view radiographs have unacceptably high rates of error in young puppies.
Stress radiography techniques may improve the accuracy of early diagnosis in the 
future.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 7585436 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

563: Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1995 Jul;120(2):227-35.

Effects of the dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH 39166 on the ingestive
behaviour of alcohol-preferring rats.

Panocka I, Ciccocioppo R, Mosca M, Polidori C, Massi M.

Institute of Pharmacology, University of Camerino, Italy.

The present study evaluated the effect of the selective and long-acting dopamine 
D1 receptor antagonist SCH 39166 on several aspects of the ingestive behaviour of
genetically selected alcohol-preferring rats, bred from Sardinian
alcohol-preferring rats. The effect of subchronic (8 days) subcutaneous drug
administration was evaluated on the simultaneous daily intake of 10% ethanol,
food and water. SCH 39166, 0.1 mg/kg, did not significantly modify the intake of 
the three ingesta. The dose of 1 mg/kg differentially modified rat ingestive
behaviour, inhibiting intake of 10% ethanol, without modifying total fluid and
food intake. The higher dose of 5 mg/kg produced a non-selective suppression of
ingestive behaviour, which was accompanied by behavioural impairment. Acute drug 
injection was tested on 2-h intake of 10% sucrose, 0.1% saccharin, water or food.
The doses of 0.1 and 1 mg/kg markedly inhibited the 2-h intake of 10% sucrose and
0.1% saccharin, but they did not modify either the 2-h water intake in water
deprived and water sated rats or the 2-h food intake in food deprived rats. These
findings suggest an important role of mechanisms mediated by D1 receptors in the 
control of alcohol and sweet solution intake, but not in water and food intake.
Moreover, they indicate that SCH 39166, in relation to its selectivity and
long-lasting activity, is an interesting pharmacological tool to investigate
further the role of D1 receptor mechanisms in the control of ingestive behaviour.

PMID: 7480557 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

564: J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol. 1995;14(3-4):133-57.

Yeasts: from genetics to biotechnology.

Russo S, Berkovitz Siman-Tov R, Poli G.

Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine,
University of Milan, Italy.

Yeasts have been known and used in food and alcoholic fermentations ever since
the Neolithic Age. In more recent times, on the basis of their peculiar features 
and history, yeasts have become very important experimental models in both
microbiological and genetic research, as well as the main characters in many
fermentative production processes. In the last 40 years, advances in molecular
biology and genetic engineering have made possible not only the genetic selection
of organisms, but also the genetic modification of some of them, especially the
simplest of them, such as bacteria and yeasts. These discoveries have led to the 
availability of new yeast strains fit to fulfill requests of industrial
production and fermentation. Moreover, genetically modified and transformed
yeasts have been constructed that are able to produce large amounts of
biologically active proteins and enzymes. Thus, recombinant yeasts make it easier
to produce drugs, biologically active products, diagnostics, and vaccines, by
inexpensive and relatively simple techniques. Yeasts are going to become more and
more important in the "biotechnological revolution" by virtue of both their
features and their very long and safe use in human nutrition and industry.

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

PMID: 9003692 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

565: Peptides. 1995;16(3):533-7.

Subcutaneous injections of the tachykinin senktide reduce alcohol intake in
alcohol-preferring rats.

Ciccocioppo R, Panocka I, Pompei P, Polidori C, de Caro G, Massi M.

Institute of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Italy.

The present study evaluated the effect of SC injections of the selective NK3
tachykinin agonist, Suc-[Asp6,MePhe8]substance P(6-11), also referred to as
senktide (SENK), on 8% alcohol intake in genetically selected alcohol-preferring 
rats. Animals were offered access to 8% ethanol for 2 h/day (between 1800 and
2000 h) and to tap water for 4 h/day (between 1800 and 2200 h); SENK was injected
10 min before access to fluids. The peptide significantly reduced alcohol intake 
at doses of 125 and 250 micrograms/kg, but not at 62.5 micrograms/kg. The
reduction in alcohol intake was accompanied by a sharp increase in water intake, 
so that total fluid intake was never significantly modified. The same SC doses of
SENK did not modify water intake in rats with access to water, as the only fluid,
for 4 h/day. In food-deprived rats food intake was not altered by 125
micrograms/kg, whereas 250 micrograms/kg produced a reduction in food intake that
was smaller in intensity and shorter lasting than the reduction in alcohol
intake. The same doses of SENK did not modify 0.1% saccharin intake, nor did they
elicit major competing behaviors. The results of the present study are in keeping
with those obtained following central injection of NK3 agonists, and show that a 
behaviorally selective reduction of alcohol intake can be evoked also by
peripheral administration of SENK.

