1: Recent Pat DNA Gene Seq. 2009;3(1):53-62. Current patents and future development underlying marker-assisted breeding in major grain crops. Utomo HS, Linscombe SD. Rice Research Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, 1373 Caffey Rd., Rayne, Louisiana 70578, USA. hutomo@agcenter.lsu.edu Genomics and molecular markers provide new tools to assemble and mobilize important traits from different genetic backgrounds, including breeding lines and cultivars from different parts of the world and their related wild ancestors, to improve the quality and yield of the existing commercial cultivars to meet the increasing challenges of global food demand. The basic techniques of marker-assisted breeding, such as isolating DNA, amplifying DNA of interest using publicly available primers, and visualizing DNA fragments using standard polyacrylamid gel, have been described in the literature and, therefore, are available to scientists and breeders without any restrictions. A more sophisticated high-throughput system that includes proprietary chemicals and reagents, parts and equipments, software, and methods or processes, has been a subject of intensive patents and trade secrets. The high-throughput systems offer a more efficient way to discover associated QTLs for traits of economic importance. Therefore, an increasing number of patents of highly valued genes and QTLs is expected. This paper will discuss and review current patents associated with genes and QTLs utilized in marker-assisted breeding in major grain crops. The availability of molecular markers for important agronomic traits combined with more efficient marker detection systems will help reach the full benefit of MAS in the breeding effort to reassemble potential genes and recapture critical genes among the breeding lines that were lost during domestication to help boost crop production worldwide. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 19149739 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 2: Nutr Res Rev. 2008 Dec;21(2):85-96. n-3 Oil sources for use in aquaculture--alternatives to the unsustainable harvest of wild fish. Miller MR, Nichols PD, Carter CG. CSIRO Food Futures Flagship and Division of Marine and Atmospheric Research, GPO Box 1538, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia. MillerM@crop.cri.nz The present review examines renewable sources of oils with n-3 long-chain (> or = C20) PUFA (n-3 LC-PUFA) as alternatives to oil from wild-caught fish in aquafeeds. Due to the increased demand for and price of wild-caught marine sources of n-3 LC-PUFA-rich oil, their effective and sustainable replacement in aquafeeds is an industry priority, especially because dietary n-3 LC-PUFA from eating fish are known to have health benefits in human beings. The benefits and challenges involved in changing dietary oil in aquaculture are highlighted and four major potential sources of n-3 LC-PUFA for aquafeeds, other than fish oil, are compared. These sources of oil, which contain n-3 LC-PUFA, specifically EPA (20:5n-3) and DHA (22:6n-3) or precursors to these key essential fatty acids, are: (1) other marine sources of oil; (2) vegetable oils that contain biosynthetic precursors, such as stearidonic acid, which may be used by fish to produce n-3 LC-PUFA; (3) single-cell oil sources of n-3 LC-PUFA; (4) vegetable oils derived from oil-seed crops that have undergone genetic modification to contain n-3 LC-PUFA. The review focuses on Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.), because it is the main intensively cultured finfish species and it both uses and stores large amounts of oil, in particular n-3 LC-PUFA, in the flesh. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 19087364 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 3: J Am Diet Assoc. 2008 Nov;108(11):1888-95. Nutritional genomics, polyphenols, diets, and their impact on dietetics. Barnes S. Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 452 McCallum Research Building, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1918 University Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA. sbarnes@uab.edu Nutritional genomics offers a way to optimize human health and the quality of life. It is an attractive endeavor, but one with substantial challenges. It encompasses almost all known aspects of science, ranging from the genomes of humans, plants, and microorganisms, to the highest levels of food science, analytical science, computing, and statistics of large systems, as well as human behavior. This paper describes the underlying biochemistry that is targeted by the principal issues in nutritional genomics, which entails genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. A major feature relevant to nutritional genomics is the single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes that interact with nutrients and other bioactive food components. These genetic changes may lead to alterations in absorption, metabolism, and functional responses to bioactive nutritional factors. Bioactive food components may also regulate gene expression at the transcriptome, protein abundance, and/or protein turnover levels. Even if all of these variables are known, additional variables to be considered include the nutritional variability of the food (unprocessed and processed), the amount that is actually eaten, and the eating-related behaviors of those consuming the food. These challenges are explored within the context of soy intake. Finally, the importance of international cooperation in nutritional genomics research is presented. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Review PMID: 18954579 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 4: C R Biol. 2008 Oct;331(10):763-71. Epub 2008 Sep 4. Genetic and molecular approaches to improve nutritional value of Brassica napus L. seed. Nesi N, Delourme R, Brégeon M, Falentin C, Renard M. INRA-Agrocampus Rennes-University of Rennes1 Joint Laboratory, UMR118, Plant Genetics and Biotechnologies, BP 35327, 35653 Le Rheu cedex, France. nathalie.nesi@rennes.inra.fr Oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) is a major oil crop that also supplies proteins for the feed industry. In order to reduce total cost production, the objective is to increase oil yield while reducing crop inputs (especially nitrogen and pesticides). Concomitantly, it is necessary to anticipate specific uses (e.g., fatty acid composition) and to ensure the valorisation of the by-products (rapeseed meal). By the past, improvement of seed quality focused on fatty acid balance and low seed glucosinolate content. Current goals include the breeding of yellow-seeded rapeseed lines with high content of seed oil. The use of molecular tools and the exploitation of Arabidopsis knowledge will be presented and discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18926490 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 5: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2008 Oct;48(9):799-823. Potato: a comparative study of the effect of cultivars and cultivation conditions and genetic modification on the physico-chemical properties of potato tubers in conjunction with multivariate analysis towards authenticity. Arvanitoyannis IS, Vaitsi O, Mavromatis A. School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture Ichtyology and Aquatic Environment, University of Thessaly, Volos, Hellas, Greece. parmenion@uth.gr Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a highly nutritious, mild flavored, easy to blend food that has many possibilities for "building in" desired nutrients. Varietal and environmental differences are known to exist in the shape, size, and nutritional content of potatoes. Different populations opt for varying sensory properties in relation to their diets. Potatoes are a low energy food in comparison to cereals and legumes. The aim of this review was to present an update of the currently conducted studies both on the characterization of several potato varieties (physical, chemical, and sensory analysis) and by means of genetic modification. Towards this target, five comprehensive tables were compiled where all recent data (physicochemical properties) and GM varieties were presented in conjunction with multivariate analysis (chemometrics). The latter was shown to be effectively used towards authenticity purposes (identification of geographical origin, variety, GM). Publication Types: Review PMID: 18788007 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 6: J AOAC Int. 2008 Jul-Aug;91(4):957-64. Biopharming to increase bioactive peptides in rice seed. Yang L, Wakasa Y, Takaiwa F. Transgenic Crop Research and Development Center, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Kannondai 2-1-2, Tsukuba Ibaraki 305-8602, Japan. The production of high-value pharmaceutical proteins and peptides in transgenic plants is an attractive and economically feasible alternative to conventional mammalian cell, yeast, and bacterial systems. In contrast to vegetative tissues, rice seeds allow higher accumulation of recombinant proteins and long-term stable storage. Rice is not only consumed as a staple food by a majority of the world's population, but is also used as a model monocot for biotechnological manipulation. Daily oral consumption of transgenic rice seeds that accumulate high concentrations of food-derived or synthetic bioactive peptides can be expected to provide a safe, reliable, and consistent oral delivery system that would contribute to the promotion of human health care. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18727558 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 7: 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] 8: 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] 9: 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] 10: Transgenic Res. 2008 Dec;17(6):1025-33. Epub 2008 Jul 29. Animal pharming, two decades on. Kind A, Schnieke A. Livestock Biotechnology, Technische Universität München, Center of Life and Food Sciences Weihenstephan, Hochfeldweg, 1, Freising 85354, Germany. Since its inception 20 years ago, the animal pharming industry has promoted transgenic animals as a cost-effective method of biopharmaceutical production. However, it took until 2006 for the first therapeutic product to gain regulatory approval. This was an important milestone, but scepticism still abounds. Can pharming regain investor confidence, and will society accept transgenic livestock as a production method? There is some cause for optimism, biopharmaceuticals are a large, expanding market and animal pharming has already made considerable strides. A novel production platform has been established, groundbreaking technologies developed, a necessary regulatory framework put in place. Nevertheless, despite cost advantages, pharming has become a niche production method and its long term success may depend on products unique to transgenic animals. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18663595 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 11: Chem Biodivers. 2008 Jul;5(7):1225-37. Synthetic antimicrobial peptides as agricultural pesticides for plant-disease control. Montesinos E, Bardají E. Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology-CIDSAV-XaRTA, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi, E-18071 Girona. emonte@intea.udg.edu There is a need of antimicrobial compounds in agriculture for plant-disease control, with low toxicity and reduced negative environmental impact. Antimicrobial peptides are produced by living organisms and offer strong possibilities in agriculture because new compounds can be developed based on natural structures with improved properties of activity, specificity, biodegradability, and toxicity. Design of new molecules has been achieved using combinatorial-chemistry procedures coupled to high-throughput screening systems and data processing with design-of-experiments (DOE) methodology to obtain QSAR equation models and optimized compounds. Upon selection of best candidates with low cytotoxicity and moderate stability to protease digestion, anti-infective activity has been evaluated in plant-pathogen model systems. Suitable compounds have been submitted to acute toxicity testing in higher organisms and exhibited a low toxicity profile in a mouse model. Large-scale production can be achieved by solution organic or chemoenzymatic procedures in the case of very small peptides, but, in many cases, production can be performed by biotechnological methods using genetically modified microorganisms (fermentation) or transgenic crops (plant biofactories). Publication Types: Review PMID: 18649311 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 12: Plant Cell Rep. 2008 Sep;27(9):1423-40. Epub 2008 Jul 9. A history of plant biotechnology: from the Cell Theory of Schleiden and Schwann to biotech crops. Vasil IK. University of Florida, Box 110690, Gainesville, FL 32611-0690, USA. ivasil@ufl.edu Plant biotechnology is founded on the principles of cellular totipotency and genetic transformation, which can be traced back to the Cell Theory of Matthias Jakob Schleiden and Theodor Schwann, and the discovery of genetic transformation in bacteria by Frederick Griffith, respectively. On the 25th anniversary of the genetic transformation of plants, this review provides a historical account of the evolution of the theoretical concepts and experimental strategies that led to the production and commercialization of biotech (transformed or transgenic) plants expressing many useful genes, and emphasizes the beneficial effects of plant biotechnology on food security, human health, the environment, and conservation of biodiversity. In so doing, it celebrates and pays tribute to the contributions of scores of scientists who laid the foundation of modern plant biotechnology by their bold and unconventional thinking and experimentation. It highlights also the many important lessons to be learnt from the fascinating history of plant biotechnology, the significance of history in science teaching and research, and warns against the danger of the growing trends of ignoring history and historical illiteracy. Publication Types: Historical Article Review PMID: 18612644 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 13: 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] 14: Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2008;14:171-90. Use of the cauliflower Or gene for improving crop nutritional quality. Zhou X, Van Eck J, Li L. U.S. Department of Agriculture- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. Carotenoids are a group of pigments that are essential to human diets. An increasing interest in carotenoids as a nutritional source of vitamin A and health-promoting compounds has prompted the recent progress in metabolic engineering of carotenogenesis in food crops. Current strategies have been mainly focused on manipulating genes encoding carotenogeic enzymes. In many cases, it is difficult to reach the desired levels of carotenoid enhancement. In this chapter, we briefly summarize the recent progress on our understanding of carotenoid biosynthesis. We describe the isolation of a novel gene, the Or gene, from a high-beta-carotene orange cauliflower mutant. The Or gene encodes a plastid-targeted protein containing a cysteine-rich zinc finger domain and appears to be plant-specific. The insertion of a copia-like LTR retrotransponson in the Or gene confers high levels of carotenoid accumulation in the normally low-pigmented tissues. Rather than directly regulating carotenoid biosynthesis, the Or gene controls carotenoid accumulation by inducing the formation of chromoplasts, which provide a metabolic sink to sequester and deposit carotenoids. Examination of the Or transgenic potato tubers confirms that the Or-induced carotenoid accumulation is associated with the formation of a metabolic sink. Thus, the Or gene offers a new molecular tool to complement current approaches for nutritional enhancement in agriculturally important crops. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 18606363 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 15: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Aug;46(8):2591-605. Epub 2008 Jun 3. Safety assessment considerations for food and feed derived from plants with genetic modifications that modulate endogenous gene expression and pathways. Kier LD, Petrick JS. Monsanto Company, 800 North Lindbergh Blvd., Mail Code O3F, St. Louis, MO 63167, USA. The current globally recognized comparative food and feed safety assessment paradigm for biotechnology-derived crops is a robust and comprehensive approach for evaluating the safety of both the inserted gene product and the resulting crop. Incorporating many basic concepts from food safety, toxicology, nutrition, molecular biology, and plant breeding, this approach has been used effectively by scientists and regulatory agencies for 10-15 years. Current and future challenges in agriculture include the need for improved yields, tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and improved nutrition. The next generation of biotechnology-derived crops may utilize regulatory proteins, such as transcription factors that modulate gene expression and/or endogenous plant pathways. In this review, we discuss the applicability of the current safety assessment paradigm to biotechnology-derived crops developed using modifications involving regulatory proteins. The growing literature describing the molecular biology underlying plant domestication and conventional breeding demonstrates the naturally occurring genetic variation found in plants, including significant variation in the classes, expression, and activity of regulatory proteins. Specific examples of plant modifications involving insertion or altered expression of regulatory proteins are discussed as illustrative case studies supporting the conclusion that the current comparative safety assessment process is appropriate for these types of biotechnology-developed crops. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18602733 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 16: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2008 Jun;48(6):553-98. A review of rice authenticity/adulteration methods and results. Vlachos A, Arvanitoyannis IS. School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture Icthyology and Aquatic Environment, Fytokou Street Nea Ionia Magnesias, University of Thessaly, Volos, Hellas, Greece. Rice importance resides in its high consumption mainly in Asia and Africa and less in the EU. Several cultivars, both GM and non-GM, have established themselves in various regions depending mainly on the climatic and soil conditions. A high number of analytical, enzymic, and genomic analyses (instrumental) in conjunction with sensory analysis were applied (not always very successfully) towards detecting deliberate or non-deliberate rice adulteration. It was shown that the application of multivariate analysis to data obtained is very beneficial because it allows the effective discrimination of different origin, and/or cultivar rice. Although sensory analysis is based on a trained panel (subjective method), if this panel has been properly trained the adulteration results are comparable to those of the instrumental analysis obtained. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18568860 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 17: 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] 18: 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] 19: J R Soc Med. 2008 Jun;101(6):290-8. Comment in: J R Soc Med. 2008 Sep;101(9):435. Genetically modified plants and human health. Key S, Ma JK, Drake PM. Molecular Immunology Unit, Centre for Infection, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, St George's University of London Cranmer Terrace, London SW17 0RE, UK. Genetically modified (or GM) plants have attracted a large amount of media attention in recent years and continue to do so. Despite this, the general public remains largely unaware of what a GM plant actually is or what advantages and disadvantages the technology has to offer, particularly with regard to the range of applications for which they can be used. From the first generation of GM crops, two main areas of concern have emerged, namely risk to the environment and risk to human health. As GM plants are gradually being introduced into the European Union there is likely to be increasing public concern regarding potential health issues. Although it is now commonplace for the press to adopt 'health campaigns', the information they publish is often unreliable and unrepresentative of the available scientific evidence. We consider it important that the medical profession should be aware of the state of the art, and, as they are often the first port of call for a concerned patient, be in a position to provide an informed opinion. This review will examine how GM plants may impact on human health both directly - through applications targeted at nutrition and enhancement of recombinant medicine production - but also indirectly, through potential effects on the environment. Finally, it will examine the most important opposition currently facing the worldwide adoption of this technology: public opinion. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18515776 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 20: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:241-4. Constantly evolving safety assessment protocols for GM foods. Sesikeran B, Vasanthi S. National Institute of Nutrition, (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jamai Osmanai PO, Tarnaka, Hyderabad - 500 007, India. dirnin_hyd@yahoo.co.in he introduction of GM foods has led to the evolution of a food safety assessment paradigm that establishes safety of the GM food relative to its conventional counterpart. The GM foods currently approved and marketed in several countries have undergone extensive safety testing under a structured safety assessment framework evolved by international organizations like FAO, WHO, Codex and OECD. The major elements of safety assessment include molecular characterization of inserted genes and stability of the trait, toxicity and allergenicity potential of the expressed substances, compositional analysis, potential for gene transfer to gut microflora and unintentional effects of the genetic modification. As more number and type of food crops are being brought under the genetic modification regime, the adequacy of existing safety assessment protocols for establishing safety of these foods has been questioned. Such crops comprise GM crops with higher agronomic vigour, nutritional or health benefit/ by modification of plant metabolic pathways and those expressing bioactive substances and pharmaceuticals. The safety assessment challenges of these foods are the potential of the methods to detect unintentional effects with higher sensitivity and rigor. Development of databases on food compositions, toxicants and allergens is currently seen as an important aid to development of safety protocols. With the changing global trends in genetic modification technology future challenge would be to develop GM crops with minimum amount of inserted foreign DNA so as to reduce the burden of complex safety assessments while ensuring safety and utility of the technology. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18296346 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 21: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:237-40. An Asian perspective on GMO and biotechnology issues. Teng PP. Natural Sciences & Science Education, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637616. paul.teng@nie.edu.sg Of the 102 million hectares that made up the global area of biotech crops in 2006, less than 8% (7.6 million ha) were in Asia. Three biotech crops are currently planted in significant areas in four Asian countries with government regulatory approval; namely, cotton, corn (maize), and canola. However, the amount of GM crop material imported into the Asian region for processing into food and animal feed is very substantial, and almost every country imports GM food. The issues which concern Asian scientists, regulators, and the lay public resemble those of other regions - biosafety, food safety, ethics and social justice, competitiveness, and the "EU" trade question. Most Asian countries now have regulatory systems for approving the commercialization of GM crops, and for approving food safety of GM crops. In Asia, because of the varied cultures, issues concerning the use of genes derived from animals arouse much emotion for religious and diet choice reasons. Because many Asian producers and farmers are small-scale, there is also concern about technology dependency and to whom the benefits accrue. All consumers surveyed have expressed concern about potential allergenic and long-term toxic effects, neither of which is grounded on scientific facts. Because of Asia's growing demand for high volumes of quality food, it is likely that GM crops will become an increasing feature of our diet. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18296345 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 22: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:233-6. International development of methods of analysis for the presence of products of modern biotechnology. Cantrill RC. AOCS, 2710 S. Boulder Dr., Urbana, IL 61802, USA. Richard.Cantrill@aocs.org Methods of analysis for products of modern biotechnology are required for national and international trade in seeds, grain and food in order to meet the labeling or import/export requirements of different nations and trading blocks. Although many methods were developed by the originators of transgenic events, governments, universities, and testing laboratories, trade is less complicated if there exists a set of international consensus-derived analytical standards. In any analytical situation, multiple methods may exist for testing for the same analyte. These methods may be supported by regional preferences and regulatory requirements. However, tests need to be sensitive enough to determine low levels of these traits in commodity grain for regulatory purposes and also to indicate purity of seeds containing these traits. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and its European counterpart have worked to produce a suite of standards through open, balanced and consensus-driven processes. Presently, these standards are approaching the time for their first review. In fact, ISO 21572, the "protein standard" has already been circulated for systematic review. In order to expedite the review and revision of the nucleic acid standards an ISO Technical Specification (ISO/TS 21098) was drafted to set the criteria for the inclusion of precision data from collaborative studies into the annexes of these standards. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18296344 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 23: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:229-32. Nutritional and safety assessment of foods and feeds nutritionally improved through biotechnology--case studies by the International Food Biotechnology Committee of ILSI. Glenn KC. Monsanto Co., O3B, 800 North Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63167 USA. Kevin.c.glenn@monsanto.com During the last two decades, the public and private sectors have made substantial research progress internationally toward improving the nutritional value of a wide range of food and feed crops. Nevertheless, significant numbers of people still suffer from the effects of undernutrition. As newly developed crops with nutritionally improved traits come closer to being available to producers and consumers, scientifically sound and efficient processes are needed to assess the safety and nutritional quality of these crops. In 2004, a Task Force of international scientific experts, convened by the International Food Biotechnology Committee (IFBiC) of ILSI, published recommendations for the safety and nutritional assessment of foods and feeds nutritionally improved through modern biotechnology (J. Food Science, 2004, 69:CRH62-CRH68). The comparative safety assessment process is a basic principle in this publication and is the starting point, not the conclusion, of the analysis. Significant differences in composition are expected to be observed in the case of nutritionally enhanced crops and must be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The Golden Rice 2 case study will be presented as an example of a food crop nutritionally enhanced through the application of modern biotechnology (i.e., recombinant DNA techniques) to illustrate how the 2004 recommendations provide a robust paradigm for the safety assessment of "real world" examples of improved nutrition crops. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18296343 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 24: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:95-8. Global perspective of health related edible plants from the agricultural point of view. Lee YY, Tsou CS, Lin HC, Ien CH, Wu YT. Science and Technology Policy Research and Information Center, National Applied Research Laboratories, Taipei 10636, Taiwan. yylee@mail.stpi.org.tw In knowledge-based economies, nutrition concepts evolve with advances in agriculture. As people around the world become more health conscious, national health becomes one of the main directives for agricultural policies, including that of functional foods and their global markets. This article evaluates the development of the functional food industry in Taiwan and other countries through analysis of R&D capacity and bibliometrics. It attempts to identify future trends in nutrition with technology foresight research. Taiwan has a wide variety of indigenous herbal plants, although its functional food related literature is not large compared with some other Asian countries. However, there are quality papers on the immunologic functions of edible plants Globally there is much interest in edible plants with antioxidant activity and those phyto-nutrients which might help reduce the burden of chronic illness as well as in the nutrigenomics that will lead to the design of foods with these properties. To make the most of available agricultural resources, countries like Taiwan should relate agricultural development to the nutritional status of their populations. This strategy will add significant value to global agriculture. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18296311 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 25: 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] 26: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:87-90. Application of agricultural biotechnology to improve food nutrition and healthcare products. Sun SS. The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Biology, G88 Science Centre South Block, Shatin, NT, Hong Kong, China. ssun@cuhk.edu.hk Crop plants provide essential food nutrients to humans and livestock, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, minerals and vitamins, directly or indirectly. The level and composition of food nutrients vary significantly in different food crops. As a result, plant foods are often deficient in certain nutrient components. Relying on a single food crop as source of nutrients thus will not achieve a balanced diet and results in malnutrition and deficiency diseases, especially in the developing countries, due mainly to poverty. The development and application of biotechnology offers opportunities and novel possibilities to enhance the nutritional quality of crops, particularly when the necessary genetic variability is not available. While initial emphasis of agricultural biotechnology has been placed on input traits of crops such as herbicide tolerance, insect resistance and virus resistance, increasing effort and promising proof-of-concept products have been made in output traits including enhancing the nutritional quality of crops since 1990s. Advancements in plant transformation and transgene expression also allow the use of plants as bioreactors to produce a variety of bio-products at large scale and low cost. Many proof-of-concept plant-derived healthcare products have been generated and several commercialized. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18296309 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 27: Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:24-9. National food fortification: a dialogue with reference to Asia: policy in evolution. Wahlqvist ML. Center for Health Policy Research and Development, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli County, Taiwan 350, RCO. profmlw@nhri.org.tw Food fortification generally refers to the addition of micronutrients and other favourably bio-active food components to food-stuffs where there are recognised deficiencies in the target population. Each forticant has had or could have regulatory implications. It is understandable, although arguable, in the face of a limited food supply skewed, for the majority, in the direction of starchy staples of low essential nutrient density. Efforts, with plant breeding, to biofortify such foods are underway and likely to be safer, more sustainable and affordable than chemical additions. Unfortunately, with an increasingly refined and naturally tasteless food supply (salty, fatty, sugary and starchy), and where energy requirements are falling because of physical inactivity, micronutrient fortification is being used as a nutritional "fix-it' strategy. In Asia, there are several critical micro- nutrients. No one national fortification program can deal with all deficiencies is likely to be highly selective for the nutrients which have the greatest advocacy or are most recognisable. They also leave the other health promoting food properties like intactness, nutrient spectrum, and phytonutrient content un-addressed. A variety of food-stuffs, with different biological origins, is the preferred approach. Where an optimal food system is not in place, there may be justification for fortification if there is regular monitoring and surveillance of the food supply and health outcomes occurs; is a clear cost-risk-benefit advantage in such a strategy; are programs in place to improve the nutritional value of the basic food supply and is an "exit strategy' for the fortification program. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18296294 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 28: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2008;111:229-64. Food and agricultural biotechnology: a summary and analysis of ethical concerns. Thompson PB, Hannah W. Department of Philosophy, Michigan State University, 48824-1320, East Lansing, MI 48824-1320, USA, thomp649@msu.edu The range of social and ethical concerns that have been raised in connection with food and agricultural biotechnology is exceedingly broad. Many of these deal with risks and possible outcomes that are not unique to crops or animals developed using recombinant DNA. Food safety, animal welfare, socio-economic and environmental impacts, as well as shifts in power relations or access to technology raise concerns that might be generalized to many technologies. These aspects of the controversy over biotechnology are analyzed below as elements of general technological ethics, and key norms or values pertinent to each of these categories are specified in some detail. However, a number of special concerns unique to the use of rDNA in manipulating plant and animal genomes have been raised, and these are reviewed as well. The chapter concludes by reviewing two broad policy strategies for responding to the issues, one involving labels and consumer consent, the other applying the precautionary principle. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18496654 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 29: 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] 30: Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2008 Apr;86(4):215-21. Genetic possibilities for altering sunflower oil quality to obtain novel oils. Skorić D, Jocić S, Sakac Z, Lecić N. Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Novi Sad Branch, Nikole Pasića 6, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia. dragankoric@sbb.co.yu The sunflower is one of the four most important oilseed crops in the world, and the nutritional quality of its edible oil ranks among the best vegetable oils in cultivation. Typically up to 90% of the fatty acids in conventional sunflower oil are unsaturated, namely oleic (C 18:1, 16%-19%) and linoleic (C 18:2, 68%-72%) fatty acids. Palmitic (C 16:0, 6%), stearic (C 18:0, 5%), and minor amounts of myristic (C 14:0), myristoleic (C 14:1), palmitoleic (C 16:1), arachidic (C 20:0), behenic (C 22:0), and other fatty acids account for the remaining 10%. Advances in modern genetics, most importantly induced mutations, have altered the fatty acid composition of sunflower oil to a significant extent. Treating sunflower seeds with gamma- and X-rays has produced mutants with 25%-30% palmitic acid. Sunflower seed treatment with X-rays has also resulted in mutants having 30% palmitoleic acid, while treatments with mutagenic sodium azide have produced seeds containing 35% stearic acid. The most important mutations have been obtained by treatment with dimethyl sulfate, which produced genotypes with more than 90% oleic acid. Mutants have also been obtained that have a high linoleic acid content (>80%) by treating seeds with X-rays and ethyl methanesulfonate. Of the vitamin E family of compounds, sunflower oil is known to predominantly contain alpha-tocopherol (>90%). Spontaneous mutations controlled by recessive genes have been discovered that significantly alter tocopherol forms and levels. The genes in question are tph(1) (50% alpha- and 50% beta-tocopherol), tph(2) (0%-5% alpha- and 95%-100% gamma-tocopherol), and tph(1)tph(2) (8%-40% alpha-, 0%-25% beta-, 25%-84% gamma-, and 8%-50% delta-tocopherol). The existence of (mutant) genes for increased levels of individual fatty acids and for different forms and levels of tocopherol enables the development of sunflower hybrids with different oil quality. The greatest progress has been made in developing high-oleic hybrids (>90% oleic acid). There has been considerable work done recently on the development of high-oleic hybrids with altered tocopherol levels, the oil of which will have 10-20 times greater oxidative stability than that of conventional sunflower oil. While sunflower breeders work on developing hybrids with altered oil quality, medical scientists in general and nutritionists in particular will determine the parameters for the use of these novel types of oil that can improve human nutrition and be used in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18418432 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 31: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2008 Apr;19(2):181-9. Epub 2008 Apr 3. Metabolic engineering of plant volatiles. Dudareva N, Pichersky E. Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. dudareva@purdue.edu Metabolic engineering of the volatile spectrum offers enormous potential for plant improvement because of the great contribution of volatile secondary metabolites to reproduction, defense and food quality. Recent advances in the identification of the genes and enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of volatile compounds have made this metabolic engineering highly feasible. Notable successes have been reported in enhancing plant defenses and improving scent and aroma quality of flowers and fruits. These studies have also revealed challenges and limitations which will be likely surmounted as our understanding of plant volatile network improves. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 18394878 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 32: 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] 33: 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] 34: Medicina (Kaunas). 2008;44(2):87-99. Genetically modified organisms: do the benefits outweigh the risks? Hug K. K. Hug, Department of Medical Ethics, Lund University, BMC C 13, 221 84 Lund, Sweden. Kristina.Hug@med.lu.se The objective of this literature review is to analyze the implications of using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) as well as international and European position regarding such organisms. METHOD: Review of international and European legal requirements and ethical guidelines and relevant publications, found and accessed with the help of PubMed and Lund University Library databases. RESULTS: The article discusses the main application areas of GMOs, the expansion of using GMOs in the world as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the implications of their usage. It further provides an overview of the suggested ways to tackle or avoid the GMO-related risks. The international and European positions regarding the application of GMOs are discussed and European Directives, Regulations, and ethical guidelines are overviewed. The article further presents the public attitudes towards GMOs in Europe as well as overviews surveys conducted at the national level. CONCLUSION: Suggested steps to tackle the challenge of developing and managing biotechnology for the benefit of public health and the environment are presented. Publication Types: Comparative Study Review PMID: 18344661 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 35: 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] 36: J Vet Med Educ. 2007 Winter;34(5):658-73. Integrating molecular biology into the veterinary curriculum. Ryan MT, Sweeney T. College of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland. marion.ryan@ucd.ie The modern discipline of molecular biology is gaining increasing relevance in the field of veterinary medicine. This trend must be reflected in the curriculum if veterinarians are to capitalize on opportunities arising from this field and direct its development toward their own goals as a profession. This review outlines current applications of molecular-based technologies that are relevant to the veterinary profession. In addition, the current techniques and technologies employed within the field of molecular biology are discussed. Difficulties associated with teaching a subject such as molecular biology within a veterinary curriculum can be alleviated by effectively integrating molecular topics throughout the curriculum, pitching the subject at an appropriate depth, and employing varied teaching methods throughout. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18326779 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 37: Curr Opin Plant Biol. 2008 Apr;11(2):166-70. Epub 2008 Mar 7. Biofortified crops to alleviate micronutrient malnutrition. Mayer JE, Pfeiffer WH, Beyer P. Center for Applied Biosciences, University of Freiburg, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany. Micronutrient malnutrition affects more than half of the world population, particularly in developing countries. Concerted international and national fortification and supplementation efforts to curb the scourge of micronutrient malnutrition are showing a positive impact, alas without reaching the goals set by international organizations. Biofortification, the delivery of micronutrients via micronutrient-dense crops, offers a cost-effective and sustainable approach, complementing these efforts by reaching rural populations. Bioavailable micronutrients in the edible parts of staple crops at concentrations high enough to impact on human health can be obtained through breeding, provided that sufficient genetic variation for a given trait exists, or through transgenic approaches. Research and breeding programs are underway to enrich the major food staples in developing countries with the most important micronutrients: iron, provitamin A, zinc and folate. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18314378 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 38: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2008;111:149-86. Plant biotechnology: transgenic crops. Shewry PR, Jones HD, Halford NG. Rothamsted Research, AL5 2JQ, Harpenden, Herts, UK. peter.shewry@bbsrc.ac.uk Transgenesis is an important adjunct to classical plant breeding, in that it allows the targeted manipulation of specific characters using genes from a range of sources. The current status of crop transformation is reviewed, including methods of gene transfer, the selection of transformed plants and control of transgene expression. The application of genetic modification technology to specific traits is then discussed, including input traits relating to crop production (herbicide tolerance and resistance to insects, pathogens and abiotic stresses) and output traits relating to the composition and quality of the harvested organs. The latter include improving the nutritional quality for consumers as well as the improvement of functional properties for food processing. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18299808 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 39: Crit Rev Immunol. 2008;28(1):15-43. Scratching the surface: towards understanding the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Sehra S, Tuana FM, Holbreich M, Mousdicas N, Tepper RS, Chang CH, Travers JB, Kaplan MH. Department of Pediatrics and HB Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a steadily increasing prevalence affecting 10%-20% of infants and 1%-3% of adults globally. It is often the first clinical manifestation of atopic disease preceding asthma and allergic rhinitis. At least half of the children with AD develop some other form of atopic disease later in life. The pathogenesis of AD involves a complex interplay of factors, including genetic predisposition due to altered immune or skin barrier function, interactions with the environment, and infectious triggers of inflammation. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in understanding the contribution of different factors in the pathophysiology of AD in human and animal model systems. These insights provide new therapeutic potential for the treatment of human AD. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18298382 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 40: 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] 41: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 May;46(5):1414-36. Epub 2008 Jan 12. Edible safety requirements and assessment standards for agricultural genetically modified organisms. Deng P, Zhou X, Zhou P, Du Z, Hou H, Yang D, Tan J, Wu X, Zhang J, Yang Y, Liu J, Liu G, Li Y, Liu J, Yu L, Fang S, Yang X. Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China. szdpj2002@163.com This paper describes the background, principles, concepts and methods of framing the technical regulation for edible safety requirement and assessment of agricultural genetically modified organisms (agri-GMOs) for Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in the People's Republic of China. It provides a set of systematic criteria for edible safety requirements and the assessment process for agri-GMOs. First, focusing on the degree of risk and impact of different agri-GMOs, we developed hazard grades for toxicity, allergenicity, anti-nutrition effects, and unintended effects and standards for the impact type of genetic manipulation. Second, for assessing edible safety, we developed indexes and standards for different hazard grades of recipient organisms, for the influence of types of genetic manipulation and hazard grades of agri-GMOs. To evaluate the applicability of these criteria and their congruency with other safety assessment systems for GMOs applied by related organizations all over the world, we selected some agri-GMOs (soybean, maize, potato, capsicum and yeast) as cases to put through our new assessment system, and compared our results with the previous assessments. It turned out that the result of each of the cases was congruent with the original assessment. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18289760 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 42: Annu Rev Plant Biol. 2008;59:771-812. Genetically Engineered Plants and Foods: A Scientist's Analysis of the Issues (Part I). Lemaux PG. Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA. lemauxpg@nature.berkeley.edu Through the use of the new tools of genetic engineering, genes can be introduced into the same plant or animal species or into plants or animals that are not sexually compatible-the latter is a distinction with classical breeding. This technology has led to the commercial production of genetically engineered (GE) crops on approximately 250 million acres worldwide. These crops generally are herbicide and pest tolerant, but other GE crops in the pipeline focus on other traits. For some farmers and consumers, planting and eating foods from these crops are acceptable; for others they raise issues related to safety of the foods and the environment. In Part I of this review some general and food issues raised regarding GE crops and foods will be addressed. Responses to these issues, where possible, cite peer-reviewed scientific literature. In Part II to appear in 2009, issues related to environmental and socioeconomic aspects of GE crops and foods will be covered. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18284373 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 43: Pest Manag Sci. 2008 Apr;64(4):360-5. Evolved glyphosate-resistant weeds around the world: lessons to be learnt. Powles SB. WA Herbicide Resistance Initiative, School of Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth 6014, Australia. spowles@plants.uwa.edu.au Glyphosate is the world's most important herbicide, with many uses that deliver effective and sustained control of a wide spectrum of unwanted (weedy) plant species. Until recently there were relatively few reports of weedy plant species evolving resistance to glyphosate. Since 1996, the advent and subsequent high adoption of transgenic glyphosate-resistant crops in the Americas has meant unprecedented and often exclusive use of glyphosate for weed control over very large areas. Consequently, in regions of the USA where transgenic glyphosate-resistant crops dominate, there are now evolved glyphosate-resistant populations of the economically damaging weed species Ambrosia artemissifolia L., Ambrosia trifida L., Amaranthus palmeri S Watson, Amaranthus rudis JD Sauer, Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq) JD Sauer and various Conyza and Lolium spp. Likewise, in areas of transgenic glyphosate-resistant crops in Argentina and Brazil, there are now evolved glyphosate-resistant populations of Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers and Euphorbia heterophylla L. respectively. As transgenic glyphosate-resistant crops will remain very popular with producers, it is anticipated that glyphosate-resistant biotypes of other prominent weed species will evolve over the next few years. Therefore, evolved glyphosate-resistant weeds are a major risk for the continued success of glyphosate and transgenic glyphosate-resistant crops. However, glyphosate-resistant weeds are not yet a problem in many parts of the world, and lessons can be learnt and actions taken to achieve glyphosate sustainability. A major lesson is that maintenance of diversity in weed management systems is crucial for glyphosate to be sustainable. Glyphosate is essential for present and future world food production, and action to secure its sustainability for future generations is a global imperative. Copyright (c) 2008 Society of Chemical Industry. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18273881 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 44: 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] 45: 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] 46: Trends Biotechnol. 2008 Mar;26(3):139-45. Epub 2008 Jan 28. Metabolic engineering of carotenoid biosynthesis in plants. Giuliano G, Tavazza R, Diretto G, Beyer P, Taylor MA. Ente per le Nuove tecnologie, l'Energia e l'Ambiente (ENEA), Casaccia Research Center, PO Box 2400, 00123 S.M. di Galeria (Roma), Italy. giuliano@casaccia.enea.it Carotenoids are one of the most diverse classes of natural compounds. Plant carotenoids are composed of a C40 isoprenoid skeleton with or without epoxy, hydroxy and keto groups. They have fundamental roles in human nutrition as antioxidants and vitamin A precursors and their consumption is increasingly associated with protection from a range of diseases. They are also used commercially as safe food, feed and cosmetic colorants and they protect plants from photooxidative stress. In the past six years many metabolic engineering efforts have been undertaken in plants aiming to improve the nutritional value of staple crops, to enable the use of plants as 'cell factories' for producing specialty carotenoids and to improve plant resistance to abiotic stress. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18222560 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 47: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2008 Jan;100(1 Suppl 2):S23-9. Hereditary angiodema: a current state-of-the-art review, VI: novel therapies for hereditary angioedema. Frank MM. Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA. frank007@mc.duke.edu OBJECTIVE: To provide a comprehensive overview on clinical trial design and results of emerging therapies for the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE). DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE or PubMed literature searches were conducted to identify double-blind, placebo-controlled trials investigating C1 esterase replacement, kallikrein inhibitor, and bradykinin receptor 2 antagonist therapies. STUDY SELECTION: Ongoing trials or those just recently completed from all companies developing a product for the treatment of HAE are discussed. RESULTS: All of these agents are believed to be effective when tested in patients in phase 1 or phase 2 trials. The studies have many features in common, including being placebo-controlled and blinded; having a preliminary screening visit at which the diagnosis is confirmed; having either low circulating C1 inhibitor protein levels or low levels of functional C1 inhibitor, low C4 levels, and normal C1q levels; enrolling individuals who are relatively early in attacks (4-6 hours from the onset); and stipulating that patients continue taking the medications that they have been taking in the long term. The type of attack acceptable for each treatment protocol varies from study to study. Some allow peripheral edema attacks, some facial attacks, and in some studies, the Food and Drug Administration has allowed purified serum C1 inhibitor to be used as a rescue medication if the patient remains in difficulty after the study drug has been used and found to be ineffective. CONCLUSION: The outlook for new, effective short-term therapy appears to be excellent. In the near future, a whole new therapeutic armamentarium to care for patients with HAE should be available in the United States. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18220149 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 48: Adv Med Sci. 2007;52:98-103. Food allergies, cross-reactions and agroalimentary biotechnologies. Ronchetti R, Kaczmarski MG, Hałuszka J, Jesenak M, Villa MP. Department of Paediatrics, 2nd School of Medicine, University La Sapienza, S. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy. roberto.ronchetti@ospedalesantandrea.it The discrepancy between what the general public and specialist in allergic diseases regard as a true food allergy can in part depend on the frequent evidence of subjects in whom clinical symptoms elicited by a given food allergen are frequently not reproducible: this suggests the existence of allergens variably present in certain foods. In adults and older children common is a form of food allergy associated with inhaled allergens, especially pollens. In this allergic form pollens and various vegetal food often cross react but the underlying scientific rationale is largely unclear. From the study of the "latex-fruits allergic syndrome" and the "oral allergic syndrome" emerged that the cross reactivity depends on epitopes of pollens and vegetables belonging to one of the 14 classes of the "pathogenesis related proteins" (PRPs). Vegetables produce PRPs in response to infection or after plant injury or application of chemicals: long-term conservation and methods used for rapid artificial ripening of vegetables can cause plant to produce PRPs or other allergens. A genetic selection of vegetables "protecting themselves against infection and infestation" by mean of PRPs production is practiced in agroalimentary biotechnology. We deem it urgent that the two realms, Medical Science (Allergology) and Agricultural Biotechnology begin to communicate openly in order to produce food as efficiently as possible but without harming the large part of the population which is predisposed to allergy and react to PRPs. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18217398 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 49: Trends Biotechnol. 2008 Feb;26(2):77-81. Epub 2008 Jan 11. Potential for metabolic engineering of resveratrol biosynthesis. Halls C, Yu O. Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, 975 North Warson Road, Saint Louis, MO 63132, USA. Resveratrol, an interesting plant phenolic compound, is found in red wine but is not widely distributed in other common food sources. Health benefits of resveratrol include prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancers, and--as discovered more recently--promotion of longevity in several animal systems. The pathway and enzymes for resveratrol biosynthesis are well characterized. Furthermore, metabolic engineering of this compound has been achieved in plants, microbes and animals. This review attempts to summarize current understanding of resveratrol pathway-engineering in various systems, to outline the challenges in commercial applications and to identify future opportunities for resveratrol bioengineering. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 18191264 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 50: Trends Biotechnol. 2008 Feb;26(2):64-9. Epub 2008 Jan 11. Can GM sorghum impact Africa? Botha GM, Viljoen CD. GMO Testing Facility, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein 9300, South Africa. bothagm.sci@mail.ufs.ac.za It is said that genetic modification (GM) of grain sorghum has the potential to alleviate hunger in Africa. To this end, millions of dollars have been committed to developing GM sorghum. Current developments in the genetic engineering of sorghum are similar to efforts to improve cassava and other traditional African crops, as well as rice in Asia. On closer analysis, GM sorghum is faced with the same limitations as 'Golden Rice' (GM rice) in the context of combating vitamin A deficiency (VAD) efficiently and sustainably. Thus, it is questionable whether the cost of developing GM sorghum can be justified when compared to the cost of investing in sustainable agricultural practice in Africa. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18191263 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 51: 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] 52: Nat Rev Genet. 2008 Feb;9(2):91-101. Towards a better bowl of rice: assigning function to tens of thousands of rice genes. Jung KH, An G, Ronald PC. Department of Plant Pathology, 1 Shields Avenue, UC Davis, Davis, California 95616, USA. Rice, one of the most important food crops for humans, is the first crop plant to have its genome sequenced. Rice whole-genome microarrays, genome tiling arrays and genome-wide gene-indexed mutant collections have recently been generated. With the availability of these resources, discovering the function of the estimated 41,000 rice genes is now within reach. Such discoveries have broad practical implications for understanding the biological processes of rice and other economically important grasses such as cereals and bioenergy crops. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 18160965 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 53: Trends Plant Sci. 2008 Jan;13(1):28-35. Epub 2007 Dec 20. Folate biofortification in food plants. Bekaert S, Storozhenko S, Mehrshahi P, Bennett MJ, Lambert W, Gregory JF 3rd, Schubert K, Hugenholtz J, Van Der Straeten D, Hanson AD. Department of Molecular Genetics, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Gent, Belgium. Folate deficiency is a global health problem affecting many people in the developing and developed world. Current interventions (industrial food fortification and supplementation by folic acid pills) are effective if they can be used but might not be possible in less developed countries. Recent advances demonstrate that folate biofortification of food crops is now a feasible complementary strategy to fight folate deficiency worldwide. The genes and enzymes of folate synthesis are sufficiently understood to enable metabolic engineering of the pathway, and results from pilot engineering studies in plants (and bacteria) are encouraging. Here, we review the current status of investigations in the field of folate enhancement on the eve of a new era in food fortification. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 18083061 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 54: Pest Manag Sci. 2008 Apr;64(4):479-88. Comparison of herbicide regimes and the associated potential environmental effects of glyphosate-resistant crops versus what they replace in Europe. Kleter GA, Harris C, Stephenson G, Unsworth J. RIKILT-Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Wageningen, Holland. gijs.kleter@wur.nl While cultivation of transgenic crops takes place in seven of the EU member states, this constitutes a relatively limited part of the total acreage planted to these crops worldwide. The only glyphosate-resistant (GR) crop grown commercially until recently has been soybean in Romania. In addition, large-scale experimental European data exist for GR sugar and fodder beets, and, to a lesser extent, GR oilseed rape. These GR crops are likely to have an impact both on the use of herbicides and on the environmental impact of the latter. From the data on these GR crops, it appears that quantities of herbicides applied to GR beets are decreased while those on GR soybean are slightly increased compared with their conventional counterparts. Depending on the parameters used for prediction or measurement of environmental impacts of GR crops, generally similar or less negative impacts were observed compared with conventional crops. Favourable environmental effects of the glyphosate-containing herbicide regimes on GR crops appear feasible, provided appropriate measures for maintaining biodiversity and prevention of volunteers and gene flow are applied. Copyright (c) 2007 Society of Chemical Industry. Publication Types: Comparative Study Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18078305 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 55: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 2007;24:263-79. Production of polyunsaturated fatty acids in transgenic plants. Vrinten P, Wu G, Truksa M, Qiu X. Bioriginal Food and Science Corporation, 102 Melville Street, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7J 0R1, Canada. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18059637 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 56: Biotechnol Adv. 2008 Mar-Apr;26(2):162-8. Epub 2007 Nov 12. Advances in development of transgenic pulse crops. Eapen S. Nuclear Agriculture and Biotechnology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai-400085, India. eapenhome@yahoo.com It is three decades since the first transgenic pulse crop has been developed. Todate, genetic transformation has been reported in all the major pulse crops like Vigna species, Cicer arietinum, Cajanus cajan, Phaseolus spp, Lupinus spp, Vicia spp and Pisum sativum, but transgenic pulse crops have not yet been commercially released. Despite the crucial role played by pulse crops in tropical agriculture, transgenic pulse crops have not moved out from laboratories to large farm lands compared to their counterparts - 'cereals' and the closely related leguminous oil crop - 'soybean'. The reason for lack of commercialization of transgenic pulse crops can be attributed to the difficulty in developing transgenics with reproducibility, which in turn is due to lack of competent totipotent cells for transformation, long periods required for developing transgenics and lack of coordinated research efforts by the scientific community and long term funding. With optimization of various factors which influence genetic transformation of pulse crops, it will be possible to develop transgenic plants in this important group of crop species with more precision and reproducibility. A translation of knowledge from information available in genomics and functional genomics in model legumes like Medicago truncatula and Lotus japonicus relating to factors which contribute to enhancing crop yield and ameliorate the negative consequences of biotic and abiotic stress factors may provide novel insights for genetic manipulation to improve the productivity of pulse crops. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18055156 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 57: Plant Biotechnol J. 2008 Apr;6(3):213-25. Epub 2007 Nov 19. Regulating innovative crop technologies in Canada: the case of regulating genetically modified crops. Smyth S, McHughen A. College of Biotechnology, University of Saskatchewan, 51 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK, Canada S7N 5A8. stuart.smyth@usask.ca The advent of genetically modified crops in the late 1980s triggered a regulatory response to the relatively new field of plant genetic engineering. Over a 7-year period, a new regulatory framework was created, based on scientific principles that focused on risk mitigation. The process was transparent and deliberately sought the input of those involved in crop development from non-governmental organizations, industry, academia and federal research laboratories. The resulting regulations have now been in place for over a decade, and the resilience of the risk-mitigating regulations is evident as there has been no documented case of damage to either environment or human health. Publication Types: Review PMID: 18028290 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 58: Trends Plant Sci. 2007 Dec;12(12):548-55. Epub 2007 Nov 19. Transgenic strategies for the nutritional enhancement of plants. Zhu C, Naqvi S, Gomez-Galera S, Pelacho AM, Capell T, Christou P. Universitat de Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 191, E-25198 Lleida, Spain. The nutrients in the human diet ultimately come from plants. However, all our major food crops lack certain essential vitamins and minerals. Although a varied diet provides adequate nutrition, much of the human population, particularly in developing countries, relies on staple crops, such as rice or maize, which does not provide the full complement of essential nutrients. Malnutrition is a significant public health issue in most of the developing world. One way to address this problem is through the enhancement of staple crops to increase their essential nutrient content. Here, we review the current strategies for the biofortification of crops, including mineral fertilization and conventional breeding but focusing on transgenic approaches which offer the most rapid way to develop high-nutrient commercial cultivars. