GM infection is good for nearby plants

2002/10/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Nekazaritza

They have expressed this in the annual meeting of the US Ecological Association. Researchers at Ohio State University genetically modified some sunflowers by introducing a gene that would allow them to protect against pests. Thanks to this gene, transgenic sunflowers produce a toxic substance for insects.

In addition, they saw that the foreign gene was transmitted to the conventional sunflower plantations in the area, which has meant only benefits. Contaminated sunflowers produce 50% more seeds than non-GMOs. In addition, insects are less harmful. On the other hand, they have not lost their reproductive capacity. Scientists are surprised at the influence that a single gene can have. They have also recognized that the transgen can pass to nearby wildlife.