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

PMID: 7544465 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

566: Presse Med. 1994 Mar 26;23(12):558-60.

[Etiology of Crohn disease. Current data]

[Article in French]

Colombel JF, Gower-Rousseau C.

Both genetic and environmental factors appear to play an aetiologic role in
Crohn's disease. The hypothesis of genetic susceptibility is based on the
frequency of familial forms (6-33%) and higher relative risk in first degree
relatives (x10 to x21). Three genetic segregation analyses have defined a genetic
model favouring autosomal recessive transmission and incomplete penetration. The 
frequency of the deleterious allele would be 0.01 in the general population.
One-third of all patients would be homozygous. To date, no genetic marker has
been found for Crohn's disease although in one study, molecular biology
techniques revealed a significant association between the HLA-DR1, DQW5
genotypes, and the association DR1/DQW5, and Crohn's disease. There are also many
arguments in favour of an environmental cause, including: increased incidence
since the Second World War, a north-south incidence gradient (established in the 
US and probable in Europe), predominance in urban areas. In addition, 21 conjugal
forms were recently reported in the US, including 14 which appeared after
marriage. We have also observed 10 conjugal forms in a limited area in northern
France and in Belgium. Smoking has also been shown to have a detrimental effect, 
perhaps via modifications in the microcirculation of the intestinal wall. Despite
contradictory results, oestrogen-progesterone treatment does not appear to
increase the risk of Crohn's disease and there is no convincing evidence that any
particular food could be incriminated. In contradiction with a widely believed
myth, there is no evidence showing that psychiatric factors have an effect on
appearance or aggravation of the disease. Perinatal infection has however been
recently shown to affect incidence and subjects born during periods of flu
epidemics have a higher relative risk. Still other studies have emphasized the
dual role of genetic/environmental factors. Based on current knowledge, the
sequence leading to the appearance of Crohn's disease would include one or more
perinatal event(s) such as viral infection acting on a genetically susceptible
subject and leading to modified immune response in a vulnerable system (perinatal
period). Later in life an aggression (environment) would lead to inappropriate
immune response. Current research is directed towards identifying infectious
agents capable of triggering the disease and on markers of genetic
susceptibility.

Publication Types: 
    Editorial
    English Abstract
    Review

PMID: 8066056 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

567: Microb Releases. 1993 Dec;2(3):121-5.

Gene transfer from engineered Lactococcus lactis strains to Enterococcus faecalis
in the digestive tract of gnotobiotic mice.

Gruzza M, Langella P, Duval-Iflah Y, Ducluzeau R.

Unité d'Ecologie et Physiologie du Système Digestive, Institut National de la
Recherche Agronomique, Jouy-en-Josas, France.

The introduction of genetically modified organisms into food products requires an
evaluation of the behaviour and the dissemination of foreign genes of such
organisms among the human intestinal microflora. The conjugal transfer, both in
vitro and in vivo (in mice digestive tract) of DNA from Lactococcus lactis donor 
strains to an Enterococcus faecalis strain isolated from human faecal flora was
studied. We followed the transfer of (1) the self-transmissible plasmid pIL205;
(2) two non-self-transmissible but mobilizable plasmids, pIL252 and pIL253; (3)
one plasmid, pMS1.5B, integrated into the chromosome of L. lactis. In vitro, the 
transfer frequency of pIL205 (expressed as the number of transconjugants per
donor cell) was 9.6 x 10(-4); mobilization of one of the non-self-transmissible
plasmids, pIL253, was observed (4.9 x 10(-7)). In vivo, only transfer of pIL205
and pIL253 occurred, but the frequency was not determined. The transfer of
pMS1.5B was not detected in vitro or in vivo.

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

PMID: 8111532 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

568: Eur J Pharmacol. 1993 Jun 15;246(1):67-71.

Metformin and brown adipose tissue thermogenetic activity in genetically obese
Zucker rats.

Rouru J, Isaksson K, Santti E, Huupponen R, Koulu M.

