EPA: Leading-edge plant and animal research not GMO

EPA: Leading-edge plant and animal research not GMO

A leading-edge science technique with the potential to improve disease resistance in plants, has been approved by the Environmental Protection Authority,” says Stephen Cobb, New Organisms Manager for the EPA.

“The applicant, Landcare Research, applied for an EPA ruling on whether the technique, which treats certain plant or animal cells (eukaryotic organisms) with RNA to stop those cells producing certain proteins, is a permitted activity under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO).

“An EPA appointed decision-making committee considered whether the practice would result in the creation of a genetically modified organism, and determined that it would not, says Stephen.

“For Landcare Research this means they can maximise the benefits from their research in treating certain animal and plant cells with double-stranded RNA molecules (dsRNA).

“The technique is being trialled in a lab for agriculture research and may result in a range of benefits including less toxic insecticides."

You can read the decision here.

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