Journal article"This paper presents the results of a study that explored the current state of research, regulation, genetic resources and institutional roles in developing GM crops. The study surveyed GM research on 45 different crops, conducted at 61 public research institutes in 15 developing economies. The author finds that whilst genetically modified crops are often framed as the products of multinational corporations, in poorer nations it is often public research that is vibrant and attempting their development. Often this research draws upon indigenous plant varieties to cultivate improved crops for local use by small-scale farmers." -- from Author's AbstractIFPRI3; ISI; PBSEPTDP
Conservation of plant genetic resources is achieved by protection of populations in nature (in situ) or by preservation of samples in gene banks (ex situ). The latter are essential for users of germplasm who need ready access. Ex situ conservation also acts as a back-up for certain segments of diversity that might otherwise be lost in nature and in human-dominated ecosystems. The two methods are complementary, yet better understanding of this interrelation and the role of ex situ conservation in global environmental considerations is needed. Inclusion of ex situ conservation efforts within current environmental policies conserving global diversity would focus greater international attention on the safeguarding of these efforts.
Plant breeders have demonstrated the potential ability of exotic and alien germplasm to enhance particular qualitative genetic traits of maize, (Zea mays L.). Results from such programs include the incorporation of genes that condition resistance to pathogens or insect pests. Fewer examples exist which provide information on how alien and exotic germplasm affect quantitative traits, although studies have shown it is possible to increase heterosis or to expand the level of genetic divergence between breeding populations by using such germplasm. However, in either case, most breeders prefer current, elite inbreds with known combining ability as sources for inbred development and for improvement of hybrid performance. Alien germplasm was evaluated for its effects on quantitative traits by crossing seven substitution lines, each containing various segments of germplasm from teosinte (Zea mexicana), with three testers, and measuring the effects on maize hybrids. A performance trial was used for this evaluation from which data were collected for 12 traits on 23 hybrids. Significant differences in grain yield and heterosis were obtained between the means of the three testers and among the various substitution line hybrids. One tester, Havels‐(20 + 2Tr7), contained an extra disomic chromosome from Tripsacum dactyloides. Hybrids with this tester had a combining ability value 8% higher than the isogenic control. The highest yielding hybrids were the teosinte A158‐substitution lines involving the Florida and Durango teosinte types crossed with the Havels testers. The two highest yields occurred from crossing the Havels tester containing the Tripsacum chromosome with the A158‐Florida 4,9 and the A158‐Florida 9 teosinte substitution lines.
IntroductionBiotechnology provides new opportunities for achieving productivity gains in agriculture. However, mobilizing modern biotechnology to serve agricultural research in developing countries also implies new investments, changes in resource allocations and growing responsibilities for policy-makers, research managers, and scientists. These responsibilities include determining the bene ts and risks of biotechnology applications, ensuring that productivity constraints affecting the livelihoods of the poor are addressed, and deciding how national research agendas embrace biotechnology. Government of cials assuming these responsibilities play a crucial role in setting policies, research agendas, and developing regulatory capacity for agricultural biotechnology. Their task is made dif cult because public budgets for agricultural research are severely constrained, human capacity is limited and extensive international debate on the merits and safety of biotechnology complicate timely decision-making.As a result of these debates, renewed effort is occurring to enhance developing countries' abilities to address the constraints and dif culties already listed. Bene ts expected from biotechnology for developing countries have been emphasized in recent academic and scienti c reports. Implications regarding the safe use and regulation of these technologies are considered in international fora and agreements, such as the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. Information and communication technologies are being mobilized to help disseminate new knowledge gained from research, patent databases, and regulatory review. Long-standing and productive international collaboration in biotechnology continues, providing for capacity building, research partnerships, and dissemination of materials and technologies. Finally, developing countries themselves are making important public investments in research, policy and capacity.Will existing efforts, such as those already highlighted, ensure that bene ts from biotechnology reach those in need, and if not, what additional steps are required? This paper addresses these concerns by rst assessing the relevance of biotechnology for agricultural research in developing countries. This is followed by implications regarding safety, participation, and public investments available for biotechnology. Recent development reports, ISNAR research, and examples of international collaboration are summarized. Regarding biosafety, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety and related expectations for capacity building, risk assessment, and the precautionary approach are described. A review of regulatory systems and public investments for biotechnology research in six developing countries is then presented. The paper concludes with policy recommendations regarding capacity, safety and investments that enhance public research and regulatory abilities.
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