Pakistan Introduces Major Biosafety Reforms to GMO Regulation |
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Pakistan's National Biosafety Committee has approved major amendments to the Pakistan Biosafety Rules 2005, significantly liberalizing its genetically modified organisms (GMO) regulatory regime. The reforms aim to transition the country toward a modern, science-based, and business-friendly governance system by simplifying licensing procedures, easing import restrictions, and facilitating laboratory research.
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Scientists Uncover Genetic Secret Behind Stevia's Sweetness |
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Published in the journal New Phytologist, the study led by Professor Tsubasa Shoji from the university's Institute of Natural Medicine used advanced genetic analysis and cell-level imaging to decipher the plant's biological code. The researchers began by constructing a high-quality reference genome to completely map the plant's DNA, pinpointing the precise genes responsible for synthesizing sweet compounds. By incorporating single-nucleus RNA sequencing, they were able to track exactly where and how premium, highly sought-after sweet molecules—such as Rebaudioside D and M—are produced at the cellular level.
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CRISPR Reduces Allergy Risk in Cultivated Beef Cells |
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A new study used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to develop bovine muscle cells without alpha-gal, a sugar molecule linked to Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), a potentially life-threatening allergy triggered by mammalian meat. The study presents a proof of concept for producing cultivated meat that may be safer for people affected by the condition.
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Indian Scientists Develop First AI-designed Genome Editing Tools for Crop Improvement |
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Genome editing has emerged as one of the most transformative biotechnological tools for modern agriculture, which enable precise crop improvement with unprecedented speed and accuracy. However, all currently available plant genome editing systems are derived from naturally occurring bacterial or archaeal proteins. In addition, the two most widely used genome editing platforms, Cas9 and Cas12, are protected by complex intellectual property frameworks, limiting their global accessibility and commercial deployment in some regions.
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A biweekly update on gene editing research, regulations, and impact
produced by ISAAA Inc. |
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| A monthly update on gene drive research and development provided by ISAAA in collaboration with the Outreach Network for Gene Drive Research |
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