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 18006362 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 59: 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] 60: 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] 61: 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] 62: 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] 63: 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] 64: 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] 65: 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] 66: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1492-9. Application of current allergy assessment guidelines to next-generation biotechnology-derived crops. Bannon GA, Martino-Catt S. Monsanto Co., Global Regulatory Sciences, 800 N. Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63167, USA. gary.a.bannan@monsanto.com In any single day, our immune systems are exposed to thousands of different proteins from the environment and the food we eat. In a portion of the human population, some of those proteins will stimulate the immune systems to synthesize immunoglobulin E in an allergenic response. The discrepancy between the vast numbers of proteins we encounter and the limited number of proteins that actually become allergens have led scientists on a quest to discover what unique features exist that make proteins destined to be allergens. The information gained from these studies has led to an allergy assessment strategy that characterizes the potential allergenicity of biotechnology products prior to their commercialization. This testing strategy appears to be effective as shown by the fact that there have been no clinically documented food allergic reactions to any of the biotechnology proteins introduced into food crops, to date. The next generation of biotechnology products will most likely contain more complex traits, including nutritionally enhanced food crops, and the question arises as to whether the current allergy assessment strategy will be sufficient to protect the health of the consuming public. In this paper, we discuss general allergen characteristics in order to better understand how proteins become allergens, summarize the current allergy assessment process, evaluate the different aspects of this process for their adequacy in determining the allergenic potential of engineered functional foods, and, finally, we assess the possibility of new technologies having a positive impact on the allergy assessment of nutritionally enhanced crops. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17955998 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 67: J AOAC Int. 2007 Sep-Oct;90(5):1445-9. Delivering golden rice to developing countries. Mayer JE. Golden Rice Project, Campus Technologies Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany. jorge.mayer@goldenrice.org Micronutrient deficiencies create a vicious circle of malnutrition, poverty, and economic dependency that we must strive to break. Golden Rice offers a sustainable solution to reduce the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency-related diseases and mortality, a problem that affects the health of millions of children in all developing countries. The technology is based on the reconstitution of the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway by addition of 2 transgenes. The outcome of this high-tech approach will be provided to end users as nutrient-dense rice varieties that are agronomically identical to their own, locally adapted varieties. This intervention has the potential to reach remote rural populations without access to fortification and supplementation programs. As part of our delivery strategy, we are partnering with government and nongovernment, national and international agricultural institutions to navigate through cumbersome and expensive regulatory regimes that affect the release of genetically modified crops, and to create local demand for the biofortified rice varieties. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17955992 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 68: 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] 69: Food Chem Toxicol. 2008 Jan;46(1):9-33. Epub 2007 Sep 14. The application of post-market monitoring to novel foods. Hepburn P, Howlett J, Boeing H, Cockburn A, Constable A, Davi A, de Jong N, Moseley B, Oberdörfer R, Robertson C, Wal JM, Samuels F. Unilever, Safety and Environmental Assurance Centre, Colworth Park, Sharnbrook, Befordshire MK44 1LQ, United Kingdom. The role of post-market monitoring (PMM) in the safety assessment of novel foods is critically discussed in order to derive guidelines as to in which situations the application of PMM might be warranted. Available data sources on food consumption and health status, and the methodologies for generating such data are reviewed. The paper suggests improvements to make them more applicable for PMM purposes. It is concluded that any PMM programme must be a hypothesis-driven scientific exercise. PMM can have a role as a complement to, but not as a replacement for, a comprehensive pre-market safety assessment. Its use may be appropriate to confirm that product use is as predicted in the pre-market assessment; to provide reassurance that effects observed in the pre-market assessment occur with no greater frequency or intensity in the post-market phase than anticipated; and to investigate the significance of any adverse effects reported by consumers after market-launch. However PMM is insufficiently powerful to test the hypothesis that any effects seen in the pre-market assessment are absent in the post-market phase. Current methodologies place limitations on what PMM can achieve. PMM should only be used when triggered by or when the focus is on specific evidence-based questions. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17950974 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 70: 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] 71: Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2007 Dec;62(4):185-91. Epub 2007 Oct 11. Towards generating caffeine-free tea by metabolic engineering. Yadav SK, Ahuja PS. Biotechnology Division, Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, CSIR, Palampur, H.P. 176061, India. skyt@rediffmail.com Tea is a rich source of antioxidants which are contributing substantially to the promotion of health and the prevention of various chronic diseases. Despite the fact that tea has various important compounds, it also contains a purine alkaloid, caffeine. High intake of tea leads to an increase in level of caffeine in addition to its important antioxidant constituents. Increased level of caffeine causes several health related problems. Therefore, tea can become a most useful source of beneficial compounds, if only its caffeine level is either decreased or eliminated all together from the plant itself. This could be achieved through either of the techniques; overexpressing caffeine degradative pathway genes or silencing caffeine biosynthesis pathway gene. The identification and cloning of caffeine biosynthesis in tea and degradative genes in microorganisms opens up the possibility of using genetic engineering to produce naturally decaffeinated tea. Here we review these different strategies which can be employed to make caffeine-free tea, a human health beneficial drink. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17929169 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 72: Food Chem Toxicol. 2007 Nov;45(11):2073-85. Epub 2007 Aug 30. Report of an Expert Panel on the reanalysis by of a 90-day study conducted by Monsanto in support of the safety of a genetically modified corn variety (MON 863). Doull J, Gaylor D, Greim HA, Lovell DP, Lynch B, Munro IC. Pharmacology, Toxicology and Therapeutics, Division of Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, 1018A Briedenthal Building, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160-7417, USA. MON 863, a genetically engineered corn variety that contains the gene for modified Bacillus thuringiensis Cry3Bb1 protein to protect against corn rootworm, was tested in a 90-day toxicity study as part of the process to gain regulatory approval. This study was reanalyzed by Séralini et al. who contended that the study showed possible hepatorenal effects of MON 863. An Expert Panel was convened to assess the original study results as analyzed by the Monsanto Company and the reanalysis conducted by Séralini et al. The Expert Panel concludes that the Séralini et al. reanalysis provided no evidence to indicate that MON 863 was associated with adverse effects in the 90-day rat study. In each case, statistical findings reported by both Monsanto and Séralini et al. were considered to be unrelated to treatment or of no biological or clinical importance because they failed to demonstrate a dose-response relationship, reproducibility over time, association with other relevant changes (e.g., histopathology), occurrence in both sexes, difference outside the normal range of variation, or biological plausibility with respect to cause-and-effect. The Séralini et al. reanalysis does not advance any new scientific data to indicate that MON 863 caused adverse effects in the 90-day rat study. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17900781 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 73: Int J Food Microbiol. 2007 Oct 20;119(1-2):116-25. Epub 2007 Aug 19. Climatic models to predict occurrence of Fusarium toxins in wheat and maize. Schaafsma AW, Hooker DC. University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus, Ridgetown, Ontario, Canada N0P 2C0. aschaafs@ridgetownc.uoguelph.ca Although forecasting Fusarium infections have useful implications, it may be argued that forecasting Fusarium toxins is more useful to help reduce their entry into the food chain. Several disease incidence models have been commercialized for wheat, but only one toxin prediction model from Ontario, Canada, "DONcast", has been validated extensively and commercialized to date for wheat, and another has been proposed for maize. In the development of these predictive tools, the variation in toxin levels associated with year and agronomic effects was estimated from simple linear models using wheat and maize samples taken from farm fields. In wheat, environment effects accounted for 48% of the variation in deoxynivalenol (DON) across all fields, followed by variety (27%), and previous crop (14 to 28%). In maize, hybrid accounted for 25% of the variation of either DON or fumonisin, followed by environment (12%), and when combined 42% of the variability was accounted for. The robust site-specific, DON forecast model accounted for up to 80% of the variation in DON, and has been used commercially for 5 years in Canada. Forecasting DON and fumonisins in maize is more difficult, because of its greater exposure to infection, the role of wounding in infection, the more important role of hybrid susceptibility, and the vast array of uncharacterized hybrids available in the marketplace. Nevertheless, using data collected from controlled experiments conducted in Argentina and the Philippines, a model was developed to predict fumonisin concentration using insect damage and weather variables, accounting for 82% of the variability of fumonisins. Using mycotoxins as a measure of disease outcome, as opposed to disease symptoms, offers a more robust prediction of mycotoxin risk, and it accounts for mycotoxin accumulation that occurs frequently in the absence of any change in Fusarium symptoms. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17900733 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 74: Adv Food Nutr Res. 2007;53:161-98. Designer milk. Sabikhi L. Dairy Technology Division, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal 132001, Haryana, India. Dairy biotechnology is fast gaining ground in the area of altering milk composition for processing and/or animal and human health by employing nutritional and genetic approaches. Modification of the primary structure of casein, alteration in the lipid profile, increased protein recovery, milk containing nutraceuticals, and replacement for infant formula offer several advantages in the area of processing. Less fat in milk, altered fatty acid profiles to include more healthy fatty acids such as CLA and omega-fats, improved amino acid profiles, more protein, less lactose, and absence of beta-lactoglobulin (beta-LG) are some opportunities of "designing" milk for human health benefits. Transgenic technology has also produced farm animals that secrete in their milk, human lactoferrin, lysozyme, and lipase so as to simulate human milk in terms of quality and quantity of these elements that are protective to infants. Cow milk allergenicity in children could be reduced by eliminating the beta-LG gene from bovines. Animals that produce milk containing therapeutic agents such as insulin, plasma proteins, drugs, and vaccines for human health have been genetically engineered. In order to cater to animal health, transgenic animals that express in their mammary glands, various components that work against mastitis have been generated. The ultimate acceptability of the "designer" products will depend on ethical issues such as animal welfare and safety, besides better health benefits and increased profitability of products manufactured by the novel techniques. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17900499 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 75: Pest Manag Sci. 2007 Nov;63(11):1107-15. Altered pesticide use on transgenic crops and the associated general impact from an environmental perspective. Kleter GA, Bhula R, Bodnaruk K, Carazo E, Felsot AS, Harris CA, Katayama A, Kuiper HA, Racke KD, Rubin B, Shevah Y, Stephenson GR, Tanaka K, Unsworth J, Wauchope RD, Wong SS. RIKILT-Institute of Food Safety, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Wageningen, Holland. gijs.kleter@wur.nl The large-scale commercial cultivation of transgenic crops has undergone a steady increase since their introduction 10 years ago. Most of these crops bear introduced traits that are of agronomic importance, such as herbicide or insect resistance. These traits are likely to impact upon the use of pesticides on these crops, as well as the pesticide market as a whole. Organizations like USDA-ERS and NCFAP monitor the changes in crop pest management associated with the adoption of transgenic crops. As part of an IUPAC project on this topic, recent data are reviewed regarding the alterations in pesticide use that have been observed in practice. Most results indicate a decrease in the amounts of active ingredients applied to transgenic crops compared with conventional crops. In addition, a generic environmental indicator -- the environmental impact quotient (EIQ) -- has been applied by these authors and others to estimate the environmental consequences of the altered pesticide use on transgenic crops. The results show that the predicted environmental impact decreases in transgenic crops. With the advent of new types of agronomic trait and crops that have been genetically modified, it is useful to take also their potential environmental impacts into account. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17880042 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 76: Sci China C Life Sci. 2007 Oct;50(5):573-9. Progress in the evaluation of transgenic fish for possible ecological risk and its containment strategies. Hu W, Wang Y, Zhu Z. State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China. Genetically improved transgenic fish possess many beneficial economic traits; however, the commercial aquaculture of transgenic fish has not been performed till date. One of the major reasons for this is the possible ecological risk associated with the escape or release of the transgenic fish. Using a growth hormone transgenic fish with rapid growth characteristics as a subject, this paper analyzes the following: the essence of the potential ecological risks posed by transgenic fish; ecological risk in the current situation due to transgenic fish via one-factor phenotypic and fitness analysis, and mathematical model deduction. Then, it expounds new ideas and the latest findings using an artificially simulated ecosystem for the evaluation of the ecological risks posed by transgenic fish. Further, the study comments on the strategies and principles of controlling these ecological risks by using a triploid approach. Based on these results, we propose that ecological risk evaluation and prevention strategies are indispensable important components and should be accompanied with breeding research in order to provide enlightments for transgenic fish breeding, evaluation of the ecological risks posed by transgenic fish, and development of containment strategies against the risks. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17879053 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 77: 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] 78: 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] 79: Endocr Rev. 2007 Oct;28(6):664-84. Epub 2007 Sep 4. Neuropeptide y receptor selective ligands in the treatment of obesity. Kamiji MM, Inui A. Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirão Preto Campus 14048-900, Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil. Obesity is a serious public health problem throughout the world, affecting both developed societies and developing countries. The central nervous system has developed a meticulously interconnected circuitry in order to keep us fed and in an adequate nutritional state. One of these consequences is that an energy-dense environment favors the development of obesity. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is one of the most abundant and widely distributed peptides in the central nervous system of both rodents and humans and has been implicated in a variety of physiological actions. Within the hypothalamus, NPY plays an essential role in the control of food intake and body weight. Centrally administered NPY causes robust increases in food intake and body weight and, with chronic administration, can eventually produce obesity. NPY activates a population of at least six G protein-coupled Y receptors. NPY analogs exhibit varying degrees of affinity and specificity for these Y receptors. There has been renewed speculation that ligands for Y receptors may be of benefit for the treatment of obesity. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of Y(1), Y(2), Y(4), and Y(5) receptor agonists and antagonists as additional intervention to treat human obesity. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17785427 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 80: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2008 Feb 27;363(1492):905-13. The role of biotechnology for agricultural sustainability in Africa. Thomson JA. Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, Republic of South Africa. jennifer.thomson@uct.ac.za Sub-Saharan Africa could have a shortfall of nearly 90Mt of cereals by the year 2025 if current agricultural practices are maintained. Biotechnology is one of the ways to improve agricultural production. Insect-resistant varieties of maize and cotton suitable for the subcontinent have been identified as already having a significant impact. Virus-resistant crops are under development. These include maize resistant to the African endemic maize streak virus and cassava resistant to African cassava mosaic virus. Parasitic weeds such as Striga attack the roots of crops such as maize, millet, sorghum and upland rice. Field trials in Kenya using a variety of maize resistant to a herbicide have proven very successful. Drought-tolerant crops are also under development as are improved varieties of local African crops such as bananas, cassava, sorghum and sweet potatoes. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17761472 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 81: Int J Food Microbiol. 2007 Oct 20;119(1-2):147-51. Epub 2007 Jul 31. Opportunities for biotechnology and policy regarding mycotoxin issues in international trade. Kendra DF, Dyer RB. USDA-Agricultural Research Service, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, 1815 N. University Street, Peoria, Illinois 61604, USA. david.kendra@ars.usda.gov Despite being introduced more than a decade ago, agricultural biotechnology still remains framed in controversy impacting both the global economy and international regulations. Controversies surrounding agricultural biotechnology produced crops and foods commonly focus on human and environmental safety, intellectual property rights, consumer choice, ethics, food security, poverty reduction and environmental conservation. Originally, some consumers were reluctant to accept the first generation agricultural biotechnology products because they appeared to primarily benefit agricultural producers; however, it is clear from continued evaluations that these technologies also improved both the safety and wholesomeness of food and helped improve the environment. Plants engineered to resist insect pests and tolerate less toxic pesticides resulted in improved yields thereby enabling farmers to produce more food per acre while reducing the need for herbicides, pesticides, and water and tilling. An indirect benefit of reduced pest damage in transgenic corn expressing genes to control insect pests is lower levels of mycotoxins, most notably those caused by the genus Fusarium. Mycotoxins are an important regulatory issue globally because of their toxic and carcinogenic potential to humans and animals. Complicating this issue is the fact that toxicological databases for mycotoxins are relatively incomplete compared to other food contaminants. Current debates about agricultural biotechnology and mycotoxins reveal significant differences in perception of associated risks and benefits. When faced with uncertainty, regulators tend to set limits as low as possible. Additionally, some regulators invoke the "Precautionary Principle" when limited information is available or disputes over interpretation exist for possible contaminants, including mycotoxins. A major concern regarding use of the "Precautionary Principle" is the appearance that regulators can justify setting any limit on the basis of inconclusive or unknown potential hazards of a contaminant which may significantly impact global trade because mycotoxin residues vary widely between countries. This paper describes the current economic and heath impact of these regulations and their impact on international trade. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17727996 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 82: Int J Food Microbiol. 2007 Oct 20;119(1-2):126-30. Epub 2007 Jul 31. Strategies for managing Fusarium head blight and deoxynivalenol accumulation in wheat. Yuen GY, Schoneweis SD. Department of Plant Pathology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0722, United States. gyuen1@unl.edu Many mycotoxigenic fungi infect plant hosts and cause disease in the field. Therefore, control of field infection by these fungi is a critical step in managing mycotoxin accumulation in the harvested product. Fusarium graminearum, also known as Gibberella zeae, is the causal agent of Fusarium head blight (FHB), or scab, in cereals and is also the primary agent responsible for contamination of grain with deoxynivalenol (DON). Research efforts worldwide are devoted to the development of strategies to control field infection of wheat and barley by this pathogen. Strategies include the use of fungicides and biological control agents to protect flowering heads from infection. There is extensive effort in breeding for host resistance to infection and spread of the pathogen within the heads. Scientists are also seeking exogenous traits to introduce into cereals to enhance resistance. Cultural practices are also being examined, primarily as measures to reduce pathogen survival and inoculum production in crop residues. The successes and limitations of these strategies in the management of Fusarium head blight and deoxynivalenol are discussed. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17716767 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 83: Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;2(9):1141-6. Transparent communication strategy on GMOs: will it change public opinion? Sinemus K, Egelhofer M. Genius Gmbh, Darmstadt, Germany. Kristina.Sinemus@genius.de Innovations are central for the economic growth; however, the use of new technologies needs to be widely accepted in the general public and the society as a whole. Biotechnology in general, and the use of genetic engineering in food production in particular are seen critically by the European public and perceived as "risky", and a transatlantic divide between European and US citizens has been observed. This review investigates the reasons for those differing perceptions and proposes new strategies to communicate the benefits of biotechnology in agriculture to a broader public. When analyzing the dialogue process that has taken place between public, scientists, governmental organizations and industry, questions arise on what has been done differently in Europe, in order to propose new, more successful and efficient communication strategies for the future. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17703492 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 84: Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;2(9):1088-92. Intellectual property, genetically modified crops and bioethics. Adcock M. Department of Law, Durham University, Durham, UK. mike.adcock@durham.ac.uk The implementation of a new technology is almost always surrounded by a debate on the moral and social implications that may arise. The debate with regard to genetically modified (GM) crops has been one of the longest and most controversial. However, one area of the debate that receives less attention is the role that intellectual property can play. The introduction of an effective and yet appropriate intellectual property system addressing society's particular needs can eliminate some of these issues. This paper looks at whether the situation in Europe is meeting our current needs and also addresses the role intellectual property can play in the debate over the introduction of GM crops in developing countries. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17703487 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 85: Transgenic Res. 2007 Dec;16(6):675-88. Epub 2007 Aug 14. Genetically modified crops for the bioeconomy: meeting public and regulatory expectations. Chapotin SM, Wolt JD. US Agency for International Development, Washington, DC 20523, USA. As the United States moves toward a plant-based bioeconomy, a large research and development effort is focused on creating new feedstocks to meet biomass demand for biofuels, bioenergy, and specialized bioproducts, such as industrial compounds and biomaterial precursors. Most bioeconomy projections assume the widespread deployment of novel feedstocks developed through the use of modern molecular breeding techniques, but rarely consider the challenges involved with the use of genetically modified crops, which can include hurdles due to regulatory approvals, market adoption, and public acceptance. In this paper we consider the implications of various transgenic crops and traits under development for the bioeconomy that highlight these challenges. We believe that an awareness of the issues in crop and trait selection will allow developers to design crops with maximum stakeholder appeal and with the greatest potential for widespread adoption, while avoiding applications unlikely to meet regulatory approval or gain market and public acceptance. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17701080 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 86: J Dairy Sci. 2007 Sep;90(9):4005-21. Invited review: Advances in starter cultures and cultured foods. Cogan TM, Beresford TP, Steele J, Broadbent J, Shah NP, Ustunol Z. Moorepark Food Reseach Centre, Teagasc, Fermoy, Ireland. With 2005 retail sales close to $4.8 million, cultured dairy products are driving the growth of dairy foods consumption. Starter cultures are of great industrial significance in that they play a vital role in the manufacturing, flavor, and texture development of fermented dairy foods. Furthermore, additional interest in starter bacteria has been generated because of the data accumulating on the potential health benefits of these organisms. Today, starter cultures for fermented foods are developed mainly by design rather than by the traditional screening methods and trial and error. Advances in genetics and molecular biology have provided opportunities for genomic studies of these economically significant organisms and engineering of cultures that focuses on rational improvement of the industrially useful strain. Furthermore, much research has been published on the health benefits associated with ingesting cultured dairy foods and probiotics, particularly their role in modulating immune function. The aim of this review is to describe some of the major scientific advances made in starter and non-starter lactic acid bacteria during the past 10 yr, including genomic studies on dairy starter cultures, engineering of culture attributes, advances in phage control, developments in methods to enumerate lactic acid bacteria and probiotics in dairy foods, and the potential role of cultured dairy foods in modulation of immune function. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17699017 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 87: Forum Nutr. 2007;60:183-95. Prospects for improving the nutritional quality of dairy and meat products. Coffey SG. CSIRO Livestock Industries, St. Lucia, Australia. s.coffey@irl.cri.nz Knowledge of the function of human and animal genes and their interactions is rapidly increasing as a result of the completion of sequencing efforts for the human, bovine and other genomes. Through transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, we have the capacity to study the health effects of food compounds at the molecular level. The same tools that can assist the understanding of nutrigenomics in humans can also be applied to producing animal-derived foods with desired capacities to alter gene expression in humans. This, essentially, represents food taking another major step in value through the personalisation of health and nutrition. In its own right, nutrigenomics offers the potential to improve animal production enterprises through major health and productivity gains. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17684415 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 88: Trends Biotechnol. 2007 Sep;25(9):376-84. Epub 2007 Jul 30. Humanizing infant milk formula to decrease postnatal HIV transmission. Blais DR, Altosaar I. Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada. There are currently no safe methods for feeding babies born from the 16 million HIV-infected women living in resource-constrained countries. Breast milk can transmit HIV, and formula feeding can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses owing to unsanitary conditions and the composition of milk formulations. There is therefore a need to ensure that breast milk substitutes provide optimal health outcomes. Given that the immune properties of several breast milk proteins are known, transgenic food crops could facilitate inexpensive and safe reconstitution of the beneficial breast milk proteome in infant formulae, while keeping the HIV virus at bay. At least seven breast milk immune proteins have already been produced in food crops, and dozens more proteins could potentially be produced if fortified formula proves effective in nursing newborns born to HIV-infected mothers. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17659799 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 89: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2008 Feb 12;363(1491):591-609. Genetic contributions to agricultural sustainability. Dennis ES, Ellis J, Green A, Llewellyn D, Morell M, Tabe L, Peacock WJ. CSIRO Plant Industry, GPO Box 1600, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia. The current tools of enquiry into the structure and operation of the plant genome have provided us with an understanding of plant development and function far beyond the state of knowledge that we had previously. We know about key genetic controls repressing or stimulating the cascades of gene expression that move a plant through stages in its life cycle, facilitating the morphogenesis of vegetative and reproductive tissues and organs. The new technologies are enabling the identification of key gene activity responses to the range of biotic and abiotic challenges experienced by plants. In the past, plant breeders produced new varieties with changes in the phases of development, modifications of plant architecture and improved levels of tolerance and resistance to environmental and biotic challenges by identifying the required phenotypes in a few plants among the large numbers of plants in a breeding population. Now our increased knowledge and powerful gene sequence-based diagnostics provide plant breeders with more precise selection objectives and assays to operate in rationally planned crop improvement programmes. We can expect yield potential to increase and harvested product quality portfolios to better fit an increasing diversity of market requirements. The new genetics will connect agriculture to sectors beyond the food, feed and fibre industries; agri-business will contribute to public health and will provide high-value products to the pharmaceutical industry as well as to industries previously based on petroleum feedstocks and chemical modification processes. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17656342 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 90: Plant Biotechnol J. 2007 Sep;5(5):555-69. Epub 2007 Jul 21. Improving containment strategies in biopharming. Murphy DJ. Biotechnology Unit, Division of Biological Sciences, University of Glamorgan, Treforest, CF37 1DL, UK. dmurphy2@glam.ac.uk This review examines the challenges of segregating biopharmed crops expressing pharmaceutical or veterinary agents from mainstream crops, particularly those destined for food or feed use. The strategy of using major food crops as production vehicles for the expression of pharmaceutical or veterinary agents is critically analysed in the light of several recent episodes of contamination of the human food chain by non-approved crop varieties. Commercially viable strategies to limit or avoid biopharming intrusion into the human food chain require the more rigorous segregation of food and non-food varieties of the same crop species via a range of either physical or biological methods. Even more secure segregation is possible by the use of non-food crops, non-crop plants or in vitro plant cultures as production platforms for biopharming. Such platforms already under development range from outdoor-grown Nicotiana spp. to glasshouse-grown Arabidopsis, lotus and moss. Amongst the more effective methods for biocontainment are the plastid expression of transgenes, inducible and transient expression systems, and physical containment of plants or cell cultures. In the current atmosphere of heightened concerns over food safety and biosecurity, the future of biopharming may be largely determined by the extent to which the sector is able to maintain public confidence via a more considered approach to containment and security of its plant production systems. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17645439 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 91: Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2007 Aug;7(4):355-9. Animal models of anaphylaxis. Nauta A, Knippels L, Garssen J, Redegeld F. Numico Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands. PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In this review we will focus on recent advances in the role of mast cells in the pathophysiology of insect allergy and the possible mechanisms of mast cell activation in anaphylaxis. RECENT FINDINGS: Anaphylactic reactions in the mouse can be induced by several independent pathways involving immunoglobulin E, immunoglobulin free light chains, or immunoglobulin G. There is considerable evidence that mast cells play a central role in anaphylactic reactions to insect stings. Mast cells can be directly activated by components of insect venom or after allergic sensitization. Of interest is the observation that mast cells are not only effector cells in insect allergy, but may also play a protective role in preventing the development of severe anaphylactic responses or by controlling inflammatory reactions by modulation of antigen-specific T-cell responses. SUMMARY: The contribution of mast cells in anaphylactic responses to insect venom may be heterogeneous. On the one hand, activation of mast cells contributes to the pathology by the release of bioactive and tissue-damaging mediators. However, mast cell activation may neutralize constituents in insect venom and defend against the adverse effects of these toxins or they may modulate inflammation through downregulation of antigen-specific immune responses. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17620830 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 92: ScientificWorldJournal. 2007 Jun 22;7:1047-62. Cloning, structural characterization, and phylogenetic analysis of flower MADS-box genes from crocus (Crocus sativus L.). Tsaftaris AS, Polidoros AN, Pasentsis K, Kalivas A. Institute of Agrobiotechnology, Center for Research and Technology Hellas, Thermi, Greece. tsaft@certh.gr Crocus (Crocus sativus L.) is a crop species cultivated for its flowers and, more specifically, for its red stigmas. The flower of crocus is bisexual and sterile, since crocus is a triploid species. Its perianth consists of six petaloid tepals: three tepals in whorl 1 (outer tepals) and three tepals in whorl 2 (inner tepals). The androecium consists of three distinct stamens and the gynoecium consists of a single compound pistil with three carpels, a single three-branched style, and an inferior ovary. The dry form of the stigmas constitutes the commercial saffron used as a food additive, in the coloring industry, and in medicine. In order to uncover and understand the molecular mechanisms controlling flower development in cultivated crocus and its relative wild progenitor species, and characterize a number of crocus flower mutants, we have cloned and characterized different, full-length, cDNA sequences encoding MADS-box transcription factor proteins involved in flower formation. Here we review the different methods followed or developed for obtaining these sequences involving conventional 5 inverted exclamation markä 3 inverted exclamation markä RACE, as well as newly developed methods from our group, named Rolling Circle Amplification C RACE (RCA-RACE) and its modification named familyRCA-RACE (famRCA-RACE). Furthermore, the characteristics of the protein structure and their common and specific domains for each type of MADS-box transcription factors in this lower nongrass monocot belonging to the Iridaceae family are described. Finally, a phylogenetic tree of all the MADS-box sequences available in our lab is presented and discussed in relation to other data from studies of species of the Iridaceae group and closely related families from an evolutionary perspective. The structural and phylogenetic analyses are based on both published and unpublished data. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17619787 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 93: 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] 94: Transgenic Res. 2007 Oct;16(5):581-5. Epub 2007 Jul 6. Metabolic engineering of carotenoid accumulation by creating a metabolic sink. Li L, Van Eck J. USDA-ARS, Plant, Soil and Nutrition Laboratory, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. ll37@cornell.edu Carotenoids are highly beneficial for human nutrition and health because they provide essential nutrients and important antioxidants in our diets. However, many food crops, especially the major staple crops contain only trace to low amounts of carotenoids. Although significant progress has been made in developing food crops rich in carotenoids by altering the expression of carotenoid biosynthetic genes, in many cases it has proved to be difficult to reach the desired levels of carotenoid enrichment. The recent identification and characterization of a novel gene mutation in cauliflower reveals that creating a metabolic sink to sequester carotenoids is an important mechanism to control carotenoid accumulation in plants. The successful demonstration of increased carotenoid accumulation in association with the formation of sink structures in transgenic crops offers a new and alternative approach to increase carotenoid content. Manipulation of the formation of metabolic sink along with the catalytic activity of the pathway may represent a promising strategy for maximally improving the nutritional quality of food crops. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 17619157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 95: Theriogenology. 2007 Sep 1;68 Suppl 1:S3-8. Epub 2007 Jun 15. Regulation of animal biotechnology: research needs. Rexroad CE Jr, Green RD, Wall RJ. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 5601 Sunnyside Avenue, Rm. 4-2150, Beltsville, MD 20705-5134, USA. caird.rexroad@ars.usda.gov Livestock that result from biotechnology have been a part of agricultural science for over 30 years but have not entered the market place as food or fiber. Two biotechnologies are at the forefront as challenges to the world's systems for regulating the market place: animal clones and transgenic animals. Both technologies have come before the Food and Drug Administration in the United States and it appears that action is imminent for clones. The FDA has asserted principles for evaluation of clones and asserts that "... remaining hazard(s) from cloning are likely to be subtle in nature." The science-based principles recognize that in some areas related to developmental biology and gene expression in clones, additional scientific information would be useful. The role of science then is to use the genomic tools that we have available to answer questions about epigenetic regulation of development and reprogramming of genes to the state found in germ cells. Transgenics pose additional challenges to regulators. If the transgenics are produced using cloning from modified cells then the additional scientific information needed will be related to the effects of insertion and expression of the transgenes. Other approaches such as retrovirally vectored transgenesis will elicit additional questions. These questions will be challenging because the science will have to be related to the expression and function of each gene or class of genes. For the promises of animal biotechnology to be fulfilled, scientists will have to resolve many questions for regulators and the public but tools to answer those questions are rapidly becoming available. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17574657 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 96: Infect Genet Evol. 2008 Jul;8(4):520-5. Epub 2007 May 6. From population structure to genetically-engineered vectors: new ways to control vector-borne diseases? Sparagano OA, De Luna CJ. School of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Development, Agriculture Building, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. Olivier.Sparagano@ncl.ac.uk Epidemiological studies on vectors and the pathogens they can carry (such as Borrelia burgdorferi) are showing some correlations between infection rates and biodiversity highlighting the "dilution" effects on potential vectors. Meanwhile other studies comparing sympatric small rodent species demonstrated that rodent species transmitting more pathogens are parasitized by more ectoparasite species. Studies on population structure and size have also proven a difference on the intensity of the parasitic infection. Furthermore, preliminary results in genetic improvement in mosquitoes (genetic markers, sexing, and genetic sterilization) will also increase performance as it has already been shown in field applications in developing countries. Recent results have greatly improved the fitness of genetically-modified insects compared to wild type populations with new approaches such as the post-integration elimination of transposon sequences, stabilising any insertion in genetically-modified insects. Encouraging results using the Sterile Insect Technique highlighted some metabolism manipulation to avoid the viability of offspring from released parent insect in the wild. Recent studies on vector symbionts would also bring a new angle in vector control capabilities, while complete DNA sequencing of some arthropods could point out ways to block the deadly impact on animal and human populations. These new potential approaches will improve the levels of control or even in some cases would eradicate vector species and consequently the vector-borne diseases they can transmit. In this paper we review some of the population biology theories, biological control methods, and the genetic techniques that have been published in the last years that are recommended to control for vector-borne diseases. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17560836 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 97: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(5):441-98. Implementation of physicochemical and sensory analysis in conjunction with multivariate analysis towards assessing olive oil authentication/adulteration. Arvanitoyannis IS, Vlachos A. University of Thessaly, School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture Animal Production and Aquatic Environment, Volos, Hellas, Greece. parmenion@uth.gr The authenticity of products labeled as olive oils, and in particular as virgin olive oils, stands for a very important issue both in terms of its health and commercial aspects. In view of the continuously increasing interest in virgin olive oil therapeutic properties, the traditional methods of characterization and physical and sensory analysis were further enriched with more advanced and sophisticated methods such as HPLC-MS, HPLC-GC/C/IRMS, RPLC-GC, DEPT, and CSIA among others. The results of both traditional and "novel" methods were treated both by means of classical multivariate analysis (cluster, principal component, correspondence, canonical, and discriminant) and artificial intelligence methods showing that nowadays the adulteration of virgin olive oil with seed oil is detectable at very low percentages, sometimes even at less than 1%. Furthermore, the detection of geographical origin of olive oil is equally feasible and much more accurate in countries like Italy and Spain where databases of physical/chemical properties exist. However, this geographical origin classification can also be accomplished in the absence of such databases provided that an adequate number of oil samples are used and the parameters studied have "discriminating power." Publication Types: Review PMID: 17558656 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 98: Pest Manag Sci. 2007 Jul;63(7):658-76. Mites for the control of pests in protected cultivation. Gerson U, Weintraub PG. Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences, Rehovot 76100, Israel. The production of crops under protected conditions is increasing worldwide. Owing to growing consumer demands for healthy and green produce, and intensifying pesticide resistance, non-chemical solutions--foremost among which is biological control--are being sought. The authors review recent advances related to the application of predatory mites for the control of greenhouse pests, and discuss interactions among acarine biocontrol agents (ABAs) and the effects of crop plants and new technologies on ABAs, such as artificial lighting, elevated carbon dioxide levels and genetically modified organisms. This is followed by a discussion of the problems associated with the search for and use of new ABAs, including management, the benefits of modelling and avenues of future research. Copyright (c) 2007 Society of Chemical Industry. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17533640 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 99: 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] 100: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2007;107:133-51. Prospects for biopolymer production in plants. van Beilen JB, Poirier Y. Département de Biologie Moléculaire Végétale, Université de Lausanne, Bâtiment Biophore, 1015, Lausanne, Switzerland. It is likely that during this century polymers based on renewable materials will gradually replace industrial polymers based on petrochemicals. This chapter gives an overview of the current status of research on plant biopolymers that are used as a material in non-food applications. We cover technical and scientific bottlenecks in the production of novel or improved materials, and the potential of using transgenic or alternative crops in overcoming these bottlenecks. Four classes of biopolymers will be discussed: starch, proteins, natural rubber, and poly-beta-hydroxyalkanoates. Renewable polymers produced by chemical polymerization of monomers derived from sugars, vegetable oil, or proteins, are not considered here. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17522824 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 101: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2007;107:57-68. Genetically modified organisms in the United States: implementation, concerns, and public perception. Oeschger MP, Silva CE. Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA. moesch@lsuhsc.edu We examine the state of biotechnology with respect to genetically modified (GM) organisms in agriculture. Our focus is on the USA, where there has been significant progress and implementation but where, to date, the matter has drawn little attention. GM organisms are the result of lateral gene transfers, the transfer of genes from one species to another, or sometimes, from one kingdom to another. The introduction of foreign genes makes some people very uncomfortable, and a small group of activists have grave concerns about the technology. Attempts by activists to build concern in the general public have garnered little attention; however, the producers of GM organisms have responded to their concerns and established extensive testing programs to be applied to each candidate organism that is produced. In the meantime, GM varieties of corn, cotton, soybean and rapeseed have been put into agricultural production and are now extensively planted. These crops, and the other, newer GM crops, have produced no problems and have pioneered a silent agricultural revolution in the USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17522820 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 102: 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] 103: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 May;25(5):525-31. Functional foods from biotech--an unappetizing prospect? Powell K. kendall2@nasw.org In the early 1990s, functional foods promised to solve global malnutrition and put palatable options for treating ailments on grocery shelves. Since then, a meager number of products have ripened while the rest have turned sour. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17483833 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 104: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(4):363-87. Application of Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA), cause and effect analysis, and Pareto diagram in conjunction with HACCP to a corn curl manufacturing plant. Varzakas TH, Arvanitoyannis IS. Technological Educational Institute of Kalamata, School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Processing of Agricultural Products, Hellas, Greece. The Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) model has been applied for the risk assessment of corn curl manufacturing. A tentative approach of FMEA application to the snacks industry was attempted in an effort to exclude the presence of GMOs in the final product. This is of crucial importance both from the ethics and the legislation (Regulations EC 1829/2003; EC 1830/2003; Directive EC 18/2001) point of view. The Preliminary Hazard Analysis and the Fault Tree Analysis were used to analyze and predict the occurring failure modes in a food chain system (corn curls processing plant), based on the functions, characteristics, and/or interactions of the ingredients or the processes, upon which the system depends. Critical Control points have been identified and implemented in the cause and effect diagram (also known as Ishikawa, tree diagram, and the fishbone diagram). Finally, Pareto diagrams were employed towards the optimization of GMOs detection potential of FMEA. Publication Types: Case Reports Review PMID: 17457722 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 105: 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] 106: Transgenic Res. 2007 Jun;16(3):261-80. Epub 2007 Apr 14. Biosafety and risk assessment framework for selectable marker genes in transgenic crop plants: a case of the science not supporting the politics. Ramessar K, Peremarti A, Gómez-Galera S, Naqvi S, Moralejo M, Muñoz P, Capell T, Christou P. Departament de Produccio Vegetal i Ciencia Forestal, Universitat de Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 191, Lleida 25198, Spain. Selectable marker gene systems are vital for the development of transgenic crops. Since the creation of the first transgenic plants in the early 1980s and their subsequent commercialization worldwide over almost an entire decade, antibiotic and herbicide resistance selectable marker gene systems have been an integral feature of plant genetic modification. Without them, creating transgenic crops is not feasible on purely economic and practical terms. These systems allow the relatively straightforward identification and selection of plants that have stably incorporated not only the marker genes but also genes of interest, for example herbicide tolerance and pest resistance. Bacterial antibiotic resistance genes are also crucial in molecular biology manipulations in the laboratory. An unprecedented debate has accompanied the development and commercialization of transgenic crops. Divergent policies and their implementation in the European Union on one hand and the rest of the world on the other (industrialized and developing countries alike), have resulted in disputes with serious consequences on agricultural policy, world trade and food security. A lot of research effort has been directed towards the development of marker-free transformation or systems to remove selectable markers. Such research has been in a large part motivated by perceived problems with antibiotic resistance selectable markers; however, it is not justified from a safety point of view. The aim of this review is to discuss in some detail the currently available scientific evidence that overwhelmingly argues for the safety of these marker gene systems. Our conclusion, supported by numerous studies, most of which are commissioned by some of the very parties that have taken a position against the use of antibiotic selectable marker gene systems, is that there is no scientific basis to argue against the use and presence of selectable marker genes as a class in transgenic plants. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17436060 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 107: 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] 108: Rev Med Univ Navarra. 2006 Oct-Dec;50(4):62-70. [New challenges in basic and applied nutrition] [Article in Spanish] Palou A. Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Nutrición y Biotecnología (Nutrigenómica), Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma de Mallorca. The quality standards for nutrition and food have undergone major changes during recent years in parallel with the increase in scientific knowledge in the area of food and health. Trends in consumer demands are changing accordingly. While during the last century our concerns were firstly focused on ensuring the availability of basic foods and later on ensuring its safety, nowadays our society is concentrating on improving wellbeing and, particularly, on tackling and preventing the major chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, diverse types of cancer, osteoporosis and autoimmune diseases. These problems account for almost 50% of the diseases and 60% of deaths over the world, and are directly related with the food we eat, irrespective of the importance of other factors (age, sex, physical exercise, genetic predisposition, nicotine poisoning or alcoholism). Europe has decided to go ahead with a major legislative change in the food sector (the Regulation on nutrition and health claims made on foods) which opens new perspectives to improve public health and offer clear economic growth for the health-related food sector. Putting into practice this new legislation and its consequences constitutes a major challenge. Nevertheless, new challenges are foreseen: our response to food depends on our individual genetic characteristics (nutrigenetics); it also depends on the individual history that is being imprinted (in a permanent or temporary form) on our chromosomes (epigenetics), as determined by the individual life style (food, different episodes and facts, including emotions) and, particularly, nutrition during the most active stages of our development. For the future, the additional contribution we will ask of food is to promote health and well-being in all facets. The requirement is that it should develop in a free framework, based on the best scientific available advice, with transparency as a fundamental guarantee. In this context, new disciplines (e.g. nutrigenomics) are emerging and new trends towards a more conscious, better informed, consumer are foreseen that will allow an appropriate reaction to these new challenges in the medium and long term. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 17424771 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 109: Annu Rev Phytopathol. 2007;45:173-202. Safety of virus-resistant transgenic plants two decades after their introduction: lessons from realistic field risk assessment studies. Fuchs M, Gonsalves D. Department of Plant Pathology, Cornell University, New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, NY 14456, USA. mf13@cornell.edu Potential safety issues have been raised with the development and release of virus-resistant transgenic plants. This review focuses on safety assessment with a special emphasis on crops that have been commercialized or extensively tested in the field such as squash, papaya, plum, grape, and sugar beet. We discuss topics commonly perceived to be of concern to the environment and to human health--heteroencapsidation, recombination, synergism, gene flow, impact on nontarget organisms, and food safety in terms of allergenicity. The wealth of field observations and experimental data is critically evaluated to draw inferences on the most relevant issues. We also express inside views on the safety and benefits of virus-resistant transgenic plants, and recommend realistic risk assessment approaches to assist their timely deregulation and release. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 17408355 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 110: Lipids. 2007 Apr;42(3):179-85. Epub 2007 Mar 14. Engineering oilseed plants for a sustainable, land-based source of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Damude HG, Kinney AJ. Crop Genetics Research, DuPont Experimental Station, Wilmington, DE 19880-0353, USA. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the cardiovascular and mental health benefits of including very long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, namely eicospentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosohexaenoic acid (DHA) in the human diet. Certain fish oils can be a rich source of omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids although processed marine oils are generally undesirable as food ingredients because of the associated objectionable flavors and contaminants that are difficult and cost-prohibitive to remove. Oilseed plants rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flax and walnut oils, contain only the 18-carbon omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, which is poorly converted by the human body to EPA and DHA. It is now possible to engineer common omega-6 rich oilseeds such as soybean and canola to produce EPA and DHA and this has been the focus of a number of academic and industrial research groups. Recent advances and future prospects in the production of EPA and DHA in oilseed crops are discussed here. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17393224 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 111: Appetite. 2007 Jul;49(1):1-17. Epub 2007 Feb 24. Consumer acceptance of technology-based food innovations: lessons for the future of nutrigenomics. Ronteltap A, van Trijp JC, Renes RJ, Frewer LJ. Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The Netherlands. amber.ronteltap@wur.nl Determinants of consumer adoption of innovations have been studied from different angles and from the perspectives of various disciplines. In the food area, the literature is dominated by a focus on consumer concern. This paper reviews previous research into acceptance of technology-based innovation from both inside and outside the food domain, extracts key learnings from this literature and integrates them into a new conceptual framework for consumer acceptance of technology-based food innovations. The framework distinguishes 'distal' and 'proximal' determinants of acceptance. Distal factors (characteristics of the innovation, the consumer and the social system) influence consumers' intention to accept an innovation through proximal factors (perceived cost/benefit considerations, perceptions of risk and uncertainty, social norm and perceived behavioural control). The framework's application as a tool to anticipate consumer reaction to future innovations is illustrated for an actual technology-based innovation in food science, nutrigenomics (the interaction between nutrition and human genetics). Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17382433 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 112: Trends Biotechnol. 2007 May;25(5):201-3. Epub 2007 Mar 19. Food from cloned animals is part of our brave old world. Miller HI. The Hoover Institution, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-6010, USA. miller@hoover.stanford.edu When confronted by pressure from activists and Congress, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not always adopted policies and made decisions about individual products that accord with the scientific evidence. An example was the unnecessarily and markedly prolonged review of the veterinary drug bovine somatotropin (bST), or bovine growth hormone, during the 1980s. The FDA now faces a similar situation surrounding the question of whether meat and milk from cloned animals and their offspring are safe for human consumption. Having made a preliminary decision in the affirmative - based on an exhaustive analysis of scientific articles, health records, blood samples and studies of the composition of meat and milk - the agency has been beleaguered by criticisms. It remains to be seen whether, ultimately, science will trump anti-technology, anti-consumer activism. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17374411 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 113: FEMS Microbiol Lett. 2007 May;270(1):1-11. Epub 2007 Mar 16. Antimicrobial peptides and plant disease control. Montesinos E. Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology-CeRTA-CIDSAV, University of Girona, Girona, Spain. emonte@intea.udg.es Several diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi affect plant crops, resulting in losses and decreasing the quality and safety of agricultural products. Plant disease control relies mainly on chemical pesticides that are currently subject to strong restrictions and regulatory requirements. Antimicrobial peptides are interesting compounds in plant health because there is a need for new products in plant protection that fit into the new regulations. Living organisms secrete a wide range of antimicrobial peptides produced through ribosomal (defensins and small bacteriocins) or non-ribosomal synthesis (peptaibols, cyclopeptides and pseudopeptides). Several antimicrobial peptides are the basis for the design of new synthetic analogues, have been expressed in transgenic plants to confer disease protection or are secreted by microorganisms that are active ingredients of commercial biopesticides. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17371298 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 114: Vaccine. 2007 Jul 26;25(30):5504-11. Epub 2007 Feb 26. The immunology of bovine tuberculosis and progression toward improved disease control strategies. McNair J, Welsh MD, Pollock JM. Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Stoney Road, Stormont, Belfast BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. jim.mcnair@afbini.gov.uk Failure to remove cattle diseased with Mycobacterium bovis has immense financial implications for disease control, animal health and agricultural trade as well as the zoonotic risk to human health. Current disease control strategies based on DTH skin testing fail to detect all diseased cattle and additional measures are urgently needed to improve detection of disease and to prevent naïve animals becoming exposed to infection. Experimental models of bovine TB traditionally based on intra-nasal instillation, intra-tracheal inoculation or placed in-contact with infected cattle, have been further developed using aerosolised bacteria delivered to the respiratory tract, allowing field-like bovine TB to be recreated under controlled, experimental conditions. Experimental infection models have already been used to improve diagnostic tests. Specificity of DTH skin testing can be improved under experimental conditions, using recombinant ESAT-6, while laboratory assays such as IFN-gamma release have benefited from the use of defined proteins to improve assay specificity. In combination, antigen cocktails may also improve test sensitivity. There is a concerted international effort to evaluate vaccines for use in cattle populations and to define vaccination strategies which will eliminate disease from infected herds. DNA, protein and genetically modified vaccines inoculated in a single dose, given as prime-boost or injected concurrently, will elicit significant protection against challenge with M. bovis under controlled conditions. However, vaccines and vaccination strategies require evaluation under field conditions. Furthermore, complementary strategies are under development to differentiate immune responses that follow vaccination from those following disease. This paper describes those recent advances which may lead to the introduction of improved disease control strategies. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17363118 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 115: Vet Rec. 2007 Feb 17;160(7):215-8. Comment in: Vet Rec. 2007 Mar 10;160(10):347; author reply 347. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy and the safety of milk from Canadian dairy cattle. Tyshenko MG. McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, 1 Stewart Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N 6N5. The detection of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in beef cattle closed Canadian beef export markets to 30 countries, including the USA, with devastating financial losses. The detection and confirmation of the fifth and seventh BSE-infected animals but first infected dairy cows extended the problem of risk management to Canadian dairy farmers. As the public are concerned about the safety not only of beef but also of milk and milk products that may contain disease-causing prions, this review examines the evidence for the safety of milk from studies on prions in milk or colostrum and their vertical and lateral transmission in various animal systems. The evidence indicates that the risk of contracting new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease through the consumption of milk is negligible. