Biotechnology

A 107-page document prepared by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency gives a detailed explanation of how insect-protected crops are regulated and assessed for safety. The document was prepared in response to a petition by activist groups, which had challenged EPA on the safety of crops that contain an insect-resistant gene from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) a common soil bacterium. Bt cotton, corn and potatoes have been developed through biotechnology to provide in-plant protection against targeted harmful insects.

Scientists have identified and placed in exact order all of the 97 million genetic code that spell out the instructions for making a tiny, soil-dwelling worm, providing the first complete genetic blueprint of any animal and promising new insight into human development and disease.

Within the last few years farming of genetically modified crop varieties has dramatically increased in U.S. agriculture among crops such as corn, soybeans and cotton. Farmers have responded positively to this new technology. Since their commercial introduction only three years ago, acreage has soared to 50 million acres. These new crops feature resistance to pests and the ability to tolerate herbicides. The increased farming of these crops have been encouraged by the potential cost savings, including reductions in input use.

European scientists have bred a vitamin-rich tomato they hope can eventually help prevent heart disease and cancer.

Humans and animals have consumed corn for centuries. Corn is one of the worldís most commonly eaten foods. It is no wonder the Aventis Cropscience genetically modified a corn to be resistant to pests.

Renowned geneticist and plant breeder Charles Rick, whose half-century of research at UC Davis has forged a fundamental understanding of tomato genetics, has been selected to receive the first $200,000 Maseri Florio World Prize for Distinguished Research in Agriculture.

The award, created to recognize outstanding achievement in agricultural research, will be presented Nov. 11 in Washington, D.C. It includes $100,000 for Rick, a professor emeritus at UC Davis, and a matching amount for the institution or research program of his choice.