Why do some biotech crops contain antibiotic resistance marker genes?
Antibiotic resistance genes, closely linked to the gene for the crop trait, allow scientists to determine which plant cells successfully took up and integrated the gene of interest. These cells are retained and carefully nurtured under special conditions that encourage the cells to develop into complete plants. Antibiotic resistance markers are useful tools in the early stages of biotech crop development, but they contribute nothing to the agronomic performance of the crop. In fact, if the antibiotic resistance gene is functional in the biotech crop, it may lead to a loss of crop productivity, as well as requiring additional tests to ensure food safety. These costs, in conjunction with questions some members of the public have about their use, are prompting companies to develop other markers for identifying cells with the trait of interest.
Related Questions
- Is there potential for an increase in antibiotic resistance in humans resulting from the use of antibiotic resistance marker genes in GM foods?
- Can antibiotic resistance genes used as markers in transgenic crops be transferred to pathogenic bacteria?
- Why do some biotech crops contain antibiotic resistance marker genes?
