Research on Gene Transfer

Cross pollination between GM and naturally occurring plants may take place in plants that have mobile pollen, such as canola. This may cause plant relatives or even weeds to take on a genetically modified trait, such as herbicide resistance. Cindy Sagers, associate professor at the University of Arkansas and her colleagues Chris Pires, of the University of Missouri, Columbia; and C. Neal Stewart Jr., of the University of Tennessee are examining how the genome rearranges itself when genetically modified organisms and wild plants hybridize. The researchers would like to determine how novel genes transfer from a genetically modified crop into a weed or natural crop.

Using fluorescent dyes to "paint" specific chromosomes and track their migration within particular hybrids, the researchers aim to determine what specific pairings of populations create viable hybrids with genetically modified components. The scientists will use a relative of Arabidopsis for their research. The project aims to help scientists working with genetically modified crops to better control and regulate the reproduction of desirable genes in the appropriate plants.

Contact the researcher at csagers@uark.edu. Read the full news article at http://dailyheadlines.uark.edu/9967.htm