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17308017 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 116: 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] 117: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2007 Apr;74(6):1175-85. Epub 2007 Feb 10. Hairy root type plant in vitro systems as sources of bioactive substances. Georgiev MI, Pavlov AI, Bley T. Institute of Food Technology and Bioprocess Engineering, Dresden University of Technology, 01069 Dresden, Germany. Milen.Georgiev@mailbox.tu-dresden.de "Hairy root" systems, obtained by transforming plant tissues with the "natural genetic engineer" Agrobacterium rhizogenes, have been known for more than three decades. To date, hairy root cultures have been obtained from more than 100 plant species, including several endangered medicinal plants, affording opportunities to produce important phytochemicals and proteins in eco-friendly conditions. Diverse strategies can be applied to improve the yields of desired metabolites and to produce recombinant proteins. Furthermore, recent advances in bioreactor design and construction allow hairy root-based technologies to be scaled up while maintaining their biosynthetic potential. This review highlights recent progress in the field and outlines future prospects for exploiting the potential utility of hairy root cultures as "chemical factories" for producing bioactive substances. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17294182 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 118: 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] 119: Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. 2007 Feb;27(1):105-27. New perspectives for use of native and engineered recombinant food proteins in treatment of food allergy. Nowak-Wegrzyn A. Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Box 1198, One G. Levy Place, NY 10029, USA. anna.nowak-wegrzyn@mssm.edu Food allergy has emerged as an important target for research on curative treatment and prevention, with most efforts focusing on peanut, cow's milk, and egg allergy. This article reviews the recent developments in the potential treatments for IgE-mediated food allergy using native and engineered recombinant food proteins. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Review PMID: 17276882 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 120: 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] 121: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):77-83. Risk assessment of meat and milk from cloned animals. Yang X, Tian XC, Kubota C, Page R, Xu J, Cibelli J, Seidel G Jr. Center for Regenerative Biology and Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut 06269-4243, USA. xiangzhong.yang@uconn.edu Research on, and commercialization of, cloned cattle has been conducted for more than 20 years. Early techniques relied on the physical splitting of embryos or using embryo cells for nuclear transfer to generate cloned animals. Milk and meat from these animals entered into the human food market with no evidence of problems. With the advent of nuclear transfer, which enables the direct transference and preservation of high-value meat- and milk-producing genotypes to offspring, concerns have been raised about whether the products from somatic cell nuclear transfer-produced animals are safe for human consumption. Studies on the biochemical properties of food products from cloned and noncloned animals have thus far not detected any differences. All data to date indicate no significant differences in the measured parameters between animals created by nuclear transfer and normally bred animals. Public acceptance of cloned animal products depends upon forthcoming US Food and Drug Administration approval along with convincing safety data. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17211406 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 122: Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):39-43. Animal cloning and the FDA--the risk assessment paradigm under public scrutiny. Rudenko L, Matheson JC, Sundlof SF. Center for Veterinary Medicine, US Food and Drug Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, 7500 Standish Place, Rockville, Maryland 20855, USA. larisa.rudenko@fda.hhs.gov The evidence gathered thus far--ultimately to be published in the Draft Risk Assessment on Animal Cloning--indicates that there are no unique risks associated with animal cloning. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17211392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 123: Recent Pat Biotechnol. 2007;1(1):75-97. Nutraceuticals, nutritional therapy, phytonutrients, and phytotherapy for improvement of human health: a perspective on plant biotechnology application. Zhao J. Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA. jzhao1@bcm.tmc.edu Plants are one of the most important resources of human foods and medicines. Rapidly increasing knowledge on nutrition, medicine, and plant biotechnology has dramatically changed the concepts about food, health and agriculture, and brought in a revolution on them. Nutritional therapy and phytotherapy have emerged as new concepts and healing systems have quickly and widely spread in recent years. Strong recommendations for consumption of nutraceuticals, natural plant foods, and the use of nutritional therapy and phytotherapy have become progressively popular to improve health, and to prevent and treat diseases. With these trends, improving the dietary nutritional values of fruits, vegetables and other crops or even bioactive components in folk herbals has become targets of the blooming plant biotechnology industry. This review attempts to display and remark on these aspects. It summarizes the progress made on nutraceuticals, nutritional therapy, phytonutrients, phytotherapy, and their related epidemiological investigations and clinical studies. It also covers markets of these health-promoting products and disease-preventing or healing systems, as well as regulations behind them that direct the development of biotechnology study and application. Finally, related patents are listed and briefly analyzed, regarding of plant biotechnological research and progress on transgenic crops to improve nutritional value, phytotherapy efficiency, or to produce pharmaceutically important secondary metabolites or high-valued protein medicines such as vaccines and antibodies. Publication Types: Review PMID: 19075834 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 124: J Biosci Bioeng. 2006 Nov;102(5):375-89. Developments in biotechnological production of sweet proteins. Masuda T, Kitabatake N. Division of Food Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan. Most proteins are tasteless and flavorless, while some proteins elicit a sweet-taste response on the human palate. Six proteins, thaumatin, monellin, mabinlin, brazzein, egg lysozyme, and neoculin (previously considered as curculin) have been identified as sweet-tasting proteins. However, no common features among them have been observed. Herein, recent advances in the research of sweet-tasting proteins and the production of such proteins by biotechnological approaches are reviewed. Information on the structure-sweetness relationship for these proteins would help not only in the clarification of the mechanism of interaction of sweet-tasting proteins with their receptors, but also in the design of more effective low-calorie sweeteners. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17189164 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 125: Adv Exp Med Biol. 2007;591:1-13. Nuclear remodeling and nuclear reprogramming for making transgenic pigs by nuclear transfer. Prather RS. Division of Animal Science, Food for the 21st Century, College of Food, Agriculture & Natural Resources, University of Missouri-Columbia, 920 East Campus Drive, E125 ASRC, Columbia, Missouri 65211-5300, USA. PratherR@missouri.edu A better understanding of the cellular and molecular events that occur when a nucleus is transferred to the cytoplasm of an oocyte will permit the development of improved procedures for performing nuclear transfer and cloning. In some cases it appears that the gene(s) are reprogrammed, while in other cases there appears to be little effect on gene expression. Not only does the pattern of gene expression need to be reprogrammed, but other structures within the nucleus also need to be remodeled. While nuclear transfer works and transgenic and knockout animals can be created, it still is an inefficient process. However, even with the current low efficiencies this technique has proved very valuable for the production of animals that might be useful for tissue or organ transplantation to humans. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 17176551 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 126: Methods Mol Biol. 2007;354:183-95. Methods for engineering resistance to plant viruses. Sudarshana MR, Roy G, Falk BW. Western Institute for Food Safety and Security, University of California, Davis, USA. The development of genetically engineered resistance to plant viruses is a result of efforts to understand the plant-virus interactions involved in "crossprotection," a phenomenon observed with several plant virus diseases. Historically, expression of the coat protein gene of Tobacco mosaic virus in transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plants is the first example of transgene-mediated resistance to a plant virus. Subsequently, virus-derived sequences of several plant viruses were shown to confer virus resistance in experimental and/or natural hosts. For plant RNA viruses, virus complementary DNA sequences shown to confer resistance include wild-type genes, mutated genes that produced truncated protein products, and nontranslatable sense or antisense transcripts to various regions of the virus genome. Resistance also has been demonstrated for some viruses by mutant trans-dominant gene products, derived from the movement protein and replication-associated protein genes. In addition to virus-derived sequences, gene sequences of plant origin have also been used for transgenic resistance, and such resistance can be virus-specific, for instance, R genes isolated from resistant plant genotypes, or nonspecific, for example, ribosome inactivating proteins and proteinase inhibitors. Plantibodies and 2-5A synthetase, a class of proteins of mammalian origin, have also been useful in engineering plant virus resistance. In the case of transgenic resistance mediated by viral coat protein, the mechanism of resistance was suggested to operate during the early events of virus infection. However, transgene-mediated RNA silencing and generation of small interfering RNAs appears to be the primary mechanism that confers resistance to plant viruses. Despite the advantages of transgene-mediated resistance, current interest in the development and use of transgenic virus resistant plants is low in most parts of the world. However, because of its real potential, we believe that this technology will have more widespread and renewed interest in the near future. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17172755 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 127: An Acad Bras Cienc. 2006 Dec;78(4):667-86. GMOs: building the future on the basis of past experience. Reis LF, Van Sluys MA, Garratt RC, Pereira HM, Teixeira MM. Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. lreis@ludwig.org.br Biosafety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their derivatives is still a major topic in the agenda of government and societies worldwide. The aim of this review is to bring into light that data that supported the decision taken back in 1998 as an exercise to stimulate criticism from the scientific community for upcoming discussions and to avoid emotional and senseless arguments that could jeopardize future development in the field. It must be emphasized that Roundup Ready soybean is just one example of how biotechnology can bring in significant advances for society, not only through increased productivity, but also with beneficial environmental impact, thereby allowing more rational use of agricultural pesticides for improvement of the soil conditions. The adoption of agricultural practices with higher yield will also allow better distribution of income among small farmers. New species of genetically modified plants will soon be available and society should be capable of making decisions in an objective and well-informed manner, through collegiate bodies that are qualified in all aspects of biosafety and environmental impact. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17143405 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 128: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2006 Oct;1081:1-16. Biodiversity and emerging diseases. Maillard JC, Gonzalez JP. Cirad-Emvt/PRISE Hanoi, Vietnam. maillard@fpt.vn First we remind general considerations concerning biodiversity on earth and particularly the loss of genetic biodiversity that seems irreversible whether its origin is directly or indirectly linked to human activities. Urgent and considerable efforts must be made from now on to cataloge, understand, preserve, and enhance the value of biodiversity while ensuring food safety and human and animal health. Ambitious integrated and multifield research programs must be implemented in order to understand the causes and anticipate the consequences of loss of biodiversity. Such losses are a serious threat to sustainable development and to the quality of life of future generations. They have an influence on the natural balance of global biodiversity in particularly in reducing the capability of species to adapt rapidly by genetic mutations to survive in modified ecosystems. Usually, the natural immune systems of mammals (both human and animal), are highly polymorphic and able to adapt rapidly to new situations. We more specifically discuss the fact that if the genetic diversity of the affected populations is low the invading microorganisms, will suddenly expand and create epidemic outbreaks with risks of pandemic. So biodiversity appears to function as an important barrier (buffer), especially against disease-causing organisms, which can function in different ways. Finally, we discuss the importance of preserving biodiversity mainly in the wildlife ecosystems as an integrated and sustainable approach among others in order to prevent and control the emergence or reemergence of diseases in animals and humans (zoonosis). Although plants are also part of this paradigm, they fall outside our field of study. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17135490 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 129: J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Nov 29;54(24):8984-94. Applications of metabolomics in agriculture. Dixon RA, Gang DR, Charlton AJ, Fiehn O, Kuiper HA, Reynolds TL, Tjeerdema RS, Jeffery EH, German JB, Ridley WP, Seiber JN. Plant Biology Division, Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, 2510 Sam Noble Parkway, Ardmore, OK 73401, USA. Biological systems are exceedingly complex. The unraveling of the genome in plants and humans revealed fewer than the anticipated number of genes. Therefore, other processes such as the regulation of gene expression, the action of gene products, and the metabolic networks resulting from catalytic proteins must make fundamental contributions to the remarkable diversity inherent in living systems. Metabolomics is a relatively new approach aimed at improved understanding of these metabolic networks and the subsequent biochemical composition of plants and other biological organisms. Analytical tools within metabolomics including mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can profile the impact of time, stress, nutritional status, and environmental perturbation on hundreds of metabolites simultaneously resulting in massive, complex data sets. This information, in combination with transcriptomics and proteomics, has the potential to generate a more complete picture of the composition of food and feed products, to optimize crop trait development, and to enhance diet and health. Selected presentations from an American Chemical Society symposium held in March 2005 have been assembled to highlight the emerging application of metabolomics in agriculture. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17117782 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 130: Theriogenology. 2007 Jan 1;67(1):188-97. Epub 2006 Nov 13. Current status of regulating biotechnology-derived animals in Canada: animal health and food safety considerations. Kochhar HP, Evans BR. Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Ottawa, Ont, Canada. hkochhar@inspection.gc.ca Development of an effective regulatory system for genetically engineered animals and their products has been the subject of increasing discussion among researchers, industry and policy developers, as well as the public. Since transgenesis and cloning are relatively new scientific techniques, transgenic animals are 'novel' organisms for which there is limited information. The issues associated with the regulation of transgenic animals pertain to environmental impact, human food safety, animal health and welfare, trade and ethics. It is a challenge for the developers to prove the safety of the products of biotechnology-derived animals and also for regulators to regulate this increasingly powerful technology with limited background information. In principle, an effective regulatory sieve should permit safe products while forming a formidable barrier for those posing an unacceptable risk. Regulatory initiatives for biotechnology-derived animals and their products should be able to ensure high standards for human and animal health, a sound scientific basis for evaluation; transparency and public involvement, and maintenance of genetic diversity. This review proposes a regulatory regime that is based on scientific risk based assessment and approval of products or by-products of biotechnology-derived animals and its application in context to Canadian regulations. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17097725 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 131: Biotechnol Lett. 2006 Dec;28(24):1983-91. Epub 2006 Nov 2. Review: Genetically modified plants for the promotion of human health. Yonekura-Sakakibara K, Saito K. RIKEN Plant Science Center, 1-7-22, Suehiro, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, 230-0045, Japan. Plants are attractive biological resources because of their ability to produce a huge variety of chemical compounds, and the familiarity of production in even the most rural settings. Genetic engineering gives plants additional characteristics and value for cultivation and post-harvest. Genetically modified (GM) plants of the "first generation" were conferred with traits beneficial to producers, whereas GM plants in subsequent "generations" are intended to provide beneficial traits for consumers. Golden Rice is a promising example of a GM plant in the second generation, and has overcome a number of obstacles for practical use. Furthermore, consumer-acceptable plants with health-promoting properties that are genetically modified using native genes are being developed. The emerging technology of metabolomics will also support the commercial realization of GM plants by providing comprehensive analyzes of plant biochemical components. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17080241 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 132: Annu Rev Plant Biol. 2007;58:1-19. From analysis of mutants to genetic engineering. von Wettstein D. Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, School of Molecular Biosciences and Center for Integrated Biotechnology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6420, USA. diter@wsu.edu This chapter describes the research of developing transgenic barley for synthesis of recombinant proteins with practical significance and of metabolic engineering of proanthocyanidin-free barley. The results were obtained by graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and visiting scientists at the Carlsberg Laboratory from 1972-1996 and during the past ten years at Washington State University. It is written in appreciation of their enthusiasm, skill, and perseverance. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17067283 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 133: 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] 134: Theriogenology. 2007 Jan 1;67(1):185-7. Epub 2006 Oct 20. Regulatory considerations on transgenic livestock in Japan in relation to the Cartagena protocol. Yamanouchi K. Nippon Institute for Biological Science, 9-2221-1 Shin-Machi, Ome, Tokyo, Japan. yamanokazu@aol.com In Japan, the development and application of living modified organisms (LMOs) are regulated by law (conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity law). Procedures are classed as type 1 for the use of LMOs where no preventive measures against their dispersal into the environment are required and type 2 for the use of LMOs where preventive measures are stipulated. Development and research on transgenic livestock falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, Sports and Technology. Field use of transgenic livestock is controlled by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The author describes risk assessment and management of transgenic livestock by both ministries. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17055568 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 135: Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2007 Feb;17(2):74-81. Epub 2006 Oct 13. Assessment of usual dietary intake in population studies of gene-diet interaction. Tucker KL. Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, 711 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111, USA. katherine.tucker@tufts.edu AIMS: Dietary intake is a critical environmental exposure when considering the effect of many genetic factors on disease risk. However, dietary intake is a complex and changing measure that requires particular care in assessment. DATA SYNTHESIS: Although weighed diet records can theoretically provide the most accurate assessment of intake, they are usually not realistic in large population studies due to heavy respondent burden, likelihood of poor compliance, and the cost of data entry. Multiple 24-h dietary recalls can provide excellent detail, allowing for diverse dietary practices, but they are costly and require multiple contacts with participants. Food frequency questionnaires are the most cost-effective tool for assessing usual intake, particularly for micronutrients with high day-to-day variability. However, they have limitations for diverse populations and recent studies have questioned their ability to measure macronutrient intakes for assessing diet and disease relationships. CONCLUSION: At the present time, food frequencies remain the most cost-effective tool for large population studies. However, their limitations must be fully appreciated and demonstration of validity for nutrients of concern in the populations under study is essential. When macronutrients are of key interest, consideration should be given to the use of multiple recalls. Records may be used only in educated and compliant populations. Continued efforts to improve dietary assessment methodology must be investigated. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17046222 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 136: Biotechnol Lett. 2006 Dec;28(23):1877-88. Epub 2006 Sep 22. IgE binding to proteins from sesame and assessment of allergenicity: implications for biotechnology? Orruño E, Morgan MR. Procter Department of Food Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK, prceo@leeds.ac.uk Successful prediction of the potential allergenicity of a protein may be a key factor in the development of novel, genetically modified foods. The use of the decision tree approach for the prediction of allergenicity is discussed. The methods currently used for identifying allergenic proteins (including use of IgE from patient sera for recognition of proteins) are reviewed. Finally, a specific review of the literature concerning identification of allergens from sesame leads to the conclusion that in the absence of validated animal models, identification of allergenicity (and, consequently, prediction of allergenicity) may be problematic. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 17028779 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 137: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 2004;21:325-67. Design of safe and biologically contained transgenic plants: tools and technologies for controlled transgene flow and expression. Gleba Y, Marillonnet S, Klimyuk V. Icon Genetics AG, Biozentrum Halle, Weinbergweg 22, D-06120 Halle/Saale, Germany. gleba@icongenetics.de Publication Types: Review PMID: 17017039 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 138: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 2004;21:299-324. Safety testing and regulation of genetically engineered foods. Freese W, Schubert D. Friends of the Earth U.S., 1717 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20036, USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 17017038 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 139: Methods Mol Biol. 2006;343:407-14. Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius). Zambre M, Van Montagu M, Angenon G, Terryn N. Insitute Plant Biotechnology for Developing Countries, University of Ghent, Gent, Belgium. Phaseolus beans are among the major legumes for food consumption, especially in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius L. Gray) is one of the five cultivated species of the genus Phaseolus. This chapter describes an Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol for P. acutifolius based on cocultivation of callus, derived from cotyledonary nodes, with Agrobacterium. The selectable marker gene used is neomycin phosphotransferase II (nptII), and the selection agent is geneticin. Selection of transgenic callus material is achieved through four to five passages on geneticin-containing medium, after which shoots are induced on medium without selection agent. The protocol as described here has been applied to transform a cultivated variety of P. acutifolius, TB1, and also with some modifications to a wild genotype, NI576 and another cultivated variety, PI440795. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16988363 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 140: Methods Mol Biol. 2006;343:359-67. Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.). Sharma KK, Sreelatha G, Dayal S. Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Andhra Pradesh, India. Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.], also known as redgram, is one of the major grain legume (pulses) crops grown in the semiarid tropics (SAT) extending between 30 degrees N and 30 degrees S; it is the second most important food legume of India. It is cultivated in about 50 countries of Asia, Africa, and the Americas for a variety of uses (food, fodder, fuel wood, rearing lac insects, hedges, wind breaks, soil conservation, green manure, roofing, and so on). The constraints of enhancing its productivity include the damage caused by various fungi, bacteria, viruses, and insect pests. Conventional plant breeding methods have not been successful for the improvement of pigeonpea because of genetic variation and incompatibility among the wild varieties. Genetic engineering technology can therefore be used as an additional tool for the introduction of agronomically useful traits into established varieties. The development of plant transformation techniques has been a major breakthrough in overcoming constraints to achieve precision in genetic manipulation. The development of efficient plant regeneration protocols is a prerequisite for recombinant technology to carry out genetic transformation. This chapter describes an Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol for pigeonpea, a simple, efficient, and reproducible method that is applicable across diverse genotypes of pigeonpea. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16988359 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 141: Methods Mol Biol. 2006;343:337-45. Peas (Pisum sativum L.). Grant J, Cooper P. New Zealand for Crop & Food Research, Ltd., Christchurch, New Zealand. In this chapter we describe a robust method for transformation of peas that has been successfully used in our laboratory since 1992. Using immature pea seed collected from field- or greenhouse-grown plants, we have produced transgenic lines for over 30 genotypes including named pea cultivars and advanced breeding lines. This method uses immature cotyledons as the explant, and the transformation efficiency is in the range 0.2 to 13.5% of cotyledons producing at least one independently transformed line. Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains AGL1 and KYRT1 are the most successful in our procedure, and kanamycin, phosphinothricin, and hygromycin are reliable selectable markers. Potentially useful genes have been introduced for pest and disease resistance, altering quality traits, and investigating metabolic pathways and are being studied in transgenic pea lines. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16988357 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 142: Methods Mol Biol. 2006;343:313-23. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Sharma KK, Bhatnagar-Mathur P, Jayanand B. Genetic Transformation Laboratory, International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Andhra Pradesh, India. Chickpea is one of the most important leguminous, cool-season, food crops, cultivated prevalently in the Asian Pacific region. In spite of its nutritional importance, its area of cultivation has been low, with virtually no increase. Conventional breeding has resulted in several important improvements in this crop, and recent advances in biotechnology such as plant tissue culture and genetic transformation can significantly contribute to better sustainability of this important food crop. Here, we describe an efficient Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol for chickpea using axillary meristem explants, which results in a high frequency of genetic transformation (70%) and recovery of valuable transgenic plants. The protocol is significant owing to its high reproducibility and recovery of the transgenics in a relatively short period (90-100 days). Publication Types: Review PMID: 16988355 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 143: Methods Mol Biol. 2006;343:201-12. Indica rice (Oryza sativa, BR29 and IR64). Datta K, Datta SK. International Rice Research Institute, Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology Division, Tissue Culture and Genetic Engineering Laboratory, Metro Manila, Philippines. Rice is the world's most important food crop. Indica-type rice provides the staple food for more than half of the world population. To satisfy the growing demand of the ever-increasing population, more sustained production of indica-type rice is needed. In addition, because of the high per capita consumption of indica rice, improvement of any traits including its nutritive value may have a significant positive health outcome for the rice-consuming population. Rice yield productivity is greatly affected by different biotic stresses, like diseases and insect pests, and abiotic stresses like drought, cold, and salinity. Attempts to improve resistance in rice to these stresses by conventional breeding through introgression of traits have limited success owing to a lack of resistance germplasm in the wild relatives. Gene transfer technology with genes from other sources can be used to make rice plants resistant or tolerant to insect pests, diseases, and different environmental stresses. For improving the nutritional value of the edible endosperm part of the rice, genes for increasing iron, beta-carotene, or better quality protein can be introduced in rice plants by genetic engineering. Different crops have been transformed using various gene transfer methods, such as protoplast transformation, biolistic, and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. This chapter describes the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol for indica-type rice. The selectable marker genes used are hygromycin phosphotransferase (hpt), neomycin phosphotransferase (nptII), or phosphomannose isomerase (pmi), and, accordingly, the selection agents are hygromycin, kanamycin (G418), or mannose, respectively. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16988345 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 144: Methods Mol Biol. 2006;342:321-34. Transgene-like animal models using intronic microRNAs. Lin SL, Chang SJ, Ying SY. Department of Cell and Neurobiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA. Transgenic animal models are valuable tools for testing gene functions and drug mechanisms in vivo. They are also the best similitude of a human body for etiological and pathological research of diseases. All pharmaceutically developed drugs must be proven safe and effective in animals before approval by the Food and Drug Administration to be used in clinical trials. To this end, the transgenic animal models of human diseases serve as a front line for drug evaluation. However, there is currently no transgenic animal model for microRNA (miRNA) research. miRNAs, small single-stranded regulatory RNAs capable of silencing intracellular gene transcripts that contain either complete or partial complementarity to the miRNAs, are useful for the design and development of new therapies against cancer polymorphism and viral mutation. Recently, varieties of natural miRNAs have been found to be derived from hairpin-like RNA precursors in almost all eukaryotes, including yeast (Schizosaccharomyces pombe), plant (Arabidopsis), nematode (Caenorhabditis elegans), fly (Drosophila melanogaster), fish, mouse, and human, involving intracellular defense against viral infections and regulation of certain gene expressions during development. To facilitate the miRNA research in vivo, we have developed a state-of-the-art transgenic strategy for silencing specific genes in zebrafish, chicken, and mouse, using intronic miRNAs. By insertion of a hairpin-like pre-miRNA structure into the intron region of a gene, we have found that mature miRNAs were successfully transcribed by RNA polymerase (Pol)-II, coexpressed with the encoding gene transcript, and excised out of the encoding gene transcript by natural RNA splicing and processing mechanisms. In conjunction with retroviral transfection systems, the hairpin-like pre-miRNA construct was further inserted into the intron of a cellular gene for tissue-specific expression regulated by the gene promoter. Because the retroviral vectors were randomly integrated into the genome of its host cell, the most effective transgenic animal can be selected and propagated to be a stable transgenic line for future research. Here, we have shown for the first time that transgene-like animal models were generated using the intronic miRNA-expressing system described previously, which has been proven to be useful for both miRNA research and in vivo evaluation of miRNA-associated target genes. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Review PMID: 16957386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 145: Crit Rev Biotechnol. 2006 Jul-Sep;26(3):121-43. Biotechnological methods to accelerate cheddar cheese ripening. Azarnia S, Robert N, Lee B. Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada. Cheese is one of the dairy products that can result from the enzymatic coagulation of milk. The basic steps of the transformation of milk into cheese are coagulation, draining, and ripening. Ripening is the complex process required for the development of a cheese's flavor, texture and aroma. Proteolysis, lipolysis and glycolysis are the three main biochemical reactions that are responsible for the basic changes during the maturation period. As ripening is a relatively expensive process for the cheese industry, reducing maturation time without destroying the quality of the ripened cheese has economic and technological benefits. Elevated ripening temperatures, addition of enzymes, addition of cheese slurry, attenuated starters, adjunct cultures, genetically engineered starters and recombinant enzymes and microencapsulation of ripening enzymes are traditional and modern methods used to accelerate cheese ripening. In this context, an up to date review of Cheddar cheese ripening is presented. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16923531 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 146: 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] 147: Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2006 Jul-Aug;10(4):197-206. Benefits and concerns associated with biotechnology-derived foods: can additional research reduce children health risks? Cantani A. Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division, Pediatric Department, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy. The development of techniques devised for the genetic manipulation of foods poses new risks for children with food allergy (FA). The introduction of foreign allergenic proteins from different foods into previously tolerated foods may trigger allergic reactions, often complicating with anaphylactic shock in a subset of allergic babies. Children with FA, even if subjected to preventative diets, always challenge the risk of developing allergic manifestations after unintentional intake of a non tolerated food in restaurant settings, with relatives or schoolmates, etc, where product labelling is necessarily lacking. The introduction of potentially allergenic proteins into foods generally considered safe for allergic children can be done deliberately, by either substantially altering the food ingredients, or by genetic manipulation which change the composition or transfer allergens, or unintentionally by quality-control failures, due to contaminations in the production process, or to genetic mismanipulation. There is a controversy between multinationals often favored by governments and consumer association resistance, thus an equidistant analysis poses some unprecedented impediments. The importance of FA and the potential of transgenic plants to bring food allergens into the food supply should not be disregarded. The expression in soybeans of a Brazil nut protein resulted in a food allergen expressed in widely used infant formulas, so paving the way to an often reported multinational debacle. Genetic engineering poses innovative ethical and social concerns, as well as serious challenges to the environment, human health, animal welfare, and the future of agriculture. In this paper will be emphasized practical concepts more crucial for pediatricians. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16910351 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 148: Transgenic Res. 2006 Aug;15(4):405-7. Cloned transgenic heart-healthy pork? Prather RS. Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, 920 East Campus Drive, E125 Animal Science Research centre, Columbia, MO 65211, USA. pratherr@missouri.edu Here I comment on the production and uses of swine that express a humanized fat-1 gene. The gene product is a fatty acid desaturase that converts omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been implicated as being important for reproductive success, maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system, sustaining a functional immune system, and even preventing depression and cancer. The descendants of these hfat-1 transgenic swine will be very useful as models of the human condition, and if they are permitted to enter the food chain, they may improve human health. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16906441 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 149: Nestle Nutr Workshop Ser Pediatr Program. 2006;58:207-15; discussion 215-7. Recombinant human milk proteins. Lönnerdal B. Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA, USA. Human milk provides proteins that benefit newborn infants. They not only provide amino acids, but also facilitate the absorption of nutrients, stimulate growth and development of the intestine, modulate immune function, and aid in the digestion of other nutrients. Breastfed infants have a lower prevalence of infections than formula-fed infants. Since many women in industrialized countries choose not to breastfeed, and an increasing proportion of women in developing countries are advised not to breastfeed because of the risk of HIV transmission, incorporation of recombinant human milk proteins into infant foods is likely to be beneficial. We are expressing human milk proteins known to have anti-infective activity in rice. Since rice is a normal constituent of the diet of infants and children, limited purification of the proteins is required. Lactoferrin has antimicrobial and iron-binding activities. Lysozyme is an enzyme that is bactericidal and also acts synergistically with lactoferrin. These recombinant proteins have biological activities identical to their native counterparts. They are equally resistant to heat processing, which is necessary for food applications, and to acid and proteolytic enzymes which are needed to maintain their biological activity in the gastrointestinal tract of infants. These recombinant human milk proteins may be incorporated into infant formulas, baby foods and complementary foods, and used with the goal to reduce infectious diseases. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16902336 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 150: J Environ Qual. 2006 Aug 9;35(5):1633-58. Print 2006 Sep-Oct. The current status and environmental impacts of glyphosate-resistant crops: a review. Cerdeira AL, Duke SO. Brazilian Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Embrapa/Environment, C.P. 69, Jaguariuna-SP-13820-000, Brazil. Glyphosate [N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine]-resistant crops (GRCs), canola (Brassica napus L.), cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), maize (Zea mays L.), and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] have been commercialized and grown extensively in the Western Hemisphere and, to a lesser extent, elsewhere. Glyphosate-resistant cotton and soybean have become dominant in those countries where their planting is permitted. Effects of glyphosate on contamination of soil, water, and air are minimal, compared to some of the herbicides that they replace. No risks have been found with food or feed safety or nutritional value in products from currently available GRCs. Glyphosate-resistant crops have promoted the adoption of reduced- or no-tillage agriculture in the USA and Argentina, providing a substantial environmental benefit. Weed species in GRC fields have shifted to those that can more successfully withstand glyphosate and to those that avoid the time of its application. Three weed species have evolved resistance to glyphosate in GRCs. Glyphosate-resistant crops have greater potential to become problems as volunteer crops than do conventional crops. Glyphosate resistance transgenes have been found in fields of canola that are supposed to be non-transgenic. Under some circumstances, the largest risk of GRCs may be transgene flow (introgression) from GRCs to related species that might become problems in natural ecosystems. Glyphosate resistance transgenes themselves are highly unlikely to be a risk in wild plant populations, but when linked to transgenes that may impart fitness benefits outside of agriculture (e.g., insect resistance), natural ecosystems could be affected. The development and use of failsafe introgression barriers in crops with such linked genes is needed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16899736 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 151: Wiad Parazytol. 2003;49(1):11-20. [Transgenic bioinsecticides inimical to parasites, but imical to environment] [Article in Polish] Kucińska J, Lonc E, Rydzanicz K. Zakład Parazytologii Ogólnej, Instytut Mikrobiologii, Uniwersytet Wrocławski. Identification of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) parasporal crystalline inclusions composed of Cry proteins (=delta-endotoxins) resulted in introduction of microbial pesticides for biological control of some parasites. Delta-endotoxins are encoded by cry genes and are active against pest and nuisance insects (mostly mosquitoes and black flies--vectors of still important infectious diseases). The recent significant progress in DNA recombination technique may overcome limitations (a short residual persistence and a narrow spectrum of activity) associated with application of Bt conventional products. An introduction of cry genes from mosquitocidal subspecies B. th. israelensis (Bti) to the aquatic microorganisms inhabiting the same water bodies as mosquito and fly larvae (Diptera), has considerably improved the toxin delivery system to target insects. However, in the first experiments, in which Bti genes were cloned in cyanobacteria (Agmenellum quadruplicatum, Synechocystis PCC6803), a low gene expression was observed. Thus, it was necessary to integrate cry genes with strong promoters or to increase the number of vector-introduced copies. To overcome the obstacles of low gene expression and regulatory restriction for recombinant organisms, Bti spore/crystal formulations were encapsulated in the aquatic protozoan, Tetrahymena pyriformis. Large numbers of crystals (180 to 240/cell) were accumulated in its food vacuoles. This system resulted also in an increase in toxin persistence from 24 to 71 h. Cloning Bti genes in B. sphaericus (which also produces mosquitocidal proteins) was another way of an increasing Bt crystal residual activity. In this case, the crystals were additionally protected by B. sphaericus exosporium. These transgenic bacteria produced large amounts of delta-endotoxins that remained under water surface longer than the wild B. sphaericus strains. Moreover, they had a broader spectrum of insecticidal activity, because B. sphaericus is toxic mostly to Culex and Anopheles, and Bti--mostly to Culex, Aedes and some Simmulidae. Gram-negative bacteria (Asticcacaulis excentricus, Caulobacter crescentus and Ancylobacter aquaticus) turned out also to be effective delta-endotoxin producers. They grow on simple media and do not contain proteases which could degrade Cry proteins. In some cases, 100% mosquito larvae mortality was observed as a result of an exposure to transgenic microorganisms containing Bti genes. However, transgenic techniques are still not very popular in the world, despite their efficacy in biological control of insects. The transgenic organism construction is expensive and time-consuming. Genetic engineering is still raising a lot of anxieties and doubts concerning inappropriate use of modified organisms. On the other hand, this technology could solve many problems associated with vectors of important diseases, which are still unapproachable to contemporary medicine. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 16889013 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 152: 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] 153: Environ Health Perspect. 2006 Aug;114(8):1154-7. Digestion assays in allergenicity assessment of transgenic proteins. Herman RA, Storer NP, Gao Y. Dow AgroSciences LLC, Indianapolis, Indiana 46268, USA. raherman@dow.com The food-allergy risk assessment for transgenic proteins expressed in crops is currently based on a weight-of-evidence approach that holistically considers multiple lines of evidence. This approach recognizes that no single test or property is known to distinguish allergens from nonallergens. The stability of a protein to digestion, as predicted by an in vitro simulated gastric fluid assay, currently is used as one element in the risk assessment process. A review of the literature on the use of the simulated gastric fluid assay to predict the allergenic status of proteins suggests that more extensive kinetic studies with well-characterized reference proteins are required before the predictive value of this assay can be adequately judged. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16882518 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 154: Reprod Domest Anim. 2006 Aug;41(4):260-7. Erratum in: Reprod Domest Anim. 2006 Oct;41(5):477. Biosecurity and the various types of embryos transferred. Thibier M. Ministère de l'Agriculture et de la Pêche, Paris, France. michel.thibier@agriculture.gouv.fr The aim of the present paper was to review some features related to the risk analysis of three types of embryos to be transferred, namely the in vivo derived, the in vitro produced and the cloned ones. For in vivo-collected embryos, a considerable number of experiments and scientific investigations have been performed and hundreds of thousands of embryos are transferred annually with no contamination of associated diseases. Provided that the code of practice such as that published by the International Embryo Transfer Society is strictly followed by the embryo transfer practitioners, the statement made some 17 years ago saying that the in vivo-derived embryo transfer was the safest way of exchanging genes remains entirely true, thanks to the professionalism of the embryo transfer industry. For the in vitro-produced embryos, some particular rules have to be followed because of specific risks for some pathogens to strongly adhere to the zona pellucida of such embryos. There are some means to monitor and control those effects, and the transfer of in vitro-produced embryos can also be a very safe way to exchange genes around the world. The third type of embryos, the cloned ones, is a quite different category and the risk analysis to be soundly made still needs a lot of investigations so as to characterize the potential risks if there are, in terms not only of disease transmission but also in terms of public health, zoonotic risks as well as those related to quality and safety of food. The problem in this regard, is more directly addressed for offspring of clones than to the cloned embryos themselves. Published data on this issue are increasing in numbers so that progress in that area is expected in the few years to come. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16869879 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 155: Soc Reprod Fertil Suppl. 2006;62:303-15. Factors influencing the commercialisation of cloning in the pork industry. Pratt SL, Sherrer ES, Reeves DE, Stice SL. Department of Animal and Dairy Science, 425 River Road, Edgar Rhodes Animal and Dairy Science Complex, Athens, GA 30602, USA. scottprattc@AOL.com Production of cloned pigs using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is a repeatable and predictable procedure and multiple labs around the world have generated cloned pigs and genetically modified cloned pigs. Due to the integrated nature of the pork production industry, pork producers are the most likely to benefit and are in the best position to introduce cloning in to production systems. Cloning can be used to amplify superior genetics or be used in conjunction with genetic modifications to produce animals with superior economic traits. Though unproven, cloning could add value by reducing pig-to-pig variability in economically significant traits such as growth rate, feed efficiency, and carcass characteristics. However, cloning efficiencies using SCNT are low, but predictable. The inefficiencies are due to the intrusive nature of the procedure, the quality of oocytes and/or the somatic cells used in the procedure, the quality of the nuclear transfer embryos transferred into recipients, pregnancy rates of the recipients, and neonatal survival of the clones. Furthermore, in commercial animal agriculture, clones produced must be able to grow and thrive under normal management conditions, which include attainment of puberty and subsequent capability to reproduce. To integrate SCNT into the pork industry, inefficiencies at each step of the procedure must be overcome. In addition, it is likely that non-surgical embryo transfer will be required to deliver cloned embryos, and/or additional methods to generate high health clones will need to be developed. This review will focus on the state-of-the-art for SCNT in pigs and the steps required for practical implementation of pig cloning in animal agriculture. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16866326 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 156: 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] 157: 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] 158: Food Nutr Bull. 2006 Jun;27(2):167-79. Agricultural biodiversity, nutrition, and health: making a difference to hunger and nutrition in the developing world. Frison EA, Smith IF, Johns T, Cherfas J, Eyzaguirre PB. International Plant Genetic Resources Institute, Rome, Italy. e.frison@cgiar.org BACKGROUND: In spite of the strides made globally in reducing hunger, the problems of micronutrient deficiencies and coexisting obesity and related cardiovascular and degenerative diseases constitute a formidable challenge for the future. Attempts to reverse this trend with single-nutrient intervention strategies have met with limited success, resulting in renewed calls for food-based approaches. The deployment of agricultural biodiversity is an approach that entails greater use of local biodiversity to ensure dietary diversity. OBJECTIVE: To outline a new strategy proposed by the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) that employs agricultural biodiversity as the primary resource for food security and health. METHODS: The authors carried out a meta-analysis to review and assemble existing information on the nutritional and healthful properties of traditional foods based on a diverse set of case studies and food composition and nutritional analysis studies. The methods highlight particular examples of foods where analysis of nutrient and non-nutrient composition reveals important traits to address the growing problems of malnutrition associated with the rise of chronic diseases. Finally, the authors analyze social, economic, and cultural changes that undermine the healthful components of traditional diets. RESULTS: Based on this multidisciplinary and comparative approach, the authors suggest a holistic food-based approach that combines research to assess and document nutritional and healthful properties of traditional foods, investigating options in which nutritionally valuable traditional foods can contribute to better livelihoods, and ways that awareness and promotional campaigns can identify healthful components of traditional diets that fit the needs of urban and market-oriented consumers. CONCLUSIONS: There is an urgent need for agricultural research centers, national agricultural research systems, universities, and community-based organizations to work together under a shared policy framework with the aim of developing a strong evidence base linking biodiversity, nutrition, and health. Although these initiatives are still ongoing, the gains realized in small-scale and local pilot efforts have encouraged IPGRI to work with local partners toward the implementation of scale-up efforts in various regions. Publication Types: Meta-Analysis Review PMID: 16786983 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 159: 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] 160: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2006 Jul;50(7):604-9. Review of the development of methodology for evaluating the human allergenic potential of novel proteins. Taylor SL. University of Nebraska, Food Allergy Research & Resource Program, Lincoln, Nebraska 68583, USA. staylor2@unl.edu Safety assessment of novel proteins in genetic-engineered foods is a key component of the overall safety evaluation for these products. Since allergens are typically proteins, assessment of the potential allergenicity of the novel proteins in genetically engineered foods is critical. This article reviews methods available to assess the potential allergenicity of novel proteins, as well as problems and deficiencies in the existing methods. The role of bioinformatics and knowledge of allergenic epitopes in developing new approaches to this problem is discussed. Publication Types: Comparative Study Review PMID: 16736463 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 161: J Biosci Bioeng. 2006 Mar;101(3):203-11. Immunogenic and allergenic potentials of natural and recombinant innocuous proteins. Matsuda T, Matsubara T, Hino S. Department of Applied Molecular Biosciences, Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan. tmatsuda@agr.nagoya-u.ac.jp A new aspect of protein immunogenic and allergenic properties has become important recently, when there is a higher chance that our immune system will be exposed to novel protein antigens and/or familiar protein antigens with an unprecedented high frequency and large amount. These proteins are innocuous, nontoxic, and noninvasive by themselves, and include various natural proteins from the environment and recombinant proteins from industry. The technical term allergenic has been used for such proteins and their abilities to induce specific IgE production and to cross-link IgE/Fc epsilonRI on the surface of mast cells and basophiles have been recognized. As for the environmental proteins, some physicochemical properties (solubility, stability, and permeability across a mucosal epithelium) of the proteins indirectly play important roles in their allergenic potential because they do not originate from invasive pathogens as vehicles. Indeed, several lines of experimental evidences have been accumulated indicating that all proteins are absorbed across mucosal epithelia by transcellular transport and/or through interstitial spaces among the epithelial cells but not at equal levels. Some animal models have been established for natural sensitization to some allergenic proteins by feeding or intragastric administration without an adjuvant and, in a few cases, some symptoms resembling human allergy and even anaphylaxis have been induced by oral challenge with the proteins. Sometimes, even to self-proteins, the immunogenic or allergenic potential is given by post-translational modifications and possibly by unknown structural/conformational alterations, when they are exogenous self-proteins, such as recombinant human proteins for drug use. Despite the accumulation of knowledge and the progress in analytical technology on protein allergenicity, it is still crucial to predict the allergenic potential of novel and unused proteins. However, some animal models are applicable for assessing the relative allergenic potential of processed proteins in comparison with that of native proteins in preclinical studies. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16716919 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 162: Physiol Behav. 2006 Nov 30;89(4):465-71. Epub 2006 May 11. Amylinergic control of food intake. Lutz TA. Institute of Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty University of Zurich and Center of Integrative Human Physiology, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland. tomlutz@vetphys.unizh.ch Amylin is a pancreatic B-cell hormone that plays an important role in the regulation of nutrient fluxes. As such, amylin reduces food intake in laboratory animals and man, slows gastric emptying and it reduces postprandial glucagon secretion. Amylin deficiency which occurs concomitantly to insulin deficiency in diabetes mellitus, may therefore contribute to some of the major derangements associated with this disorder (hyperphagia, excessive glucagon secretion, accelerated rate of gastric emptying). The described actions of amylin all seem to depend on a direct effect of amylin on the area postrema (AP). As to amylin's satiating effect, the physiological relevance of this action is underlined by studies involving specific amylin antagonists and amylin-deficient mice. In the AP, amylin seems to modulate the anorectic signal elicited by CCK. Subsequent to AP activation, the amylin signal is conveyed to the forebrain via distinct relay stations. Within the lateral hypothalamic area, amylin diminishes the expression of orexigenic neuropeptides such as orexin and MCH. Whether these effects contribute to amylin's short term satiating action remains to be determined. Recent studies suggest that amylin may also play a role as a long-term, lipostatic signal, especially when other feedback systems to the brain are deficient. Obese, leptin-resistant Zucker rats which are hyperinsulinemic and hyperamylinemic, were chronically infused with the amylin antagonist AC 187. AC 187 significantly elevated food intake in obese Zucker rats while having no effect in lean controls. This indicates that at least under certain conditions, chronic blockade of endogenous amylin action may lead to an increase in food intake and/or body weight. As mentioned, the site and mechanism of action for peripheral amylin to reduce food intake seems to be well established. It is less clear how centrally administered amylin reduces food intake although it is well known that 3rd ventricular administration of amylin produces a very strong and long-lasting anorectic action. Amylin receptors have been described in various hypothalamic nuclei but the endogenous ligand of these receptors remains to be investigated. The same holds true as to the physiological relevance of the anorectic effect seen after central amylin administration. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16697020 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 163: Trends Biotechnol. 2006 Jul;24(7):305-11. Epub 2006 May 6. Genetic engineering of wheat--current challenges and opportunities. Bhalla PL. Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Legume Research, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia. premlb@unimelb.edu.au Wheat is one of the major staple food crops grown worldwide; however, productivity in cereal crops has not kept pace with the world population growth. A significant increase in wheat production (>40% by 2020) is needed simply to keep up with the growing demand. This increase is unlikely to be achieved by conventional plant breeding methods because of the limited gene pool available. The application of recombinant techniques to improve wheat quality and yield is not only desirable but also has potential to open up new opportunities. Although there has been significant progress in developing gene-transformation technologies for improving these traits, this remains an important challenge for plant biotechnology. Obstacles to translate the full potential of the genomic era to wheat breeding include the need to develop elite wheat varieties without selectable markers, introducing minimal or nil intergenic DNA and social and market issues concerning genetically engineered food products. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16682090 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 164: Proc Nutr Soc. 2006 May;65(2):169-81. Biofortification of UK food crops with selenium. Broadley MR, White PJ, Bryson RJ, Meacham MC, Bowen HC, Johnson SE, Hawkesford MJ, McGrath SP, Zhao FJ, Breward N, Harriman M, Tucker M. Plant Sciences Division, Univerisity of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK. martin.broadley@nottingham.ac.uk Se is an essential element for animals. In man low dietary Se intakes are associated with health disorders including oxidative stress-related conditions, reduced fertility and immune functions and an increased risk of cancers. Although the reference nutrient intakes for adult females and males in the UK are 60 and 75 microg Se/d respectively, dietary Se intakes in the UK have declined from >60 microg Se/d in the 1970s to 35 microg Se/d in the 1990s, with a concomitant decline in human Se status. This decline in Se intake and status has been attributed primarily to the replacement of milling wheat having high levels of grain Se and grown on high-Se soils in North America with UK-sourced wheat having low levels of grain Se and grown on low-Se soils. An immediate solution to low dietary Se intake and status is to enrich UK-grown food crops using Se fertilisers (agronomic biofortification). Such a strategy has been adopted with success in Finland. It may also be possible to enrich food crops in the longer term by selecting or breeding crop varieties with enhanced Se-accumulation characteristics (genetic biofortification). The present paper will review the potential for biofortification of UK food crops with Se. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16672078 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 165: Proc Nutr Soc. 2006 May;65(2):153-9. Biofortification of essential nutritional compounds and trace elements in rice and cassava. Sautter C, Poletti S, Zhang P, Gruissem W. Institute of Plant Science, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, Universitaetsstr. 2, CH-8092 Zurich, Switzerland. Christof.Sautter@ipw.biol.ethz.ch Plant biotechnology can make important contributions to food security and nutritional improvement. For example, the development of 'Golden Rice' by Professor Ingo Potrykus was a milestone in the application of gene technology to deliver both increased nutritional qualities and health improvement to wide sections of the human population. Mineral nutrient and protein deficiency as well as food security remain the most important challenges for developing countries. Current projects are addressing these issues in two major staple crops, cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and rice. The tropical root crop cassava is a major source of food for approximately 600 million of the population worldwide. In sub-Saharan Africa >200 million of the population rely on cassava as their major source of dietary energy. The nutritional quality of the cassava root is not sufficient to meet all dietary needs. Rice is the staple food for half the world population, providing approximately 20% of the per capita energy and 13% of the protein for human consumption worldwide. In many developing countries the dietary contributions of rice are substantially greater (29.3% dietary energy and 29.1% dietary protein). The current six most popular 'mega' rice varieties (in terms of popularity and acreage), including Chinese hybrid rice, have an incomplete amino acid profile and contain limited amounts of essential micronutrients. Rice lines with improved Fe contents have been developed using genes that have functions in Fe absorption, translocation and accumulation in the plant, as well as improved Fe bioavailability in the human intestine. Current developments in biotechnology-assisted plant improvement are reviewed and the potential of the technology in addressing human nutrition and health are discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16672076 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 166: 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] 167: Transgenic Res. 2006 Apr;15(2):131-7. Metabolic engineering of plants to produce very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Truksa M, Wu G, Vrinten P, Qiu X. Bioriginal Food & Science Corporation, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLCPUFAs) are essential for human health and well-being. However, the current sources of these valuable compounds are limited and may not be sustainable in the long term. Recently, considerable progress has been made in identifying genes involved in the biosynthesis of VLCPUFAs. The co-expression of these genes in model systems such as plant embryos or yeast provided many valuable insights into the mechanisms of VLCPUFA synthesis. The recent successful reconstitution of pathways leading to the synthesis of arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and finally docosahexaenoic acid in oil-seed plants indicates the feasibility of using transgenic crops as alternative sources of VLCPUFAs. The various approaches used to attain these results and the specific constraints associated with each approach are discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16604455 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 168: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2006 May;70(6):642-50. Epub 2006 Apr 4. Molecular plant breeding: achievements in green biotechnology and future perspectives. Wenzel G. Plant Breeding, Center for Life and Food Sciences, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany. gwenzel@wzw.tum.de Since one decade ago, transgenic crop plants are globally grown; in 2004, it was estimated to cover a total of 81 Mio ha in 17 countries. At present, four plant species (soybean, maize, cotton and rapeseed) dominate with two traits (herbicide tolerance and insect resistance). The traits on which research concentrates and the constructs which might come next onto the market are outlined. The procedure on how to clone such genes of interest, e.g. via map-based cloning, and some other helpful approaches of green biotechnology, like high throughput techniques and functional markers, are summarised, and a rough calculation about the market value of transgenic crops in US dollars is quoted. