One of the project partners, the Belgian government research institute Sciensano, has just published initial findings. A group led by Marie-Alice Fraiture developed a new approach to create a unique ‘genetic fingerprint’ to identify a New GMO or NGT. The researchers used methods for whole-genome sequencing, artificial intelligence and publicly available genome databases as well as a technique called high-throughput sequencing, which can examine many DNA sites simultaneously to search specifically for crucial DNA segments.
‘Genetic fingerprint’ unambiguously identifies a specific NGT
A ‘genetic fingerprint’ is a distinct combination of single nucleotide variations (SNVs) and allows a specific NGT to be unambiguously identified. As proof of concept, Fraiture et al. chose a CRISPR/Cas-9-edited rice line with a single altered DNA base pair. The SNVs were detected in the rice line’s genetic pattern using a high-throughput sequencing approach.
Method depends on detailed genome information
In order to detect these small modifications access to the information about the specific SNV obtained with CRISPR/Cas is essential, as well as precise and detailed sequence information on the genomic background and a large database of known rice cultivars and varieties.
Developers of New GMOs must provide information
In a policy brief from DARWIN, therefore, the researchers stress the need for continued public investment in genomic databases and for legal requirements that ensure developers of GMOs disclose at least a minimum level of genetic information about their NGT lines to support effective detection and monitoring. The DARWIN paper concludes that this would significantly reduce the cost and complexity of detection for enforcement authorities and food and feed operators and also accelerate the development of robust, science-based monitoring systems.
EU Laboratories urge lawmakers to support detection methods for New GMOs
In line with the DARWIN project’s call, in June 12 laboratories across Europe wrote an open letter to EU policy makers that urges lawmakers to ensure the future NGT legislation requires that laboratories get detection methods, reference material and data on the genetic modification and its location for category 1 NGT plants.
So far, (out of the three EU law-making institutions) only the Council is in favour of requiring developers of category 1 NGTs plants to provide information on detection methods; this would apply to 94% of all plants in the development pipelines. In the letter, the labs urge all trilogue parties to support this initiative during the negotiations.
ENGA’s comment: Big scientific strides have proven that detecting New GMOs is technically possible. Now it is up to policymakers. The new legislation must require developers to disclose genetic modification data. Public investment is also crucial - to build comprehensive genome databases and develop detection methods. This will help the food sector stay in control of its supply chains and enable authorities to monitor effectively.
Photo by Warren Umoh on Unsplash
Find out more about DARWIN
DARWIN: New genetic fingerprint approach enhances detection of gene-edited organisms
Interview with Odd-Gunnar Wikmark, project coordinator of DARWIN