Department of Pharmacology, University of Turku, Finland.

The effect of chronic metformin treatment on brown adipose tissue thermogenetic
activity was investigated in young genetically obese Zucker rats. The binding of 
[3H]GDP to brown adipose tissue mitochondria, expression of uncoupling protein
mRNA in brown adipose tissue, weight gains and cumulative food intakes were
measured in metformin (320 mg/kg orally for 12 days)-treated obese Zucker rats as
well as in pair-fed--and in ad libitum--fed control obese rats. The weight gains 
were identically reduced in the metformin- and pair-fed control group compared to
the ad libitum--fed rats. Metformin also significantly reduced cumulative food
intake. The binding of [3H]GDP to brown adipose tissue mitochondria and the
expression of uncoupling protein mRNA in brown adipose tissue were not modified
by metformin. It is concluded that the weight gain reducing effect of metformin
in obese Zucker rats is mainly due to reduced food intake and does not involve an
effect of metformin on brown adipose tissue thermogenetic activity.

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

PMID: 8354343 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

569: Br Poult Sci. 1993 May;34(2):383-91.

Comparative utilisation of sulphur-containing amino acids by genetically lean or 
fat chickens.

Leclercq B, Chagneau AM, Cochard T, Hamzaoui S, Larbier M.

Station de Recherches Avicoles, INRA, Nouzilly, France.

1. Genetically lean (LL) or fat (FL) male chickens were fed from 28 to 47 days of
age on 5 experimental diets differing by their methionine+cystine content (5.4,
5.8, 6.2, 6.6 and 7.0 g/kg, respectively). 2. Growth rate of LL chickens was
reduced by the lower sulphur-containing amino acid (SAA) concentrations whereas
that of FL was not modified. 3. LL chickens exhibited a larger feather protein
gain than FL, which was stimulated by SAA intake. 4. SAA retention, when plotted 
against SAA consumption, was always greater in LL than in FL. 5. Large
differences were observed between genotypes for plasma-free amino acids. Lysine, 
glutamic acid, histidine and serine were found at significantly higher
concentrations in LL birds. Branched amino acids, aromatic amino acids, SAA and
arginine were found at higher concentrations in FL. No differences were observed 
for aspartic acid, glycine, alanine and total amino acids. Methionine
supplementation decreased free amino acid concentrations, with the exceptions of 
arginine and leucine. 6. It is concluded that lean chickens require a higher
dietary concentration of SAA than FL. This is mainly caused by their lower food
consumption and their greater feather synthesis. However, LL use SAA more
efficiently than FL.

Publication Types: 
    Comparative Study

PMID: 8513412 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

570: Australas Biotechnol. 1992 Dec;2(6):355-60.

Genetic manipulation of milk proteins and its consequences for the dairy
industry.

Boland MJ, Hill JP, Creamer LK.

Protein Chemistry Section, New Zealand Dairy Research Institute, Palmerston
North.

Genetic selection of cattle by selective breeding patterns dates back to
prehistoric times and has resulted in the diversity of breeds we see today.
Selection in New Zealand has been for fat production earlier in the century, and 
more recently for protein production as well as fat. There is a lot of interest
today in the naturally occurring variants of the milk proteins, as these can
confer interesting differences in the molecular behaviour of the proteins as well
as being correlated with compositional differences in the milk. Genetic
modification holds great promise for the future in the dairy industry, but
present constraints due to cost, lack of basic knowledge, and difficulty in
producing genetically-modified calves, mean that only the biopharmaceutical area 
is likely to be affected in the near future. Coupled to this is an apparent lack 
of acceptance of food from genetically-modified animals by consumers. It will
therefore need a change in public attitude as well as some development in science
and technology before dairy products from genetically modified cattle become a
commercial reality.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 1369112 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

571: J Endocrinol Invest. 1991 Dec;14(11):919-25.

The effects of glucose ingestion and fasting on plasma immunoreactive
beta-endorphin, adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol in obese subjects.

Balon-Perin S, Kolanowski J, Berbinschi A, Franchimont P, Ketelslegers JM.

Division of Endocrinology and Nutrition, University of Louvain Medical School
(UCL), Brussels, Belgium.