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16586104 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 169: Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2006 Mar;6(2):153-9. Novel foods to treat food allergy and gastrointestinal infection. Perr HA. Evolving Foods and Children's Health, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, California Pacific Medical Center, Box 7999, San Francisco, 94120, USA. hperr@itsa.ucsf.edu The gastrointestinal tract communicates directly with the external environment. Necessary nutrients must be absorbed and commensal bacteria tolerated, and foreign proteins, antigens, and pathogens must be simultaneously excluded or destroyed. Immaturity or disruption of the mucosal immune defenses increases vulnerability to food allergy, intolerance, and infectious disease. Diseases resulting from ingested foreign proteins and organisms are increasing and cause morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is no specific treatment for food allergy other than avoidance. Vaccination for infectious disease is limited by the cost and logistics of distribution and administration, particularly in developing countries. Novel strategies are being explored to modulate the gut mucosal immune system by altering protein expression in food. Crops are being developed to remove deleterious allergens to prevent immunogenic exposure while preserving nutritional quality. Local food plants that express protein fragments of pathogens might provide an effective means to stimulate gut mucosal immunity while increasing vaccine accessibility. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16566866 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 170: Planta. 2006 May;223(6):1115-22. Epub 2006 Mar 23. Contribution of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis to heavy metal phytoremediation. Göhre V, Paszkowski U. Department of Molecular Biology and Plant Biology, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, CH-1211, Geneva 4, Switzerland. High concentrations of heavy metals (HM) in the soil have detrimental effects on ecosystems and are a risk to human health as they can enter the food chain via agricultural products or contaminated drinking water. Phytoremediation, a sustainable and inexpensive technology based on the removal of pollutants from the environment by plants, is becoming an increasingly important objective in plant research. However, as phytoremediation is a slow process, improvement of efficiency and thus increased stabilization or removal of HMs from soils is an important goal. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi provide an attractive system to advance plant-based environmental clean-up. During symbiotic interaction the hyphal network functionally extends the root system of their hosts. Thus, plants in symbiosis with AM fungi have the potential to take up HM from an enlarged soil volume. In this review, we summarize current knowledge about the contribution of the AM symbiosis to phytoremediation of heavy metals. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16555102 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 171: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):179-82. Epub 2006 Mar 15. Molecular advances and novel directions in food biotechnology innovation. Kleerebezem M. Publication Types: Editorial Review PMID: 16540309 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 172: J Dairy Sci. 2006 Apr;89(4):1254-66. Major advances associated with reproduction in dairy cattle. Moore K, Thatcher WW. Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611-0910, USA. The purpose of this overview is to review some of the major advances in reproductive technologies, and how they may be applied to meet the challenge of enhancing reproductive efficiency in the high-producing dairy cow of the 21st century. The current population of high-producing dairy cows is considered to be subfertile, as characterized by low pregnancy rates and high rates of embryonic mortality. Coordinated systems of reproductive management have been developed based upon a thorough understanding of the endocrine, cellular, and molecular factors controlling ovarian and uterine function. These systems will partially restore herd reproductive performance. Advances in other reproductive technologies offer possibilities for wider use of superior germplasm. Technologies such as sexed semen, cloning, transgenesis, and preimplantation genetic diagnosis offer the potential to enhance the influence of superior animals on production of food for human consumption. However, at this time, additional research is needed to counteract the higher rates of embryonic and fetal mortality associated with some of these technologies. Furthermore, use of genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics in the study of reproduction will undoubtedly provide investigators with a greater understanding of the limitations to efficient reproductive processes in the subfertile lactating dairy cow. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16537958 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 173: J Sep Sci. 2006 Feb;29(2):197-210. High-performance liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis for the analysis of maize proteins. Rodriguez-Nogales JM, Garcia MC, Marina ML. Departamento de Química Analítica, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain. Methods for the analysis of maize proteins using HPLC and CE are reviewed. Most of the references cited in this review concern HPLC methods. Size-exclusion HPLC and especially RP-HPLC methods have been developed for characterization of normal and genetically modified maize, cultivar differentiation, and prediction of quality. Few CE methods for the analysis of maize proteins were found in the existing literature. Most of these methods focus on optimization of the separation of maize proteins using CZE and SDS-capillary gel electrophoresis. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16524093 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 174: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):174-8. Epub 2006 Mar 7. Economic impact of transgenic crops in developing countries. Raney T. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, 00100 Rome, Italy. terri.raney@fao.org Transgenic crops are being adopted rapidly at the global level, but only a few developing countries are growing them in significant quantities. Why are these crops so successful in some countries but not in others? Farm level profitability ultimately determines whether farmers adopt and retain a new technology, but this depends on much more than technical performance. Recent economic studies in developing countries find positive, but highly variable, economic returns to adopting transgenic crops. These studies confirm that institutional factors such as national agricultural research capacity, environmental and food safety regulations, intellectual property rights and agricultural input markets matter at least as much as the technology itself in determining the level and distribution of economic benefits. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16522366 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 175: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):130-8. Epub 2006 Feb 28. Metabolic engineering in plants for human health and nutrition. Kinney AJ. Crop Genetics Research, DuPont Experimental Station, Wilmington, DE 19880-0353, USA. anthony.kinney@cgr.dupont.com In many cases, multiple pathway enzymes need to be upregulated to produce a significant yield of a desired product. Technical advances in simultaneously manipulating multiple steps in plant metabolic pathways include the use of transcription factors, such as MYB12. By upregulating the genes of an entire pathway, these factors can greatly simplify multienzyme engineering. Furthermore, synthetic zinc-finger protein transcription factors can now be designed to target specific pathway enzymes, such as tocopherol methyltransferases. When multiple steps in a pathway are upregulated, previously unsuspected facets of the pathway might be revealed, such as the newly uncovered bifunctional substrate preference of the key regulatory enzyme in tocopherol (vitamin E) biosynthesis, homogentisate phytyltransferase. The engineering of desired traits, such as long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, can require entirely new pathways to be introduced into a plant. Recent advances in genomics and gene expression technology have made this type of complex metabolic engineering highly feasible. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16510274 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 176: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2006 Apr;17(2):198-203. Epub 2006 Feb 14. Food products and allergy development, prevention and treatment. Zuercher AW, Fritsché R, Corthésy B, Mercenier A. Allergy Group, Nutrition and Health Department, Nestlé Research Center, Vers-chez-les-Blanc, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland. In westernized countries allergic diseases have reached epidemic proportions. Food is frequently a perpetrator of allergy but, in turn, modified food and selected food ingredients can become valuable intervention tools in the fight against allergy. There are two basic approaches towards mitigation of food allergy through nutrition: to reduce the allergenicity of raw food materials by physical, chemical or genetic methods or to influence host immunity towards a non-allergic state using various food ingredients. Dietary intervention for the prevention and therapy of allergy is an emerging field where initial findings from animal studies are now being validated in human trials. Nevertheless, to consolidate the utility of such interventions, more pre-clinical and clinical studies remain necessary. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16481157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 177: 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] 178: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):443-4. Food biotechnology and consumer perceptions in Asia. Cairns G. Asian Food Information Network, Bangkok, Thailand. gcairns@afic.org Publication Types: Review PMID: 16465994 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 179: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):436-42. Nutritional and safety assessments of foods and feeds nutritionally improved through biotechnology. Chassy B, Hlywka JJ, Kleter GA, Kok EJ, Kuiper HA, McGloughlin M, Munro IC, Phipps RH, Reid JE, Stein J, Zabik J; Task Force for the International Life Sciences Institutue International Food Biotechnology Committee. University of Illinois, Urbana, USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16465993 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 180: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):432-5. Sharing Malaysian experience with the development of biotechnology-derived food crops. Abu Bakar UK, Pillai V, Hashim M, Daud HM. Biotechnology Research Centre, Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. uab@mardi.my Biotechnology-derived food crops are currently being developed in Malaysia mainly for disease resistance and improved post harvest quality. The modern biotechnology approach is adopted because of its potential to overcome constraints faced by conventional breeding techniques. Research on the development of biotechnology-derived papaya, pineapple, chili, passion fruit, and citrus is currently under way. Biotechnology-derived papaya developed for resistance to papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) and improved postharvest qualities is at the field evaluation stage. Pineapple developed for resistance to fruit black heart disorder is also being evaluated for proof-of-concept. Other biotechnology-derived food crops are at early stages of gene cloning and transformation. Activities and products involving biotechnology-derived crops will be fully regulated in the near future under the Malaysian Biosafety Law. At present they are governed only by guidelines formulated by the Genetic Modification Advisory Committee (GMAC), Malaysia. Commercialization of biotechnology-derived crops involves steps that require GMAC approval for all field evaluations and food-safety assessments before the products are placed on the market. Public acceptance of the biotechnology product is another important factor for successful commercialization. Understanding of biotechnology is generally low among Malaysians, which may lead to low acceptance of biotechnology-derived products. Initiatives are being taken by local organizations to improve public awareness and acceptance of biotechnology. Future research on plant biotechnology will focus on the development of nutritionally enhanced biotechnology-derived food crops that can provide more benefits to consumers. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16465992 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 181: Food Nutr Bull. 2005 Dec;26(4):416-8. Improving rice nutrition: challenges and practical approaches for iron fortification. Yoshihara T, Takaiwa F, Goto F. Bio-Science Department, Central Research Institute Electric Power Industry, Abiko, Japan. yoshiha@criepi.denken.or.jp Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16465988 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 182: 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] 183: Fitoterapia. 2006 Feb;77(2):67-82. Epub 2006 Jan 6. Grain legume proteins and nutraceutical properties. Duranti M. Department of AgriFood Molecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy. marcello.duranti@unimi.it Grain legumes are a valuable source of food proteins. Their exploitation is expected to grow in relation of a growing world's food needs. Moreover, it is currently taking place a reappraisal of the beneficial effects of legume seed dietary intake, which are the basis for various health claims. Proteins and peptides concur to the observed biological activities of legume seeds, but their effect(s) has(ve) not completely been disclosed. Aims of this review are: to report the most relevant putative positive effects of grain legumes on human health and to give an account of the current knowledge on the demonstrated legume seed protein biological activities. Specific effects on the prevention and treatment of various diseases, mostly of which are typical of the affluent countries, are reported. Examples of studies at molecular level aimed at elucidating of the underlying mechanism(s) are given. The prospects on targeted legume protein exploitation in the nutraceutical area, including the biotechnological approaches, are also considered. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16406359 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 184: Mar Biotechnol (NY). 2006 Mar-Apr;8(2):103-9. Epub 2006 Jan 1. Production of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid-containing oils in transgenic land plants for human and aquaculture nutrition. Robert SS. Food Futures National Research Flagship Division of Marine and Atmospheric Research, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia. stan.robert@csiro.au A large body of evidence suggests that there is a significant underconsumption of omega-3, long-chain, polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) and that this is the cause of multiple chronic diseases and developmental aberrations. The scope for increasing omega-3 LC-PUFA consumption from seafood is limited because global wild fisheries are unable to increase their harvests, and aquaculture fisheries currently rely on wild fisheries as a source of LC-PUFAs. Agricultural production of oils is highly efficient and has the potential to be sustainable. The transfer of genes from marine microalgae and other microorganisms into oilseed crops has shown that the production of terrestrial omega-3 LC-PUFA oils is indeed possible. The specifications of these oils or whole seeds for use in human and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) aquaculture nutrition are discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16372159 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 185: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2005;45(7-8):607-21. Nutraceutical applications of garlic and the intervention of biotechnology. Bhagyalakshmi N, Thimmaraju R, Venkatachalam L, Murthy KN, Sreedhar RV. Plant Cell Biotechnology Department, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore 570 006, India. pcbt@cscftri.ren.nic.in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is an important and widely cultivated plant with both culinary and medicinal uses stemming from its biological activities, which include antibiotic, anticancer, anti-thrombotic, and lipid-lowering cardiovascular effects. Though such medicinal use of garlic existed for centuries, there was little scientific support for its therapeutic and pharmacological properties. However, there has been a recent upsurge of research on garlic aiming to understand its exact mechanism of action in each case so that garlic and its products may have more judicious future applications. Since garlic is vegetatively propagated, its improvement for desired traits through conventional means is difficult. The intervention of biotechnological methods such as tissue culture and gene transfer protocols developed recently hold great promise for improving this crop. Due to new innovations in instrumentation and processing technologies coupled with more judicious experimental models, better products are foreseen in the market. The objective of this article was to review the recent developments made towards understanding the mechanism by which garlic imparts different therapeutic effects as well as to review what biotechnology can offer to improve this crop and its products. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16371330 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 186: 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] 187: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):487-90. Allergenic potential of novel foods. Meredith C. BIBRA International Ltd, Carshalton, Surrey, UK. clivemeredith@btinternet.com Concerns have been expressed that the introduction of novel foods into the diet might lead to the development of new food allergies in consumers. Novel foods can be conveniently divided into GM and non-GM categories. Decision-tree approaches (e.g. International Life Sciences Institute-International Food Biotechnology Council and WHO/FAO) to assess the allergenic potential of GM foods were developed following the discovery, during product development, of the allergenic potential of GM soyabean expressing a gene encoding a storage protein from Brazil nut (Bertolletia excelsa). Within these decision trees considerations include: the source of the transgene; amino acid homology with known allergens; cross-reactivity with IgE from food-allergic individuals; resistance to proteolysis; prediction using animal models of food allergy. Such decision trees are under constant review as new knowledge and improved models emerge, but they provide a useful framework for the assessment of the allergenic potential of GM foods. For novel non-GM foods the assessment of allergenic potential is more subjective; some foods or food ingredients will need no assessment other than a robust protein assay to demonstrate the absence of protein. Where protein is present in the novel non-GM food, hazard and risk assessments need to be made in terms of the quantity of protein that might be consumed, the identity of individual protein components and their relationships to known food allergens. Where necessary, this assessment would extend to serum screening for potential cross-reactivities, skin-prick tests in previously-sensitised individuals and double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16313692 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 188: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):481-6. GM organisms and the EU regulatory environment: allergenicity as a risk component. Davies HV. Scottish Crop Research Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee, UK. hdavie@scri.ac.uk The European Food Safety Authority, following a request from the European Commission, has published a guidance document for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed to assist in the implementation of provisions of Regulation (EC) 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and Council on GM food and feed. This regulation has applied since 18 April 2004. In principle, hazard identification and characterisation of GM crops is conducted in four steps: characterisation of the parent crop and any hazards associated with it; characterisation of the transformation process and of the inserted recombinant DNA, including an assessment of the possible production of new fusion proteins or allergens; assessment of the introduced proteins (toxicity, allergenicity) and metabolites; identification of any other targetted and unexpected alterations in the GM crop, including changes in the plant metabolism resulting in compositional changes and assessment of their toxicological, allergenic or nutritional impact. In relation to allergenicity specifically, it is clear that this property of a given protein is not intrinsic and fully predictable but is a biological activity requiring an interaction with individuals with a predisposed genetic background. Allergenicity, therefore, depends on the genetic diversity and variability in atopic human subjects. Given this lack of complete predictability it is necessary to obtain, from several steps in the risk-assessment process, a cumulative body of evidence that minimises any uncertainty about the protein(s) in question. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16313691 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 189: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Nov;64(4):470-4. Industrial dimensions of food allergy. Crevel R. SEAC Toxicology Laboratory, Unilever Research, Sharnbrook, Bedford, UK. rene.crevel@unilever.com Serious attempts to estimate the impact of allergic reactions to foods on public health did not begin until the 1980s. Until about 15 years ago food allergy was considered a minor aspect of food safety. Two developments probably prompted a radical re-appraisal of that situation. The first was the apparently inexorable rise in the prevalence of atopic diseases, of which food allergy forms a part, with its possible consequences highlighted by some well-publicised severe reactions. The second was the growth of genetic modification technology, manifested by the commercialisation of transgenic crops. Each of these developments impacted on the food industry in distinct ways. On the one hand, consumers with food allergies had to be enabled to avoid specific allergens in products formulated with existing ingredients. Food manufacturers therefore had to identify those specific allergens down to trace amounts in all the ingredients forming the product and label or remove them. On the other hand, the introduction of products using ingredients from novel sources required an assessment of the allergenicity of these ingredients as an integral part of safety assurance. The approaches used by the food industry to protect existing consumers who have food allergies and those at potential risk of sensitisation from novel proteins will be illustrated, emphasising how they need to be built into every stage of the life cycle of a product. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16313689 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 190: 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] 191: 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] 192: 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] 193: 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] 194: 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] 195: Vet Res Commun. 2005 Aug;29 Suppl 2:19-26. Aspects connected with the enforcement of the EU provisions on genetically modified organisms. Marabelli R. General Directorate for Veterinary Health and Food, Ministry of Health, Rome, Italy. alimentivet@sanita.it Publication Types: Review PMID: 16244919 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 196: Vet Res Commun. 2005 Aug;29 Suppl 2:7-11. GMO: human health risk assessment. D'Agnolo G. Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscienzes, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy. dagnolo@iss.it Publication Types: Review PMID: 16244917 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 197: Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract. 2005 Nov;21(3):637-53, vi. Neonatal care of high-risk cloned and transgenic calves. Fecteau ME, Palmer JE, Wilkins PA. Food Animal Medicine and Surgery, Widener Veterinary Hospital, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA. mfecteau@vet.upenn.edu Publication Types: Review PMID: 16243628 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 198: 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] 199: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2005 Nov;69(2):126-32. Epub 2005 Nov 12. Microbial fibrinolytic enzymes: an overview of source, production, properties, and thrombolytic activity in vivo. Peng Y, Yang X, Zhang Y. College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, PR China. Accumulation of fibrin in the blood vessels usually results in thrombosis, leading to myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular diseases. For thrombolytic therapy, microbial fibrinolytic enzymes have now attracted much more attention than typical thrombolytic agents because of the expensive prices and the undesirable side effects of the latter. The fibrinolytic enzymes were successively discovered from different microorganisms, the most important among which is the genus Bacillus from traditional fermented foods. The physiochemical properties of these enzymes have been characterized, and their effectiveness in thrombolysis in vivo has been further identified. Therefore, microbial fibrinolytic enzymes, especially those from food-grade microorganisms, have the potential to be developed as functional food additives and drugs to prevent or cure thrombosis and other related diseases. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16211381 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 200: J Biosci. 2005 Sep;30(4):515-48. Will transgenic plants adversely affect the environment? Velkov VV, Medvinsky AB, Sokolov MS, Marchenko AI. Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Microorganisms, Russian Academy of Sciences,Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russian Federation. vvvelkov@rambler.ru Transgenic insecticidal plants based on Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) endotoxins, on proteinase inhibitors and on lectins, and transgenic herbicide tolerant plants are widely used in modern agriculture. The results of the studies on likelihood and non-likelihood of adverse effects of transgenic plants on the environment including: (i) effects on nontarget species; (ii) invasiveness; (iii) potential for transgenes to 'escape' into the environment by horizontal gene transfer; and (iv) adverse effects on soil biota are reviewed. In general, it seems that large-scale implementation of transgenic insecticidal and herbicide tolerant plants do not display considerable negative effects on the environments and, moreover, at least some transgenic plants can improve the corresponding environments and human health because their production considerably reduces the load of chemical insecticides and herbicides. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16184014 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 201: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Aug;46(4):J223-7. [Polymerase chain reaction technology for detection of unapproved genetically modified maize line (Bt10 line)] [Article in Japanese] Watanabe T. National Institute of Health Sciences, 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16180689 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 202: Acta Biochim Pol. 2005;52(3):673-8. Biotechnology of temperate fruit trees and grapevines. Laimer M, Mendonça D, Maghuly F, Marzban G, Leopold S, Khan M, Balla I, Katinger H. Plant Biotechnology Unit, IAM, Deptartment of Biotechnology, BOKU, Vienna, Austria. m.laimer@iam.boku.ac.at Challenges concerning fruit trees and grapevines as long lived woody perennial crops require adapted biotechnological approaches, if solutions are to be found within a reasonable time frame. These challenges are represented by the need for correct identification of genetic resources, with the foreseen use either in conservation or in breeding programmes. Molecular markers provide most accurate information and will be the major solution for questions about plant breeders rights. Providing healthy planting material and rapid detection of newly introduced pathogens by reliable methods involving serological and molecular biological tools will be a future challenge of increases importance, given the fact that plant material travels freely in the entire European Union. But also new breeding goals and transgenic solutions are part of the biotechnological benefits, e.g. resistance against biotic and abiotic stress factors, modified growth habits, modified nutritional properties and altered processing and storage qualities. The successful characterization of transgenic grapevines and stone fruit trees carrying genes of viral origin in different vectors constructed under ecological consideration, will be presented. Beyond technical feasibility, efficiency of resistance, environmental safety and Intellectual Property Rights, also public acceptance needs consideration and has been addressed in a specific project. The molecular determination of internal quality parameters of food can also be addressed by the use of biotechnological tools. Patient independent detection tools for apple allergens have been developed and should allow to compare fruits from different production systems, sites, and genotypes for their content of health threatening compounds. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16175241 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 203: Expert Rev Vaccines. 2005 Aug;4(4):591-601. Regulatory issues for plant-made pharmaceuticals and vaccines. Streatfield SJ. Applied Biotechnology Institute, 101 Gateway Boulevard, College Station, TX 77845, USA. sstreatfield@appliedbiotech.org Recombinant plant systems potentially offer economic alternatives to produce large amounts of pharmaceutical proteins, including those used in subunit vaccines. Plant systems also provide a convenient oral delivery option, overcoming the cost and inconvenience of purification and injections. The production of pharmaceutical proteins in transgenic plants is tightly regulated, with the US Department of Agriculture focusing on containment of recombinant material and the US Food and Drug Administration focusing on the production system as it relates to manufacture of the drug or vaccine. Current regulations for the production of plant-made pharmaceuticals are to prevent recombinant proteins from entering the food chain or from persisting in the environment, and to guard against recombinant nucleic acid sequences entering genomes of food or feed crops, or wild species. Several alternative plant production systems are being developed. Each system has its strengths and weaknesses with regard to the economics of production, options for alternative routes of administration, authenticity of products and ease with which the production system can be contained. Risk assessments can be used as a means to quantify risks of inadvertent human or environmental exposure to plant-made pharmaceuticals. Several technologies are being tested that reduce the probability of plant-made pharmaceuticals, or genes encoding them, escaping production sites. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16117714 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 204: Nat Immunol. 2005 Sep;6(9):857-60. Genetically modified crops and allergenicity. Metcalfe DD. Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1881, USA. dmetcalfe@niaid.nih.gov Publication Types: Review PMID: 16116460 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 205: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):309-22. Current scientific understanding of the environmental biosafety of transgenic fish and shellfish. Kapuscinski AR. Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology and Institute for Social, Economic and Ecological Sustainability, 200 Hodson Hall, 1980 Folwell Avenue, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA. A fluorescent zebrafish was the first genetically engineered animal to be marketed, and biotechnologists are developing many transgenic fish and shellfish. Biosafety science is not sufficiently advanced to be able to draw scientifically reliable and broadly trusted conclusions about the environmental effects of these animals. The science is best developed for identifying hazards posed by environmental spread of a transgenic fish or shellfish and least developed for assessing potential ecological harms of spread. Environmental spread of certain transgenic fish or shellfish could be an indirect route of entry into the human food supply. The management of predicted environmental risks is in its infancy and has thus far focused on the first step of the risk management process, i.e. risk reduction, via a few confinement methods. There is a critical need to improve scientific methods of environmental safety assessment and management and to gather empirical data needed to substantiate biosafety conclusions and to effectively manage transgenic fish and shellfish. Scientists and potentially affected parties should participate in prioritising the knowledge gaps to be addressed. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 16110898 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 206: 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] 207: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):251-64. Animal cloning: problems and prospects. Wells DN. Reproductive Technologies Group, AgResearch Ruakura, East Street, PB 3123, Hamilton, New Zealand. An efficient animal cloning technology would provide many new opportunities for livestock agriculture, human medicine, and animal conservation. Nuclear cloning involves the production of animals that are genetically identical to the donor cells used in a technique known as nuclear transfer (NT). However, at present it is an inefficient process: in cattle, only around 6% of the embryos transferred to the reproductive tracts of recipient cows result in healthy, longterm surviving clones. Of concern are the high losses throughout gestation, during birth and in the post-natal period through to adulthood. Many of the pregnancy losses relate to failure of the placenta to develop and function correctly. Placental dysfunction may also have an adverse influence on postnatal health. These anomalies are probably due to incorrect epigenetic reprogramming of the donor genome following NT, leading to inappropriate patterns of gene expression during the development of clones. Whilst some physiological tests on surviving clones suggest normality, other reports indicate a variety of post-natal clone-associated abnormalities. This variability in outcome may reflect species-specific and/or cloning methodological differences. Importantly, to date it appears that these clone-associated phenotypes are not transmitted to offspring following sexual reproduction. This indicates that they represent epigenetic errors, rather than genetic errors, which are corrected during gametogenesis. Whilst this needs confirmation at the molecular level, it provides initial confidence in the first application of NT in agriculture, namely, the production of small numbers of cloned sires from genetically elite bulls, for natural mating, to effectively disseminate genetic gain. In addition to the animal welfare concerns with the technology, the underlying health of the animals and the consequential effect on food safety are critical aspects that require investigation to gain regulatory and consumer acceptance. Future improvements in animal cloning will largely arise from a greater understanding of the molecular mechanisms of reprogramming. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16110893 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 208: 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] 209: 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] 210: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):149-57. Public perceptions of transgenic animals. Einsiedel EF. Communication Studies Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada. The field of animal biotechnology has been rapidly expanding and the development of transgenic animals has been part of this research expansion. How the public perceives such developments is an important component of policy considerations. In general, biotechnology applications have been judged with evident hierarchies of acceptability. There appearto be hierarchies in terms of the type of organism being modified, the purpose of the application, the means to attain particular ends, and the nature of the benefits obtained. While general awareness of biotechnology and its specific applications remains low to moderate, this article presents data regarding public acceptance of a variety of applications. These range from the use of animals as disease models and as sources for tissues and organs, to the use of transgenic animals for disease control, for food, and for the production of pharmaceutical and industrial products. Case-by-case judgments are evident, but at the same time, the application of criteria such as the nature of the organism being modified, the animal welfare aspects and the ethical-moral concerns are additional criteria for public judgments. These findings are discussed in the context of their implications for public policy. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16110885 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 211: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):141-8. Risk communication related to animal products derived from biotechnology. McCrea D. Consultant on food and consumer affairs, The Food Consultancy, 127, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff CF10 5SF, United Kingdom. Previous chapters of this review have dealt with the key considerations related to the application of biotechnology in veterinary science and animal production. This article explores the theory and practice of risk communication and sets out the basic principles for good risk communication when dealing with new technologies, uncertainty, and cautious and sceptical consumers. After failure to communicate with consumers and stakeholders about the risk to human health from bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in the 1990s, Government Agencies in the United Kingdom have made significant improvements in risk communication. The official inquiry that followed the BSE crisis concluded that a policy of openness was the correct approach, and this article emphasises the importance of consultation, consistency and transparency. There are, however, many different factors that affect public perception of risk (religious, political, social, cultural, etc.) and developing effective risk communication strategies must take all of these complex issues into consideration. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16110884 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 212: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):117-25. Regulatory considerations for biotechnology-derived animals in Canada. Kochhar HP, Adlakha-Hutcheon G, Evans BR. Animal Biotechnology Unit, Animal Products Directorate, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 59 Camelot Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0Y9, Canada Regulatory initiatives relating to biotechnology-derived livestock have focused on animal health, environmental impact, and the general concept of the safety of the food and by-products derived from such animals. Existing regulatory frameworks have been stretched to accommodate these emerging concerns. Public concerns and the expectations of society mean that the regulatory infrastructure is subject to a high level of scrutiny and that regulations are expected to maintain a clear level of confidence, transparency and effectiveness. A sound regulatory regime should be 'neutral', neither 'facilitating' nor 'restricting' the approval of products or by-products derived from biotechnology-derived animals. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16110882 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 213: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):61-74. The safety assessment of foods from transgenic and cloned animals using the comparative approach. Kelly L. Food Standards Australia New Zealand, P.O. Box 7186, Canberra BC, ACT 2610, Australia. The comparative approach to food safety assessment is based on the idea that the safety of a new food can largely be determined by its comparison to the benchmark of commonly consumed foods already in the food supply (also called the 'conventional counterpart'). Any differences between the new food and its conventional counterpart are evaluated to determine their relevance to human health and safety. In this way it is possible to conclude whether a new food is 'as safe as' conventional food already in the food supply. This approach, first developed primarily for use in the safety assessment of food from transgenic plants, is now generally accepted for food from both transgenic and cloned animals as well. This article outlines the basic principles behind the comparative approach, discusses some of the potential food safety concerns associated with transgenic and cloned animals, and describes important elements of the comparative approach and how these might be applied to assessing the safety of food from animals. Publication Types: Comparative Study Review PMID: 16110877 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 214: Rev Sci Tech. 2005 Apr;24(1):51-60. A framework for the animal health risk analysis of biotechnology-derived animals: a Canadian perspective. Moreau PI, Jordan LT. Animal Health Risk Assessment, Science Branch, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, P.O. Box 11300, Station H, 3851 Fallowfield Road, Ottawa, Ontario K2H 8P9, Canada. This paper describes the framework used by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to assess the risks to animal health associated with biotechnology-derived animals and their products. In Canada the risks to animal health associated with biotechnology-derived animals are one consideration among several other regulatory concerns (e.g. human health, the environment). The risk analysis process begins with hazard identification, includes a risk assessment for each hazard, and concludes with risk management and risk communication. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16110876 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 215: 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] 216: Perspect Biol Med. 2005 Summer;48(3):328-43. Ethical issues in animal cloning. Fiester A. University of Pennsylvania Center for Bioethics, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. fiester@mail.med.upenn.edu The issue of human reproductive cloning has recently received a great deal attention in public discourse. Bioethicists, policy makers, and the media have been quick to identify the key ethical issues involved in human reproductive cloning and to argue, almost unanimously, for an international ban on such attempts. Meanwhile, scientists have proceeded with extensive research agendas in the cloning of animals. Despite this research, there has been little public discussion of the ethical issues raised by animal cloning projects. Polling data show that the public is decidedly against the cloning of animals. To understand the public's reaction and fill the void of reasoned debate about the issue, we need to review the possible objections to animal cloning and assess the merits of the anti-animal cloning stance. Some objections to animal cloning (e.g., the impact of cloning on the population of unwanted animals) can be easily addressed, while others (e.g., the health of cloned animals) require more serious attention by the public and policy makers. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16085991 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 217: Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2005 Sep;8(5):516-22. A perspective on DNA microarray technology in food and nutritional science. Kato H, Saito K, Kimura T. Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan. akatoq@mail.ecc.u-tokyo.ac.jp PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The functions of nutrients and other foods have been revealed at the level of gene regulation. The advent of DNA microarray technology has enabled us to analyze the body's response to these factors in a much more holistic manner than before. This review is intended to overview the present status of this DNA microarray technology, hoping to provide food and nutrition scientists, especially those who are planning to introduce this technology, with hints and suggestions. RECENT FINDINGS: The number of papers examining transcriptomics analysis in food and nutrition science has expanded over the last few years. The effects of some dietary conditions and administration of specific nutrients or food factors are studied in various animal models and cultured cells. The target food components range from macronutrients and micronutrients to other functional food factors. Such studies have already yielded fruitful results, which include discovery of novel functions of a food, uncovering hitherto unknown mechanisms of action, and analyses of food safety. SUMMARY: The potency of DNA microarray technology in food and nutrition science is broadly recognized. This technique will surely continue to provide researchers and the public with valuable information on the beneficial and adverse effects of food factors. It should also be acknowledged, however, that there remain problems such as standardization of the data and sharing of the results among researchers in this field. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16079622 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 218: Am J Psychiatry. 2005 Aug;162(8):1441-51. Pharmacotherapy and pharmacogenetics of nicotine dependence. Berrettini WH, Lerman CE. Center for Neurobiology and Behavior, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Clinical Research Bldg., Room 111, 415 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. wadeb@mail.med.upenn.edu The authors review recent advances in the pharmacotherapy and pharmacogenetics of nicotine dependence. Despite the negative health consequences of smoking, approximately 23% of adults in the United States are daily tobacco smokers and approximately 13% are nicotine dependent. Data for development of new medications for nicotine dependence are likely to come from animal models of the reinforcing value of nicotine, studies to identify proteins in transgenic rodents, and pharmacological studies of nicotine withdrawal. The initial pharmacogenetic studies of pharmacotherapies approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for treatment of nicotine dependence-nicotine replacement (nicotine gum, nicotine nasal spray, and transdermal nicotine) and bupropion-have identified candidate alleles at the dopamine D2 receptor gene and mu opioid receptor gene that may predict therapeutic response. Because no one medication is likely to be safe and efficacious for a majority of persons with nicotine dependence, it will be useful to develop genetics-based methods and other tools to predict therapeutic response in subgroups of nicotine-dependent persons. Publication Types: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 16055765 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 219: Proc Nutr Soc. 2005 Aug;64(3):387-93. The production of very-long-chain PUFA biosynthesis in transgenic plants: towards a sustainable source of fish oils. Napier JA, Sayanova O. Crop Performance and Improvement Division, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ, UK. jonathan.napier@bbsrc.ac.uk There is now considerable evidence of the importance of n-3 long-chain PUFA in human health and development. At the same time, the marine fish stocks that serve as the primary sources of these fatty acids are threatened by continued over-exploitation. Thus, there is an urgent need to provide a sustainable alternative source of the n-3 long-chain PUFA normally found in fish oils. The possibility of using transgenic plants genetically engineered to synthesise these important fatty acids has recently been demonstrated. The approaches taken to realise this outcome will be discussed, as will their prospects for providing a sustainable resource for the future. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16048673 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 220: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Jun;46(3):J203-7. [Consideration of detection method and identification for genetically modified foods] [Article in Japanese] Akiyama H, Matsuda R. National Institute of Health Sciences: 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-8501, Japan. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16042304 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 221: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2005 Sep;68(5):588-97. Epub 2005 Oct 26. Biotechnological production and applications of phytases. Haefner S, Knietsch A, Scholten E, Braun J, Lohscheidt M, Zelder O. BASF Aktiengesellschaft, Ludwigshafen, Germany. Phytases decompose phytate, which is the primary storage form of phosphate in plants. More than 10 years ago, the first commercial phytase product became available on the market. It offered to help farmers reduce phosphorus excretion of monogastric animals by replacing inorganic phosphates by microbial phytase in the animal diet. Phytase application can reduce phosphorus excretion by up to 50%, a feat that would contribute significantly toward environmental protection. Furthermore, phytase supplementation leads to improved availability of minerals and trace elements. In addition to its major application in animal nutrition, phytase is also used for processing of human food. Research in this field focuses on better mineral absorption and technical improvement of food processing. All commercial phytase preparations contain microbial enzymes produced by fermentation. A wide variety of phytases were discovered and characterized in the last 10 years. Initial steps to produce phytase in transgenic plants were also undertaken. A crucial role for its commercial success relates to the formulation of the enzyme solution delivered from fermentation. For liquid enzyme products, a long shelf life is achieved by the addition of stabilizing agents. More comfortable for many customers is the use of dry enzyme preparations. Different formulation technologies are used to produce enzyme powders that retain enzyme activity, are stable in application, resistant against high temperatures, dust-free, and easy to handle. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16041577 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 222: IUBMB Life. 2005 Apr-May;57(4-5):311-4. Are genetically modified plants useful and safe? Weil JH. Institut de Biologie Moleculaire des Plantes, Strasbourg, France. Jacques-Henry.Weil@ibmp-ulp.u-strasbg.fr So far, plants have been genetically modified essentially to achieve resistance to herbicides, or to pathogens (mainly insects, or viruses), but resistance to abiotic stresses (such as cold, heat, drought, or salt) is also being studied. Genetically modified (GM) plants with improved nutritional qualities have more recently been developed, such as plants containing higher proportions of unsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) in their oil (to prevent cardio-vascular diseases), or containing beta-carotene as in the golden rice (to prevent vitamin A deficiency). Possible risks for human health (such as the production of allergenic proteins), or for the environment (such as the appearance of superweeds as a result from gene flow), should be carefully studied, and a science-based assessment of benefits vs. risks should be made on a case by case basis, both for GM plants and for plants obtained by conventional breeding methods. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16036615 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 223: Sci Prog. 2004;87(Pt 4):227-47. The determinants of lifespan in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans: a short primer. Geanacopoulos M. Mark Geanacopoulos is based at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 2 Democracy Plaza, Rm 642B, 6707 Democracy Boulevard, MSC 5458, Bethesda, MD 20892-5458, USA. GeanacoM@intra.niddk.nih.gov Transparent, easily-maintained, amenable to genetic manipulation, and living for only a few weeks, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a leading animal model for the study of the determinants of lifespan. The original genetic screen for increased longevity identified a mutant, age-1, with a defect in one component of a signal transduction pathway. This pathway functioned as a genetic switch and governed the decision whether to enter a specialized larval form, dauer, that enables the worm to withstand the scarcity of food or other stressful conditions. These age-1 worms had an increased tendency to become dauers, but if they did not adopt the dauer developmental pathway, they lived longer than wild type worms. age-1 and other longevity mutants with dauer phenotypes are vigorous, indicating that they do not suffer from a significant energy deficit, and stress resistant. Mutation of genes encoding mitochondrial components was found to be another means of extending the lifespan of the worm, although the associated phenotypes suggest a deficiency of available energy. While there are now many documented genetic manipulations which can extend the worm's lifespan, it has been difficult to come to definite conclusions as to the mechanism(s) by which lifespan is extended. The most carefully studied mutant strains have complex changes in gene expression and metabolism making it difficult to ascertain what changes are critical. The free radical theory of aging is the dominant biochemical theory of aging, and the phenotypes of the well-characterized longevity mutants worm can be accommodated to it. However discrete interventions to lower reactive oxygen species, or mitigate their effects, have not produced consistent easily-interpretable results in terms of lifespan extension. It has become clear that the insulin-dependent signalling mechanism that regulates lifespan in the worm functions in the context of a complex endocrine system and the hormonal control of aging is an emerging focus of research in worms and higher organisms. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16028834 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 224: Nutr Rev. 2005 Jun;63(6 Pt 1):210-23. Science, law, and politics in FDA's genetically engineered foods policy: scientific concerns and uncertainties. Pelletier DL. Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, 378 MVR Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. dlp5@cornell.edu The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) 1992 policy statement granted genetically engineered foods presumptive GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status. Since then, divergent views have been expressed concerning the scientific support for this policy. This paper examines four sources to better understand the basis for these claims: 1) internal FDA correspondence; 2) reports from the National Academy of Sciences; 3) research funded by US Department of Agriculture from 1981 to 2002; and 4) FDA's proposed rules issued in 2001. These sources reveal that little research has been conducted on unintended compositional changes from genetic engineering. Profiling techniques now make this feasible, but the new debate centers on the functional meaning of compositional changes. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16028565 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 225: J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2005;18(4):333-8. Iron content and bioavailability in rice. Meng F, Wei Y, Yang X. Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Zhejiang University, Huajiachi Campus, Hangzhou 310029, China. Iron deficiency is probably the most widespread micronutrient deficiency in humans. Since rice is the main staple food for more than half of the global population, improving the iron content and bioavailability in rice is a perspective and an effective way to alleviate or even solve this problem. The present paper evaluates the iron content in different cereal foods (black rice, rice, red rice, sticky rice and millet) and different rice seeds as well as in the milling products, and the iron bioavailability of different forms. The data show that the iron content in black rice is higher than in the other rice types, and in rice chaff and husk the content is still fairly high. However, the iron content in rice and fine rice, which are the people's main staple food, is fairly low. As to the bioavailability of iron, it is fairly low in vegetable foods, almost at the level of 10%. Several methods have been applied to improve iron content and bioavailability in rice seed. Apart from breeding and genetic engineering, biochemical and physical approaches have frequently been used as prospective methods to regulate iron content and bioavailability in rice grains. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 16028495 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 226: J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2005;18(4):299-307. Agriculture: the real nexus for enhancing bioavailable micronutrients in food crops. Welch RM, Graham RD. USDA-ARS, US Plant, Soil and Nutrition Laboratory, Tower Road, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853-2901, USA. rmw1@cornell.edu Human existence requires that agriculture provide at least 50 nutrients (e.g., vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, essential fatty acids) in amounts needed to meet metabolic demands during all seasons. If national food systems do not meet these demands, mortality and morbidity rates increase, worker productivity declines, livelihoods are diminished and societies suffer. Today, many food systems within the developing world cannot meet the nutritional needs of the societies they support mostly due to farming systems that cannot produce enough micronutrients to meet human needs throughout the year. Nutrition transitions are also occurring in many rapidly developing countries that are causing chronic disease (e.g., cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis) rates to increase substantially. These global developments point to the need to explicitly link agricultural technologies to human health. This paper reviews some ways in which agriculture can contribute significantly to reducing micronutrient malnutrition globally. It concludes that it is imperative that close linkages be forged between the agriculture, nutrition and health arenas in order to find sustainable solutions to micronutrient malnutrition with agriculture becoming the primary intervention tool to use in this fight. Publication Types: Review PMID: 16028491 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 227: 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] 228: 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] 229: J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol. 2005 Dec;32(11-12):502-13. Epub 2005 Jul 2. Strategies for the engineered phytoremediation of toxic element pollution: mercury and arsenic. Meagher RB, Heaton AC. Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA. meagher@uga.edu Plants have many natural properties that make them ideally suited to clean up polluted soil, water, and air, in a process called phytoremediation. We are in the early stages of testing genetic engineering-based phytoremediation strategies for elemental pollutants like mercury and arsenic using the model plant Arabidopsis. The long-term goal is to develop and test vigorous, field-adapted plant species that can prevent elemental pollutants from entering the food-chain by extracting them to aboveground tissues, where they can be managed. To achieve this goal for arsenic and mercury, and pave the way for the remediation of other challenging elemental pollutants like lead or radionucleides, research and development on native hyperaccumulators and engineered model plants needs to proceed in at least eight focus areas: (1) Plant tolerance to toxic elementals is essential if plant roots are to penetrate and extract pollutants efficiently from heterogeneous contaminated soils. Only the roots of mercury- and arsenic-tolerant plants efficiently contact substrates heavily contaminated with these elements. (2) Plants alter their rhizosphere by secreting various enzymes and small molecules, and by adjusting pH in order to enhance extraction of both essential nutrients and toxic elements. Acidification favors greater mobility and uptake of mercury and arsenic. (3) Short distance transport systems for nutrients in roots and root hairs requires numerous endogenous transporters. It is likely that root plasma membrane transporters for iron, copper, zinc, and phosphate take up ionic mercuric ions and arsenate. (4) The electrochemical state and chemical speciation of elemental pollutants can enhance their mobility from roots up to shoots. Initial data suggest that elemental and ionic mercury and the oxyanion arsenate will be the most mobile species of these two toxic elements. (5) The long-distance transport of nutrients requires efficient xylem loading in roots, movement through the xylem up to leaves, and efficient xylem unloading aboveground. These systems can be enhanced for the movement of arsenic and mercury. (6) Aboveground control over the electrochemical state and chemical speciation of elemental pollutants will maximize their storage in leaves, stems, and vascular tissues. Our research suggests ionic Hg(II) and arsenite will be the best chemical species to trap aboveground. (7) Chemical sinks can increase the storage capacity for essential nutrients like iron, zinc, copper, sulfate, and phosphate. Organic acids and thiol-rich chelators are among the important chemical sinks that could trap maximal levels of mercury and arsenic aboveground. (8) Physical sinks such as subcellular vacuoles, epidermal trichome cells, and dead vascular elements have shown the evolutionary capacity to store large quantities of a few toxic pollutants aboveground in various native hyperaccumulators. Specific plant transporters may already recognize gluthione conjugates of Hg(II) or arsenite and pump them into vacuole. Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 15995854 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 230: Nutr Rev. 2005 May;63(5):171-81. Science, law, and politics in the Food and Drug Administration's genetically engineered foods policy: FDA's 1992 policy statement. Pelletier DL. Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, 378 MVR Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. dlp5@cornell.edu The US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) 1992 policy statement was developed in the context of critical gaps in scientific knowledge concerning the compositional effects of genetic transformation and severe limitations in methods for safety testing. FDA acknowledged that pleiotropy and insertional mutagenesis may cause unintended changes, but it was unknown whether this happens to a greater extent in genetic engineering compared with traditional breeding. Moreover, the agency was not able to identify methods by which producers could screen for unintended allergens and toxicants. Despite these uncertainties, FDA granted genetically engineered foods the presumption of GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) and recommended that producers use voluntary consultations before marketing them. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15971412 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 231: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2005 Mar;34(2):244-8. [Strategies for safety assessment of genetically modified crops: current and future development] [Article in Chinese] Zhuo Q, Yang XG. National Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China. Gene recombinant technologies supply agriculture product with great vitality. But the risk of genetically modified crops cannot be ignored. The international organizations such as WHO, FAO and OECD have reached common agreement: the safety of transgenic crops should be thoroughly evaluated based on "substantial equivalence"principle. The relevant strategies including: substantial equivalent analysis, toxic tests, protein allergenic study, nutritional assessment, etc. With the development of new technologies, the approaches of genomic, proteomics, metabolomics would be applied to detect the unintended effects. The EU recently adopted legislation on the cultivation GM crops requiring the post market surveillance for any unanticipated adverse effects in the long term. In conclusion, the strategies of the safety assessment of GM crop are very strict and likely development. Publication Types: English Abstract Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15952675 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 232: 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] 233: FEMS Microbiol Rev. 2005 Aug;29(3):611-24. The long and winding road from the research laboratory to industrial applications of lactic acid bacteria. Pedersen MB, Iversen SL, Sørensen KI, Johansen E. Research, Development and Application, Chr. Hansen A/S, 10-12 Bøge Allé, DK2970 Hørsholm, Denmark. Research innovations are constantly occurring in universities, research institutions and industrial research laboratories. These are reported in the scientific literature and presented to the scientific community in various congresses and symposia as well as through direct contacts and collaborations. Conversion of these research results to industrially useful innovations is, however, considerably more complex than generally appreciated. The long and winding road from the research laboratory to industrial applications will be illustrated with two recent examples from Chr. Hansen A/S: the implementation in industrial scale of a new production technology based on respiration by Lactococcus lactis and the introduction to the market of L. lactis strains constructed using recombinant DNA technology. