Herbicide tolerance in genetically modified soybeans is imparted by bacterial genes. The Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Centre is striving with the help of leading researchers to examine the soybean genome and under the guidance of Professor Feng Qu, they have started using the groundbreaking technology called CRISPR-Cas9 to make soybeans herbicide tolerant.
Prof. Feng Qu observed that there are several genes in soybean due to which with the help of accurately engineered modifications can make the plant tolerant to herbicides. Once these genes are identified and characterized, the CRISPR-Cas9 technology will be used to modify the DNA at a specific location. These plants are not labeled as GMO because no foreign gene is introduced to the existing DNA sequence of the soybeans.
Prof. Qu and his team have been successful in altering the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or the ALS gene. Under the greenhouse, they have reproduced new plants that are advancing the process of production of seeds. Qu and his team are yet to modify two additional genes to make herbicide tolerance efficient and irreversible in soybeans.
Reference URL – http://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/article/default.asp?ID=18075