It has been demonstrated that opioid peptides are involved in the stimulation of 
food intake in rats and that the circulating beta-endorphin levels are increased 
in genetically obese rodents. Therefore, to assess whether the changes in food
intake may influence circulating beta-endorphin levels in obese subjects, plasma 
beta-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol concentrations were determined in obese
patients after an oral glucose load and during a 7-day total starvation. Baseline
plasma beta-endorphin concentrations were significantly higher in obese patients 
than in control normal-weight subjects, while ACTH and cortisol levels were
similar in both groups. Plasma beta-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol concentrations
were not affected by the ingestion of 75 g glucose, neither were plasma
beta-endorphin concentrations modified during prolonged starvation. Moreover, the
lack of nycthemeral variations in beta-endorphin levels, documented before and
during starvation while plasma ACTH and cortisol were significantly reduced in
the evening, suggests that some extra anterior pituitary sources or some
obesity-related changes in beta-endorphin metabolism may contribute to the pool
of circulating beta-endorphin in obese subjects. On the other hand, even the
extreme changes in nutritional conditions, such as total food deprivation or
glucose ingestion, are devoid of any detectable influence on circulating
beta-endorphin levels.

PMID: 1666898 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

572: JAMA. 1991 Mar 20;265(11):1429-36.

Comment in:
    JAMA. 1991 Jul 17;266(3):362-3.

Biotechnology and the American agricultural industry. Council on Scientific
Affairs, American Medical Association.

[No authors listed]

To meet the needs of a rapidly growing population and minimize the toxic
influences of traditional farming practices on the environment, the American
agricultural industry has applied molecular technology to the development of food
crops and livestock. By placing genes specific for highly desirable phenotypes
into the DNA of plants, animals, and bacteria, farmers have increased crop and
livestock survival, enhanced the nutritional quality of foods, increased industry
productivity, and reduced the need for toxic pesticides and herbicides. However, 
introduction of genetically modified foods into the marketplace has raised a
spectrum of public health issues. Physicians, as the most proximal scientific
resource for most individuals, are uniquely positioned to address patient
concerns regarding the safety of genetically altered foods. This report provides 
an overview of the inherent risks and benefits of "agrogenetics" and offers a
series of recommendations designed to promote the education of the medical
community and dispel public misconception regarding genetic manipulation.

KIE: The application of molecular technology to agriculture and animal husbandry 
and the introduction of genetically modified foods into the marketplace have
raised questions in the minds of regulators and consumers. Physicians, as the
scientifically-trained individuals most accessible to the general public, are in 
a position to influence the acceptance of genetically altered foods. This report 
summarizes the risks and benefits of agricultural genetics and offers five
recommendations concerning American Medical Association activities that will
enable physicians to educate the public and government officials about the
benefits of agricultural biotechnology. A glossary of terms concludes the report.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 1999885 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

573: Protein Eng. 1990 Aug;3(8):725-31.

Improvement of nutritional value and functional properties of soybean glycinin by
protein engineering.

Kim CS, Kamiya S, Sato T, Utsumi S, Kito M.

Research Institute for Food Science, Kyoto University, Japan.

Glycinin is one of the predominant storage proteins of soybean. To improve its
functional properties (heat-induced gelation and emulsification) and/or
nutritional value, the A1aB1b proglycinin subunit was modified on the basis of
genetically variable domains suggested from the comparison of amino acid
sequences of glycinin-type globulins from various legumes and nonlegumes and the 
relationships between the structure and the functional properties of glycinin.
Thus, nucleotide sequences corresponding to each of the variable domains were
deleted from the cDNA encoding the A1aB1b proglycinin, and a synthetic DNA
encoding four continuous methionines was inserted into the cDNA region
corresponding to each of the variable domains. Expression plasmids carrying the
modified cDNAs were constructed and expressed in Escherichia coli strain JM105.
Some of the modified proteins were accumulated as soluble proteins in the cells
at a high level and self-assembled. They exhibited functional properties superior
to those of the native glycinin from soybean, which establishes the possibility
of creating theoretically designed novel glycinins with high food qualities.

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

PMID: 2217146 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

574: Tijdschr Diergeneeskd. 1990 Jun 15;115(12):570-4.

[Transgenesis; applications, welfare and ethics]

[Article in Dutch]

de Boer HA.

Rijksuniversiteit Leiden, Faculteit der Wiskunde en Natuurwetenschappen.