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15935510 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 234: J Environ Manage. 2005 Aug;76(3):210-20. Regulating insect resistance management: the case of non-Bt corn refuges in the US. Bourguet D, Desquilbet M, Lemarié S. Centre de Biologie et de Gestion des Populations, UMR INRA/IRD/CIRAD/ENSA.M, Campus International de Baillarguet, CS 30 016, 34 988 Montferrier/Lez, France. bourguet@ensam.inra.fr In this paper, we analyze the insect resistance management (IRM) plan put in place by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to delay the evolution of resistance to Bt corn in natural populations of the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner. This IRM plan is the most impressive mandatory IRM system ever developed. It forms a coherent whole and includes mandatory refuges, actions to increase growers' compliance and a program for monitoring the evolution of resistance. However, our analysis suggests that two components of this IRM plan are not entirely satisfactory: growers' compliance and monitoring of the evolution of resistance. Moreover, the implementation of these two components of IRM has been required of the registrants, whose incentives for IRM are probably lower than the social optimum. Our analysis suggests that alternatives to the IRM plan currently in place could improve these two components. Publication Types: Comparative Study Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15922504 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 235: Trends Biotechnol. 2005 Jun;23(6):308-15. Tuning the pores: towards engineering plants for improved water use efficiency. Chaerle L, Saibo N, Van Der Straeten D. Unit Plant Hormone Signaling and Bio-imaging, Ghent University, Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Gent, Belgium. The management of limited fresh water resources is a major challenge facing society in the 21st century. The agricultural sector accounts for more than two-thirds of human water withdrawal and is therefore a prime area to implement a more rational water use. Environmental stresses are a major factor limiting stable food production. Given the growing shortage of available water for crops this will be an emerging factor in international agricultural economy. The most environmentally friendly and durable solution to the problem of water shortage is to complement more efficient irrigation approaches with crops with optimal water use efficiency, achieved either through genetic engineering or conventional breeding, combined with high yields. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15922083 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 236: 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] 237: Environ Biosafety Res. 2004 Jul-Sep;3(3):135-48. Management of herbicide-tolerant oilseed rape in Europe: a case study on minimizing vertical gene flow. Devos Y, Reheul D, de Schrijver A, Cors F, Moens W. Service of Biosafety and Biotechnology, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium. Yann.Devos@UGent.be The potential commercialization of genetically modified herbicide-tolerant (GMHT) oilseed rape in Europe raises various concerns about their potential environmental and agronomic impacts, especially those associated with the escape of transgenes. Pollen of oilseed rape can be dispersed in space, resulting in the fertilization of sympatric compatible wild relatives (e.g. Brassica rapa) and oilseed rape cultivars grown nearby (GM and/or non-GM Brassica napus). The spatial and temporal dispersal of seeds of oilseed rape may lead to feral oilseed rape populations outside the cropped areas and oilseed rape volunteers in subsequent crops in the rotation. The incorporation of a HT trait(s) may increase the fitness of the recipient plants, making them more abundant and persistent, and may result in weeds that are difficult to control by the herbicide(s) to which they are tolerant. Vertical gene flow from transgenic oilseed rape to non-GM counterparts may also have an impact on farming and supply chain management, depending on labelling thresholds for the adventitious presence of GM material in non-GM products. Given the extent of pollen and seed dispersal in oilseed rape, it is obvious that the safe and sound integration of GMHT oilseed rape in Europe may require significant on-farm and off-farm management efforts. Crucial practical measures that can reduce vertical gene flow include (1) isolating seed production of Brassica napus, (2) the use of certified seed, (3) isolating fields of GM oilseed rape, (4) harvesting at the correct crop development stage with properly adjusted combine settings, (5) ensuring maximum germination of shed seeds after harvest, (6) controlling volunteers in subsequent crops, and (7) keeping on-farm records. The implementation of the recommended practices may, however, be difficult, entailing various challenges. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15901096 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 238: Virus Res. 2005 Jul;111(1):93-100. Epub 2005 Apr 19. Plant biopharming of monoclonal antibodies. Ko K, Koprowski H. Biotechnology Foundation Laboratories at Thomas Jefferson University, 1020 Locust Street, Room M85 JAH, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. Recent advances in molecular biology and plant biotechnology have shifted the concept of growing crops as a food source to serving as a bioreactor for the production of therapeutic recombinant proteins. Plants are potential biopharming factories because they are capable of producing unlimited numbers and amounts of recombinant proteins safely and inexpensively. In the last two decades, plant production systems have been developed for monoclonal antibody production, which has been useful in passive immunization of viral or bacterial diseases. Recently, a recombinant monoclonal antibody for rabies prophylaxis was produced in transgenic plants. Rabies virus epidemics remain still problematic throughout the world, and adequate treatment has been hampered by the worldwide shortage and high cost of prophylactic antibodies such as HRIG. Successful mass production of this monoclonal antibody in plants might help to overcome these problems. An effective plant production system for recombinant biologicals requires the appropriate heterologous plant expression system, the optimal combination of gene expression regulatory elements, control of post-translational processing of recombinant products, and efficient purification methods for product recovery. This review discusses recent biotechnology developments for plant-derived monoclonal antibodies and discusses these products as a promising approach to rabies prophylaxis and the consequence for global health benefits. Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 15896408 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 239: 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] 240: Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2005 Feb;46(1):J1-3. [The present condition and a view of the food inspection using the invader method] [Article in Japanese] Hanazawa R, Yamaguchi T. BML Food Science, Inc.: 1491, Matoba, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama 350-1101, Japan. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15881253 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 241: Transgenic Res. 2005 Feb;14(1):15-26. Transformation of fruit trees. Useful breeding tool or continued future prospect? Petri C, Burgos L. Departamento de Mejora y Patología Vegetal, CEBAS-CSIC. Aptd. 164, 30100 Murcia, Spain. Regeneration and transformation systems using mature plant material of woody fruit species have to be achieved as a necessary requirement for the introduction of useful genes into specific cultivars and the rapid evaluation of resulting horticultural traits. Although the commercial production of transgenic annual crops is a reality, commercial genetically-engineered fruit trees are still far from common. In most woody fruit species, transformation and regeneration of commercial cultivars are not routine, generally being limited to a few genotypes or to seedlings. The future of genetic transformation as a tool for the breeding of fruit trees requires the development of genotype-independent procedures, based on the transformation of meristematic cells with high regeneration potential and/or the use of regeneration-promoting genes. The public concern with the introduction of antibiotic resistance into food and the restrictions due to new European laws that do not allow deliberate release of plants transformed with antibiotic-resistance genes highlight the development of methods that avoid the use of antibiotic-dependent selection or allow elimination of marker genesfrom the transformed plant as a research priority in coming years. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15865045 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 242: 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] 243: 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] 244: Riv Biol. 2004 Aug-Dec;97(3):379-408. Functional dynamics of living systems and genetic engineering. Buiatti M. Department of Animal Biology and Genetics, Firenze (Italy). The discussion on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's) has been centred mainly on the nature and effects on economy, human health, environment, of the few transgenic plant lines present in the market in the last eight years. On the contrary, the present paper starts with a discussion of some of the relevant changes in our basic knowledge of the structure and dynamics of living systems in the last twenty years. Contemporary Biology is then compared with what may be called the "modern paradigm" of life sciences on which present day GMO's are conceptually based. Technical, environmental, social and economic problems deriving from the unexpected, persistent prevalence of the old fashioned modern vision of life in the "spirit of time" will be thoroughly discussed with a particular attention to the virtualisation process of GMO's and the effects of the prevalence over economic, social, environmental reality of their symbolic values. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15754592 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 245: Cytogenet Genome Res. 2005;109(1-3):350-9. Detection of alien chromatin introgression from Thinopyrum into wheat using S genomic DNA as a probe--a landmark approach for Thinopyrum genome research. Chen Q. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge Research Centre, Lethbridge, Alta, Canada. chenqi@agr.gc.ca The introduction of alien genetic variation from the genus Thinopyrum through chromosome engineering into wheat is a valuable and proven technique for wheat improvement. A number of economically important traits have been transferred into wheat as single genes, chromosome arms or entire chromosomes. Successful transfers can be greatly assisted by the precise identification of alien chromatin in the recipient progenies. Chromosome identification and characterization are useful for genetic manipulation and transfer in wheat breeding following chromosome engineering. Genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) using an S genomic DNA probe from the diploid species Pseudoroegneria has proven to be a powerful diagnostic cytogenetic tool for monitoring the transfer of many promising agronomic traits from Thinopyrum. This specific S genomic probe not only allows the direct determination of the chromosome composition in wheat-Thinopyrum hybrids, but also can separate the Th. intermedium chromosomes into the J, J(S) and S genomes. The J(S) genome, which consists of a modified J genome chromosome distinguished by S genomic sequences of Pseudoroegneria near the centromere and telomere, carries many disease and mite resistance genes. Utilization of this S genomic probe leads to a better understanding of genomic affinities between Thinopyrum and wheat, and provides a molecular cytogenetic marker for monitoring the transfer of alien Thinopyrum agronomic traits into wheat recipient lines. Copyright 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15753596 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 246: Trends Plant Sci. 2005 Mar;10(3):112-6. Relief for fish stocks: oceanic fatty acids in transgenic oilseeds. Domergue F, Abbadi A, Heinz E. University of Hamburg, Biozentrum Klein Flottbek, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609 Hamburg, Germany. fredomergue@voila.fr Three recent reports (Baoxiu Qi et al., Amine Abbadi et al. and Anthony J. Kinney et al.) describe the production of very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in transgenic plants. This might lead to a sustainable source of these valuable fatty acids for use in human food and animal feed. At present they are mainly available via consumption of fish, which is a limited and endangered resource. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15749468 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 247: J Dairy Sci. 2005 Mar;88(3):843-56. Invited review: methods for the screening, isolation, and characterization of exopolysaccharides produced by lactic acid bacteria. Ruas-Madiedo P, de los Reyes-Gavilán CG. Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias, CSIC, Carretera de Infiesto s/n, 33300 Villaviciosa, Asturias, Spain. ruas-madiedo@ipla.csic.es The ability to produce exopolysaccharides (EPS) is widespread among lactic acid bacteria (LAB), although the physiological role of these molecules has not been clearly established yet. Some EPS confer on LAB a "ropy" character that can be detected in cultures that form long strands when extended with an inoculation loop. When EPS are produced in situ during milk fermentation they can act as natural biothickeners, giving the product a suitable consistency, improving viscosity, and reducing syneresis. In addition, some of these EPS may have beneficial effects on human health. The increasing demand by consumers of novel dairy products requires a better understanding of the effect of EPS on existing products and, at the same time, the search for new EPS-producing strains with desirable properties. The use of genetically modified organisms capable of producing high levels of EPS or newly designed biopolymers is still very limited. Therefore, exploration of the biodiversity of wild LAB strains from natural ecological environments is currently the most suitable approach to search for the desired EPS-phenotype. The screening of ropy strains and the isolation and characterization of EPS responsible for this characteristic have led to the application over the past years of a wide variety of techniques. This review summarizes the available information on methods and procedures used for research on this topic. The information provided deals with methods for screening of EPS-producing LAB, detection of the ropy phenotype, and the physicochemical and structural characterization of these molecules, including parameters related to their viscosifying properties. To our knowledge, this is the first compilation of methods available for the study of EPS produced by LAB. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15738217 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 248: Vaccine. 2005 Mar 7;23(15):1866-9. Plant-derived vaccines against diarrheal diseases. Tacket CO. Center for Vaccine Development, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 685 West Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA. ctacket@medicine.umaryland.edu Transgenic plants present a novel system for both production and oral delivery of vaccine antigens. Production of protein antigen in food plants is substantially cheaper than production in bacterial, fungal, insect cell, or mammalian cell culture. Edible plants themselves can also serve as the oral vaccine delivery system. Phase-1 studies of raw transgenic potatoes expressing the B subunit of Escherichia coli heat labile enterotoxin (LT-B), potatoes expressing Norwalk virus capsid protein, and defatted corn germ meal expressing LT-B have been conducted. New oral vaccines based on other transgenic plants will soon be evaluated in humans. Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 15734057 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 249: 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] 250: J AOAC Int. 2004 Nov-Dec;87(6):1466-74. Effects of chemical, physical, and technological processes on the nature of food allergens. Poms RE, Anklam E. European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, Retieseweg, 2440 Geel, Belgium. A review is presented of studies of different processing techniques and their effect on the allergenicity and antigenicity of certain allergenic foods. An overview of investigated technologies is given with regard to their impact on the protein structure and their potential application in the production of hypoallergenic foods. The use of physical processes (such as heating, high pressure, microparticulation, ultrafiltration, and irradiation), chemical processes (such as proteolysis, fermentation, and refining by extraction), and biotechnological approaches, as well as the effects of these processes on individual allergenic foods, are included. Additionally, the implications of food processing for food allergen analysis with respect to food safety assessment and industrial quality control are briefly discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15675460 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 251: J AOAC Int. 2004 Nov-Dec;87(6):1423-32. Assessing the allergenicity of proteins introduced into genetically modified crops using specific human IgE assays. Goodman RE, Leach JN. Monsanto Co, St Louis, MO 63167, USA. rgoodman2@unlnotes.unl.edu Global commercial production of genetically modified (GM) crops has grown to over 67 million hectares annually, primarily of herbicide-tolerant and insect protection crop varieties. GM crops are produced by the insertion of specific genes that either encode a protein, or a regulatory RNA sequence. A comprehensive safety evaluation is conducted for each new commercial GM crop, including an assessment of the potential allergenicity of any newly introduced protein. If the gene was derived from an allergenic organism, or the protein sequence is highly similar to a known allergen, immunoassays, e.g., Western blot assays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay tests, are performed to identify protein-specific IgE binding by sera of individuals allergic to the gene source, or the source of the sequence-matched allergen. Although such assays are commonly used to identify previously unknown allergens, criteria have not been established to demonstrate that a protein is unlikely to cause allergic reactions. This review discusses factors that affect the predictive value of these tests, including clinical selection criteria for serum donors, selection of blocking reagents to reduce nonspecific antibody binding, inhibition assays to verify specificity of binding, and scientifically justified limits of detection (sensitivity) in the absence of information regarding biological thresholds. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15675455 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 252: Transgenic Res. 2004 Dec;13(6):583-91. Re-interpreting some common objections to three transgenic applications: GM foods, xenotransplantation and germ line gene modification (GLGM). Carter L. Office of Public Policy and Ethics, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Australia. l.carter@imb.uq.edu.au Concerns about safety to the individual, the wider community and the potential impact on the environment are typical consequentialist objections to transgenesis that feature prominently in public debates about its ethical acceptability. I consider some of these claims with respect to their motivation, validity and their overall influence on public policy using three well-discussed applications of transgenesis: GM foods, xenotransplantation and germ line gene modification (GLGM). Publication Types: Review PMID: 15672839 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 253: 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] 254: Trends Biotechnol. 2005 Jan;23(1):17-21. Transgenes for tea? Heritage J. School of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK. j.heritage@leeds.ac.uk So far, no compelling scientific evidence has been found to suggest that the consumption of transgenic or genetically modified (GM) plants by animals or humans is more likely to cause harm than is the consumption of their conventional counterparts. Despite this lack of scientific evidence, the economic prospects for GM plants are probably limited in the short term and there is public opposition to the technology. Now is a good time to address several issues concerning GM plants, including the potential for transgenes to migrate from GM plants to gut microbes or to animal or human tissues, the consequences of consuming GM crops, either as fresh plants or as silage, and the problems caused by current legislation on GM labelling and beyond. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15629853 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 255: Med Mal Infect. 2004 Nov;34(11):522-9. [Impact of genetic modifications on infectious diseases] [Article in French] Houdebine LM. INRA, UMR Biologie du développement et de la reproduction, 78312 Jouy-en-Josas, France. houdebine@jouy.inra.fr Genetic engineering offers the theoretical possibility to transfer any natural or modified gene into any living organism. This generates new and diverse situations which may contribute to the spreading of infectious diseases or on the contrary to control them. Problems may theoretically come from uncontrolled genes providing resistance to antibiotics, from the activation of genomic retroviral sequences, from enhanced sensitivity of the organism to pathogens, as well as from the generation of mutated microorganisms with a higher pathogenecity. On the contrary, various genetic modifications may create organisms resistant to infectious diseases, generate safe and efficient recombinant vaccines, or provide patients with proteins which stimulate their defense mechanisms. The major impacts of genetic modifications in the development of infectious diseases or on the contrary in their eradication are analyzed in this article. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 15620056 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 256: Environ Biosafety Res. 2004 Apr-Jun;3(2):99-107. A decade of European field trials with genetically modified plants. Lheureux K, Menrad K. European Commission, Directorate-General Joint Research Centre, Institute for Prospective Technological Studies, D-94315 Straubing, Germany. Karine.Lheureux@efsa.eu.int This article analyzes the development of notifications of genetically modified plants field trials in the European Union from 1991 to 2001, based on the data collected at the European level in the Summary Notification Information Format database. During this time period, a total of 1687 field trial notifications were received. The number of field trial notifications dropped by 76% between 1998 and 2001, mainly due to the de facto moratorium in place since 1999. Input traits (77%) dominated the field trial notifications during the last decade, while output traits were relevant in only 18% of all notifications, with a decreasing relevance during the last six years. In particular, field trial notifications on molecular farming were almost absent in the EU. Large companies focused their field trials on crops with a high grown area in the European Union and resistance traits, while public institutions showed interest in a large diversity of plants and traits. Finally, some conclusions on future impacts of the results of the study are drawn in this article. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15612507 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 257: Biotechnol Adv. 2005 Jan;23(1):81-5. Epub 2004 Oct 27. The thioredoxin h system: potential applications. Joudrier P, Gautier MF, de Lamotte F, Kobrehel K. UMR PIA (CIRAD-INRA-ENSA), 2, Place Viala, 34060 Montpellier cedex, France. joudrier@ensam.inra.fr The thioredoxin h system has the specific capability to reduce intramolecular disulfide bonds of proteins, thereby modifying their tertiary structure. It is involved in many processes: in the activation or deactivation of enzymes and enzyme inhibitors and in the germination process. This system can be used to improve the breadmaking quality of wheat by strengthening the dough. It can also decrease the epitope accessibility, then modifying the response of the IgE immune system. Transgenic barley and wheat have been created to confirm the functionality of the NADP-dependent thioredoxin h system. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15610969 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 258: Zhi Wu Sheng Li Yu Fen Zi Sheng Wu Xue Xue Bao. 2004 Apr;30(2):121-6. [Excision of selectable marker gene from transgenic plant] [Article in Chinese] Lu HJ, Gong ZX. Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China. gongzx@sumn.shcnc.ac.cn Currently used plant transformation systems require selectable marker genes encoding antibiotic or herbicide resistance, along with the gene of interest, to select transformed cells from a large population of mostly untransformed cells. The continued presence of these selectable markers, especially in food crop, is of increasing public concern. The generation of selectable marker-free transgenic plant is one of the new projects in plant biotechnology research. Two techniques, segregation excision and recombination excision, for removal of selectable marker genes are described in this article. The advances in producing selectable marker-free transgenic plants are reviewed too. Publication Types: English Abstract Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15599035 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 259: Pest Manag Sci. 2005 Mar;61(3):292-300. Risks and consequences of gene flow from herbicide-resistant crops: canola (Brassica napus L) as a case study. Légère A. Soils and Crops Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2560 boul Hochelaga, Sainte-Foy, QC, G1V 2J3, Canada. legerea@agr.gc.ca Data from the literature and recent experiments with herbicide-resistant (HR) canola (Brassica napus L) repeatedly confirm that genes and transgenes will flow and hybrids will form if certain conditions are met. These include sympatry with a compatible relative (weedy, wild or crop), synchrony of flowering, successful fertilization and viable offspring. The chance of these events occurring is real; however, it is generally low and varies with species and circumstances. Plants of the same species (non-transgenic or with a different HR transgene) in neighbouring fields may inherit the new HR gene, potentially generating plants with single and multiple HR. For canola, seed losses at harvest and secondary dormancy ensures the persistence over time of the HR trait(s) in the seed bank, and the potential presence of crop volunteers in subsequent crops. Although canola has many wild/weedy relatives, the risk of gene flow is quite low for most of these species, except with Brassica rapa L. Introgression of genes and transgenes in B rapa populations occurs with apparently little or no fitness costs. Consequences of HR canola gene flow for the agro-ecosystem include contamination of seed lots, potentially more complex and costly control strategy, and limitations in cropping system design. Consequences for non-agricultural habitats may be minor but appear largely undocumented. Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada 2005 Publication Types: Review PMID: 15593291 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 260: Biochimie. 2004 Nov;86(11):793-8. Enzymes for transgenic biosynthesis of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Huang YS, Pereira SL, Leonard AE. Strategic Research, Ross Products Division, Abbott Laboratories, 625 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215, USA. vic.huang@abbott.com Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are important for the normal development and function of all organisms, and are essential in maintaining human health. Impaired PUFA metabolism is thought to be associated with pathogenesis of many chronic diseases. Dietary supplementation of PUFAs, such as gamma-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, which bypass the defective or dysfunctional steps of the biosynthetic pathway has been found to significantly alleviate the symptoms of the disease. These findings have drawn a great deal of interest from general public and food manufacturers. As the demand of these beneficial PUFAs has drastically increased in recent years, there are also increasing efforts in finding the alternate sources of PUFAs that are more economical and sustainable. One option is to modify the oil-seed crops to produce PUFAs through genetic engineering technique. This review examines the isolation, identification and expression of genes encoding the enzymes required for the biosynthesis of the above mentioned PUFAs in plants. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15589688 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 261: 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] 262: 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] 263: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2004;44(5):361-7. Health benefits of soy isoflavonoids and strategies for enhancement: a review. McCue P, Shetty K. Program in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA. Soybean consumption has been linked to a reduced risk for certain cancers and diseases of old age. The health benefits associated with soybean consumption have been linked to the action of isoflavonoids, the major phenolic phytochemicals found in soybean. Isoflavonoids possess numerous biological activities that may support chemoprevention through the promotion of apoptosis in diseased cells. In this study, we discuss the current state of knowledge concerning soybean isoflavonoids, their chemopreventive actions against postmenopausal health problems, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, and also biotechnology approaches toward the enrichment of soybean for isoflavonoid content. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15540649 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 264: J Med Philos. 2004 Jun;29(3):333-50. The precautionary principle and the regulation of U.S. food and drug safety. Soule E. The McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA. ed.soule@msb.edu This article probes the advisability of regulating U.S. food and drug safety according to the precautionary principle. To do so, a precautionary regulatory regime is formulated on the basis of the beliefs that motivate most proponents of this initiative. That hypothetical regime is critically analyzed on the basis of an actual instantiation of a similarly stylized initiative. It will be argued that the precautionary principle entails regulatory constraints that are apt to violate basis tenets of political legitimacy. The modifications that would change this finding would also change precautionary regulation to the point that it would be indistinguishable from orthodox safety protocols. It is concluded on the basis of its impoverished content that the precautionary principle should not be taken seriously as a formal approach to the regulation of U.S. food and drug safety. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15512976 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 265: Mol Nutr Food Res. 2004 Nov;48(6):413-23. Allergy assessment of foods or ingredients derived from biotechnology, gene-modified organisms, or novel foods. Poulsen LK. Laboratory of Medical Allergology, Allergy Clinic, National University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. lkpallgy@inet.uni2.dk The introduction of novel proteins into foods carries a risk of eliciting allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to the introduced protein and a risk of sensitizing susceptible individuals. No single predictive test exists to perform a hazard assessment in relation to allergenic properties of newly expressed proteins in gene-modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, performance of a weighted risk analysis based on the decision tree approach has been suggested. The individual steps of this analysis comprise sequence homology to known allergens, specific or targeted serum screens for immunoglobulin E (IgE) cross-reactions to known allergens, digestability studies of the proteins in simulated gastric and/or intestinal fluids, and animal studies. These steps are discussed and five examples of risk evaluation of GMOs or novel foods are presented. These include ice-structuring protein derived from fish, microbial transglutaminase, GMO-soybeans, amylase and the Nangai nut. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15508176 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 266: 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] 267: Nurs Outlook. 2004 Sep-Oct;52(5):262-6. "This food may contain ..." What nurses should know about genetically engineered foods. Whitney SL, Maltby HJ, Carr JM. College of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, 220 Rowell, Burlington, VT 05405, USA. Stuart.Whitney@uvm.edu Genetic engineering has been in existence since 1973. The process involves placing genetic DNA from one organism into another. Genetically engineered organisms (GEOs) are the name given to such new species of plants created through this process. Proponents of GEOs assert that foods we are now able to produce have greater nutritional value, longer shelf life, better appearance, taste and smell. There are positive benefits to genetic engineering of plants and animals. A growing concern for the health safety of genetically engineered plants and foods is developing among the cautious. The purpose of this article is to define genetic engineering, present benefits and risks, describe the impact on human health, and address implications for nursing. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15499316 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 268: 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] 269: Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2004 Nov;6(6):468-76. Dietary fats and oils: technologies for improving cardiovascular health. Flickinger BD, Huth PJ. ADM Reserach, James R. Randall Research Center, Decatur, IL 62521, USA. flickinger@admworld.com The role of dietary lipids in the etiology of coronary heart disease (CHD) continues to evolve as we gain a better understanding of the metabolic effects of individual fatty acids and their impact on surrogate markers of risk. A recent meta-analysis of 60 human studies suggests that for each 1% energy replacement of carbohydrates in the diet with saturated fat or trans fat, serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations increase by 0.032 (1.23 mg/dL) and 0.04 mmol/L (1.54 mg/dL), respectively. Current dietary recommendations to keep saturated fat and trans fat intake as low as possible, and to increase the intake of cis mono-unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as growing recognition of these recommendations by consumers and food regulatory agencies in the United States, have been major driving forces for the edible oil industry and food manufacturers to develop alternative fats and oils with nutritionally improved fatty acid compositions. As solutions for use of trans fatty acids are being sought, oilseeds with modified fatty acid compositions are being viewed as a means to provide such solutions. Additionally, oilseeds with modified fatty acid composition, such as enhanced content of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids or conjugated linoleic acid, have been developed as a way to increase delivery of these fatty acids directly into the food supply or indirectly as use for feed ingredients for livestock. New processing technologies are being utilized around the world to create dietary fats and oils with specific physiologic functions relevant to risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15485593 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 270: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2004 Jul;33(4):502-4. [Methods of hygromycin B phosphotransferase activity assay in transgenic plant] [Article in Chinese] Zhuo Q, Yang X. Institute for Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China. Hygromycin B phosphotransferase (HPT) is a widely used selectable marker protein of transgenic plant. Detection of its activity is critical to studies on the development of various transgenic plants, silence of inserted gene, marker-free system development and safety assessment of transgenic food. In this paper, several methods for detecting the activity of this enzyme were reviewed. Publication Types: English Abstract Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15461291 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 271: 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] 272: 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] 273: Neuropeptides. 2004 Aug;38(4):189-200. NPY and Y receptors: lessons from transgenic and knockout models. Lin S, Boey D, Herzog H. Neurobiology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the central nervous system is a major regulator of food consumption and energy homeostasis. It also regulates blood pressure, induces anxiolysis, enhances memory retention, affects circadian rhythms and modulates hormone release. Five Y receptors (Y1, Y2, Y4, Y5 and Y6) are known to mediate the action of NPY and its two other family members, peptide YY (PYY) and pancreatic polypeptide (PP). Increased NPY signaling due to elevated NPY expression in the hypothalamus leads to the development of obesity and its related phenotypes, Type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Dysregulation in NPY signaling also causes alterations in bone formation, alcohol consumption and seizure susceptibility. The large number of Y receptors has made it difficult to delineate their individual contributions to these physiological processes. However, recent studies analysing NPY and Y receptor overexpressing and knockout models have started to unravel some of the different functions of these Y receptors. Particularly, the use of conditional knockout models has made it possible to pinpoint a specific function to an individual Y receptor in a particular location. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15337371 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 274: 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] 275: Reprod Fertil Dev. 2004;16(4):465-70. State of the art in the production of transgenic goats. Baldassarre H, Wang B, Keefer CL, Lazaris A, Karatzas CN. Nexia Biotechnologies Inc., Dorion-Vaudreuil, Quebec, Canada. hbaldassarre@nexiabiotech.com This review summarises recent advances in the field of transgenic goats for the purpose of producing recombinant proteins in their milk. Production of transgenic goats via pronuclear microinjection of DNA expression vectors has been the traditional method, but this results in low efficiencies. Somatic cell nuclear transfer has dramatically improved efficiencies in rates of transgenesis. Characterisation of transfected cells in vitro before use in nuclear transfer guarantees that kids born are transgenic and of predetermined gender. Using these platform technologies, several recombinant proteins of commercial interest have been produced, although none of them has yet gained marketing approval. Before these technologies are implemented in goat improvement programmes, efficiencies must be improved, costs reduced, and regulatory approval obtained for the marketing of food products derived from such animals. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15315745 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 276: 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] 277: 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] 278: Anim Reprod Sci. 2004 Jul;82-83:5-12. Production of bioproducts through the use of transgenic animal models. Keefer CL. Department of Animal & Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA. ckeefer@umd.edu Transgenic livestock that produce recombinant proteins in their milk can provide an economic and safe system for production of valuable proteins, such as pharmaceutical proteins for treatment or prevention of human disease or biomaterials for medical use. This method of production is frequently referred to as biopharming. The promise of biopharming, that is the actual commercial production of pharmaceuticals and other bioproducts, is nearing fulfillment. Improvements in molecular and reproductive techniques and strong economic incentives have continued to drive the implementation of transgenic technology to domestic animals. Nuclear transfer using transgenic donor cells is rapidly becoming the predominant technique used in the production of transgenic livestock, replacing the direct injection of DNA into the zygotic pronuclei. Production of transgenic founder animals by nuclear transfer in combination with traditional reproductive technologies can result in the propagation of transgenic herds of sufficient size to meet market demands for commercially important proteins. While some of the companies that have established transgenic programs have run into setbacks owing to a combination of economic, scientific and regulatory difficulties, other companies are continuing to make significant advances. While further improvements are needed to increase efficiencies of production, economically viable production of recombinant proteins using livestock species is not only possible but should be a commercial reality in the very near future. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15271439 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 279: 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] 280: 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] 281: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2004 Mar;33(2):233-6. [Safety evaluation of food from transgenic fish and the molecular biological mechanism] [Article in Chinese] Zhang X, Yang X. Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China. More progresses have been made in the studying of transgenic fish in China, but the studying work of safety evaluation of food from transgenic fish are started up just now. Compared to plants and animals on the land, it is more difficult to control the mobility of fish and fish can give birth to a large number of offsprings, so the ecological risk or hazard about transgenic fish is more critical than others. Another safety problem is the chimerism which is initiated by the gene transfer methods used in the transgenic fish. Getting sterile triploid transgenic fish and fixed point integration are efficient to solve the two problems above respectively. The solution of the two problems are also the basis of safety evaluation and detection of food from transgenic fish. Up to now, there are little reports on the safety evaluation of transgenic fish including nutritional evaluation and allergic reaction, and there are no basic research on the detection of transgenic fish for the aim of food safety. In brief, it is very urgent to start up the research on the safety evaluation and detection of transgenic fish for the control of food safety. Publication Types: English Abstract Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15209016 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 282: 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] 283: J Drug Target. 2003;11(8-10):539-45. Advantageous features of plant-based systems for the development of HIV vaccines. Horn ME, Pappu KM, Bailey MR, Clough RC, Barker M, Jilka JM, Howard JA, Streatfield SJ. ProdiGene, College Station, TX 77845, USA. Plants have recently become an attractive option for the production of recombinant proteins. Plant-based systems can be used to produce many classes of foreign proteins including candidate vaccine antigens. The selected antigen can be purified from plant material prior to delivery by the preferred route, or alternatively delivered orally in edible plant material that has been processed to give a homogeneous and stable product. Several plant species have been used to express a wide range of vaccine candidates with tobacco, potato and corn being particularly favored. Corn seed is especially well suited to various food processing technologies that generate dry homogeneous material suitable for extended storage and refrigeration-free transport and distribution. Many antigens have been expressed in corn and assessed for efficacy in trials with generally positive results. Candidate HIV vaccines are particularly good targets for plant-based oral delivery since there is a great need for an easily distributed affordable vaccine that could be administered without injection and induce strong mucosal immune responses. As a first step in evaluating plant expression technology with a relevant antigen that might easily be tested in an animal system, we expressed the SIV major surface glycoprotein gp130 (analogous to HIV gp120) in corn seed. Expression levels were achieved that are compatible with conducting oral delivery trials in animals. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15203923 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 284: Mini Rev Med Chem. 2004 Jun;4(5):493-503. The genetics and properties of cereal ribosome-inactivating proteins. Motto M, Lupotto E. Istituto sperimentale per la Cerealicoltura, via Stezzano 24, 24126 Bergamo, Italy. motto@iscbg.it Plants contain proteins that are capable of inactivating ribosomes, commonly referred to as Ribosome Inactivating Proteins (RIPs). These particular plant proteins have received attention in biological and biomedical research because of their unique biological activities towards animals and human cells as cell-killing agents. Some of the best-characterised RIPs have been isolated from exotic plants, but they have also been found in cereals and other food crops. Cereals contain, in general, RIPs in the endosperm protein pool: they share a high similarity with all the other RIPs retaining, however, characteristic features forming a distinct class which diversified significantly during evolution. They appear to be involved in quite different physiological roles, such as defence against pathogens and/or involved in regulatory and developmental processes. This review aims to provide a critical assessment to work related to cereal RIP with particular emphasis to the maize RIPs. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15180506 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 285: 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] 286: Trends Biotechnol. 2004 Jun;22(6):286-94. The contribution of farm animals to human health. Kues WA, Niemann H. Department of Biotechnology, Institut für Tierzucht, Mariensee, D-31535 Neustadt, Germany. Farm animals and their products have a longstanding and successful history of providing significant contributions to human nutrition, clothing, facilitation of labour, research, development and medicine and have thus been essential in improving life expectancy and human health. With the advent of transgenic technologies the potential of farm animals for improving human health is growing and many areas remain to be explored. Recent breakthroughs in reproductive technologies, such as somatic cloning and in vitro embryo production, and their merger with molecular genetic tools, will further advance progress in this field. Here, we have summarized the contribution of farm animals to human health, covering the production of antimicrobial peptides, dietary supplements or functional foods, animals used as disease models and the contribution of animals to solving urgent environmental problems and challenges in medicine such as the shortage of human cells, tissues and organs and therapeutic proteins. Some of these areas have already reached the level of preclinical testing or commercial application, others will be further advanced only when the genomes of the animals concerned have been sequenced and annotated. Provided the necessary precautions are being taken, the transmission of pathogens from animals to humans can be avoided to provide adequate security. Overall, the promising perspectives of farm animals and their products warrant further research and development in this field. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15158058 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 287: Acta Chir Belg. 2004 Apr;104(2):132-9. Evolutionary medicine. Swynghedauw B. U542-INSERM, Hôpital Lariboisière, Paris, France. Bernard.Swynghedauw@larib.inserm.fr Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution. Evolutionary, or darwinian, medicine takes the view that contemporary diseases result from incompatibility between the conditions under which the evolutionary pressure had modified our genetic endowment and the lifestyle and dietary habits in which we are currently living, including the enhanced lifespan, the changes in dietary habits and the lack of physical activity. An evolutionary trait express a genetic polymorphism which finally improve fitness, it needs million years to become functional. A limited genetic diversity is a necessary prerequisite for evolutionary medicine. Nevertheless, search for a genetic endowment would become nearly impossible if the human races were genetically different. From a genetic point of view, homo sapiens, is homogeneous, and the so-called human races have only a socio-economic definition. Historically, Heart Failure, HF, had an infectious origin and resulted from mechanical overload which triggered mechanoconversion by using phylogenically ancient pleiotropic pathways. Adaptation was mainly caused by negative inotropism. Recently, HF was caused by a complex remodelling caused by the trophic effects of mechanics, ischemia, senescence, diabetes and, neurohormones. The generally admitted hypothesis is that cancers were largely caused by a combination of modern reproductive and dietary lifestyles mismatched with genotypic traits, plus the longer time available for a confrontation. Such a concept is illustrated for skin and breast cancers, and also for the link between cancer risk and dietary habits. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15154569 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 288: 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] 289: 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] 290: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1181-93. Societal aspects of genetically modified foods. Frewer L, Lassen J, Kettlitz B, Scholderer J, Beekman V, Berdal KG. Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group, University of Wageningen, Wageningen University & Research Centre, Hollandseweg 1, 6706 KN Wageningen, The Netherlands. lynn.frewer@wur.nl This paper aims to examine some of the reasons behind public controversy associated with the introduction of genetically modified foods in Europe the 1990s. The historical background to the controversy is provided to give context. The issue of public acceptance of genetically modified foods, and indeed the emerging biosciences more generally, is considered in the context of risk perceptions and attitudes, public trust in regulatory institutions, scientists, and industry, and the need to develop communication strategies that explicitly include public concerns rather than exclude them. Increased public participation has been promoted as a way of increasing trust in institutional practices associated with the biosciences, although questions still arise as to how to best utilise the outputs of such exercises in policy development. This issue will become more of a priority as decision-making systems become more transparent and open to public scrutiny. The results are discussed in the context of risk assessment and risk management, and recommendations for future research are made. In particular, it is recommended that new methods are developed in order to integrate public values more efficaciously into risk analysis processes, specifically with respect to the biosciences and to technology implementation in general. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd. Publication Types: Multicenter Study Review PMID: 15123386 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 291: 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] 292: 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] 293: Food Chem Toxicol. 2004 Jul;42(7):1089-125. Unintended effects and their detection in genetically modified crops. Cellini F, Chesson A, Colquhoun I, Constable A, Davies HV, Engel KH, Gatehouse AM, Kärenlampi S, Kok EJ, Leguay JJ, Lehesranta S, Noteborn HP, Pedersen J, Smith M. Metapontum Agrobios, SS Jonica Km 448.2, I-75010 Metaponto Matera, Italy. The commercialisation of GM crops in Europe is practically non-existent at the present time. The European Commission has instigated changes to the regulatory process to address the concerns of consumers and member states and to pave the way for removing the current moratorium. With regard to the safety of GM crops and products, the current risk assessment process pays particular attention to potential adverse effects on human and animal health and the environment. This document deals with the concept of unintended effects in GM crops and products, i.e. effects that go beyond that of the original modification and that might impact primarily on health. The document first deals with the potential for unintended effects caused by the processes of transgene insertion (DNA rearrangements) and makes comparisons with genetic recombination events and DNA rearrangements in traditional breeding. The document then focuses on the potential value of evolving "profiling" or "omics" technologies as non-targeted, unbiased approaches, to detect unintended effects. These technologies include metabolomics (parallel analysis of a range of primary and secondary metabolites), proteomics (analysis of polypeptide complement) and transcriptomics (parallel analysis of gene expression). The technologies are described, together with their current limitations. Importantly, the significance of unintended effects on consumer health are discussed and conclusions and recommendations presented on the various approaches outlined. Copryright 2004 Elsevier Ltd. Publication Types: Multicenter Study Review PMID: 15123383 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 294: 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] 295: Trends Plant Sci. 2004 Feb;9(2):70-5. Crop transformation and the challenge to increase yield potential. Sinclair TR, Purcell LC, Sneller CH. Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Agronomy Physiology Laboratory, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0965, USA. trsincl@mail.ifas.ufl.edu Molecular transformation is commonly offered as a hope to overcome the apparent stagnation in crop yield potential. A basic understanding of the resource limits imposed on crops and the yield hierarchy going from gene expression to harvestable yield leads to a rather negative view that transformations of a few, or even of a complex of genes will result directly in major yield increases. Forty years of biochemical and physiological research illustrate the great difficulty in translating research at the basic level into improvements in crop yield. However, there are a few cases where physiological research has led to improved crop cultivars with increased yield. These successes are instructive in highlighting key elements required to achieve success in developing crop cultivars for increased yield. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15102372 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 296: 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] 297: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2004 Apr;15(2):144-7. Generating high-yielding varieties by genetic manipulation of plant architecture. Sakamoto T, Matsuoka M. Field Production Science Center, The University of Tokyo, Nishi-Tokyo 188-0002, Japan. Despite a huge population increase since the 1960s, the green revolution more than doubled world grain production and averted large-scale famine. Food crop productivity will have to be further raised, however, because the world population is still increasing rapidly. Among several parameters associated with the increase in yield potential, genes that control plant height and tiller number (in cereal crops) have recently been identified. In addition, a promising strategy to generate semi-dwarf varieties has been developed. Recent advances in plant genome analyses and plant biotechnology will realize a second green revolution through the genetic engineering of food crops. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15081053 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 298: 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] 299: Transgenic Res. 2004 Feb;13(1):5-19. Regulating transgenic crops: a comparative analysis of different regulatory processes. Jaffe G. Center for Science in the Public Interest, 1875 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20009, USA. gjaffe@cspinet.org Transgenic crops have the potential to benefit both developed and developing countries. To ensure safe crops to humans and the environment, a strong, but not stifling, regulatory system needs to be established and properly implemented. This paper explores some essential components of a strong regulatory structure for transgenic crops. First, five different regulatory systems for transgenic crops--the United States, the European Union, South Africa, Taiwan, and Argentina--are described and explained. The major components of those systems are then compared to components necessary to a regulatory system that ensures safe products and engenders public trust. The key components discussed include: (1) mandatory pre-market approval; (2) established safety standards; (3) transparency; (4) public participation; (5) use of outside scientists for expert scientific advice; (6) independent agency decisions; (7) post-approval activities; and (8) enforcement authority and resources. Although no one of the existing systems analyzed adequately achieves all the necessary components of a strong regulatory system, those systems serve as models for deciding which regulatory procedures should be emulated and which should be avoided. A mandatory pre-market approval system that applies established safety standards in procedures that are transparent and allows for public participation with no pre-conceived notions or biases will best achieve both safe products and consumer trust. Publication Types: Comparative Study Review PMID: 15070071 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 300: 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] 301: Riv Biol. 2003 Sep-Dec;96(3):363-84. Transgenic foods as a tool for malnutrition elimination and their impact on agricultural systems. Monastra G, Rossi L. National Institute for Research on Food and Nutrition, Rome, Italy. monastra@inran.it GMO crops were introduced for commercial production in 1996. Since then, their use has increased rapidly. GMOs have primarily benefited large farms and multinational companies in Industrialised Countries and now is more and more debating their utilisation in Developing World. The objective of the present review is an analysis of this subject from a comprehensive point of view; in addition to that, the changes related to the nutritional content of transgenic foods will be treated. Despite the progress that has been made, the world food situation is still marked by mass hunger and chronic malnutrition. In particular micronutrient malnutrition, that means vitamin and mineral deficiencies, represents an important public health problem in several areas of the world. The "golden rice" bioengineered to contain beta-carotene, as a source of vitamin A is the most famous example of GM food used for reduction (or even to solve) of a public health problem. The expected results of this approach have presently not been achieved. Further studies are necessary to increase the general knowledge about GMOs and their long-term effects on human health. Collaborative attitude of different research sectors (private and public) and involvement of different sectors of society will be an added value for comprehension of the real impact of the application of modern biotechnology to food and agriculture systems. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15055878 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 302: Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2004 Feb;3(2):152-9. Oxygen therapeutics: can we tame haemoglobin? Alayash AI. Laboratory of Biochemistry, Division of Hematology, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, 8800 Rockville Pike, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA. alayash@cber.fda.gov Chemically modified or genetically engineered haemoglobins (Hbs) developed as oxygen therapeutics (often termed 'blood substitutes') are designed to correct oxygen deficit due to ischaemia in a variety of clinical settings. These modifications are intended to stabilize Hb outside its natural environment--red blood cells--in a functional tetrameric and/or polymeric form. Uncontrolled haem-mediated oxidative reactions of cell-free Hb and its reactions with various oxidant/antioxidant and cell signalling systems have emerged as an important pathway of toxicity. Current protective strategies designed to produce safe Hb-based products are focused on controlling or suppressing the 'radical' nature of Hb while retaining its oxygen-carrying function. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15043006 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 303: Law Hum Genome Rev. 2003 Jul-Dec;(19):159-85. [The zig-zagging legislative policies of the European Union in relation to transgenic products] [Article in Spanish] Martín Uranga A. Universidad de Deusto-Universidad del País Vasco/EHU, Madrid, España. The author analyses the E.U. legislative policies related to transgenic products from the 80s until nowadays, she stops in Directive 2001/18/Ce and its conversion into national law. She explains how the regulatory frame is after the recent approval of the newest rules about tracking and labelling genetically modified organisms (OMG). She also studies communitary jurisprudence about this subject according to the legislation, concretely sentence 9 September 2003 in the affair C-236/01 about commercialisation of two lines of transgenic corn. Finally she points out how legislative policies have influenced the creation and development of biotechnological enterprises. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 15032103 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 304: Proc Nutr Soc. 2003 Nov;62(4):901-12. Impact of genetic variation on metabolic response of bone to diet. Cusack S, Cashman KD. Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, University College, Cork, Republic of Ireland. There is compelling evidence to suggest that both the development of bone to peak bone mass at maturity and subsequent loss depend on the interaction between genetic, hormonal, environmental and nutritional factors. The major part (< or = 80%) of the age-specific variation in bone turnover and bone density is genetically determined. However, the notion of genetic determinant is of little value unless the specific genes that are involved can be identified. Most work in this area of osteoporosis research has focused on the candidate gene approach, which has identified several candidate genes for osteoporosis, including genes encoding the vitamin D receptor (VDR), oestrogen receptors (alpha and beta), apolipoprotein E, collagen type I alpha 1 and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, amongst many others. However, in general, findings from numerous studies of the association between such genes and various bone variables have been inconsistent. In addition to possible gene-gene interactions it is likely that there are interactions between these genes and certain environmental factors, especially nutrition, that may mediate expression of bone-related phenotypes. While these potential interactions add a level of complexity to our understanding of these apparent genetic effects on bone, identification of a role for genetic factors without knowledge of their interaction with nutrients can do little to advance prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. This information is especially important because, unlike genotype, diet and nutrition can be modified. The aim of the present review is to critically evaluate current knowledge relating to candidate genes for osteoporosis, with particular emphasis on their interaction with nutrients and dietary factors in determining bone health. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 15018490 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 305: Curr Opin Plant Biol. 2004 Apr;7(2):210-8. Improving starch for food and industrial applications. Jobling S. s.jobling1@ntlworld.com Progress in understanding starch biosynthesis, and the isolation of many of the genes involved in this process, has enabled the genetic modification of crops in a rational manner to produce novel starches with improved functionality. For example, potato starches have been created that contain unprecedented levels of amylose and phosphate. Amylose-free short-chain amylopectin starches have also been developed; these starches have excellent freeze-thaw stability without the need for chemical modification. These developments highlight the potential to create even more modified starches in the future. