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Societal Impact Statement: The problem of genetically modified maize contamination in Mexico is the result of both planned and unplanned consequences of scientific and political choices. We show how a risk management strategy based on the modernist dichotomy between "modern" and "native" has failed to protect Mexican landraces and has marginalized other forms of knowledge that are urgently needed to understand and support the fluidity of Mexican biocultural landscapes. Farmers' seed systems are a fundamental source of crop resilience and evolution. They can constitute safe pathways for creating new maize varieties able to withstand climate and societal changes. Summary: In 2001, an alert on the contamination of Mexican maize landraces by genetically modified (GM) maize spurred new actions to conserve the world's biggest reservoir of maize genetic diversity. We analyze how the largest maize collection effort in Mexican history, and the definition of the conservation procedures employed in it, either involved or marginalized different approaches to this environmental problem.The article is grounded in the sociohistorical analysis of the controversy of GM maize contamination and brings together new historiographical perspectives on Mexican scientific and political interest in native maize. It also draws on ethnographic approaches, extended fieldwork, and analysis of data from Mexican government agencies.We show how different epistemological traditions have made the risk of GM maize contamination (in)visible and thereby generated normative choices. We illustrate how the GMO controversy brought the theme of native maize back onto the Mexican political and scientific agenda. The normativity that shaped the controversy in the 2000s influenced current knowledge and how the problem of GM maize introgression is still addressed today.The entanglements between biotechnology, native landraces, and farmers' practices are too dense to be "scientized" and kept separate to be made manageable as areas of purely technical "risk." The result is a geography of maize infused with all sorts of temporalities and materiality, which escapes the bounds of technoscientific framings. This intricate environment‐making process calls for new collaborations among epistemic cultures to tackle the possible consequences of GMOs for agrobiodiversity, seed systems, and their resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many writers in bioethics, science, and medicine contend that embryo selection is a morally better way of avoiding genetic disorders then gene editing, as the latter has risks that the former does not. We argue that one reason to use gene editing is that in many cases it would be better for the person who would develop from the edited embryo, so that not to have done it would have been worse for that person. By contrast, embryo selection is never better for the person who develops from the selected embryo. This reason to use gene editing has, however, been challenged on two grounds: first, that it makes no difference, morally, whether a bad effect is worse for someone, or a good effect better for someone; and, second, that beneficent gene editing would not be unequivocally better for the person who would develop from the edited embryo. We argue that both of these objections can be satisfactorily answered and thus that there is indeed a significant moral reason, at least in some cases, to use gene editing rather than embryo selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the production of hemoglobin using microorganisms is an actual and urgent problem for solving the needs of medicine and the food industry. Its microbiological synthesis using a precursor (heme) is one of the steps in obtaining this protein. The results of the studies on obtaining heme and heme-containing proteins from prokaryotic (Escherichia coli, Corynebacterium glutamicum) and eukaryotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia pastoris) microorganisms were analyzed. It was demonstrated that the producers created on the basis of E. coli and C. glutamicum synthesized a free heme exogenously, while the yeasts P. pastoris and S. cerevisiae are the most efficient producers for the synthesis of both endo- and exogenous complex heme-containing proteins (hemoglobin and leghemoglobin). It was demonstrated that the creation of efficient producers of heme and hemoglobin is based on a change in the genetic material of microorganisms, and the stages of heme synthesis and points of possible modifications of this process were determined. Genetically modified yeast models (producers of heme-containing proteins) were characterized. Based on a summary of the analyzed data, it was determined that yeast cells are the most promising producers for further improvement and oversynthesis of heme-containing proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement The problem of genetically modified maize contamination in Mexico is the result of both planned and unplanned consequences of scientific and political choices. We show how a risk management strategy based on the modernist dichotomy between “modern” and “native” has failed to protect Mexican landraces and has marginalized other forms of knowledge that are urgently needed to understand and support the fluidity of Mexican biocultural landscapes. Farmers' seed systems are a fundamental source of crop resilience and evolution. They can constitute safe pathways for creating new maize varieties able to withstand climate and societal changes. Summary In 2001, an alert on the contamination of Mexican maize landraces by genetically modified (GM) maize spurred new actions to conserve the world's biggest reservoir of maize genetic diversity. We analyze how the largest maize collection effort in Mexican history, and the definition of the conservation procedures employed in it, either involved or marginalized different approaches to this environmental problem. The article is grounded in the sociohistorical analysis of the controversy of GM maize contamination and brings together new historiographical perspectives on Mexican scientific and political interest in native maize. It also draws on ethnographic approaches, extended fieldwork, and analysis of data from Mexican government agencies. We show how different epistemological traditions have made the risk of GM maize contamination (in)visible and thereby generated normative choices. We illustrate how the GMO controversy brought the theme of native maize back onto the Mexican political and scientific agenda. The normativity that shaped the controversy in the 2000s influenced current knowledge and how the problem of GM maize introgression is still addressed today. The entanglements between biotechnology, native landraces, and farmers' practices are too dense to be “scientized” and kept separate to be made manageable as areas of purely technical “risk.” The result is a geography of maize infused with all sorts of temporalities and materiality, which escapes the bounds of technoscientific framings. This intricate environment‐making process calls for new collaborations among epistemic cultures to tackle the possible consequences of GMOs for agrobiodiversity, seed systems, and their resilience.