Biomedical proteins and proteins having a nutritional function can be produced in
large quantities (as well as cheap) in the mammary gland of mammals such as cows.
Several of these proteins are of major economic importance and will result in
several new uses for milk. For example, milk of genetically modified cows will be
produced especially for branches of the pharmaceutical industry or for the baby
food industry. Production of these new proteins will not have any injurious
effects on the animal as proteins in the mammary gland are characterised by the
fact that they follow a one-way course.

Publication Types: 
    English Abstract

PMID: 2368085 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

575: Nutr Cancer. 1990;14(1):15-26.

Enhancement of immune status by high levels of dietary vitamin B-6 without growth
inhibition of human malignant melanoma in athymic nude mice.

Gebhard KJ, Gridley DS, Stickney DR, Shulz TD.

Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, CA
92350.

The effects of dietary vitamin B-6 supplementation on the development of human
malignant melanoma (M21-HPB) xenografts and on in vitro responses of leukocytes
were examined. Male athymic nude mice, five weeks old, were divided into two
groups of 48 each and fed 20% casein diets containing pyridoxine (PN) at 4.1
(control diet) and 61.6 mg/kg diet for 10 weeks. After four weeks of dietary
treatment, 20 animals from each dietary group were injected subcutaneously with 3
x 10(7) melanoma cells. After 4, 8, and 10 weeks of dietary regimen, animals from
each group were killed and blood, liver, and spleen samples were obtained. Food
consumption and mouse body weights were similar between groups, and no difference
was noted in tumor incidence or volume. Noninjected and tumor-bearing mice given 
the PN 61.6 diet generally exhibited greater oxygen radical production by
phagocytic cells from blood and spleen than did animals fed the PN 4.1 diet.
Spleen and blood B lymphocyte proliferation in response to lipopolysaccharide
(LPS) was enhanced (10 and 30%) in the noninjected animals given the PN 61.6
diet. In addition, tumor-bearing mice fed the PN 61.6 diet had significantly
greater LPS-induced spleen cell proliferation at eight weeks when compared with
mice consuming the PN 4.1 diet. Despite immune enhancement, tumor incidence and
progression was not modified by a high level of dietary vitamin B-6. Therefore,
it is tempting to speculate that tumor inhibition by high dietary vitamin B-6 may
be mediated by T lymphocyte-dependent mechanisms that are lacking in these
genetically immuno-deficient mice.

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

PMID: 2367233 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

576: Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1990;101(2):178-86.

Free-choice responding for ethanol versus water in alcohol preferring (P) and
unselected Wistar rats is differentially modified by naloxone, bromocriptine, and
methysergide.

Weiss F, Mitchiner M, Bloom FE, Koob GF.

Research Institute of Scripps Clinic, Department of Neuropharmacology, La Jolla, 
CA 92037.

The role of opioids, dopamine and serotonin in ethanol (EtOH) reward and
preference was investigated in non-deprived, Alcohol-Preferring (P), and
genetically heterogenous Wistar rats. Operant responding for ethanol was
initiated using sweet-solution substitution procedures. The rats were then
trained in 30-min daily sessions to respond for ethanol (10% v/v) versus water
under a two-lever, free-choice contingency. All testing was conducted in the
absence of water and food deprivation or addition of sweeteners to the ethanol
drinking solution. Rats of both strains developed stable preferences in
responding for ethanol over water and consumed ethanol at quantities sufficient
to produce pharmacologically relevant mean blood alcohol concentrations (P-Rats: 
98 +/- 19.6 mg%; unselected Wistars: 41.7 +/- 8.5 mg%). In P-rats, systemic
naloxone (NAL; 0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg) pretreatments resulted in a
dose-dependent suppression in responding for both ethanol and water, but did not 
alter ethanol preference (expressed as percent ethanol of total intake). In
contrast, bromocriptine (BRO; 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg) produced a significant,
dose-dependent shift in preference from ethanol toward water by inhibiting
responding for ethanol while enhancing water consumption. In unselected Wistar
rats, NAL and BRO treatments produced changes in ethanol preference patterns
similar to those observed in P-rats. However, compared to P-rats, these changes
were smaller and not consistently dose dependent. No changes in ethanol
preference and water or ethanol intake were observed with methysergide (MET; 2.5,
5.0, 10.0 mg/kg) in either strain of rat. Together, the results suggest a
possible involvement of dopaminergic mechanisms in the reinforcing properties of 
ethanol.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

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

PMID: 2349359 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

577: Plant Physiol. 1989 Nov;91(3):1020-1024.