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15003223 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 306: Curr Opin Plant Biol. 2004 Apr;7(2):189-95. Safe and acceptable strategies for producing foreign molecules in plants. Mascia PN, Flavell RB. Ceres Inc., 3007 Malibu Canyon Road, Malibu, California 90265, USA. pmascia@ceres-inc.com The 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. These technologies have made it possible to use well-developed systems of commercial agriculture that were developed principally to produce raw material for large-scale food, feed or processing applications for the production of foreign molecules. The possibility of the novel industrial or pharmaceutical molecules produced in such plants, or components derived from them, contaminating the environment and food chains has become especially controversial. This potential contamination has prompted detailed consideration of how such crops and the molecules that they produce can be effectively isolated and contained. First, the crop can be completely isolated physically from its food or feed counterpart during every aspect of its development and commercialization. Second, genetic isolation systems or genetic barriers that prevent normal reproduction can be used to reduce the likelihood of the industrial or pharmaceutical crop entering the food chain. Publication Types: Review PMID: 15003220 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 307: Pest Manag Sci. 2004 Feb;60(2):105-12. Crop protection--what will shape the future picture? Atkinson D, Litterick AM, Walker KC, Walker R, Watson CA. Scottish Agricultural College, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK. D.Atkinson@ed.sac.ac.uk The drivers which influence the types of crop protection most needed by agriculture are changing. A polarisation of approaches has resulted in the needs of organic agriculture and biotechnological agriculture, which can be identified as the current extremes of the spectrum, becoming very different. The main requirements of these two sectors are identified here and used as the basis for questioning future EU research requirements in crop protection. Factors affecting/influencing organic farming and the use of genetically modified crops are discussed in some detail. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 14971676 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 308: Methods. 2004 Mar;32(3):340-5. Knocking out expression of plant allergen genes. Bhalla PL, Singh MB. Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, ARC Centre of Excellence for Integrative Legume Research, Institute of Land and Food Resources, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010, Australia. premlb@unimelb.edu.au Pollen of many grasses, trees, and weeds are the source of inhalant allergic proteins while various other plant products are allergenic only upon their ingestion as a food source. Allergenic proteins of pollen are exposed to human immune system after their rapid release from pollen upon coming in contact with moist surface of nasal mucosa. The advent of molecular cloning and ability to genetically transform plants now offer unprecedented opportunities to produce hypoallergenic plants by targeted switching off allergen production. Gene silencing strategies that operate at post-transcriptional level are highly suitable for blocking allergen production. We have demonstrated the concept of allergen gene silencing through antisense approach by producing ryegrass plants that do not produce major allergen in its pollen. Our results show the potential of antisense approach in reducing the allergenic potential of plants. Such a strategy can have a general applicability for production of transgenic plants depleted of both inhaled and ingested allergens. In addition, such an approach could also help in elucidating the in vivo function of allergen(s) in plants and contribution of an allergen to overall allergenic potential of an allergen source. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 14962769 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 309: Food Nutr Bull. 2003 Dec;24(4):303-18. Carotenoid-rich bananas: a potential food source for alleviating vitamin A deficiency. Englberger L, Darnton-Hill I, Coyne T, Fitzgerald MH, Marks GC. Nutrition Program, Division of International Health, School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. nutrition@mail.fm This review article points out that bananas are an important food for many people in the world. Thus, banana cultivars rich in provitamin A carotenoids may offer a potential food source for alleviating vitamin A deficiency, particularly in developing countries. Many factors are associated with the presently known food sources of vitamin A that limit their effectiveness in improving vitamin A status. Acceptable carotenoid-rich banana cultivars have been identified in Micronesia, and some carotenoid-rich bananas have been identified elsewhere. Bananas are an ideal food for young children and families for many regions of the world, because of their sweetness, texture, portion size, familiarity, availability, convenience, versatility, and cost. Foods containing high levels of carotenoids have been shown to protect against chronic disease, including certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Because the coloration of the edible flesh of the banana appears to be a good indicator of likely carotenoid content, it may be possible to develop a simple method for selecting carotenoid-rich banana cultivars in the community. Research is needed on the identification of carotenoid-rich cultivars, targeting those areas of the world where bananas are a major staple food; investigating factors affecting production, consumption, and acceptability; and determining the impact that carotenoid-rich bananas may have on improving vitamin A status. Based on these results, interventions should be undertaken for initiating or increasing homestead and commercial production. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 14870618 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 310: 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] 311: J Biotechnol. 2004 Feb 5;107(3):193-232. Selectable marker genes in transgenic plants: applications, alternatives and biosafety. Miki B, McHugh S. Research Branch, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Room 2091, KW Neatby Bldg., CEF, 960 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ont., Canada K1A 0C6. mikib@agr.gc.ca Approximately fifty marker genes used for transgenic and transplastomic plant research or crop development have been assessed for efficiency, biosafety, scientific applications and commercialization. Selectable marker genes can be divided into several categories depending on whether they confer positive or negative selection and whether selection is conditional or non-conditional on the presence of external substrates. Positive selectable marker genes are defined as those that promote the growth of transformed tissue whereas negative selectable marker genes result in the death of the transformed tissue. The positive selectable marker genes that are conditional on the use of toxic agents, such as antibiotics, herbicides or drugs were the first to be developed and exploited. More recent developments include positive selectable marker genes that are conditional on non-toxic agents that may be substrates for growth or that induce growth and differentiation of the transformed tissues. Newer strategies include positive selectable marker genes which are not conditional on external substrates but which alter the physiological processes that govern plant development. A valuable companion to the selectable marker genes are the reporter genes, which do not provide a cell with a selective advantage, but which can be used to monitor transgenic events and manually separate transgenic material from non-transformed material. They fall into two categories depending on whether they are conditional or non-conditional on the presence of external substrates. Some reporter genes can be adapted to function as selectable marker genes through the development of novel substrates. Despite the large number of marker genes that exist for plants, only a few marker genes are used for most plant research and crop development. As the production of transgenic plants is labor intensive, expensive and difficult for most species, practical issues govern the choice of selectable marker genes that are used. Many of the genes have specific limitations or have not been sufficiently tested to merit their widespread use. For research, a variety of selection systems are essential as no single selectable marker gene was found to be sufficient for all circumstances. Although, no adverse biosafety effects have been reported for the marker genes that have been adopted for widespread use, biosafety concerns should help direct which markers will be chosen for future crop development. Common sense dictates that marker genes conferring resistance to significant therapeutic antibiotics should not be used. An area of research that is growing rapidly but is still in its infancy is the development of strategies for eliminating selectable marker genes to generate marker-free plants. Among the several technologies described, two have emerged with significant potential. The simplest is the co-transformation of genes of interest with selectable marker genes followed by the segregation of the separate genes through conventional genetics. The more complicated strategy is the use of site-specific recombinases, under the control of inducible promoters, to excise the marker genes and excision machinery from the transgenic plant after selection has been achieved. In this review each of the genes and processes will be examined to assess the alternatives that exist for producing transgenic plants. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 14736458 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 312: Nutrition. 2004 Jan;20(1):121-6. Genetically modified mouse models for disorders of fatty acid metabolism: pursuing the nutrigenomics of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Wood PA. Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-0024, USA. paw@uab.edu Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 14698026 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 313: 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] 314: Mutat Res. 2003 Nov;544(2-3):223-33. Genetically modified crops: environmental and human health concerns. Azevedo JL, Araujo WL. Departamento de Genética, Escola Superior de Agricultura, Luiz de Queiroz, Universidade de São Paulo, P.O. Box 83, 13400-970 Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil. jazevedo@esalq.usp.br About 10,000 years ago subsistence farmers started to domesticate plants and it was only much later, after the discovery of the fundaments of genetics, those organisms were submitted to rational genetic improvement mainly by selecting of traits of interest. Breeders used appropriate gene combinations to produce new animal races, plant varieties and hybrids, as well as improved microorganisms such as yeasts. After the introduction of recombinant DNA techniques, the transfer of DNA between species belonging to different genera, families or kingdoms became possible. The release of transgenic plants has aroused debates about several aspects of the environmental and human risks that could result from the introduction of genetically modified crops. Less effort has been dedicated to evaluate the impact of transgenic plants on their associated microorganisms, some of which (e.g. nitrogen-fixing bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi and endophytic microbiota) are extremely important for the survival of the plant. Investigations have been made regarding the horizontal transfer of genetic material between transgenic plants and microorganisms and on the disturbance of useful symbiotic associations between plants and endophytic, epiphytic and rhizosphere communities. In most cases the results do no show any adverse effect of transgenic plants on autochthonous plant-associated microorganisms. Results from our laboratory show small changes caused by genetically modified endophytic bacteria on the indigenous endophytic population of the sweet orange Citrus sinensis. In tests using appropriated fungal strains preliminary results using extracts from transgenic plants indicate that these plants do not affect haploidization, mitotic crossing-over, mutation rate or chromosomal alterations. Publication Types: Review PMID: 14644324 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 315: Mutat Res. 2003 Nov;544(2-3):217-21. Human health concerns with GM crops. Malarkey T. Syngenta Biotechnology Inc., P.O. Box 12257, 3054 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. trish.malarkey@syngenta.com Biotechnology was used in the first generation of so-called 'GM' crops to provide growers with complimentary and sometimes alternative crop management solutions to pesticides. Selected host genes or genes identified from other plants or non-plant sources are modified or transferred to a crop plant. The new or altered protein expression resulting from these modifications confer on the plant a desired physiological trait, such as resistance to particular herbicides or insect pests. Second generation modifications provide traits such as enhanced nutritional or health-promoting characteristics that are of benefit to consumers. The commonly raised concerns about possible implications for human health are: inherent toxicity of the novel gene and their products, the potential to express novel antigenic proteins or alter levels of existing protein allergens, the potential for unintended effects resulting from alterations of host metabolic pathways or over expression of inherently toxic or pharmacologically active substances and the potential for nutrient composition in the new food occur differing significantly from a conventional counterpart. Foods produced using biotechnology are subjected to far greater levels of scrutiny than foods produced by traditional plant breeding techniques. The accepted analytical, nutritional and toxicological methods employed to support this scrutiny and to assess and assure that a 'GM' food is a safe and nutritious as its 'non-GM' counterpart are discussed. The challenges associated with identifying unintended effects in whole GM foods and the promise new (proteomics/genomic) technologies offer opposite traditional toxicity testing paradigms are appraised. Publication Types: Review PMID: 14644323 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 316: J Nutr Educ Behav. 2003 Nov-Dec;35(6):319-32. Application of modern biotechnology to food and agriculture: food systems perspective. McCullum C, Benbrook C, Knowles L, Roberts S, Schryver T. Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, School of Public Health, University of Texas-Houston, Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. christine.mccullum@uth.tmc.edu The purpose of this article is to provide nutrition educators with an introduction to a range of considerations and forces that are driving the application of modern biotechnology in the food and fiber sector based on a food systems perspective. In doing so, the following issues are critically assessed: (1) the global debate on how to regulate genetically engineered (GE) foods and crops, (2) cultural differences in public perceptions of GE foods, and (3) evaluation of selected GE traits against the principles of social, economic, and ecological sustainability, including the potential of modern agricultural biotechnology to enhance global food security. Where appropriate, we also review other agricultural technologies and the broader political, social, and economic contexts in which these technologies have been introduced. Finally, we offer recommendations for how multiple stakeholder groups, including policy makers, biotechnology advocates, and nutrition educators, can move toward a more informed dialogue and debate on this issue. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 14642218 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 317: J Nutr. 2003 Nov;133(11 Suppl 1):3830S-3836S. Diet, nutrition, and cancer prevention: the postgenomic era. Go VL, Butrum RR, Wong DA. UCLA Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. The genomic era of human nutrition is upon us: the human genome and several plant genomes have been characterized, and genetically modified foods are now abundantly available in the marketplace. The link between diet and cancer is well established, and new genomic technologies have made possible the investigation of nutritional modulation of the carcinogenesis pathway with nutrients, micronutrients, and phytochemicals. Current study of nutrient-modulated carcinogenesis involves exploring the effect of nutrients on DNA damage and repair mechanisms; DNA methylation, which influences gene expression and cellular phenotypes; antioxidant rearranging and oxidative stress; target receptors and signal transduction pathways; cell cycle controls and check points; apoptosis; and antiangiogenic processes. With nutritional genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, scientists are able to simultaneously elucidate the biological effects of dietary constituents on cell function and global gene expression. This generation of new knowledge on nutrient-gene interactions provides the justification for a research framework for diet and cancer prevention that is focused on identifying and developing new biomarkers as well as a novel and contemporary paradigm for dietary intervention. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 14608122 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 318: Orv Hetil. 2003 Sep 21;144(38):1853-60. [Etiopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases] [Article in Hungarian] Lakatos L, Lakatos PL. Csolnoky Ferenc Kórház, I. sz. Belgyógyászati Osztály, Veszprém. lakatosvmkgastro@hotmail.com The pathogenesis of IBD is only partly understood; various environmental and host (e.g. genetic-, epithelial-, immune and non-immune) factors are involved. It is a multifactorial polygenic disease with probable genetic heterogeneity, some genes are associated with IBD itself, while others increase the risk of ulcerative colitis (UC) or Crohn's disease (CD) or are associated with disease location and/or behaviour. The role of environmental factors, in particular, enteric antigens, smoking and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug use has been well established. However uptil now no proof of a role of any unique pathogenic bacteria or special dietary and/or psychosocial factor has been identified. In this hypothesis, the disease may develop in a genetically predisposed host as a consequence of disregulated immune response to environmental, in particular, enteric antigens, resulting in a continuous immune-mediated inflammation (in CD predominantly Th-1, in UC a modified Th-2 mechanisms are involved) and not in tolerance. As a consequence, the permeability of mucosa and the antigen challenge increases, in contrast, the disregulated immune response is unable to downregulate the inflammatory process. This will result in a continuous inflammation and tissue damage. The pathogenesis of CD is thought to be mainly an antigen driven, T-lymphocyte dependent process, while in UC the role of epithelial factors and activated granulocytes are essential. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 14596023 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 319: 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] 320: Trends Biotechnol. 2003 Nov;21(11):491-7. Genetically modified probiotics in foods. Ahmed FE. Department of Radiation Oncology, LSB 014, Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center, The Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA. ahmedf@mail.ecu.edu Probiotics have many potential therapeutic uses, but have not been universally accepted because of a lack of understanding of their action. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have been modified by traditional and genetic engineering methods to produce new varieties. Modern techniques of molecular biology have facilitated the identification of probiotic LAB strains, but only a few LAB have been modified by recombinant-DNA technology because of consumer resistance to their introduction to markets, especially in Europe. Publication Types: Review PMID: 14573362 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 321: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2003;10(5):273-6. Biotechnology for food, energy, and industrial products: new opportunities for bio-based products. Young AL. Institute for Science and Public Policy, Sarkeys Energy Center, The University of Oklahoma, 100 East Boyd, Room 510, Norman, Oklahoma, 73019, USA. youngrisk@attbi.com Publication Types: Review PMID: 14535638 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 322: 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] 323: Trends Biotechnol. 2003 Oct;21(10):439-44. Comparative safety assessment for biotech crops. Kok EJ, Kuiper HA. RIKILT Institute for Food Safety, Bornsesteeg 45, PO Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen, The Netherlands. esther.kok@wur.nl Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 14512230 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 324: 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] 325: Proc Nutr Soc. 2003 May;62(2):403-11. Micronutrient fortification of plants through plant breeding: can it improve nutrition in man at low cost? Bouis HE. International Food Policy Research Institute, 2033 K St NW, Washington DC 20006, USA. h.bouis@cgiar.org Can commonly-eaten food staple crops be developed that fortify their seeds with essential minerals and vitamins? Can farmers be induced to grow such varieties? If so, would this result in a marked improvement in human nutrition at a lower cost than existing nutrition interventions? An interdisciplinary international effort is underway to breed for mineral- and vitamin-dense varieties of rice, wheat, maize, beans and cassava for release to farmers in developing countries. The biofortification strategy seeks to take advantage of the consistent daily consumption of large amounts of food staples by all family members, including women and children as they are most at risk for micronutrient malnutrition. As a consequence of the predominance of food staples in the diets of the poor, this strategy implicitly targets low-income households. After the one-time investment is made to develop seeds that fortify themselves, recurrent costs are low and germplasm may be shared internationally. It is this multiplier aspect of plant breeding across time and distance that makes it so cost-effective. Once in place, the biofortified crop system is highly sustainable. Nutritionally-improved varieties will continue to be grown and consumed year after year, even if government attention and international funding for micronutrient issues fades. Biofortification provides a truly feasible means of reaching malnourished populations in relatively remote rural areas, delivering naturally-fortified foods to population groups with limited access to commercially-marketed fortified foods that are more readily available in urban areas. Biofortification and commercial fortification are, therefore, highly complementary. Breeding for higher trace mineral density in seeds will not incur a yield penalty. Mineral-packed seeds sell themselves to farmers because, as recent research has shown, these trace minerals are essential in helping plants resist disease and other environmental stresses. More seedlings survive and initial growth is more rapid. Ultimately, yields are higher, particularly in trace mineral-'deficient' soils in arid regions. Publication Types: Review PMID: 14506888 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 326: Plant J. 2003 Jan;33(1):19-46. The release of genetically modified crops into the environment. Part II. Overview of ecological risk assessment. Conner AJ, Glare TR, Nap JP. New Zealand Institute for Crop & Food Research Ltd, Private Bag 4704, Christchurch, New Zealand. connert@crop.cri.nz Despite numerous future promises, there is a multitude of concerns about the impact of GM crops on the environment. Key issues in the environmental assessment of GM crops are putative invasiveness, vertical or horizontal gene flow, other ecological impacts, effects on biodiversity and the impact of presence of GM material in other products. These are all highly interdisciplinary and complex issues. A crucial component for a proper assessment is defining the appropriate baseline for comparison and decision. For GM crops, the best and most appropriately defined reference point is the impact of plants developed by traditional breeding. The latter is an integral and accepted part of agriculture. In many instances, the putative impacts identified for GM crops are very similar to the impacts of new cultivars derived from traditional breeding. When assessing GM crops relative to existing cultivars, the increased knowledge base underpinning the development of GM crops will provide greater confidence in the assurances plant science can give on the risks of releasing such crops. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12943539 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 327: J Plant Physiol. 2003 Jul;160(7):821-9. Vitamin production in transgenic plants. Herbers K. SunGene GmbH & Co. KGaA, Corrensstr. 3, D-06466 Gatersleben, Germany. karin.herbers@sungene.de Plants are a major source of vitamins in the human diet. Due to their significance for human health and development, research has been initiated to understand the biosynthesis of vitamins in plants. The pathways that are furthest advanced in elucidation are those of provitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. There is little knowledge about the regulation, storage, sink and degradation of any vitamin made in plants, or the interaction of vitamin biosynthetic pathways with other metabolic pathways. Researchers as well as life science companies have endeavoured to manipulate levels of vitamins in order to create functional food with enhanced health benefits, and even with the goal of achieving levels worth extracting from plant tissues. Thus far, metabolic engineering has resulted in transgenic plants that contain elevated levels of provitamin A, vitamin C and E, respectively. Additional research is necessary to identify all relevant target genes in order to further improve and tailor plants with elevated vitamin contents at will. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12940549 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 328: J Plant Physiol. 2003 Jul;160(7):811-20. Engineering fructan metabolism in plants. Ritsema T, Smeekens SC. Molecular Plant Physiology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands. t.ritsema@bio.uu.nl Fructans, or polyfructosylsucroses, are storage carbohydrates present in many higher plants. They are also considered healthy food ingredients. Engineering crops into high level production of specific fructan molecules is one of the mayor strategic research goals. Understanding the properties of fructosyltransferases is important, in order to direct the synthesis of fructans. In plants at least two fructosyltransferases are needed to synthesise fructans. One enzyme synthesises the fructan trisaccharide 1-kestose, the next enzyme uses 1-kestose for elongation and/or modification, producing longer fructans. The specificity of fructosyltransferases determines the type of glycosidic bond formed and the donor and acceptor substrates used. This enables the synthesis of many structurally diverse fructans. The production of these molecules in crops such as sugar beet and potato makes the commercial use of fructans feasible. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12940548 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 329: J Plant Physiol. 2003 Jul;160(7):755-64. Benefits and risks of antibody and vaccine production in transgenic plants. Warzecha H, Mason HS. Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, Tower Road, Ithaca, New York 14850, USA. Phytopharming, the production of protein biologicals in recombinant plant systems, has shown great promise in studies performed over the past 13 years. A secretory antibody purified from transgenic tobacco was tested successfully in humans, and prevented bacterial re-colonization after topical application in the mouth. Rapid production of patient-tailored anti-lymphoma antibodies in recombinant Tobamovirus-infected tobacco may provide effective cancer therapy. Many different candidate vaccines from bacterial and viral sources have been expressed in transgenic plants, and three human clinical trials with oral delivery of transgenic plant tissues have shown exciting results. The use of crop plants with agricultural practice could allow cheap production of valuable proteins, while providing enhanced safety by avoidance of animal viruses or other contaminants. However development of this technology must carefully consider the means to ensure the separation of food and medicinal products when crop plants are used for phytopharming. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12940544 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 330: Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 2003;84:1-48. The way ahead--the new technology in an old society. Sharma M, Swarup R. Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India, New Delhi, India. manju@dbt.nic.in Biotechnology is one of the most important scientific and technological revolutions of the last century and has greatly benefited various aspects of human life. The potentials are enormous and many breakthroughs have already been achieved in the area of healthcare, food, agricultural products and environmental production. The developments in this important area provide immediate benefits to mankind and offer environmentally friendly technologies for sustainable development. The Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, set up in 1986, has played an important catalytic role in promoting this revolutionary field. Research and development, technology validation and demonstration, technology transfer, human resource development, setting up of Centers of Excellence and promoting industry-academia interactions have been some of the major achievements during the last 15 years. A unique feature of this Department is the strong interaction with scientists and institutes across the country to promote biotechnology research and development efforts for commercialization and also to benefit the rural population for socio-economic development. A large number of research institutes/universities and organizations across the country have been supported in the areas of agriculture, healthcare, environment and industry. In addition, basic research has also been an important thrust area. In order to ensure that the benefits of biotechnology reach the masses at large, a very stringent biosafety mechanism has been adopted. India is a country rich in biodiversity with two hot spots and has a strong base of expertise available in nearly all fields--thus biotechnology could flourish leading to a Bioindustrial Revolution. We are today poised to be the leaders in this field in the 21st Century. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12934932 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 331: Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2003 May;32(3):239-45. [Progress on biosafety assessment of marker genes in genetically modified foods] [Article in Chinese] Yang L, Yang X. Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China. Marker genes are useful in facilitating the detection of genetically modified organisms(GMO). These genes play an important role during the early identification stage of GMO development, but they exist in the mature genetically modified crops. So the safety assessment of these genes could not be neglected. In this paper, all the study on the biosafety assessment of marker genes were reviewed, their possible hazards and risks were appraised, and the marker genes proved safe were list too. GMO Labeling the is one important regulations for the development of genetically modified foods in the market. The accurate detecting techniques for GMO are the basis for setting up labeling regulation. In addition, some methods used to remove marker genes in genetically modified foods were introduced in the paper, which can eliminate their biosafety concern thoroughly. Publication Types: English Abstract Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12914289 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 332: Food Chem Toxicol. 2003 Oct;41(10):1273-82. The use of consumption data to assess exposure to biotechnology-derived foods and the feasibility of identifying effects on human health through post-market monitoring. Hlywka JJ, Reid JE, Munro IC. Cantox Health Sciences International, Suite 308, 2233 Argentia Road, ON L5N 2X7 Mississauga, Canada. jhlywka@cantox.com The pre-market safety assessment of foods derived through biotechnology provides a scientific basis for concluding reasonable certainty of no harm and ensuring safety. At a minimum, the outcome of such an assessment provides sufficient information to estimate the likelihood of adverse effects on consumers, generally precluding the need for post-market monitoring. Post-market monitoring (PMM) may be appropriate under certain conditions where a better estimate of dietary exposure and/or nutritional consequence of a biotechnology-derived food is required, when a potential safety issue, such as allergenicity, cannot be adequately addressed through pre-market studies, or to corroborate dietary intakes of a nutritionally improved food with beneficial effects on human health. Monitoring programs must be hypothesis-driven, and are dependent upon the availability of accurate consumption data. Exposure assessment methods include both deterministic and probabilistic estimates of intakes using food supply data, individual dietary surveys, household surveys, or total diet studies. In the development of a monitoring approach, resource allocation should be dependent upon both the desired level of conservatism and the endpoint of interest. However, the cost of monitoring varies substantially, and the potential to determine causation may be limited. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12909259 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 333: Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 2):S124-34. An historical perspective from the Green Revolution to the gene revolution. Davies WP. Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom, GL7 6JS. Since the 1960s conventional crop breeding has increased food production commesurate with the growing population. For agricultural development to continue, the exploitation of greater genetic diversity and modern biotechnology are becoming increasingly important. This article reviews the milestones achieved by the Green Revolution and many of the recent breakthroughs of modern biotechnology. Publication Types: Historical Article Review PMID: 12908744 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 334: Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 2):S117-23. A perspective from the food industry. Mansour M. Keller and Heckman, 1001 G Street NW, Suite 500 West, Washington, DC 20001, USA. Biotechnology has the potential to meet the ever-increasing demand for enhanced food production. However, several factors besides scientific and agricultural advances can disrupt the progress of this field. This article reviews the interactions between political, regulatory, international, activist, consumer, and scientific entities. A discussion of the precautionary principle is included. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12908743 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 335: Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 2):S114-6. Productivity improvements in rice. Khush G. Department of Vegetable Crops, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA. Rice comprises 23%--an immense proportion-of the calories consumed worldwide. Countries that rely on rice as the main staple often consume up to 60% of their daily calories from this cereal product. During the Green Revolution, the yield potential of rice was greatly improved, which is especially important owing to the rapidly growing population. This article reviews the potential contributions of biotechnology to further rice yield potential. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12908742 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 336: Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 2):S105-9. Biotechnology, the environment, and sustainability. Kuiper H. Rikilt-Wageningen-UR, Postbus 230, 6700 AE, Wageningen, Netherlands. This article reviews the environmental impact of genetically modified crops through discussion of environmental risk assessment and includes several case studies. Influence of European regulatory and political issues is considered. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12908740 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 337: Nutr Rev. 2003 Jun;61(6 Pt 2):S101-4. Nutritionally enhanced rice to combat malnutrition disorders of the poor. Potrykus I. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), Zurich, Switzerland. Major deficiency disorders, including vitamin A deficiency, are especially common in countries in which rice is the staple food. In response to the devastating effects of vitamin A deficiency, which may include blindness and, even death, "Golden Rice" has been developed to deliver this nutrient to those populations who need it most. The case of Golden Rice is used to demonstrate the challenges of radical GMO opposition, consumer acceptance, and regulation of biotechnology-derived foods. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12908739 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 338: 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] 339: Trends Parasitol. 2003 Aug;19(8):349-55. The first releases of transgenic mosquitoes: an argument for the sterile insect technique. Benedict MQ, Robinson AS. Entomology Unit, Food and Agriculture Organization/International Atomic Energy Agency Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agency's Laboratories Seibersdorf, A-1400 Vienna, Austria. m.benedict@iaea.org Potential applications for reducing transmission of mosquito-borne diseases by releasing genetically modified mosquitoes have been proposed, and mosquitoes are being created with such an application in mind in several laboratories. The use of the sterile insect technique (SIT) provides a safe programme in which production, release and mating competitiveness questions related to mass-reared genetically modified mosquitoes could be answered. It also provides a reversible effect that would be difficult to accomplish with gene introgression approaches. Could new technologies, including recombinant DNA techniques, have improved the success of previous mosquito releases? Criteria for an acceptable transgenic sterile mosquito are described, and the characteristics of radiation-induced sterility are compared with that of current transgenic approaches. We argue that SIT using transgenic material would provide an essentially safe and efficacious foundation for other possible approaches that are more ambitious. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12901936 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 340: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2003 Aug;38(1):98-104. Post-market surveillance of GM foods: applicability and limitations of schemes used with pharmaceuticals and some non-GM novel foods. Wal JM, Hepburn PA, Lea LJ, Crevel RW. Laboratoire d' Immuno-Allergie Alimentaire, Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunologie, INRA-CEA de Saclay, 91191 Gif sur Yvette Cedex, France. Post-market surveillance (PMS) is increasingly required by some regulatory authorities for the marketing approval of GM-Novel Foods. This requirement, in addition to a complete conventional safety assessment, aims to show that unexpected (adverse) effects do not occur after long-term everyday exposure. Large food manufacturers have systems to obtain feedback from consumers on their products. We show that such systems can be enhanced to collect information on possible health effects of specific products and relate these to intake in specific groups of consumers. The term post-launch monitoring (PLM) is proposed to distinguish the process from that used for pharmaceuticals. GM foods differ from branded products to which existing systems have been applied. The paper discusses whether and how such systems could be applied to GM foods and what additional elements would need to be incorporated in them. A PLM system should define and organize the flow of information between the different stakeholders. We conclude that because such data will be generated from a range of sources and will need to be collated, verified, and integrated, an independent agency will be essential to undertake this activity in order to balance the interests of all stakeholders and ensure public trust. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12878059 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 341: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2003 Aug;38(1):27-35. On the safety of a new generation of DSM Aspergillus niger enzyme production strains. van Dijck PW, Selten GC, Hempenius RA. DSM Food Specialties, Department of Regulatory Affairs, P.O. Box 1, 2600 MA Delft, Netherlands. piet.dijck-van@dsm.corp Consumers safety of enzyme preparations is determined by three variables: the producing organism, the raw materials used in the production, and the production process itself. The latter one is embedded in current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) and Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP); therefore the safety focus can be directed to raw materials and the producing organism. In this paper, we describe the use of novel genetically modified strains of Aspergillus niger-made by a design and build strategy-from a lineage of classically improved strains with a history of safe use in enzyme production. The specifics of the host strain allow for integration and over-expression of any gene of interest at a targeted integration site implying that the rest of the host genome is not affected by this integration. Furthermore due to the fact that the newly integrated gene copies are put under the genetic regulation of the host's own glucoamylase promoter, the recipe of the production process of any new production strain can be kept constant with respect to the raw materials composition. Consequently the safety of a new enzyme product from these novel genetically modified strains is determined by the background of the production organism. The use of a strain with a history of safe use and targeted integration according to the concept described above has consequences for the safety studies on the final product. If a known enzymatic activity is over-expressed the safety of a new enzyme preparation is covered by the results of the safety studies performed for other strains from this specific Aspergillus niger strain lineage. In this paper an overview is given on the available toxicity tests with these strains. We conclude that for new enzyme products produced with strains from this lineage using the design and build technology no new sub-acute/chronic oral toxicity studies are needed. This also has the benefit that no longer test animals are needed to demonstrate the safety of products produced by these strains. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12878051 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 342: Riv Biol. 2003 Jan-Apr;96(1):31-54. Engineering crops, a deserving venture. Lanfranco L. Department of Plant Biology, University of Turin, Viale P.A. Mattioli 25, 10125 Turin, Italy. luisa.lanfranco@unito.it Plant transformation has had a deep impact on several aspects of basic and applied research. Genetic transformation has offered new opportunities compared to traditional breeding practises since it allows the integration into a host genome of specific sequences leading to a strong reduction of the casualness of gene transfer. One of the first target areas was plant protection against pests, pathogens and environmental stresses while the recent plant engineering programs are aimed at increasing food quality, in particular at increasing nutritional characteristics of food crops. Moreover, transgenic plants, tissue or cell cultures represent an attractive biological system for producing heterologous proteins since they offer economic and qualitative benefits. High yield production can be obtained and large-scale commercial production will take advantage of the existing infrastructure for crop cultivation, processing and storage. There are also qualitative benefits since protein synthesis secretion and post-translational modifications are similar in plants and animal cells. There are no human viral pathogens harboured by plants: thus, especially for pharmaceuticals, plants represent the safer production system. Plant transformation has become an essential instrument also for basic research, in particular for the functional characterisation of genes identified by sequencing of whole genomes. Large collections of insertion mutants have been obtained in the model plant Arabidopsis to provide a high level of genome saturation that means 95% chance of inactivating any gene at least once. To instil greater public confidence in modern plant biotechnology recent advances have already been made to overcome the potential risks for human health and environment. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12852173 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 343: Pest Manag Sci. 2003 Jun-Jul;59(6-7):770-6. United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service research on managing insect resistance to insecticides. Elzen GW, Hardee DD. USDA, ARS, Kika de la Garza Subtropical Agricultural Research Center, Beneficial Insects Research Unit, Weslaco, TX 78596, USA. gelzen@weslaco.ars.usda.gov Insecticide resistance has developed within many classes of pesticide, and over 500 species of insects and mites are resistant to one or more insecticides. Insecticide resistance and the consequent losses of food and fiber caused by failure to control insect and mite pests causes economic losses of several billion dollars worldwide each year. It is the goal of insect resistance management (IRM) to preserve useful pesticides by slowing, preventing or reversing development of resistance in pests. Important aspects of this goal are understanding the development of resistance and monitoring to determine ways to prevent its development. We describe programs specific to missions of the US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, which are designed to characterize insecticide resistance in insects and mites with the goal of managing pests in an ecologically acceptable manner. Resistance management of cotton, potatoes, vegetables, melons, ornamentals, greenhouse crops, corn, stored grains, livestock, honeybees and mites, as well as management of transgenic crops are evaluated. We conclude that IRM is a vital part of stewardship of any pest management product and must be a combined effort of manufacturers, growers, consultants, extension services and grower organizations, working closely with regulators, to achieve logistically and economically feasible systems that prolong the effectiveness of all pest-control products. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12846328 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 344: 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] 345: Medsurg Nurs. 2002 Oct;11(5):242-6. Genetically modified foods: a taste of the future. Lessick M, Keithley J, Swanson B, Lemon B. University of Toledo, College of Health and Human Services, Toledo, OH, USA. Technologies for genetically modifying foods hold tremendous promise for meeting important public health challenges in this century. By keeping informed of the ongoing development of genetically modified foods, nurses can effectively educate patients about the benefits and risks of these foods and promote informed decision making. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12830747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 346: 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] 347: 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] 348: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1122-4. Protein digestibility and relevance to allergenicity. Bannon G, Fu TJ, Kimber I, Hinton DM. Product Safety Center, Monsanto, St. Louis, Missouri, USA. In January 2001 a Joint Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization Expert Consultation Committee on Allergenicity of Foods Derived from Biotechnology published a report outlining in detail an approach for assessing the allergenic potential of novel proteins. One component of this decision tree is a determination of whether the protein of interest is resistant to proteolytic digestion. Although these (Italic)in vitro(/Italic) methodologies have been useful, the correlation between resistance to proteolysis and allergenic activity is not absolute. Two views and highlights of supporting research regarding the relationship of resistance to digestion and allergenicity are presented in this article. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12826484 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 349: 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] 350: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Jun;111(8):1110-3. Introduction: what are the issues in addressing the allergenic potential of genetically modified foods? Metcalfe DD. Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA. dean_metcalfe@nih.gov There is growing concern among the general public and the scientific community regarding the potential toxicity of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The use of biotechnology to enhance pest resistance or nutritional value has raised a number of fundamental questions including the consequences of insertion of reporter genes, the spread of resistance genes to surrounding plants, and the use of suicide genes to prohibit reuse of seed from engineered plants. Of particular interest is the ability of proteins from GMOs to elicit potentially harmful immunologic responses, including allergic hypersensitivity. The lack of information of the potential toxicity of these products suggests a need to identify the critical issues and research needs regarding these materials and to develop testing strategies to examine the allergenicity of these compounds. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12826482 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 351: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2003;43(3):245-64. A review on biological control and metabolism of aflatoxin. Mishra HN, Das C. Post Harvest Technology Centre, Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur-721302, India. hnm@agfe.iitkgp.ernet.in The series of events that led to the discovery of aflatoxin as a potent carcinogen, its biosynthesis, mechanism of action, structure-function relationship provide interesting insight into the economical and technological factors involved in the development of an effective control measure for the toxin. Scientists all over the world are making continuous efforts to explore a generalized process of detoxification, which can bring down the toxin content in heterogenous commodities to a threshold level. In this article biological control methods with special emphasis on in vivo and in vitro enzymatic detoxification of aflatoxin have been reviewed. Future areas of research involving large-scale enzymatic detoxification and modified atmosphere storage are also discussed. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12822672 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 352: 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] 353: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):113-7. Precautionary risk assessment of Bt maize: what uncertainties? Levidow L. Centre for Technology Strategy, Open University, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK. L.Levidow@open.ac.uk GM crops have become a test case for the conflicting slogans of 'the precautionary principle' versus 'sound science.' The issues can be illustrated by developments in regulatory science for Bt maize in the European Union. As this case study suggests, risk assessment is always framed by some account of the relevant uncertainties. These in turn depend upon how the environment is valued and how scientific questions are posed about cause-effect pathways of potential harm. The slogan of 'sound science' hides such judgements, by representing ignorance or value-judgements as 'science.' By contrast, precaution can challenge such judgements, identify new unknowns, generate different criteria for evidence, open up new scientific questions, and make these judgements more transparent. It is doubtful whether these complexities have been fully acknowledged by specialists, and thus whether the continued risk debate is due solely to a public misunderstanding of science. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12788280 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 354: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):110-2. Considerations for conducting research in agricultural biotechnology. Shelton AM. Department of Entomology, Cornell University/NYSAES, 416 Barton Laboratory, Geneva, NY 14456, USA. ams5@cornell.edu Science has shown its increased vulnerability because of two recent high-profile articles published in major journals on corn produced through biotechnology: a laboratory report suggesting profound consequences to monarch butterfly populations due to Bt corn pollen and a report suggesting transgenic introgression into Mexican maize. While both studies have been widely regarded as having flawed methodology, publishing these studies has created great consternation in the scientific community, regulatory agencies and the general public. There are roles and responsibilities of scientists, scientific journals, the public media, public agencies, and those who oppose or advocate a specific technology, and serious consequences when those roles and responsibilities go awry. Modern communication may exacerbate the flow of misinformation and easily lead to a decline in public confidence about biotechnology and science. However, common sense tells us that scientific inquiry and the publication and reporting of results should be performed with high standards of ethical behavior, regardless of one's personal perspective on agricultural biotechnology. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12788279 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 355: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):107-9. Regulatory and associated political issues with respect to Bt transgenic maize in the European union. Saeglitz C, Bartsch D. Chair of Biology V, Ecology, Ecochemistry and Ecotoxicology, Aachen University of Technology-RWTH Aachen, D-52056 Aachen, Germany. Legislation at the national level in Europe as well as that developed by the European Union (EU) generally permits release and commercialization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). However, only 10 plant/event combinations were registered as of 2002: three maize events (Bt176, Mon810, and Bt11), with the other seven divided among carnation (3), oil-seed rape (2), tobacco (1), and raddiccio (1). Of these, only one maize event (Bt176) has been registered as a legal variety, and this was in Spain, where 22,000ha have been planted annually since 1998. In this paper, we first provide an overview on the complexity of EU GMO legislation. Then we discuss the minor role that results of EU-funded biosafety research have had on governmental policy. Finally, we provide information about initiatives for post-commercialization monitoring plans of Bt maize in Europe. As a result of the slow progress to date, we conclude that commercialization of GMOs will be seriously delayed in the EU for the next several years. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12788278 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 356: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):100-3. Legal and regulatory concerns about transgenic plants in Brazil. Fontes EM. Embrapa Recursos Genéticos e Biotecnologia, C.P. 01372/02372, Brasília, DF CEP 70849-970, Brazil. eliana@cenargen.embrapa.br Brazil has a biosafety law that was approved in 1995. This law provides for a horizontal type of regulation that coordinates other existing regulatory frameworks in the areas of agriculture, health and environment. Various federal government departments are responsible for implementing the law. The National Technical Biosafety Commission is the national competent authority on biosafety with overall responsibility. In the case of Bt plants or any insecticidal organism, the Agrochemical Law also applies and authorization for laboratory, greenhouse and field studies must be obtained from the Plant Protection Secretariat, the Brazilian Institute of Environment and the National Agency of Health. Furthermore, the National Environmental Council must issue a license for commercialization of any GMO. There is pressure needed for capacity building and to harmonize the regulatory and administrative frameworks among the different federal departments involved. Some perspectives and challenges for the commercial registration of transgenic crops are discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12788276 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 357: J Invertebr Pathol. 2003 Jun;83(2):93-9. Regulation of Bt crops in Canada. Macdonald P, Yarrow S. Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 59 Camelot Drive, Ontario, Ottawa, Canada, K1A 0Y9. pmacdonald@inspection.gc.ca The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulates environmental releases of plants with novel traits, which include transgenic plants such as Bt crops. Bt crops are regulated in Canada because they express insect resistance novel to their species. Commercialization of crops with novel traits such as the production of insecticidal Bt proteins requires an approval for environmental release, as well as approvals for use as feed and food. Environmental factors such as potential impacts on non-target species are considered. Insect resistance management (IRM) may be imposed as a condition for environmental release of Bt crops to delay the development of resistance in the target insect. Bt potato and European corn borer-resistant Bt corn have been released with mandatory IRM. The CFIA imposes an IRM plan consisting of appropriate refugia, education of farmers and seed dealers, and monitoring and mitigation. Industry, regulators, government extension staff and public researchers provide expert advice on IRM. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12788275 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 358: Int J Parasitol. 2003 May;33(5-6):479-93. Plant-based vaccines. Streatfield SJ, Howard JA. ProdiGene, Inc., 101 Gateway Boulevard, College Station, TX 77845, USA. sstreatfield@prodigene.com Plant systems are reviewed with regard to their ability to express and produce subunit vaccines. Examples of different types of expression systems producing a variety of vaccine candidates are illustrated. Many of these subunit vaccines have been purified and shown to elicit an immune response when injected into animal models. This review also includes vaccines that have been administered orally in a non-purified form as a food or feed product. Cases are highlighted which demonstrate that orally delivered plant-based vaccines can elicit immune responses and in some case studies, confer protection. Examples are used to illustrate some of the inherent advantages of a plant-based system, such as cost, ease of scale-up and convenience of delivery. Also, some of the key steps are identified that will be necessary to bring these new vaccines to the market. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12782049 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 359: J Natl Med Assoc. 2003 Feb;95(2):152-66. Environmental factors associated with asthma. Walker B Jr, Stokes LD, Warren R. Howard University Medical Center, Environmental Health Administration, District of Columbia Department of Health, Washington, USA. Asthma, a disease of attacks and remission, continues to account for substantial morbidity and direct economic costs. Numerous studies--epidemiologic, toxicologic and clinical--present evidence for a broad spectrum of environmental risk factors associated with asthma. This review summarizes current thinking on a subset of these factors. Knowledge of potential environmental determinants of asthma is important to both the patient and healthcare professional in the application of multiple modalities of medical and environmental intervention for management of the development, and exacerbation of this chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12760611 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 360: Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2003 Aug;62(2-3):140-50. Epub 2003 May 21. Bioflavoring and beer refermentation. Vanderhaegen B, Neven H, Coghe S, Verstrepen KJ, Derdelinckx G, Verachtert H. Center for Malting and Brewing Science, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 22, 3001, Heverlee, Belgium. bart.vanderhaegen@agr.kuleuven.ac.be Various techniques are used to adjust the flavors of foods and beverages to new market demands. Although synthetic flavoring chemicals are still widely used, flavors produced by biological methods (bioflavors) are now more and more requested by consumers, increasingly concerned with health and environmental problems caused by synthetic chemicals. Bioflavors can be extracted from plants or produced with plant cell cultures, microorganisms or isolated enzymes. This Mini-Review paper gives an overview of different systems for the microbial production of natural flavors, either de novo, or starting with selected flavor precursor molecules. Emphasis is put on the bioflavoring of beer and the possibilities offered by beer refermentation processes. The use of flavor precursors in combination with non-conventional or genetically modified yeasts for the production of new products is discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12759790 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 361: Biomed Environ Sci. 2003 Mar;16(1):17-28. Genetically engineered corn rootworm resistance: potential for reduction of human health effects from pesticides. Oehme FW, Pickrell JA. Comparative Toxicology Laboratories, M213 Mosier Hall, 1800 Denison Ave, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-5705, USA. oehme@vet.ksu.edu OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: Insecticide use, grower preferences regarding genetically engineered (GE) corn resistant to corn rootworm (CRW), and the health effects of using various CRW insecticides (organophosphates, pyrethroids, fipronil and carbamates) are reviewed for current and future farm practices. RESULTS: Pest damage to corn has been reduced only one-third by insecticide applications. Health costs from insecticide use appear significant, but costs attributable to CRW control are not quantifiable from available data. Methods reducing health-related costs of insecticide-based CRW control should be evaluated. As a first step, organophosphate insecticide use has been reduced as they have high acute toxicity and risk of long-term neurological consequences. A second step is to use agents which more specifically target the CRW. CONCLUSION: Whereas current insecticides may be poisonous to many species of insects, birds, mammals and humans, a protein derived from Bacillus thurigiensis and produced in plants via genetic modification can target the specific insect of CRW (Coleoptra), sparing other insect and non-insect species from injury. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12747004 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 362: J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2003 May-Jun;6(3):211-25. Potential adverse health effects of genetically modified crops. Bakshi A. Biology Department, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA. abakshi@gmu.edu Genetically modified crops have the potential to eliminate hunger and starvation in millions of people, especially in developing countries because the genetic modification can produce large amounts of foods that are more nutritious. Large quantities are produced because genetically modified crops are more resistant to pests and drought. They also contain greater amounts of nutrients, such as proteins and vitamins. However, there are concerns about the safety of genetically modified crops. The concerns are that they may contain allergenic substances due to introduction of new genes into crops. Another concern is that genetic engineering often involves the use of antibiotic-resistance genes as "selectable markers" and this could lead to production of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains that are resistant to available antibiotics. This would create a serious public health problem. The genetically modified crops might contain other toxic substances (such as enhanced amounts of heavy metals) and the crops might not be "substantially equivalent" in genome, proteome, and metabolome compared with unmodified crops. Another concern is that genetically modified crops may be less nutritious; for example, they might contain lower amounts of phytoestrogens, which protect against heart disease and cancer. The review of available literature indicates that the genetically modified crops available in the market that are intended for human consumption are generally safe; their consumption is not associated with serious health problems. However, because of potential for exposure of a large segment of human population to genetically modified foods, more research is needed to ensure that the genetically modified foods are safe for human consumption. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12746139 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 363: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2003 Apr;375(8):985-93. Epub 2003 Feb 15. PCR technology for screening and quantification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Holst-Jensen A, Rønning SB, Løvseth A, Berdal KG. National Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 8156 Dep., 0033, Oslo, Norway. arne.holst-jensen@vetinst.no Although PCR technology has obvious limitations, the potentially high degree of sensitivity and specificity explains why it has been the first choice of most analytical laboratories interested in detection of genetically modified (GM) organisms (GMOs) and derived materials. Because the products that laboratories receive for analysis are often processed and refined, the quality and quantity of target analyte (e.g. protein or DNA) frequently challenges the sensitivity of any detection method. Among the currently available methods, PCR methods are generally accepted as the most sensitive and reliable methods for detection of GM-derived material in routine applications.The choice of target sequence motif is the single most important factor controlling the specificity of the PCR method. The target sequence is normally a part of the modified gene construct, for example a promoter, a terminator, a gene, or a junction between two of these elements. However, the elements may originate from wildtype organisms, they may be present in more than one GMO, and their copy number may also vary from one GMO to another. They may even be combined in a similar way in more than one GMO. Thus, the choice of method should fit the purpose. Recent developments include event-specific methods, particularly useful for identification and quantification of GM content. Thresholds for labelling are now in place in many countries including those in the European Union. The success of the labelling schemes is dependent upon the efficiency with which GM-derived material can be detected. We will present an overview of currently available PCR methods for screening and quantification of GM-derived DNA, and discuss their applicability and limitations. In addition, we will discuss some of the major challenges related to determination of the limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ), and to validation of methods. