Biotech Updates

GM Sugarcane Application for Intentional Release in Australia

March 19, 2008

A limited and controlled release application was filed by the University of Queensland, Australia for genetically modified (GM) sugar cane that has been modified with altered sugar production, to the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator. The proposed trial will take place in 15 sites in Queensland in September 2008 to December 2014, and will involve experiments to assess the agronomic properties of the GM sugarcane under field conditions and to analyze sugar production and quality.

Results of the trial will be the basis for future commercial developments and for the possibility of using the transgenic lines in future breeding programs. The GM sugarcane in this trial will not be consumed by humans nor by livestock. Currently, a comprehensive Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plans are being prepared which will be released for public comment soon.

For details, the application notification can be accessed at: http://www.ogtr.gov.au/pdf/ir/dir078ebnotific.pdf and the full application document at: http://www.ogtr.gov.au/rtf/ir/dir070appsum2.rtf