Inheritance and Expression of the Mouse Metallothionein Gene in Tobacco: Impact
on Cd Tolerance and Tissue Cd Distribution in Seedlings.

Maiti IB, Wagner GJ, Yeargan R, Hunt AG.

Plant Physiology/Biochemistry/Molecular Biology Program, Department of Agronomy, 
University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40546-0091.

Genetically engineered seedlings obtained from self-fertilized transgenic tobacco
(Nicotiana tabacum) contained and expressed the mouse metallothionein and
kanamycin resistance marker genes and were more tolerant to cadmium stress than
untransformed controls. Cadmium accumulation in leaves of transgenic seedlings
exposed to a low, field-like Cd concentration (0.02 micromolar) was about 20%
lower than that in untransformed controls. Genetic analysis of R1 and R2 progeny 
showed inheritance of the marker gene to be as a dominant Mendelian trait. These 
results suggest the possibility of developing transgenic plants with modified
tolerance to heavy metal stress and food crops having lower Cd content.

PMID: 16667104 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

578: Pharmacol Ther. 1987;35(1-2):163-215.

Adaptive changes in thermoregulation and their neuropharmacological basis.

Brück K, Zeisberger E.

Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, F.R.G.

Adaptive changes of the thermoregulatory system include morphological and
functional modifications. The morphological modifications such as changes in body
shape and insulation need time periods of months to years to develop, unless they
are genetically fixed and appear seasonally. In general, they are preceded by
functional modifications, including changes in capacity of the effector systems
and changes in regulatory characteristics, which need much less time to develop. 
These early changes in regulatory characteristics, which can be defined as
deviations in threshold and gain of the thermoregulatory responses, have been
described and subdivided into short-term (minutes) and long-term (weeks)
modifications. Evidence for the participation of monoaminergic brain stem systems
in these modifications has been reviewed. On the basis of recent insights into
the organization of the thermoregulatory system, and of evaluation of
experimental evidence from electrophysiological, neuropharmacological, and
neuroanatomical studies it can be concluded that these systems are involved in
adaptive modifications. Receiving information from several sensory systems they
seem to deliver additional modulatory signals, which may interfere with the
processing of specific thermal information at several sites. Theoretically, the
central monoamines may participate in the control of thermal input, in the
central integration of thermal signals, and in modification of output signals to 
thermoregulatory effectors. Best documented is their modulatory action on
thermosensitive and thermointegrative hypothalamic neurons. There, the monoamines
5-hydroxytryptamine and noradrenaline act as antagonists, which enhance or
diminish the effects of thermal afferents mediated by other transmitters.
Moreover, the antagonistic monoaminergic systems are interconnected and can
influence each other at the level of lower brain stem. The activity in central
monoaminergic systems can also be modified by neurohumoral feedback mechanisms
from the periphery. By means of these interrelations the vegetative responses of 
the organism can be corrected and optimized. These interrelations can explain
also some cross-adaptive changes in the thermoregulatory threshold for shivering 
evoked by nonthermal factors such as food intake or long-distance running.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 3321099 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

579: Ann Allergy. 1984 Dec;53(6 Pt 2):643-8.

Enzymatic maturation of the gastrointestinal tract and its relevance to food
allergy and intolerance in infancy.

McNeish AS.

The biologic clock that determines the temporal sequence of maturation of
digestive and absorptive processes in the gastrointestinal tract is genetically
predetermined, but may be modified by dietary, hormonal, or other factors. In
general it may be said that the gastrointestinal tract of full-term neonates is
capable of digesting and absorbing a nutritionally adequate quantity of dietary
protein but capacity is limited. Very low birth weight preterm infants, who are
surviving the early neonatal period in increasing numbers, have immaturity of a
wide range of digestive and membrane-associated absorptive processes; in addition
macromolecular absorption may be increased. Whether a limited capacity to digest 
food protein results in increased or altered antigenic stimulation of these
immature infants remains speculative with present knowledge. Immaturity of
intestinal lactase may lead to problems of lactose intolerance, but there is
recent evidence that lactase activity may be inducible by milk feeding.

Publication Types: 
    Review

PMID: 6439078 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]