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12733008 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 364: 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] 365: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2003 Apr;14(2):221-5. Nutritional enhancement of plants. Tucker G. School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, Leicester, LE12 5RD, UK. gregory.tucker@nottingham.ac.uk Plants can provide most of the nutrients required in the human diet; however, the major staple crops are often deficient in some of these nutrients. Thus, malnutrition, with respect to micronutrients like vitamin A, iron and zinc, affects >40% of the world's population. Advances in molecular biology are being exploited to produce crops enhanced in these key nutrients. Other nutritional targets include the modification of fatty acid composition and the enhancement of antioxidant levels, particularly carotenoids, such as lycopene, and flavonoids. However, the benefit of these 'biofortified' crops to human nutrition remains to be elucidated. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12732325 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 366: 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] 367: 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] 368: 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] 369: Bull Acad Natl Med. 2002;186(8):1391-400. [Allergic risk of transgenic food: prevention strategies] [Article in French] Moneret-Vautrin DA. Service de Médecine Interne-Immunologie Clinique et Allergologie, Hôpital Central, 29 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 54035 Nancy. Numerous allergens proceed from foods. The allergic risk of transgenic foods needs to be evaluated according recommendations from the Joint Expert Committee FAO/WHO. Potential issues are the risk of cross reactivity with existing allergens, the modification of allergenicity of the transgenic protein induced by a modified metabolism in the host, the modified allergenicity of the proteins of the transgenic plant, a potential neo-allergenicity of the transgenic protein, and the risk of dissemination through pollens, inducing a respiratory sensitization then a cross food allergy. The algorithm includes three steps for evaluation: first the search for significant homology of the protein with allergens listed in allergen databanks, or the identity of a sequence of six aminoacids with known allergens, then a cross reactivity explored through the binding to IgEs from patients allergic to the source of the gene, or allergic to organisms of the same group or botanical family, and finally the extent of the pepsine resistance. The risk of immunogenicity has to be studied with appropriate animal models. A post-marketing surveillance is recommended for monitoring of adverse effects. The structure of an Allergo-Vigilance Network, the tools for efficiency and the groups at higher risk will be discussed. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 12669358 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 370: Ann Pharm Fr. 2003 Mar;61(2):96-102. [The allergic risk of transgenic foods strategy for prevention] [Article in French] Moneret-Vautrin DA. Service de Médecine Interne-Immunologie Clinique et Allergologie, Hôpital Central, 29 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, F54035 Nancy Cedex. A significant number of allergens arise from foods. The allergic risk of transgenic foods must be evaluated in accordance with the recommendations of the Joint Expert Committee FAO/WHO. Potential issues are the risk of cross reactivity with existing allergens, the modification of allergenicity of the transgenic protein induced by a modified metabolism in the host, the modified allergenicity of the proteins of the transgenic plant, a potential neo-allergenicity of the transgenic protein, and the risk of dissemination through pollens, inducing a respiratory sensitization then a cross food allergy. The algorithm includes three steps for evaluation: first the search for significant homology of the protein with allergens listed in allergen databanks, or the identity of a sequence of six aminoacids with known epitopes, then a cross reactivity explored through the binding to IgEs from patients allergic to the source of the gene, or allergic to organisms of the same group or botanical family, and finally the extent of the pepsine resistance. The risk of immunogenicity has to be studied with appropriate animal models. A post-marketing surveillance is recommended for monitoring of adverse effects. The structure of an Allergo-Vigilance Network, the tools for efficiency and the groups at higher risk will be discussed. The potential risk of transgenic foods to be allergenic cannot be overlooked, not ignoring the fact that current technologies modify allergenicity of foods. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 12668947 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 371: Ann Pharm Fr. 2003 Mar;61(2):78-85; discussion 85-6. [Transgenic plants: towards a more balanced diet?] [Article in French] Chupeau Y. INRA, Versailles-Grignon, Biologie Cellulaire, route de Saint-Cyr, F 78026 Versailles Cedex. Over the past ten years, knowledge of the metabolic capacities of plants has expanded considerably. Combined with technical achievements in gene transfer, a better understanding of metabolic regulation provides new more precise and targeted means of modifying plant products in order to improve health and well being through diet. While a great number of attempts to modify plant metabolism are still in the exploratory phase, some key applications are emerging with applications involving micro and macronutrients. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 12668945 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 372: Mutat Res. 2003 Feb-Mar;523-524:183-92. Development and application of test methods for the detection of dietary constituents which protect against heterocyclic aromatic amines. Kassie F, Sundermann VM, Edenharder R, Platt KL, Darroudi F, Lhoste E, Humbolt C, Muckel E, Uhl M, Kundi M, Knasmüller S. Institute of Cancer Research, University of Vienna, Borschkegasse 8a, A-1090 Vienna, Austria. This article describes the development and use of assay models in vitro (genotoxicity assay with genetically engineered cells and human hepatoma (HepG2) cells) and in vivo (genotoxicity and short-term carcinogenicity assays with rodents) for the identification of dietary constituents which protect against the genotoxic and carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAs). The use of genetically engineered cells expressing enzymes responsible for the bioactivation of HAs enables the detection of dietary factors that inhibit the metabolic activation of HAs. Human derived hepatoma (HepG2) cells are sensitive towards HAs and express several enzymes [glutathione S-transferase (GST), N-acetyltransferase (NAT), sulfotransferase (SULT), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UDPGT), and cytochrome P450 isozymes] involved in the biotransformation of HAs. Hence these cells may reflect protective effects, which are due to inhibition of activating enzymes and/or induction of detoxifying enzymes. The SCGE assay with rodent cells has the advantage that HA-induced DNA damage can be monitored in a variety of organs which are targets for tumor induction by HAs. ACF and GST-P(+) foci constitute preneoplastic lesions that may develop into tumors. Therefore, agents that prevent the formation of these lesions may be anticarcinogens. The foci yield and the sensitivity of the system could be substantially increased by using a modified diet. The predictive value of the different in vitro and in vivo assays described here for the identification of HA-protective dietary substances relevant for humans is probably better than that of conventional in vitro test methods with enzyme homogenates. Nevertheless, the new test methods are not without shortcomings and these issues are critically discussed in the present article. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12628516 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 373: 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] 374: 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] 375: Environ Health Perspect. 2003 Feb;111(2):239-44. Nonmurine animal models of food allergy. Helm RM, Ermel RW, Frick OL. Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy/Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA. HelmRickiM@uams.edu Food allergy can present as immediate hypersensitivity [manifestations mediated by immunoglobulin (Ig)E], delayed-type hypersensitivity (reactions associated with specific T lymphocytes), and inflammatory reactions caused by immune complexes. For reasons of ethics and efficacy, investigations in humans to determine sensitization and allergic responses of IgE production to innocuous food proteins are not feasible. Therefore, animal models are used a) to bypass the innate tendency to develop tolerance to food proteins and induce specific IgE antibody of sufficient avidity/affinity to cause sensitization and upon reexposure to induce an allergic response, b) to predict allergenicity of novel proteins using characteristics of known food allergens, and c) to treat food allergy by using immunotherapeutic strategies to alleviate life-threatening reactions. The predominant hypothesis for IgE-mediated food allergy is that there is an adverse reaction to exogenous food proteins or food protein fragments, which escape lumen hydrolysis, and in a polarized helper T cell subset 2 (Th2) environment, immunoglobulin class switching to allergen-specific IgE is generated in the immune system of the gastrointestinal-associated lymphoid tissues. Traditionally, the immunologic characterization and toxicologic studies of small laboratory animals have provided the basis for development of animal models of food allergy; however, the natural allergic response in large animals, which closely mimic allergic diseases in humans, can also be useful as models for investigations involving food allergy. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12573913 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 376: Toxicol Sci. 2003 Jan;71(1):2-8. The safety of genetically modified foods produced through biotechnology. Hollingworth RM, Bjeldanes LF, Bolger M, Kimber I, Meade BJ, Taylor SL, Wallace KB; Society of Toxicology ad hoc Working Group. Michigan State University, USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12520069 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 377: Transgenic Res. 2002 Dec;11(6):599-613. Comment in: Transgenic Res. 2002 Dec;11(6):597-8. Engineering pathogen resistance in crop plants. Campbell MA, Fitzgerald HA, Ronald PC. Department of Plant Pathology, University of California at Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA. As the world population continues to increase, food supplies must also grow to meet nutritional requirements. One means of ensuring the stability and plentitude of the food supply is to mitigate crop loss caused by plant pathogens. Strategies for combating disease include traditional technologies such as plant breeding and chemical applications; current technologies such as generating transgenic plants that express components of known defense signaling pathways; and the adaptation of newer technologies such as RNA silencing of pathogen and plant transcripts. Breeding has been used to pyramid resistance (R) genes into many different plants including rice. Chemical strategies include application of salicylic acid (SA) analogs to stimulate systemic acquired resistance (SAR) responses. Genetic screens in Arabidopsis have identified genes controlling SAR and these genes have been manipulated and used to engineer crop plants. The diseases caused by plant viruses are being thwarted through the initiation of endogenous RNA silencing mechanisms. Many of these strategies show great promise, some limitations, and exciting opportunities to develop many new tools for combating plant pests. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12509135 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 378: 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] 379: 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] 380: Sci Eng Ethics. 2002 Oct;8(4):497-511. Assessing the value of transgenic crops. Lacey H. Department of Philosophy, Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave, Swarthmore, PA 19081, USA. hlacey1@swarthmore.edu In the current controversy about the value of transgenic crops, matters open to empirical inquiry are centrally at issue. One such matter is a key premise in a common argument (that I summarize) that transgenic crops should be considered to have universal value. The premise is that there are no alternative forms of agriculture available to enable the production of sufficient food to feed the world. The proponents of agroecology challenge it, claiming that agroecology provides an alternative, and they deny the claim that it is well founded on empirical evidence. It is, therefore, a matter of both social and scientific importance that this premise and the criticisms of it be investigated rigorously and empirically, so that the benefits and disadvantages of transgenic-intensive agriculture and agroecology can be compared in a reliable way. Conducting adequate investigation about the potential contribution of agroecology requires that the cultural conditions of its practice (and, thus, of the practices and movements of small-scale farmers in the "third world") be strengthened--and this puts the interests of investigation into tension with the socio-economic interests driving the development of transgenics. General issues about relationship between ethical argument and empirical (scientific) investigation are raised throughout the article. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 12501719 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 381: Annu Rev Public Health. 2003;24:153-74. Epub 2002 Oct 23. One foot in the furrow: linkages between agriculture, plant pathology, and public health. Scholthof KB. Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-2132, USA. kbgs@tamu.edu Plant pathology is a field of biology that focuses on understanding the nature of disease in plants as well as on more practical aspects of preventing and controlling plant diseases in crop plants that are important to agriculture. Throughout history, plant diseases have had significant effects on human health and welfare. Several examples, in both historical and contemporary contexts, are presented in this review to show how plant pathogens, biotechnology, and farming practices have affected public health. Specific topics illustrating clear linkages between agriculture and human health include allergens in the environment, food-safety and agricultural practices, mycotoxigenic fungi, agrobioterrorism, and the biological control of plant diseases. The further argument is made that in order to monitor and ensure that good health and safety practices are maintained from "farm to fork," public health specialists may benefit from the resources and expertise of agricultural scientists. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12471270 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 382: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2002 Oct;13(5):508-11. Phytochemicals in plants: genomics-assisted plant improvement for nutritional and health benefits. Grusak MA. Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1100 Bates Street, Houston, TX 77030, USA. mgrusak@bcm.tmc.edu Plants are an important source of essential nutrients and health-beneficial components that are crucial for human life. Because the intake of these phytochemicals is not always adequate, the resources of plant biotechnology are being used to enhance the nutritional quality of our plant-based food supply. Various improvement strategies are feasible, depending on whether the phytochemical target is a major or minor constituent. Recent efforts in gene discovery and functional genomics are providing the necessary understanding to develop and evaluate different approaches to manipulate phytochemical composition. Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 12459345 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 383: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Dec;20(12):522-31. Plants and human health in the twenty-first century. Raskin I, Ribnicky DM, Komarnytsky S, Ilic N, Poulev A, Borisjuk N, Brinker A, Moreno DA, Ripoll C, Yakoby N, O'Neal JM, Cornwell T, Pastor I, Fridlender B. Biotech Center, Foran Hall, 59 Dudley Road, Cook College, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8520, USA. Raskin@aesop.rutgers.edu The concept of growing crops for health rather than for food or fiber is slowly changing plant biotechnology and medicine. Rediscovery of the connection between plants and health is responsible for launching a new generation of botanical therapeutics that include plant-derived pharmaceuticals, multicomponent botanical drugs, dietary supplements, functional foods and plant-produced recombinant proteins. Many of these products will soon complement conventional pharmaceuticals in the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of diseases, while at the same time adding value to agriculture. Such complementation can be accelerated by developing better tools for the efficient exploration of diverse and mutually interacting arrays of phytochemicals and for the manipulation of the plant's ability to synthesize natural products and complex proteins. This review discusses the history, future, scientific background and regulatory issues related to botanical therapeutics. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12443874 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 384: Biochem Soc Trans. 2002 Nov;30(Pt 6):930-5. Pathogenesis-related (PR)-proteins identified as allergens. Hoffmann-Sommergruber K. Department of Pathophysiology, University of Vienna, AKH-EBO 3Q, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, Austria. Karin.Hoffmann@akh-wien.ac.at Type 1 allergies are recognized as an important disease affecting around 25% of the population of industrialized countries of the Northern hemisphere. Allergic patients produce specific IgE antibodies after frequent exposure to either inhaled or nutritive allergens. Of the plant allergens listed in the Official Allergen Database of the International Union of Immunological Societies, approx. 25% belong to the group of pathogenesis-related proteins (PR-proteins). PR-proteins are defined as proteins that are induced upon stress, pathogen attack and abiotic stimuli. This inhomogeneous group of proteins has been classified into 14 PR-protein families. So far, plant-derived allergens have been identified with sequence similarities to PR-protein families 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10 and 14. In general, both protein groups, i.e. PR-proteins and allergens, comprise rather small proteins, which are stable at low pH and resistant to proteolysis. These features, and their level of expression, make PR-proteins good candidates for evoking an immune response in predisposed humans, when coming into contact with mucosal surfaces. The identification of PR-proteins with allergenic potential and their homologues is of importance for the allergic patient and the management of this disease. Firstly, plant foods derived from genetically modified plants could represent new allergen sources, and therefore should be evaluated carefully for their potential allergenicity. Secondly, complex plant-derived foods should be analysed for hidden allergens and labelled accordingly. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12440949 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 385: Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet. 2001;66(2a):259-67. Pest insect control in organically-produced crops of field vegetables. Collier RH, Finch S, Davies G. Horticulture Research International, Wellesbourne, Warwick CV35 9EF, UK. In the UK, the demand for organic vegetable and salad crops is increasing, mainly as a result of the requirements of the multiple retailers. However, approximately 85% of the organic fruit and vegetable produce sold in the UK is imported. A major constraint to growing field vegetable crops, and particularly organically-produced crops, is the reduction in crop yield and quality caused by pest insects. This paper will consider the control techniques currently available to organic growers and other techniques that may become available in the future. Growing plant varieties with complete or even partial resistance to pest insects can be an effective way of reducing crop damage. There are already varieties of carrot, with resistance to carrot fly, and lettuce, with resistance to certain pest aphid species, which are available commercially. Cultural techniques to exclude, deter or avoid pest insects are also being used by some organic growers. Although isolating new crops from sources of infestation can be a highly effective control strategy, many organic growers cannot use it, as the land converted for organic production is still limited. Various crop covers can be used to prevent pest insects from damaging field crops, but to be effective such covers have to be in place before the pests enter the crop. Several researchers have tried to develop techniques to prevent pest insects from finding their host-plants. No technique involving semiochemicals has been sufficiently successful to be used in field vegetable production in the UK. Other studies have shown that the numbers of pest insects found on crop plants are reduced considerably when the crop is allowed to become weedy, is intercropped with another plant species, or is undersown with a living mulch. Hence, work is now needed to select background plant species that will both reduce pest insect numbers and cause the least reduction in yield to the harvested crop plants. There is also a need to obtain a better understanding of "companion planting", a practice used frequently by organic growers. To date, microbial control is the only biological technique that has been used successfully in field vegetable crops in the UK. However, only the toxicant produced by one microbial agent, the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, has so far been registered for use. The use of bacteria, fungi and viruses to control pests of field vegetable crops certainly has possibilities. However, in many cases there are still problems to be overcome to select pathogens that are compatible with, or can still be effective in, the wide fluctuations in temperature, humidity and soil moisture that occur under field conditions. Attempts are now being made to use entomopathogenic nematodes and predatory arthropods to control one major pest insect, the cabbage root fly. Techniques developed to improve the timing of application of various crop protection procedures in systems of conventional vegetable production apply equally well to organic production, despite the choice of control options being more limited. In particular, models to forecast the timing of pest insect attacks could be used to great effect, to indicate the best times to plant, protect and harvest a specific crop to minimise pest insect damage. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12425046 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 386: Toxicon. 2002 Nov;40(11):1515-39. Plant toxic proteins with insecticidal properties. A review on their potentialities as bioinsecticides. Carlini CR, Grossi-de-Sá MF. Department of Biophysics, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, 91.501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. ccarlini@ufrgs.br To meet the demands for food of the expanding world population, there is need of new ways for protecting plant crops against predators and pathogens while avoiding the use of environmentally aggressive chemicals. A milestone in this field was the introduction into crop plants of genes expressing Bacillus thuringiensis entomotoxic proteins. In spite of the success of this new technology, however, there are difficulties for acceptance of these 'anti-natural' products by the consumers and some concerns about its biosafety in mammals. An alternative could be exploring the plant's own defense mechanisms, by manipulating the expression of their endogenous defense proteins, or introducing an insect control gene derived from another plant. This review deals with the biochemical features and mechanisms of actions of plant proteins supposedly involved in defense mechanisms against insects, including lectins, ribosome-inactivating proteins, enzymes inhibitors, arcelins, chitinases, ureases, and modified storage proteins. The potentialities of genetic engineering of plants with increased resistance to insect predation relying on the repertoire of genes found in plants are also discussed. Several different genes encoding plant entomotoxic proteins have been introduced into crop genomes and many of these insect resistant plants are now being tested in field conditions or awaiting commercialization. Copyright 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12419503 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 387: Adv Nurse Pract. 2001 Jan;9(1):65-70. Food biotechnology. Understanding the science, exploring the issues. Davis SB. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12416041 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 388: 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] 389: Adv Food Nutr Res. 2003;45:219-302. The high molecular weight subunits of wheat glutenin and their role in determining wheat processing properties. Shewry PR, Halford NG, Tatham AS, Popineau Y, Lafiandra D, Belton PS. IACR-Long Ashton Research Station, Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Bristol, Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9AF, UK. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12402682 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 390: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2002 Sep 29;357(1425):1273-84. Behavioural models of population growth rates: implications for conservation and prediction. Sutherland WJ, Norris K. Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK. w.sutherland@uea.ac.uk Conservation biologists often wish to predict how vertebrate populations will respond to local or global changes in conditions such as those resulting from sea-level rise, deforestation, exploitation, genetically modified crops, global warming, human disturbance or from conservation activities. Predicting the consequences of such changes almost always requires understanding the population growth rate and the density dependence. Traditional means of directly measuring density dependence are often extremely difficult and have the problem that if the environment changes then it is necessary to remeasure the density dependence. We describe an alternative approach that does not require such long datasets and can be used to predict the density dependence under novel conditions. Game theory can be used to describe behavioural decisions that individuals make in response to interference, prey depletion, territorial behaviour or social dominance, and the resultant fitness consequences. It is then possible to predict how survival or reproductive output changes with population size. From this we can then make predictions about the responses of populations to environmental changes. We will illustrate how this can be applied to a range of species and a range of applied problems. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12396518 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 391: Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2002 Nov;5(6):653-8. Bioactive components in milk. German JB, Dillard CJ, Ward RE. Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis 95616, USA. jbgerman@ucdavis.edu Milk is the only biomaterial that evolved under the Darwinian selective pressure to nourish growing mammals. The purpose of this article is to review the scientific research that is using new techniques of integrating biological sequence, structure and function, to understand the innovative biology underlying the products of that evolutionary pressure. As it emerges that milk is actively communicating between the maternal mammary epithelia and the infant's gastrointestinal system, actively directing and educating the immune, metabolic and microflora systems within the infant, enhancing nutrient absorption and delivery, and conferring multiple means of protection, nutritionists are gaining a host of new molecular targets towards which to build scientific strategies for future foods and clinical applications. As new components and functions are being discovered in milk by using traditional methods and modern genomic tools, the complexities of demonstrating, and particularly in humans, the functional mechanisms behind milk's newly observed physiological benefits are becoming the next challenge of this rapidly growing field. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12394640 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 392: 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] 393: 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] 394: 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] 395: 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] 396: Insect Biochem Mol Biol. 2002 Oct;32(10):1249-56. Drosophila germline invasion by the endogenous retrovirus gypsy: involvement of the viral env gene. Pelisson A, Mejlumian L, Robert V, Terzian C, Bucheton A. I.G.H. du CNRS (UPR 1142), 141 rue de la Cardonille, Montpellier, France. alain.pelisson@igh.cnrs.fr The endogenous retrovirus gypsy is expressed at high levels in mutant flamenco female flies. Gypsy viral particles extracted from such flies can infect naive flamenco individuals raised in the presence of these extracts mixed into their food. This results in the integration of new proviruses into the germline genome. These proviruses can then increase their copy number by (1) expression in the flamenco female somatic cells, (2) transfer into the oocyte and (3) integration into the genome of the progeny. Surprisingly, unlike the infection observed in the feeding experiments, this strategy of endogenous proviral multiplication does not seem to involve the expression of the viral env gene. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12225916 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 397: 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] 398: Plant J. 2002 Aug;31(4):423-30. Five years of Bt cotton in China - the benefits continue. Pray CE, Huang J, Hu R, Rozelle S. Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA. pray@aesop.rutgers.edu Bt cotton is spreading very rapidly in China, in response to demand from farmers for technology that will reduce both the cost of pesticide applications and exposure to pesticides, and will free up time for other tasks. Based on surveys of hundreds of farmers in the Yellow River cotton-growing region in northern China in 1999, 2000 and 2001, over 4 million smallholders have been able to increase yield per hectare, and reduce pesticide costs, time spent spraying dangerous pesticides, and illnesses due to pesticide poisoning. The expansion of this cost-saving technology is increasing the supply of cotton and pushing down the price, but prices are still sufficiently high for adopters of Bt cotton to make substantial gains in net income. Publication Types: Comparative Study Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12182701 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 399: Plant J. 2002 Aug;31(4):387-406. Insect-resistant transgenic plants in a multi-trophic context. Groot AT, Dicke M. Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, PO Box 8031, 6700 EH Wageningen, The Netherlands. So far, genetic engineering of plants in the context of insect pest control has involved insertion of genes that code for toxins, and may be characterized as the incorporation of biopesticides into classical plant breeding. In the context of pesticide usage in pest control, natural enemies of herbivores have received increasing attention, because carnivorous arthropods are an important component of insect pest control. However, in plant breeding programmes, natural enemies of herbivores have largely been ignored, although there are many examples that show that plant breeding affects the effectiveness of biological control. Negative influences of modified plant characteristics on carnivorous arthropods may induce population growth of new, even more harmful pest species that had no pest status prior to the pesticide treatment. Sustainable pest management will only be possible when negative effects on non-target, beneficial arthropods are minimized. In this review, we summarize the effects of insect-resistant crops and insect-resistant transgenic crops, especially Bt crops, from a food web perspective. As food web components, we distinguish target herbivores, non-target herbivores, pollinators, parasitoids and predators. Below-ground organisms such as Collembola, nematodes and earthworms should also be included in risk assessment studies, but have received little attention. The toxins produced in Bt plants retain their toxicity when bound to the soil, so accumulation of these toxins is likely to occur. Earthworms ingest the bound toxins but are not affected by them. However, earthworms may function as intermediaries through which the toxins are passed on to other trophic levels. In studies where effects of insect-resistant (Bt) plants on natural enemies were considered, positive, negative and no effects have been found. So far, most studies have concentrated on natural enemies of target herbivores. However, Bt toxins are structurally rearranged when they bind to midgut receptors, so that they are likely to lose their toxicity inside target herbivores. What happens to the toxins in non-target herbivores, and whether these herbivores may act as intermediaries through which the toxins may be passed on to the natural enemies, remains to be studied. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12182699 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 400: 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] 401: Nature. 2002 Aug 8;418(6898):678-84. Enhancing the crops to feed the poor. Huang J, Pray C, Rozelle S. Center for Chinese Agricultural Policy, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resource Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 917 Building, Anwai Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China. Solutions to the problem of how the developing world will meet its future food needs are broader than producing more food, although the successes of the 'Green Revolution' demonstrate the importance of technology in generating the growth in food output in the past. Despite these successes, the world still faces continuing vulnerability to food shortages. Given the necessary funding, it seems likely that conventional crop breeding, as well as emerging technologies based on molecular biology, genetic engineering and natural resource management, will continue to improve productivity in the coming decades. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12167874 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 402: Trends Plant Sci. 2002 Aug;7(8):366-73. Strategies for transgenic manipulation of monoterpene biosynthesis in plants. Mahmoud SS, Croteau RB. Institute of Biological Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA. Monoterpenes, the C(10) isoprenoids, are a large family of natural products that are best known as constituents of the essential oils and defensive oleoresins of aromatic plants. In addition to ecological roles in pollinator attraction, allelopathy and plant defense, monoterpenes are used extensively in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The importance of these plant products has prompted the definition of many monoterpene biosynthetic pathways, the cloning of the relevant genes and the development of genetic transformation techniques for agronomically significant monoterpene-producing plants. Metabolic engineering of monoterpene biosynthesis in the model plant peppermint has resulted in yield increase and compositional improvement of the essential oil, and also provided strategies for manipulating flavor and fragrance production, and plant defense. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12167332 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 403: 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] 404: Am J Med Sci. 2002 Jul;324(1):14-30. Therapeutic applications of monoclonal antibodies. Berger M, Shankar V, Vafai A. Emory University School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Researchers have sought therapeutic applications for monoclonal antibodies since their development in 1975. However, murine-derived monoclonal antibodies may cause an immunogenic response in human patients, reducing their therapeutic efficacy. Chimeric and humanized antibodies have been developed that are less likely to provoke an immune reaction in human patients than are murine-derived antibodies. Antibody fragments, bispecific antibodies, and antibodies produced through the use of phage display systems and genetically modified plants and animals may aid researchers in developing new uses for monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of disease. Monoclonal antibodies may have a number of promising potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of asthma, autoimmune diseases, cancer, poisoning, septicemia, substance abuse, viral infections, and other diseases. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12120821 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 405: Trends Plant Sci. 2002 Jul;7(7):309-15. A long way ahead: understanding and engineering plant metal accumulation. Clemens S, Palmgren MG, Krämer U. Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Weinberg 3, D-06120 Halle, Germany. sclemens@ipb-halle.de Some plants can hyperaccumulate metal ions that are toxic to virtually all other organisms at low dosages. This trait could be used to clean up metal-contaminated soils. Moreover, the accumulation of heavy metals by plants determines both the micronutrient content and the toxic metal content of our food. Complex interactions of transport and chelating activities control the rates of metal uptake and storage. In recent years, several key steps have been identified at the molecular level, enabling us to initiate transgenic approaches to engineer the transition metal content of plants. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12119168 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 406: Nutr Health. 2002;16(2):73-84. Can science give us the tools for recognizing possible health risks of GM food? Pusztai A. The Rowett Research Institute, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK. a.pusztai@freenet.co.uk Nearly ten years after the introduction of GM foodcrops there are still only a handful of published studies about their safety. Independent studies are even fewer, moreover, no peer-reviewed publications exist in which the results of clinical investigations on the possible effects of GM food on human health are described. Even though the evaluation of the safety or possible toxicity of GM foodstuffs is more difficult than that of drugs or food additives, this scarcity of data and the lack of a scientific database is curious particularly as descriptions of the results of chemical, nutritional and biological testing in some early (unpublished) studies or some more recent publications demonstrate the feasibility of carrying out proper and scientifically valid health risk assessment on GM foods. In this review, after critically examining some of the basic principles, past results and possible novel methods of future health safety assessment of GM foodstuffs, the conclusion appears to be that as the tools for the recognition and indeed for the elimination of the risks GM foods may present for us are available or can be developed, it is the will and the funding for such work that needs to be found. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12102369 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 407: 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] 408: Curr Drug Metab. 2002 Jun;3(3):311-9. Mutagenesis by environmental pollutants and bio-monitoring of environmental mutagens. Sato H, Aoki Y. Research Center for Environmental Risk, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan. ybaoki@nies.go.jp There is serious concern about the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on human health. Various mutagens, which pollute air, water, and food, possibly induce mutations in humans, and are suspected of causing cancer. Environmental mutagens, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and heterocyclic amines are known to bind to nucleotides, resulting in the formation of DNA adducts. Some DNA adducts are fixed as mutations through replication of DNA. Reactive oxygen species generated by pollutants also induce the formation of DNA adducts. DNA adducts have been detected as a marker for the exposure of humans and wild life to mutagens. Because of its high sensitivity the 32P-postlabel-thin layer chromatography (TLC) method is widely used for the analysis of DNA adducts formed by PAH and related bulky compounds. However, new systems are required for detecting mutations induced in genomic DNA in vivo to monitor environmental mutagens. Recently, transgenic animals, in which a target gene for detecting mutations is integrated, have been developed. With these transgenic animals, not only mutant frequency but mutation spectra can be determined. We review here recent advances in the detection of DNA adducts formed by environmental pollutants and their application for biological monitoring of environmental mutagens. We also discuss transgenic animals as important tools for evaluating the total mutagenic potential of environmental chemicals. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12083323 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 409: Amino Acids. 2002;22(3):259-78. Engineering of cysteine and methionine biosynthesis in potato. Nikiforova V, Kempa S, Zeh M, Maimann S, Kreft O, Casazza AP, Riedel K, Tauberger E, Hoefgen R, Hesse H. Department of Prof. Willmitzer, Max-Planck-Institut für Molekulare Pflanzenphysiologie, Golm, Germany. Methionine and cysteine, two amino acids containing reduced sulfur, are not only an important substrate of protein biosynthesis but are also precursors of various other metabolites such as glutathione, phytochelatines, S-adenosylmethionine, ethylene, polyamines, biotin, and are involved as methyl group donor in numerous cellular processes. While methionine is an essential amino acid due to an inability of monogastric animals and human beings to synthesise this metabolite, animals are still able to convert methionine consumed with their diet into cysteine. Thus, a balanced diet containing both amino acids is necessary to provide a nutritionally favourable food or feed source. Because the concentrations of methionine and cysteine are often low in edible plant sources, e.g. potato, considerable efforts in plant breeding and research have been and are still performed to understand the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms that contribute to their synthesis, transport, and accumulation in plants. During the last decade molecular tools have enabled the isolation of most of the genes involved in cysteine and methionine biosynthesis, and the efficient plant transformation technology has allowed the creation of transgenic plants that are altered in the activity of individual genes. The physiological analysis of these transgenic plants has contributed considerably to our current understanding of how amino acids are synthesised. We focused our analysis on potato (Solanum tuberosum cv. Désirée) as this plant provides a clear separation of source and sink tissues and, for applied purposes, already constitutes a crop plant. From the data presented here and in previous work we conclude that threonine synthase and not cystathionine gamma-synthase as expected from studies of Arabidopsis constitutes the main regulatory control point of methionine synthesis in potato. This article aims to cover the current knowledge in the area of molecular genetics of sulfur-containing amino acid biosynthesis and will provide new data for methionine biosynthesis in solanaceous plants such as potato. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 12083069 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 410: 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] 411: 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] 412: 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] 413: Toxicol Lett. 2002 Feb 28;127(1-3):351-7. Experience with environmental issues in GM crop production and the likely future scenarios. Gaugitsch H. Federal Environment Agency, Spittelauer Laende 5, A 1090, Vienna, Austria. gaugitsch@ubavie.gv.at In the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, standards for risk assessment of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been set. The criteria and information basis for the risk assessment of GMOs have been modified by the EU Directive 2001/18/EC. Various approaches to further improve the criteria for environmental risk assessment of GMOs are described in this study. Reports on the ecological impacts of the cultivation of certain non-transgenic crop plants with novel or improved traits as analogy models to transgenic plants showed that the effects of agricultural practice can be at least equally important as the effects of gene transfer and invasiveness, although the latter currently play a major role in risk assessment of transgenic crops. Based on these results the applicability of the methodology of 'Life Cycle Analysis (LCA)' for genetically modified plants in comparison with conventionally bred and organically grown crop plants was evaluated. The methodology was regarded as applicable with some necessary future improvements. In current projects, the assessment of toxicology and allergenicity of GM crops are analysed, and suggestions for standardization are developed. Based on results and recommendations from these efforts there are still the challenges of how to operationalize the precautionary principle and how to take into account ecologically sensitive ecosystems, including centres of origin and centres of genetic diversity. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12052677 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 414: 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] 415: Mutat Res. 2002 Jun;511(2):89-112. Modulation of heterocyclic amine-induced mutagenicity and carcinogenicity: an 'A-to-Z' guide to chemopreventive agents, promoters, and transgenic models. Dashwood RH. Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Linus Pauling Institute, and Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis 97331-6512, USA. rod.dashwood@orst.edu A landmark report by Widmark in 1939 describing "cancer-producing substances in roasted food", and the seminal work of Sugimura and colleagues in the 1970s on the isolation of potent mutagens from cooked meat and fish stimulated a major international effort on the study of heterocyclic amines and their modulators. The latter term is used in its broadest context to mean agents or conditions that positively or negatively influence the mutagenic or carcinogenic activities of heterocyclic amines in vitro or in vivo. An 'A-to-Z' list of these modulators includes well over 150 natural or synthetic phytochemicals, micronutrients and antioxidants, as well as several large chemical classes (polyphenols, flavones, retinoids, porphyrins), food fractions, and food preparation methods. In many cases, the findings reported in the literature can be regarded as descriptive, but for a number of specific agents there is sufficient evidence to glean some understanding of the inhibitory or promotional mechanisms of action. These mechanisms can be divided into 11 separate sub-categories, arranged within a general classification scheme that encompasses such terms as 'blocking agents', 'suppressing agents', 'desmutagens', 'bioantimutagens', 'interceptor molecules' and 'tumor promoters'. In addition, new research directions, most notably during the past 2-3 years or so, have led to the use of novel dosing protocols and unique animal models (including transgenic species) that provide insight into exposure conditions and genetic background as modulators of heterocyclic amine activity in vitro and in vivo. Overall, the more than 250 citations on the subject give ample evidence of the growing interest in modulators of heterocyclic amine carcinogenesis and mutagenesis, and their possible importance in determining human cancer risk in defined populations. Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 12052429 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 416: 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] 417: Nutr Rev. 2002 May;60(5 Pt 1):135-41. Genetically engineered crops: their potential use for improvement of human nutrition. Yan L, Kerr PS. Department of Nutritional Sciences, Du Pont Protein Technologies, St. Louis, Missouri 63188, USA. Great success has been achieved in increasing agriculture productivity to fulfill human needs during the second half of the 20th century. However, there will be much greater challenges in the future. Based on the current population growth rate of 1.4% per year, the world's population is forecast to increase from the current level of approximately six billion to nine to twelve billion in 50 years. In addition to continuously increasing demand for agricultural production, there is an urgent need to improve the nutritional quality of human diets for this rapidly growing human population. Malnutrition is still a worldwide health issue. Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in developing countries, and over-consumption of certain nutrients in developed countries (e.g., saturated fatty acids) is associated with high incidence of certain chronic diseases. Furthermore, there will be declining natural resources such as arable land and water, and the challenges to humans must be met without further degrading the environment. Biotechnology offers a valuable tool to help achieve these goals. This review focuses on the most recent advances in biotechnology, which promise to improve human nutrition by enhancing the nutrient density of plant foods. Issues relating to the safety of food products from genetically engineered crops are also discussed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12030276 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 418: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 May;964:185-96. Prediction of allergenicity of gene-modified foods by serum-based testing. Poulsen LK. Laboratory of Medical Allergology, National University Hospital, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. lkpallgy@inet.uni2.dk On the basis of applying the IFBC/ILSI decision tree in a number of cases, a refinement of the scheme is suggested. Large differences in allergenic potential may be obtained by altering the route of administration of an allergen. Because an inhalation allergen can induce symptoms at different threshold doses depending on whether it is introduced via the inhalation or oral route, we propose that double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges be performed in all cases of inhalation allergens being present in foods. Even proteins never previously ingested may cause IgE binding and elicit clinically relevant symptoms. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12023205 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 419: 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] 420: Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2002 May;964:151-61. Assessment of protein allergenicity: studies in brown norway rats. Knippels LM, Penninks AH. Experimental Immunology, Department of Target Organ Toxicology, TNO Nutrition and Food Research, 3700 AJ Zeist, The Netherlands. knippels@voeding.tno.nl For the safety evaluation of genetically engineered crops, the potential allergenicity of the newly introduced protein(s) has become an important issue. There is, however, no universal and reliable test system for the evaluation of the allergic sensitizing ability of food proteins. Therefore, there is a growing interest in the development of animal models. This paper summarizes the results of a promising food allergy model developed in Brown Norway (BN) rats. The results demonstrate that BN rats can be sensitized via the relevant oral route of exposure. Daily gavage dosing of the animals with several food proteins, without the use of adjuvants, resulted in significant antigen-specific IgE responses. In addition, the profile of allergens recognized by the immune system of the BN rat, appeared comparable to the profile of allergens recognized by allergic humans. Besides oral sensitization, local and systemic immune-mediated effects, such as increased gastrointestinal permeability, decreased breathing frequency, and decreased blood pressure, could also be observed in the sensitized animals after an oral challenge. All together, these observations suggest that this BN rat model might provide a suitable animal model to study the allergenicity of food proteins in humans. Publication Types: Review PMID: 12023202 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 421: 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] 422: 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] 423: 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] 424: Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2001 Jun;1(3):269-71. Hidden food allergens. Hefle SL. Food Allergy Research and Resource Program, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. shefle1@unl.edu This review summarizes recent advances and findings in the area of 'hidden' food allergens, i.e. allergenic foods that can either contaminate other foods, or be 'disguised' as part of a food, and cause allergic reactions. Newly emerging allergenic foods of increasing importance, recently developed methods for the detection of allergenic residues, the potential allergenicity of genetically engineered foods, and some unexpected sources of food allergens are described. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11964700 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 425: 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] 426: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2002 Apr;13(2):142-5. Improving iron, zinc and vitamin A nutrition through plant biotechnology. Zimmermann MB, Hurrell RF. Laboratory of Human Nutrition, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zürich, PO Box 474, CH-8803 Rüschlikon, Switzerland. michael.zimmermann@ilw.agrl.ethz.ch Recent understanding of plant metabolism has made it possible to increase the iron, zinc and beta-carotene (provitamin A) content in staple foods by both conventional plant breeding and genetic engineering. Improving the micronutrient composition of plant foods may become a sustainable strategy to combat deficiencies in human populations, replacing or complementing other strategies such as food fortification or nutrient supplementation. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 11950566 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 427: Trends Biotechnol. 2002 May;20(5):215-23. Detection of genetically modified organisms in foods. Ahmed FE. Dept of Radiation Oncology, Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center, The Brody School of Medicine, LSB 014, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA. ahmedf@mail.ecu.edu Legislation enacted worldwide to regulate the presence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in crops, foods and ingredients, necessitated the development of reliable and sensitive methods for GMO detection. In this article, protein- and DNA-based methods employing western blots, enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay, lateral flow strips, Southern blots, qualitative-, quantitative-, real-time- and limiting dilution-PCR methods, are discussed. Where information on modified gene sequences is not available, new approaches, such as near-infrared spectrometry, might tackle the problem of detection of non-approved genetically modified (GM) foods. The efficiency of screening, identification and confirmation strategies should be examined with respect to false-positive rates, disappearance of marker genes, increased use of specific regulator sequences and the increasing number of GM foods. Publication Types: Comparative Study Review PMID: 11943377 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 428: 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] 429: Chembiochem. 2001 Apr 2;2(4):289-90. Scientists and society--and never the twain shall meet? Wright K. Publication Types: Consensus Development Conference Review PMID: 11905466 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 430: 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] 431: 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] 432: 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] 433: 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] 434: 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] 435: Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2002 Jan;72(1):7-12. Biotechnology: a solution for improving nutrient bioavailability. King JC. United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Western Human Nutrition Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA. jking@whnrc.usda.gov Biotechnology strategies are now available to improve the amount and availability of nutrients in plant crops. Those strategies include simple plant selection for varieties with high nutrient density in the seeds, cross-breeding for incorporating a desired trait within a plant, and genetic engineering to manipulate the nutrient content of the plant. In plant cross-breeding, all genes of the parent plants are combined and the progeny have both desirable and undesirable traits. To eliminate undesirable traits, plant breeders "back-cross" the new plant varieties with other plants over several generations. This technique, called hybridization, has been used to create varieties of low-phytate corn, barley, and rice. Using the techniques of genetic engineering, the gene(s) encoding for a desired trait(s) in a plant are introduced in a precise and controlled manner within a relatively short period of time. Golden rice, containing carotenoids, and rice with higher amounts of iron, are two examples of genetically engineered plants for improved nutrition. Genetic engineering has tremendous potential for revolutionizing nutrition. However, public concerns regarding safety, appearance, and ethics must be overcome before these products can be effectively introduced into the food supply. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11887755 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 436: 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] 437: 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] 438: 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] 439: Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand). 2001 Dec;47(8):1319-28. Genetically modified plants: the stakes. Riba G, Chupeau Y. Scientific Direction Plant and Plant Products, INRA, Paris, France. guy.riba@paris.inra.fr Generically modified plants (GMP) are massively used on the American continent in Australia and in China, since they represent an unquestionable potential for progress. New attributes are therefore devoted to the human and animal diet, to the facilitating of culture management, to the reducing of the chemical fertilizer and pesticide usage, and to the conquest of new cultural spaces. Considering itself to be flawed by a too hasty plunge into the market, concomitant with sagging evaluations of other innovations, Europe is confronted by a strong societal debate which blocks GMP cultures and orientates the research towards an evaluation of the environmental and public health risks and an evaluation of their economical and sociological impacts. The authors encourage this societal debate in order to arbitrate the presence of transgenes in conventional productions and products, to define the accepted rules of responsibility, to decide what is not acceptable, and to involve the more upstream actors and operators of the innovation process, all that keeping in mind the agronomical, ecological and economical repercussions of their decisions. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11838952 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 440: Metab Eng. 2002 Jan;4(1):12-21. Metabolic engineering of fatty acid biosynthesis in plants. Thelen JJ, Ohlrogge JB. Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA. Fatty acids are the most abundant form of reduced carbon chains available from nature and have diverse uses ranging from food to industrial feedstocks. Plants represent a significant renewable source of fatty acids because many species accumulate them in the form of triacylglycerol as major storage components in seeds. With the advent of plant transformation technology, metabolic engineering of oilseed fatty acids has become possible and transgenic plant oils represent some of the first successes in design of modified plant products. Directed gene down-regulation strategies have enabled the specific tailoring of common fatty acids in several oilseed crops. In addition, transfer of novel fatty acid biosynthetic genes from noncommercial plants has allowed the production of novel oil compositions in oilseed crops. These and future endeavors aim to produce seeds higher in oil content as well as new oils that are more stable, are healthier for humans, and can serve as a renewable source of industrial commodities. Large-scale new industrial uses of engineered plant oils are on the horizon but will require a better understanding of factors that limit the accumulation of unusual fatty acid structures in seeds. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11800570 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 441: Metab Eng. 2002 Jan;4(1):3-11. Metabolic engineering of amino acids and storage proteins in plants. Galili G, Höfgen R. Department of Plant Sciences, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel. gad.galili@weizmann.ac.il Amino acid pathways are important targets for plant metabolic engineering. Since plants represent the major global food supply, large efforts are devoted to increasing the content of "essential" amino acids, which are absolutely required in human foods and animal feeds. Engineering of amino acids is also undertaken to improve plant growth and stress tolerance. Many of the pathways of amino acid metabolism in plants have been elucidated, and genes encoding most of the enzymes are now available. The expression of recombinant genes in transgenic plants, coupled with genetic and biochemical approaches, has contributed significantly to the understanding of regulatory networks of the metabolism of amino acids and their incorporation into proteins. This knowledge is now being extensively applied to metabolic engineering of crops, and this is reflected by a large patent literature. The problems of engineering plant amino acid metabolism, and ways to solve them, are discussed using the essential amino acids lysine and methionine as examples. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 11800569 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 442: 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] 443: 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] 444: Plant Physiol. 2001 Dec;127(4):1383-9. Floral fragrance. New inroads into an old commodity. Vainstein A, Lewinsohn E, Pichersky E, Weiss D. The Kennedy Leigh Centre for Horticultural Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovet 76100, Israel. vain@agri.huji.ac.il Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 11743078 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 445: Annu Rev Entomol. 2002;47:845-81. Economic, ecological, food safety, and social consequences of the deployment of bt transgenic plants. Shelton AM, Zhao JZ, Roush RT. Department of Entomology, Cornell University, New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Geneva, New York 14456, USA. ams5@cornell.edu Transgenic plants expressing insecticidal proteins from the bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), are revolutionizing agriculture. Bt, which had limited use as a foliar insecticide, has become a major insecticide because genes that produce Bt toxins have been engineered into major crops grown on 11.4 million ha worldwide in 2000. Based on the data collected to date, generally these crops have shown positive economic benefits to growers and reduced the use of other insecticides. The potential ecological and human health consequences of Bt plants, including effects on nontarget organisms, food safety, and the development of resistant insect populations, are being compared for Bt plants and alternative insect management strategies. Scientists do not have full knowledge of the risks and benefits of any insect management strategies. Bt plants were deployed with the expectation that the risks would be lower than current or alternative technologies and that the benefits would be greater. Based on the data to date, these expectations seem valid. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11729093 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 446: 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] 447: J Nutr. 2001 Nov;131(11 Suppl):3082S-6S. Protection by dietary compounds against mutation in a transgenic rodent. de Boer JG. Centre for Environmental Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. jdboer@uvic.ca One of the most relevant biomarkers of genotoxicity and, potentially, carcinogenesis is the occurrence of mutations. Data indicate that carcinogens are highly specific with regard to their target tissue in inducing both tumors and mutations. This specificity may reflect the dependence on tissue-specific metabolic activation, the organ-specific environment or both. Ideally, therefore, mutation should be determined in a real animal rather than in a cell culture system. The lacI transgenic rodent model provides such a system. We have used this model to investigate tissue, species and sex specificity of mutation induced by selected dietary carcinogens and to examine how some compounds may alter the induction of mutation. We have studied mutation using several chemicals, including the dietary heterocyclic amine 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), the environmentally important aromatic hydrocarbon benzo[a]pyrene and the food contaminant aflatoxin B1. We have shown that the mutagenic potency of these chemicals can be modulated by other dietary compounds, including green tea and conjugated linoleic acid, and the dioxin 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo[b,e][1,4]dioxin (TCDD). These results demonstrate that the lacI transgenic rodent is a useful model for the study of chemoprevention in vivo. