Biotech Updates

The first direct consumption genome-edited tomato was launched in Japan by Sanatech Seed. The Japanese ministries in-charge have announced their determination that the genome-edited tomato will not be regulated as a genetically modified product.

Improved CRISPR-Cas9 Version Knocks Out Multiple Plant Genes at Once

Researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU) and the Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry (IPB) have developed an improved version of the gene editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 with the ability to knock out up to 12 genes in plants in a single blow. Until now, this had only been possible for single or small groups of genes. The method makes it easier to investigate the interaction of various genes.

Experts Initiate to Modernize OECD Biotechnology and Biosafety Recommendation of 1986

Experts who have previously served the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) are proposing to update the Recommendation on Recombinant DNA Safety Considerations of 1986 to make it more suitable for the modern era of biotechnology.

Canada Exempts Non-novel Gene-edited Plants from Regulatory Review

Canada is changing its risk assessment policy for genetically engineered (GE) plants and food products. GE plants that contain foreign DNA will continue to be subject to regulatory oversight, while gene-edited organisms that do not have foreign DNA will be exempted from safety evaluation.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

PLANT

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Positive Regulator of Cold Tolerance in Banana Found

News Archive | Translations

A biweekly update on gene editing research, regulations, and impact
produced by ISAAA Inc.

Read Latest Issue (January 28, 2026)

A monthly update on gene drive research and development provided by ISAAA in collaboration with the Outreach Network for Gene Drive Research

Read Latest Issue (February 22, 2023)

SCIENCE SPEAKS

Emerging Biotechnological Solutions for Plastic Waste Management (February 18, 2026)

Visit Science SpeaKs blog