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11694652 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 448: Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2001;7:239-60. Transgenics in crops. Li Y, Wu YH, McAvoy R, Duan H. Collaborators: Li Y. Department of Plant Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA. yi.li@uconn.edu With rapid world population growth and declining availability of fresh water and arable land, a new technology is urgently needed to enhance agricultural productivity. Recent discoveries in the field of crop transgenics clearly demonstrate the great potential of this technology for increasing food production and improving food quality while preserving the environment for future generations. In this review, we briefly discuss some of the recent achievements in crop improvement that have been made using gene transfer technology. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. Review PMID: 11686046 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 449: 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] 450: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2001 Oct;12(5):488-92. Plant-based raw material: improved food quality for better nutrition via plant genomics. van der Meer IM, Bovy AG, Bosch D. Plant Research International BV, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, PO Box 16, 6700AA, Wageningen, The Netherlands. Plants form the basis of the human food chain. Characteristics of plants are therefore crucial to the quantity and quality of human food. In this review, it is discussed how technological developments in the area of plant genomics and plant genetics help to mobilise the potential of plants to improve the quality of life of the rapidly growing world population. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11604326 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 451: J Toxicol Environ Health A. 2001 Sep;64(1-2):1-210. Elements of precaution: recommendations for the regulation of food biotechnology in Canada. Royal Society of Canada. Publication Types: Consensus Development Conference Review PMID: 11592267 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 452: 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] 453: 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] 454: Minerva Pediatr. 2001 Jun;53(3):199-210. Transgenic foods, pesticides, dioxin, passive smoke. Consequences on breast milk. [Article in English, Italian] Cantani A, Micera M. Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Pediatric Department, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy. acantani@pelagus.it In recent years the efforts of companies manufacturing cow milk (CM) formulas have led to the development and availability of special formulas, which have dramatically reduced the morbidity of infants with food allergy (FA). However, the safety of several infants and children with food allergy is put to a severe test by transgenic foods, pesticides, and dioxin entering the scenario, also provoking breast milk contamination. Regarding transgenic foods, it is significant the attitude taken against people attempting to call them Frankenstein food, whereas pesticides and dioxin present in dietary foods for infants and young children, after a first arising of alarmed and inflamed controversies, have almost fallen into oblivion. Several of these substances are able to trigger immune alterations. Recent reports have shown that pears can contain pesticides in 54% of cases, a finding which obliges us to review elimination diets devised for allergic babies. However, these foods are far from being ideal both from the nutritional adequacy and hypoallergenicity; moreover, passive smoke is now a genetic factor. We would like to stress, according to the Latin wisdom that stands on the portal of our Clinic in puero homo, which means. In infant is the seed of the future man, that our goal is not only to reduce morbidity and mortality, but mainly to insure the best quality of life both to infants and adults. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11455307 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 455: Fresenius J Anal Chem. 2001 Jun;370(2-3):142-6. Recent production of candidate reference materials at IRMM. Kramer GN, Pauwels J, Le Guern L, Schimmel H, Trapmann S. European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, Geel, Belgium. kramer@jrc.irmm.be In the execution of its mission to promote a common European measurement system in support of EU policies, IRMM's Reference Materials Unit is currently involved in preparation of proficiency-testing samples and candidate reference materials. Recent work related to bovine spongiform encephalopathy in cows, genetically modified organisms, and a variety of environmental materials is described. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11451225 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 456: J Chromatogr B Biomed Sci Appl. 2001 May 25;756(1-2):327-35. Genetic modification and plant food allergens: risks and benefits. Shewry PR, Tatham AS, Halford NG. Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Bristol, UK. peter.shewry@bbsrc.ac.uk Plant genetic engineering has the potential to both introduce new allergenic proteins into foods and remove established allergens. A number of allergenic plant proteins have been characterized, showing that many are related to proteins which have potentially valuable properties for use in nutritional enhancement, food processing and crop protection. It is therefore important to monitor the allergenic potential of proteins used for plant genetic engineering and major biotechnology companies have established systems for this. Current technology allows gene expression to be down-regulated using antisense or co-suppression and future developments may allow targeted gene mutation or gene replacement. However, the application of this technology may be limited at least in the short term by the presence of multiple allergens and their contribution to food processing or other properties. Furthermore, the long-term stability of these systems needs to be established as reversion could have serious consequences. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 11419724 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 457: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2001 Jun;12(3):308-11. The regulation of biologic products derived from bioengineered plants. Stein KE, Webber KO. Division of Monoclonal Antibodies, Office of Therapeutics Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, 29 Lincoln Drive, 20892-4555, Bethesda, MD, USA. stein@cber.fda.gov Recently, there has been a large increase in the number and types of biological products--from therapeutic antibodies to vaccines for the prevention of infectious diseases--that are produced in bioengineered plant systems. We anticipate that this technology will be used increasingly on a commercial scale for the manufacture of human and animal products. These production systems have the capacity to produce very large quantities of products at lower costs and with reduced risks compared with mammalian systems. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11404111 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 458: Novartis Found Symp. 2001;236:233-9; discussion 240-1. Developing transgenic grains with improved oils, proteins and carbohydrates. Mazur BJ. DuPont Agricultural Enterprise, PO Box 80402, Wilmington, DE 19880-0402, USA. DuPont has developed cereals and oilseeds with improved proteins, carbohydrates, and oils for food, feed, and industrial applications. Products which have been or will be introduced include corn and soybeans with increased oil content, improved oil composition, increased amino acid content, altered protein content and functional qualities, altered starch composition, reduced oligosaccharide content, increased sucrose content, and combinations of these traits. These products have been developed using both mutation breeding and molecular biology-based transgenic approaches. We have also worked on improving the underlying technologies in order to accelerate product introductions. Gene discovery has been expedited through a genomics program that now has a database of more than two million sequences from a variety of plants, insects and microbes. Plant cell transformation for elite lines of crop species is being addressed through production laboratories with high throughput processes and through technology improvements. High-throughput, rapid and small-scale assays for biochemical parameters are used to identify plants carrying traits of interest. Small-scale functionality analyses, in which grains are broken down into their component parts and assayed for functional properties, indicate which seeds carry a trait of commercial value. Finally, a number of DNA marker systems are being used to accelerate trait introgression timelines. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11387983 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 459: 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] 460: 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] 461: 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] 462: 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] 463: Sci Am. 2001 Apr;284(4):52-7. Seeds of concern. Brown K. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11285820 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 464: 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] 465: Nat Rev Genet. 2001 Mar;2(3):217-22. Scientific perspectives on regulating the safety of genetically modified foods. Gasson M, Burke D. Food Science Division, Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK. Regulation is often seen as the dull end of science. The recent storm over the introduction of genetically modified foods and the calls to regulate their consumption have had a negative effect on development of the science. Assuring the safety of genetically modified foods might raise questions where existing scientific data is limited and underline the need for further research. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11256073 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 466: 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] 467: Transgenic Res. 2001;10(1):1-12. Antibody-based resistance to plant pathogens. Schillberg S, Zimmermann S, Zhang MY, Fischer R. FraunhoferAbteilung für Molekulare Biotechnologie, IUCT, Grafschaft, Schmallenberg, Germany. schillberg@bio1.rwth-aachen.de Plant diseases are a major threat to the world food supply, as up to 15% of production is lost to pathogens. In the past, disease control and the generation of resistant plant lines protected against viral, bacterial or fungal pathogens, was achieved using conventional breeding based on crossings, mutant screenings and backcrossing. Many approaches in this field have failed or the resistance obtained has been rapidly broken by the pathogens. Recent advances in molecular biotechnology have made it possible to obtain and to modify genes that are useful for generating disease resistant crops. Several strategies, including expression of pathogen-derived sequences or anti-pathogenic agents, have been developed to engineer improved pathogen resistance in transgenic plants. Antibody-based resistance is a novel strategy for generating transgenic plants resistant to pathogens. Decades ago it was shown that polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies can neutralize viruses, bacteria and selected fungi. This approach has been improved recently by the development of recombinant antibodies (rAbs). Crop resistance can be engineered by the expression of pathogen-specific antibodies, antibody fragments or antibody fusion proteins. The advantages of this approach are that rAbs can be engineered against almost any target molecule, and it has been demonstrated that expression of functional pathogen-specific rAbs in plants confers effective pathogen protection. The efficacy of antibody-based resistance was first shown for plant viruses and its application to other plant pathogens is becoming more established. However, successful use of antibodies to generate plant pathogen resistance relies on appropriate target selection, careful antibody design, efficient antibody expression, stability and targeting to appropriate cellular compartments. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11252378 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 468: Curr Opin Mol Ther. 2000 Feb;2(1):80-6. Development of oral vaccines for human use. Fooks AR. Centre for Applied Microbiology and Research (CAMR), Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JG, UK. anthony.fooks@camr.org.uk In developed and developing countries, oral vaccine formulations that elicit protection at mucosal surfaces are attractive vaccine candidates. Research has shown that vaccine delivery using either viral or non-viral vector delivery of heterologous proteins via the oral route is highly effective. Improvements in non-viral vector uptake, specific targeting, antigen presentation and antigen release times will be required to overcome differences in the immune response following delivery. In contrast, the use of plant and animal viruses as vectors provides an effective method for targeted gene delivery. Recently, recombinant plant viruses grown in plants or transgenic plants have been proposed as edible vaccines for human use. Food plants offer many advantages as affordable, oral vaccines, especially for use in developing countries. Further research is necessary to develop strategies to improve immunological memory following oral vaccination and to avoid immunological tolerance in the host. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 11249655 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 469: Biologist (London). 2000 Apr;47(2):81-4. Is there a future for GMOs? Beringer JE. School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol, BS8 1UG. Despite strict regulation and a clean safety record, research and development of genetically modified (GM) crops and other organisms has been confronted with tremendous public hostility. Why has this happened, and how can scientists try to guide the debate into more rational channels? The answers may determine the future of GM technology and our ability to provide for a growing world population. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11190234 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 470: Biologist (London). 2000 Apr;47(2):74-6. GM frenzy: a lesson in communication. Dixon B. Hysteria rather than rationality has characterised the debate over genetically modified foods, which erupted in Britain in 1998 and has since spread to other countries. This episode holds wider lessons for biologists, politicians and all concerned with the prudent assessment and application of novel technology. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11190232 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 471: Trends Biotechnol. 2001 Feb;19(2):67-73. Metal-binding proteins and peptides in bioremediation and phytoremediation of heavy metals. Mejáre M, Bülow L. Dept of Pure and Applied Biochemistry, Centre for Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, P.O. Box 124, S-221 00, Lund, Sweden. The expression of metal-binding proteins or peptides in microorganisms and plants in order to enhance heavy metal accumulation and/or tolerance has great potential. Several different peptides and proteins have been explored. This review focuses on cadmium (Cd) because of the significant importance of this metal and because of its global presence in many food materials. Publication Types: Review PMID: 11164556 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 472: 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] 473: 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] 474: 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] 475: Sci Am. 2000 Sep;283(3):66-71. Edible vaccines. Langridge WH. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10976468 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 476: 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] 477: Rev Esp Salud Publica. 2000 May-Jun;74(3):255-61. [Health risks of genetically modified foods: a literature review] [Article in Spanish] Domingo Roig JL, Gómez Arnáiz M. Laboratorio de Toxicología y Salud Medioambiental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona. In 1999, there has been much concern on the safety of genetically modified (GM) foods, an important and complex area of safety research, which demands rigorous standards. Various groups, including consumers and environmental Non Governmental Organizations (NGO) have suggested that all GM foods should be subjected to long-term animal feeding studies before approval for human consumption. The main goal of this review has been to know which is the state-of-the art regarding to the potential adverse effects of GM foods. Two databases, MEDLINE and TOXLINE, as well as a number of URL from INTERNET were used for references. Although commentaries, general news and letters to the Editor have been frequently published in reputable journals, papers about experimental studies on the safety of GM foods are surprisingly very scant. If data on toxicological assessment of GM foods have been obtained, these have not been reported in scientific journals and subjected to the scientific judgement. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 10918812 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 478: Nutrition. 2000 Jul-Aug;16(7-8):709-11. Food risks from transgenic crops in perspective. Conner AJ, Jacobs JM. New Zealand Institute for Crop & Food Research Ltd., Christchurch. connert@crop.cri.nz Publication Types: Review PMID: 10906607 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 479: Nutrition. 2000 Jul-Aug;16(7-8):706-9. Labeling of gene-spliced foods: a label we don't need. Miller HI. Hoover Institution, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-6010, USA. miller@hoover.stanford.edu Publication Types: Review PMID: 10906606 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 480: 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] 481: 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] 482: Yeast. 2000 Jun 15;16(8):675-729. Tailoring wine yeast for the new millennium: novel approaches to the ancient art of winemaking. Pretorius IS. Institute for Wine Biotechnology, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, ZA-7600, South Africa. isp@maties.sun.ac.za Yeasts are predominant in the ancient and complex process of winemaking. In spontaneous fermentations, there is a progressive growth pattern of indigenous yeasts, with the final stages invariably being dominated by the alcohol-tolerant strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This species is universally known as the 'wine yeast' and is widely preferred for initiating wine fermentations. The primary role of wine yeast is to catalyze the rapid, complete and efficient conversion of grape sugars to ethanol, carbon dioxide and other minor, but important, metabolites without the development of off-flavours. However, due to the demanding nature of modern winemaking practices and sophisticated wine markets, there is an ever-growing quest for specialized wine yeast strains possessing a wide range of optimized, improved or novel oenological properties. This review highlights the wealth of untapped indigenous yeasts with oenological potential, the complexity of wine yeasts' genetic features and the genetic techniques often used in strain development. The current status of genetically improved wine yeasts and potential targets for further strain development are outlined. In light of the limited knowledge of industrial wine yeasts' complex genomes and the daunting challenges to comply with strict statutory regulations and consumer demands regarding the future use of genetically modified strains, this review cautions against unrealistic expectations over the short term. However, the staggering potential advantages of improved wine yeasts to both the winemaker and consumer in the third millennium are pointed out. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10861899 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 483: 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] 484: Anim Reprod Sci. 2000 Jul 2;60-61:161-72. Reproductive biotechnologies: current status in porcine reproduction. Day BN. Animal Science Unit, University of Missouri, College of Agriculture, Columbia, MO 65211, USA. dayb@missouri.edu During the past decade, considerable attention has been directed toward the development of reproductive technologies for both research purposes and for more controlled swine reproduction. Artificial insemination is an example of a technology that has continued to be expanded from early use in European countries to the USA and Canada where it is now estimated that a majority of the sows bred are artificially inseminated. In addition, several significant technological advancements have been made in the genetic modification of swine and interest has been generated in the possible use of swine as donors of specific tissues and of organs for the improvement of human health. At the same time, the systems for production of swine for human food continue to undergo major changes including, in some countries, the consolidation of swine into large, integrated units. These swine operations are very receptive to the use of technologies to reduce labor costs as well as a basis for increased production efficiency. Therefore, the combined interest in swine reproductive technologies by both the medical field and the swine industry creates an increased effort for the development of new technologies as well as for the implementation of existing ones. One of the more rapid technological advancements this decade has been the progress in in vitro production (IVP) of swine embryos. Major advancements have been made on the development of procedures for production of large numbers of embryos from oocytes collected at slaughter houses which are then matured (IVM) and fertilized (IVF) in the laboratory. Success in IVP has stimulated increased research in other areas that can be enhanced by the availability of embryos without a requirement for surgical collection from gilts or sows. One example is the combined use of IVF, gender-sorted sperm cells, and embryo transfer to produce offspring of a predicted sex. In a related area, instrumentation for non-surgical embryo transfer has recently been developed that results in significant improvement in this technology. Similar achievements have been gained in cryopreservation of embryos by vitrification. These developments will be reviewed with emphasis on the in vitro production of embryos from immature oocytes. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10844192 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 485: 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] 486: 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] 487: Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):170-3. Comment in: Med J Aust. 2000 Aug 7;173(3):166-7. Med J Aust. 2000 Aug 7;173(3):167. Med J Aust. 2000 Feb 21;172(4):148-9. Genetically modified foods--safety and regulatory issues. Huppatz JL, Fitzgerald PA. CSIRO Plant Industry, Canberra, ACT. Gene technology is a new form of biotechnology with much greater potential applications. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10772589 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 488: 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] 489: Trends Biotechnol. 2000 May;18(5):188-90. Genetically modified foods: economic aspects and public acceptance in Brazil. Oda LM, Soares BE. FIOCRUZ Biosafety Office, Department of Science and Biotechnology, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. oda@fiocruz.br Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10758511 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 490: Genome Res. 1999 Dec;9(12):1159-62. Public concerns over transgenic crops. Dale PJ. John Innes Centre, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK. phil.dale@bbsrc.ac.uk Publication Types: Review PMID: 10613837 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 491: 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] 492: 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] 493: Science. 1999 Jul 16;285(5426):372-5. Gene discovery and product development for grain quality traits. Mazur B, Krebbers E, Tingey S. DuPont Agricultural Products Experimental Station, Post Office Box 80402, Wilmington, DE 19880-0402, USA. The composition of oils, proteins, and carbohydrates in seeds of corn, soybean, and other crops has been modified to produce grains with enhanced value. Both plant breeding and molecular technologies have been used to produce plants carrying the desired traits. Genomics-based strategies for gene discovery, coupled with high-throughput transformation processes and miniaturized, automated analytical and functionality assays, have accelerated the identification of product candidates. Molecular marker-based breeding strategies have been used to accelerate the process of moving trait genes into high-yielding germplasm for commercialization. These products are being tested for applications in food, feed, and industrial markets. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10411493 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 494: 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] 495: Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 1999 Jun;119(2):75-85. Genetically engineered plant allergens with reduced anaphylactic activity. Singh MB, de Weerd N, Bhalla PL. Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Institute of Land and Food Resources, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia. Allergy immunotherapy is based on the administration of increasing amounts of the disease-eliciting allergens in order to yield allergen-specific non-responsiveness. Success of this therapy is associated with modulation of the immune response to allergenic molecules at the level of T-helper cells and the induction of blocking antibodies. The extracts used for immunotherapy are highly heterogenous preparations from natural sources and contain additional components, mostly proteins which are not well defined. Recombinant DNA technology offers novel tools for production of pure and well-characterised allergens for specific immunotherapy. However, high IgE reactivity of pure recombinant allergens is associated with an increased risk of potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. A major improvement in allergen-specific immunotherapy may be achieved by using genetically engineered recombinant allergens with reduced anaphylactic activity. Recently the site- directed mutagenesis technique has been applied successfully to produce variants of major grass, birch and oilseed rape allergens with reduced IgE reactivity but retained T-cell reactivity. These modified allergens with reduced anaphylactic potential are novel candidates for safer and more effective allergen-specific immunotherapy. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10394098 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 496: 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] 497: 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] 498: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 1999 Jun;10(3):298-302. Regulation of foods derived from genetically engineered crops. Mitten DH, MacDonald R, Klonus D. AgrEvo USA, 414 Fourth Street, Suite A, Woodland, CA 95695, USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10361083 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 499: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1999 May 25;96(11):5978-81. Transgenic plants for tropical regions: some considerations about their development and their transfer to the small farmer. Herrera-Estrella L. Departamento de Ingeniería Genética, Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados, Apartado Postal 629 C.P. 36500 Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. 1herrera@irapuato.ira.cinvestav.mx Biotechnological applications, especially transgenic plants, probably hold the most promise in augmenting agricultural production in the first decades of the next millennium. However, the application of these technologies to the agriculture of tropical regions where the largest areas of low productivity are located, and where they are most needed, remains a major challenge. In this paper, some of the important issues that need to be considered to ensure that plant biotechnology is effectively transferred to the developing world are discussed. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10339527 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 500: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1999 May 25;96(11):5973-7. Use of plant roots for phytoremediation and molecular farming. Gleba D, Borisjuk NV, Borisjuk LG, Kneer R, Poulev A, Skarzhinskaya M, Dushenkov S, Logendra S, Gleba YY, Raskin I. Biotech Center, Foran Hall, Cook College, Rutgers University, 59 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8520, USA. Alternative agriculture, which expands the uses of plants well beyond food and fiber, is beginning to change plant biology. Two plant-based biotechnologies were recently developed that take advantage of the ability of plant roots to absorb or secrete various substances. They are (i) phytoextraction, the use of plants to remove pollutants from the environment and (ii) rhizosecretion, a subset of molecular farming, designed to produce and secrete valuable natural products and recombinant proteins from roots. Here we discuss recent advances in these technologies and assess their potential in soil remediation, drug discovery, and molecular farming. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10339526 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 501: Adv Exp Med Biol. 1999;464:179-94. Autoantigens produced in plants for oral tolerance therapy of autoimmune diseases. Ma S, Jevnikar AM. John P. Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada. Oral administration of protein antigens can induce antigen-specific immune hyporesponsiveness and may be useful in treating autoimmune diseases or preventing transplant rejection. However, the therapeutic value of oral tolerance may be limited when candidate autoantigens cannot be produced by conventional system in quantities sufficient for clinical studies. Plants may be ideally suited for this purpose, as they can produce hugh quantities of functional mammalian proteins at extremely competitive cost. Furthermore, transgenic food plants could provide a simple and direct method of autoantigen delivery for oral tolerance. Here we show that the diabetes-associated autoantigen glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) is efficiently expressed in both tobacco and potato plants, and that mice, when fed with fresh transgenic potato tubers, are fully protected from diabetes. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10335394 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 502: Adv Exp Med Biol. 1999;464:161-78. Food plant-delivered cholera toxin B subunit for vaccination and immunotolerization. Arakawa T, Yu J, Langridge WH. Center for Molecular Biology and Gene Therapy, School of Medicine, Loma Linda University, California 92350, USA. Developments in recombinant DNA technology have enabled molecular biologists to introduce a variety of novel genes into plant species for specific purposes. From crop improvement to vaccine antigen and antibody production, plants are attractive bioreactors for production of recombinant proteins, as their eukaryotic nature often permits appropriate post-translational modification of recombinant proteins to retain native biological activity. The autotrophic growth of plants requires only soil minerals, water, nitrogen, sunlight energy and carbon dioxide for the synthesis of constituent proteins. Furthermore, production of biologically active proteins in food plants provides the advantage of direct delivery through consumption of edible transformed plant tissues. The production of cholera toxin B subunit in potato plants and applications for prevention of infectious and autoimmune disease are explained in this contribution. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10335393 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 503: Adv Exp Med Biol. 1999;464:149-59. Improvements in human health through production of human milk proteins in transgenic food plants. Arakawa T, Chong DK, Slattery CW, Langridge WH. Center for Molecular Biology and Gene Therapy, Loma Linda University, California 92350, USA. Plants are particularly suitable bioreactors for the production of proteins, as their eukaryotic nature frequently directs the appropriate post-translational modifications of recombinant proteins to retain native biological activity. The autotrophic growth of plants makes this in vivo biosynthesis system economically competitive for supplementation or replacement of conventional production systems in the future. For the production of biologically active proteins, food plants provide the advantage of direct delivery via consumption of transformed plant tissues. Here we describe the production of recombinant human milk proteins in food plants for improvements in human nutrition and health, with emphasis on enhanced nutrition for non-breast fed infants as well as children and adults. Nutritional improvements in edible plants generated through advancements in recombinant DNA technology are rapidly repositioning the world for enjoyment of a more healthful diet for humans in all age groups. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10335392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 504: Adv Exp Med Biol. 1999;464:127-47. Molecular farming of industrial proteins from transgenic maize. Hood EE, Kusnadi A, Nikolov Z, Howard JA. Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames 50101, USA. eha105@aol.com Recombinant egg white avidin and bacterial B-glucuronidase (GUS) from transgenic maize have been commercially produced. High levels of expression were obtained in seed by employing the ubiquitin promoter from maize. The recombinant proteins had activities that were indistinguishable from their native counterparts. We have illustrated that down-stream activities in the production of these recombinant proteins, such as stabilizing the germplasm and processing for purification, were accomplished without any major obstacles. Avidin (A8706) and GUS (G2035) are currently marketed by Sigma Chemical Co. Publication Types: Review PMID: 10335391 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 505: 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] 506: Curr Opin Biotechnol. 1999 Apr;10(2):203-8. Public reactions and scientific responses to transgenic crops. Dale PJ. John Innes Centre, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK. phil.dale@bbsrc.ac.uk There is currently intense debate in parts of Europe about the commercial production of transgenic food crops. Information from the press and lobbying groups has not encouraged an informed and balanced consideration of the issues. In marked contrast, there is widespread acceptance of transgenic food crops in North America. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 10209143 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 507: BMJ. 1999 Feb 27;318(7183):581-4. Comment in: BMJ. 1999 May 8;318(7193):1284. Science, medicine, and the future. Genetically modified foods. Jones L. Campden and Chorleywood Food Research Association (CCFRA), Chipping Campden GL55 6LD. Leighton@campden.co.uk Publication Types: Review PMID: 10037638 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 508: 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] 509: Environ Mol Mutagen. 1998;32(2):106-9. Transgenic animal models for mutagenesis studies: role in mutagenesis research and regulatory testing. MacGregor JT. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Rockville, Maryland 20857, USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9776171 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 510: 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] 511: Tanpakushitsu Kakusan Koso. 1998 Apr;43(5):634-48. [Molecular mechanism of defense system against photooxidative damage in photosynthetic organisms--possibility of creation of plants with tolerance to photooxidative damage] [Article in Japanese] Shigeoka S, Ishikawa T, Takeda T, Tamoi M. Department of Food and Nutrition, Kinki University, Nara, Japan. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9564781 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 512: Adv Food Nutr Res. 1998;42:63-92. Sequence databases for assessing the potential allergenicity of proteins used in transgenic foods. Gendel SM. Biotechnology Studies Branch, Food and Drug Administration, National Center for Food Safety and Technology, Summit-Argo, Illinois 60501, USA. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 9597725 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 513: Adv Food Nutr Res. 1998;42:45-62. The use of amino acid sequence alignments to assess potential allergenicity of proteins used in genetically modified foods. Gendel SM. Biotechnology Studies Branch, Food and Drug Administration, National Center for Food Safety and Technology, Summit-Argo, Illinois 60501, USA. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 9597724 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 514: Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1998 Apr;38(3):173-258. Textural modification of processing tomatoes. Barrett DM, Garcia E, Wayne JE. Department of Food Science & Technology, University of California, Davis 95616-8598, USA. Knowledge of the textural properties of processing tomatoes is crucial to ensuing product acceptability; measurement, control, and optimization of these properties through judicious selection of varieties and control of unit operations results in products that the consumer prefers. It is important to first define the terms texture, rheology, consistency, and viscosity prior to discussing principles of their measurement. The textural properties of processing tomatoes may be measured using both sensory and objective tests, and the latter may be either destructive or nondestructive in nature. The unique anatomy of tomato fruit (peel, pericarp, columella, and locules) in part dictates the method of texture measurement. Numerous factors, including variety, maturity, genetic modification, cultural particles, and environmental conditions, processing conditions, and calcium addition affect the textural integrity of tomatoes. Textural properties of raw tomatoes and most processed tomato products are reviewed in this article. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9595227 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 515: Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 1997 Oct;110 Suppl 1:1P-6P. [Transgenic plants as medicine production systems] [Article in Japanese] Okada Y. School of Science and Engineering, Teikyo University, Toyosatodai, Tochigi. Transgenic plants are emerging as an important system for the expression of many recombinant proteins, especially those intended for therapeutic purpose. The production of foreign proteins in plants has several advantages. In terms of required equipment and cost, mass production in plants is far easier to achieve than techniques involving animal cells. Successful production of several proteins in plants, including human serum albumin, haemoglobin, monoclonal antibodies, viral antigens (vaccines), enkephalin, and trichosanthin, has been reported. Particularly, the demonstration that vaccine antigens can be produced in plants in their native, immunogenic forms opens exciting possibilities for the "bio-farming" of vaccines. If the antigens are orally active, food-based "edible vaccines" could allow economical production. In this review, I will discuss the progress that has been made by several groups in what is now an expanding area of medicine research that utilizes transgenic plants. Publication Types: English Abstract Review PMID: 9503395 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 516: 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] 517: J Dairy Sci. 1997 Sep;80(9):2213-24. Transgenic dairy cattle: genetic engineering on a large scale. Wall RJ, Kerr DE, Bondioli KR. Gene Evaluation and Mapping Laboratory, USDA-ARS-Livestock and Poultry Science Institute, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA. Amid the explosion of fundamental knowledge generated from transgenic animal models, a small group of scientists has been producing transgenic livestock with goals of improving animal production efficiency and generating new products. The ability to modify mammary-specific genes provides an opportunity to pursue several distinctly different avenues of research. The objective of the emerging gene "pharming" industry is to produce pharmaceuticals for treating human diseases. It is argued that mammary glands are an ideal site for producing complex bioactive proteins that can be cost effectively harvested and purified. Consequently, during the past decade, approximately a dozen companies have been created to capture the US market for pharmaceuticals produced from transgenic bioreactors estimated at $3 billion annually. Several products produced in this way are now in human clinical trials. Another research direction, which has been widely discussed but has received less attention in the laboratory, is genetic engineering of the bovine mammary gland to alter the composition of milk destined for human consumption. Proposals include increasing or altering endogenous proteins, decreasing fat, and altering milk composition to resemble that of human milk. Initial studies using transgenic mice to investigate the feasibility of enhancing manufacturing properties of milk have been encouraging. The potential profitability of gene "pharming" seems clear, as do the benefits of transgenic cows producing milk that has been optimized for food products. To take full advantage of enhanced milk, it may be desirable to restructure the method by which dairy producers are compensated. However, the cost of producing functional transgenic cattle will remain a severe limitation to realizing the potential of transgenic cattle until inefficiencies of transgenic technology are overcome. These inefficiencies include low rates of gene integration, poor embryo survival, and unpredictable transgene behavior. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9313167 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 518: Hastings Cent Rep. 1997 Jul-Aug;27(4):34-8. Food biotechnology's challenge to cultural integrity and individual consent. Thompson PB. Texas A&M University, USA. Consumer response to genetically altered foods has been mixed in the United States. While transgenic crops have entered the food supply with little comment, other foods, such as the bioengineered tomato, have caused considerable controversy. Objections to genetically engineered food are varied, ranging from the religious to the aesthetic. One need not endorse these concerns to conclude that food biotechnology violates procedural protections of consumer sovereignty and religious liberty. Consumer sovereignty, a principle especially valued in this country, requires that information be made available so each individual or group may make food choices based on their own values. And as yet, there is no policy provision for informing consumers about the degree to which food has been genetically engineered. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9271720 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 519: 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] 520: 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] 521: 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] 522: Wien Klin Wochenschr. 1997 Jan 31;109(2):33-9. [Transgenic foods--advantages and risks] [Article in German] Mannhalter C. Klinisches Institut für Medizinische und Chemische Labordiagnostik, Bereich Molekularbiologie, Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Wien, Osterreich. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9123942 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 523: Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 1996 Dec;25(4):781-800. Lessons from animal models of obesity. York DA. Experimental Obesity Research Program, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, USA. Obesity in animals may result from genetic, dietary, or neuroendocrine perturbations. Study of these models has identified the central systems that regulate food intake and energy expenditure and identified the interdependence of feeding behavior, the autonomic nervous system, and adrenal glucocorticoids in the development of obesity. The animal models of obesity have been influential in showing that adipose tissue is an important secretory tissue. The recent identification of five genes that cause obesity will provide new insight into the physiologic systems that regulate energy balance. Publication Types: Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. Review PMID: 8977045 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 524: Allerg Immunol (Paris). 1996 Oct;28(8):288-9. [Questions about transgenic foods--importance and/or dangers-- importance of research on unexpected cross-reactions] [Article in French] Sabbah A. Laboratoire d'Immuno-Allergologie, CHU, Angers. Publication Types: Review PMID: 9011168 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 525: 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] 526: Artif Organs. 1996 May;20(5):396-402. Ex vivo manipulation of cell subsets for cell therapies. Nordon RE, Schindhelm K. Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. Large-scale cell separation and ex vivo expansion technologies will form the basis for development of new cellular products for the treatment of cancer and fatal viral diseases. The cell subsets that are likely to play a significant role in cellular therapy include hematopoietic stem cells, platelet and granulocyte precursors, cytotoxic lymphocytes, and genetically modified hematopoietic or lymphoid precursors. Cell enrichment techniques are required to eliminate tumor cells from autologous stem cell grafts and to reduce the size of culture systems required for expansion or gene transfection. The consumption of expensive culture components such as cytokines and serum may be reduced by the use of perfusion bioreactor devices. Methods that have been developed for the production of cell subsets for cellular therapy are reviewed. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8725617 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 527: Transfus Med Rev. 1996 Apr;10(2):131-43. Blood proteins from transgenic animal bioreactors. Luboń H, Paleyanda RK, Velander WH, Drohan WN. Jerome H. Holland Laboratory, Plasma Derivatives Department, American Red Cross, Rockville, MD, USA. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8721970 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 528: Am J Clin Nutr. 1996 Apr;63(4):651S-6S. Genetic modification of plants: significant issues and hurdles to success. Day PR. Center for Agricultural Molecular Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, 08902, U.S.A. Transformation and regeneration is routine for many crop plants. A genetically engineered tomato with a longer shelf life at full ripeness was introduced in the United States in 1994, and other soon-to-be-released products, both foods and fibers, incorporate genes for resistance to pests, diseases, and environmentally benign herbicides. Other possibilities are altered plant fats and oils, methionine- and lysine-enhanced grain and legume proteins, plant foods that can deliver immunizing antigens, and other ways of controlling fruit ripening. Food safety concerns include the inadvertent production of toxicants and allergens. Foreign DNA can be introduced into plants by bacterial vectors, direct uptake by protoplasts, and mechanical introduction on metal particles or other materials. Limitations include little or no control of copy number or site of integration of the introduced DNA, dependence on selectable markers for recovery of traits, and inadequate knowledge of how to control key metabolic steps to maximize desirable traits. Directed genetic change still requires conventional crop breeding to deliver benefits to farmers and consumers. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 8599334 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 529: Am J Clin Nutr. 1996 Apr;63(4):622S-6S. Recombinant human milk proteins - an opportunity and a challenge. Lönnerdal B. Departnemt of Nutrition, University of California at Davis, 95616, U.S.A. Several human milk proteins have physiologic functions in infants. These proteins are involved in defense against infectious agents and in the optimization of nutrient uptake from milk. Therefore, interest in producing recombinant human milk proteins to use in infant formula has been growing. Microorganisms and transgenic animals can now be used for the production of bioactive proteins. However, the benefits of each protein must be evaluated in cells, animal models, and infants before claims can be made that adding them to formula improves the health or nutrition of infants. Once benefits are shown, proper manufacturing conditions must be developed for introducing the protein or proteins into formula. Processing conditions must be evaluated to ensure that biologic activity is maintained. Dry blending, aseptic processing, sterile filtration, and other techniques will likely be necessary for introducing proteins that require specific tertiary structure for activity. The importance of posttranslational modifications must also be considered: some proteins may require proper glycosylation or phosphorylation for physiologic activity. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8599329 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 530: 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] 531: J Toxicol Environ Health. 1996 Jan;47(1):1-30. Role of rat strain in the differential sensitivity to pharmaceutical agents and naturally occurring substances. Kacew S, Festing MF. Department of Pharmacology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The development of drugs to combat diseases, chemicals to improve food production, or compounds to enhance the quality of life necessitates, by law, the use of laboratory animals to test their safety. In order to simulate the human condition it is necessary to choose a species in which pharmacokinetic and toxicokinetic mechanisms are established and resemble those of humans. The advantages of the use of the rat in drug and chemical toxicity testing include (a) metabolic pathway similarities to humans; (b) numerous similar anatomical and physiological characteristics; (c) a large database, which is extremely important for comparative purposes; and (d) the ease of breeding and maintenance of animals at relatively low cost. However, the choice of rat can be complicated, especially when over 200 different strains of rat are known to exist. The aim of this review is to summarize genetically determined differences in the responsiveness of rat strains to drugs and naturally occurring chemicals and to show that susceptibility is dependent on the target organ sensitivities, which may also be strain dependent. It is suggested that detailed studies of strain differences may help to clarify toxic mechanisms. Such studies are usually best conducted using inbred strains in which the genetic characteristics have been fixed, rather than in outbred stocks in which individual samples of animals may differ, the phenotype is variable, and the stocks are subject to substantial genetic drift. The fact that strains may differ also needs to be taken into account in assessing the potential hazard of the chemical, particularly when a study involves only a single strain and therefore provides no assessment of likely strain variation. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8568909 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 532: Hum Reprod Update. 1995 Nov;1(6):523-42. Genetic engineering in plants. Simoens C, Van Montagu M. Laboratorium voor Genetica, Universiteit Gent, Belgium. Until now most research, and its funding, has been focused on animal and human health care as well as simple microbiological model systems such as Escherichia coli and yeast. Molecular plant studies have generally lagged behind, often simply adapting discoveries from the animal field to plants. Clearly, good health and the efficient tackling of diseases is crucial for the well-being of humans, and good remedies have a high economic value for the pharmaceutical industry. However, one should not forget that plants are an essential component of the large ecosystem that is our planet. They are not only the basic food producers but they are also necessary for a balanced atmosphere (oxygen production) and stable and viable climates. Especially in this period of demographic explosion and growing environmental deterioration, there is a need to rebuild our agricultural systems. Plants also have a wide variety of 'non-food' uses, for instance as energy sources, construction materials, or cosmetics. Last, but not least, they produce a lot of chemicals that can be used as pharmaceuticals. The growing awareness of the importance of plants has coincided with the development of plant molecular biology. Specific features make them ideally suited for gene engineering and genetic studies in general. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 9079394 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 533: Trends Biotechnol. 1995 Sep;13(9):388-92. Transgenic plants as vaccine production systems. Mason HS, Arntzen CJ. Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, Ithaca, NY 14853-1801, USA. Transgenic plants that express foreign proteins with industrial or pharmaceutical value represent an economical alternative to fermentation-based production systems. Specific vaccines have been produced in plants as a result of the transient or stable expression of foreign genes. It has recently been shown that genes encoding antigens of bacterial and viral pathogens can be expressed in plants in a form in which they retain native immunogenic properties. Transgenic potato tubers expressing a bacterial antigen stimulated humoral and mucosal immune responses when they were provided as food. These results provide 'proof of concept' for the use of plants as a vehicle to produce vaccines. Publication Types: Review PMID: 7546570 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 534: 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] 535: 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] 536: Adv Exp Med Biol. 1995;369:221-8. Genetic engineering of foods to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Knauf VC, Facciotti D. Calgene, Inc., Davis, California 95616, USA. Gene manipulation techniques can be used to increase, decrease, or add specific proteins to the edible parts of transgenic crop plants. With some basic understanding of plant biosynthetic pathways, then, the targeting of genes encoding specific enzymes allows the direct modification of the biochemical composition of foods. At Calgene, we have engineered the chemical composition of canola vegetable oils. Transgenic canola which are otherwise exactly like regular canola plants produce seed with oils a) that are modified in average fatty acid carbon chain length, b) that are modified in content of saturated fatty acids (both lower and higher), or c) that contain structured lipids. In principle, although the gene target may not be obvious, the relative amount of lipids compared to other nutrients can be decreased or increased in foods like peanut or soybean. The oil content of some food products might be modified to enhance levels of medium chain triglycerides or to contain "fish oil" fatty acids--without the cost or olfactory disadvantages. On a broader scope, the amino acid composition of proteins in basic grains is being pursued by several groups. Specific vitamin contents such as Vitamin A or E might be enhanced in basic foodstuffs; type and content of fiber may eventually be manipulated. Specific components such as caffeine or phytic acid conceivably can be eliminated in the source plant, negating the need for processing steps that add cost and that lessen flavor and nutrition. Clearly, the biochemical compositions of foods is complex and varied. Moreover, tailoring foods to better meet our needs is an expensive and lengthy process. The best possible understanding of how nutrition promotes good health is necessary to direct and prioritize our efforts to improve plants as food sources.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Publication Types: Review PMID: 7598011 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 537: J Anim Sci. 1994 Jun;72(6):1641-53. Quantitative- and molecular-genetic effects on animal well-being: adaptive mechanisms. Newman S. Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory, ARS, Miles City, MT 59301. Domestic farm animals play an important role in meeting some basic needs of humankind, especially food and clothing. The aspects of genetic improvement programs in livestock production pertinent to animal welfare and animal well-being are reviewed. A link is made between the evolutionary processes of adaptation and domestication and animal well-being. Animal behavior is a component of all these. Thus, the genetics of behavior may provide clues to the well-being of farm animal populations, and it will also be of relevance to public opinion issues of animal welfare. Many expressions of behavior by domestic livestock may be influenced by those processes that change gene as well as genotypic frequencies such as inbreeding, drift, and artificial selection. The environment in which the individual lives will also play a role, along with the interaction between genotype and environment. Selection for or against such behaviors as aggressiveness, docility, response to stress, and certain sexual behaviors in some livestock species has often been successful. This points to the existence of additive genetic variation for behavior, and scope for the inclusion of behavioral traits into selection programs, if these measures are shown to be related to welfare. Negative relationships between behaviors associated with well-being and traits of economic importance have been reported in most livestock species. However, estimates of genetic parameters, especially genetic correlations between objective measures of well-being and production traits, are scarce. There have been no comprehensive studies of the welfare of transgenic animals reported in the scientific literature. Increased use of biotechnology in animal agriculture, coupled with greater public scrutiny of livestock industries, may precipitate decisions concerning the interface of behavior and genetics that need to be addressed before scientists can conduct appropriate experimental evaluations. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8071192 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 538: 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] 539: Transgenic Res. 1994 Jan;3(1):3-12. Opportunities for manipulating the seed protein composition of wheat and barley in order to improve quality. Shewry PR, Tatham AS, Halford NG, Barker JH, Hannappel U, Gallois P, Thomas M, Kreis M. Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Bristol, AFRC Institute of Arable Crops Research, Long Ashton, UK. Wheat and barley are the major temperate cereals, being used for food, feed and industrial raw material. However, in all cases the quality may be limited by the amount, composition and properties of the grain storage proteins. We describe how a combination of biochemical and molecular studies has led to an understanding of the molecular basis for breadmaking quality in wheat and feed quality in barley, and also provided genes encoding key proteins that determine quality. The control of expression of these genes has been studied in transgenic tobacco plants and by transient expression in cereal protoplasts, providing the basis for the production of transgenic cereals with improved quality characteristics. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 8142950 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 540: Arch Pediatr. 1994 Jan;1(1):5-10. [Nutrition, a model of interaction between genetic and environmental factors] [Article in French] Rey J, Bresson JL, Abadie V. Publication Types: Editorial Review PMID: 8087221 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 541: J Exp Anim Sci. 1993 Sep;35(5-6):221-31. Multiple levels of response in carcinogenicity bioassays: regulational variation among viable yellow (Avy/-) mice. Wolff GL. Division of Nutritional Toxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, Arkansas. Within genetically identical inbred and F1 hybrid test animal populations there exist subpopulations with different levels of sensitivity to induction of toxic endpoints, e.g., neoplasms, in response to toxicant exposure. These subpopulations differ from each other by other phenotypic characteristics as well. Presumably, these differences reflect alterations in the quantitative expression of some genes. These alterations are most probably directly or indirectly induced by subtle prenatal, neonatal or postnatal changes in endogenous microenvironmental conditions or factors. Such subpopulations have been identified within a population of agouti A/a and mottled yellow Avy/A (C3H x VY)F1 hybrid male mice. In these subpopulations differential body weight gain and formation of multiple liver adenomas in response to phenobarbital treatment were correlated with altered constitutive and inducible hepatic drug-metabolizing isozyme activities. These subpopulations could be identified by body weight as early as weaning age. In a different population of (YS x VY)F1 hybrid female mice, three phenotypes with different patterns of sensitivity to liver and lung tumor formation form visually separable phenotypic subpopulations by postnatal day 7. Two of these phenotypes, obese mottled yellow and lean pseudoagouti, are genetically identical (genotype: Avy/a), while the third phenotype, lean black a/a, differs from the others by just the Avy allele. The yellow and pseudoagouti mice, fed lindane (gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane) for 24 months, differed with respect to liver tumor incidence but had similar incidences of lung tumors. In contrast, the black mice, fed lindane, were totally resistant to both types of tumors. Analyses of phenotypic variation within other inbred or F1 hybrid populations have identified analogous subpopulations. In carcinogenicity assays this phenotypic variability can be used to mimic differential sensitivity to toxicant exposure among individuals in human populations. Data obtained from such phenotypic subpopulations should assist in improving risk assessment efforts. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8218437 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 542: J Anim Sci. 1993;71 Suppl 3:43-6. The food safety of transgenic animals: implications from traditional breeding. Berkowitz DB. Office of Biotechnology HF-6, Food and Drug Administration, Rockville, MD 20857. The genetic events associated with traditional selection have implications for the food safety of transgenic animals. Selection has been empirical, relying on the use of the best animals for breeding. Molecular techniques are now being used to identify the genes selected and to describe the differences between alleles that are important in selection to improve quantitative traits. The results of such analyses provide background details of the genetic and physiological effects of the traditional selection of animal lines. Examples of the kinds of genes that may be subject to selection are those coding for peptide hormones, steroid metabolic enzymes, the calcium-channel gating protein, and genes of the major histocompatibility complex. Unselected genes, sometimes with undesirable alleles, may be carried along as "hitchhikers" if they are closely linked to the selected gene. In spite of this potential for physiologically dangerous genetic changes in selected animals, hereditary food toxicity has never been associated with a selected line of the common food animals. This is probably because the allowable physiological range of results of selection is limited by the requirement for healthy, productive animals. Based on these limitations, foods from healthy transgenic animals produced for the purpose of herd improvement are likely to be as safe as the foods from the untransformed parental line. Animals are important indicators of their own food safety. Publication Types: Review PMID: 8099351 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 543: Biotechnol Genet Eng Rev. 1993;11:31-56. Biotechnology in aquaculture, with special reference to transgenic salmon. Male R, Lorens JB, Nerland AH, Slinde E. Center of Biotechnology, Norwegian Food Research Institute. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 7840846 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 544: 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] 545: J Am Vet Med Assoc. 1992 Jul 15;201(2):228-34. Biotechnology and food safety. Kopchick JJ. Edison Animal Biotechnology Center, Ohio University, Athens 45701. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 1500314 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 546: Adv Food Nutr Res. 1992;36:89-208. Plant food protein engineering. Utsumi S. Research Institute for Food Science, Kyoto University, Japan. Publication Types: Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't Review PMID: 1497851 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 547: 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] 548: Trends Biotechnol. 1991 Jan;9(1):5-7. The proof of the cloning is in the eating. Geisow M. Biodigm, East Bridgeford, Nottingham, UK. Publication Types: Review PMID: 1366925 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 549: Proc Nutr Soc. 1990 Oct;49(3):459-66. Growth promotion in farm animals. Buttery PJ, Dawson JM. Department of Applied Biochemistry and Food Science, University of Nottingham, School of Agriculture, Loughborough. Publication Types: Review PMID: 1981934 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 550: Domest Anim Endocrinol. 1990 Jan;7(1):1-18. Characterization of transgenic livestock production. Pinkert CA, Dyer TJ, Kooyman DL, Kiehm DJ. DNX Incorporated, Animal Biology Research Center, Athens, OH 45701. The objective of transgenic livestock improvement projects is to develop and bring to market superior breeding stock, as well as germplasm for the artificial insemination and embryo transfer industries. Livestock animal biotechnology programs hold the promise of achieving, in a single generation, improvements in commercially important livestock species previously possible only through long-term traditional selective breeding practices or by chance mutation. Transgenic farm animals harboring growth hormone or metabolically related structural genes have been created. Studies of these animals demonstrate the effects of inadequate regulation of transgene expression. Research continues to explore the intricacies of developmental regulation of such genes and phenotypic consequences of mammalian gene transfer. Ultimately, genetically engineered livestock will provide producers with the benefit of increased production efficiencies while the consumer will have healthier animal food products. Conceivably, products will be produced with lower levels of fat, cholesterol, feed additives and pharmaceutical residues from animals with altered carcass composition that will result in greater nutritional benefit for the consumer. Publication Types: Review PMID: 2178860 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] 551: 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] 552: 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]