Food labels are the first source of information customers come across when sourcing a food product. Labels provide information about the ingredients, nutritional content, allergens, as well as the origin and advice on the food's processing and preservation conditions. This information allows the consumer to make informed food choices. Although food labels are provided to help consumers choose healthy foods, it is not established whether they know and understand the information to use to their advantage. The need to comprehend consumer knowledge, understand food labelling information, and whether it could influence consumer choices are vital to researchers, policymakers, and the food industry. The study investigated the knowledge and understanding of food labelling information among Klipgat consumers. In a cross-sectional community-based study with a structured questionnaire, 400 participants were conveniently interviewed on consumer knowledge, understanding of information, and utilization of labelling information. A chi-square for the association of variables compared differences in the districts, and p-value Key words: communities, food labelling information, labelling terminology, consumer label understanding, INTRODUCTION It is the right of the consumer to expect that food sourced and consumed will be safe, nutritious, and of high quality [1]. The primary means to ensure that [...]

The Kingdom of Eswatini is a Party to the Convention on Biological Diversity and to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. As Party, Eswatini has domesticated these agreements by passing the Biosafety Act, of 2012 to provide for the safe handling, transfer, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) in the country. The Act regulates living modified organisms to be used for confined field trials, commercial release, import, export, and transit, and for food, feed, and processing. Guidance is provided for prospective applicants before any application is made to the Competent Authority. This framework also provides for the regulation of emerging technologies such as synthetic biology and genome editing. The regulatory framework for living modified organisms aims to provide an enabling environment for the precautionary use of modern biotechnology and its products in the country in order to safeguard biological diversity and human health.

ABSTRACTLabels are influential signals in the marketplace intended to inform and to eliminate buyer confusion. Despite this, food labels continue to be the subject of debate. None more so than non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) labels. This manuscript provides a timeline of the evolution of GMO labels beginning with the early history of the anti-GMO movement to the current National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard in the United States. Using media and market intelligence data collected through Buzzsumo™ and Mintel™, public discourse of GMOs is analyzed in relation to sociopolitical events and the number of new food products with anti-GMO labels, respectively. Policy document and publication data is collected with Overton™ to illustrate the policy landscape for the GMO topic and how it has changed over time. Analysis of the collective data illustrates that while social media and policy engagement around the topic of GMOs has diminished over time, the number of new products with a GMO-free designation continues to grow. While discourse peaked at one point, and has since declined, our results suggest that the legacy of an anti-GMO narrative remains firmly embedded in the social psyche, evidenced by the continuing rise of products with GMO-free designation. Campaigns for GMO food labels to satisfy consumers’ right to know were successful and the perceived need for this information now appears to be self-sustaining.

Flies, with their penchant for feeding on animal waste and rotting food, are unwelcome guests at any gathering. But their filthy food preferences could be put to good use for [...]

Overlooking respondents' attribute attendance in choice experiments affects coefficient estimates, model fit, performance measures, and welfare estimates. How best to identify and account for individual attribute processing strategies is still unclear. Query theory suggests that preferences are subject to the processes and dynamics associated with retrieval from memory. We apply Query theory to the study of attendance to attributes to approximate the thoughts generated by individuals while they make choices in a choice experiment. Our results demonstrate that the stated and query approaches improve model fit and performance. The query approach has distinct advantages but also important limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the rate of biomass gain is one of the most important areas in the breeding of woody plants. However, the application of classical breeding approaches to woody plants is significantly limited due to the long breeding cycles of many species. The development of genetic engineering and genome editing technologies has made it possible to improve tree traits in a relatively short time. Genes for the biosynthesis of phytohormones are often the target of genetic manipulations aimed at accelerating plant growth. Gibberellin 20-oxidase is a key enzyme responsible for the active production of gibberellins in plants and is, therefore, a preferred target for genetic manipulation to increase growth rate. This paper presents an original study on the production of Populus×berolinensis K. Koch, transformed by gene encoding gibberellin 20-oxidase from Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. (AtGA20ox1), and the initial evaluation of the phenotypic effects of the transformation. The main phenotypic manifestations of the transformation were a pronounced elongation of the stem due to an increase in the size of the internodes, a slight thinning of the stem, as well as lengthening and narrowing of the leaves. Our results showed that AtGA20ox1 gene overexpression in Berlin poplar leads to an acceleration of its growth by at least three times under in vitro conditions compared to control values. The negative effects of transformation, expressed in weak rooting or a high frequency of apical necrosis and observed in some transgenic strains at the initial stages of selection, do not appear in the three final selected strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of the risk assessment (RA) requirements for genetically modified (GM) plants, according to Regulation (EU) No 503/2013 and the EFSA guidance on the RA of food and feed from GM plants (EFSA GMO Panel 2011), applicants need to perform a molecular characterisation of the DNA sequences inserted in the GM plant genome. This Technical Note to the applicants puts together requirements and recommendations for the quality assessment of the methodology, analysis and reporting when DNA sequencing is used for the molecular characterisation of GM plants. In particular, it applies to the use of Sanger sequencing and next‐generation sequencing for the characterisation of the inserted genetic material and its flanking regions at each insertion site, the determination of the copy number of all detectable inserts and the analysis of the genetic stability of the inserts. This updated document replaces the EFSA 2018 Technical Note and reflects the current knowledge in scientific‐technical methods for generating and verifying, in a standardised manner, DNA sequencing data in the context of RA of GM plants. It does not take into consideration the verification and validation of the detection method which remains under the remit of the Joint Research Centre (JRC). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transgenic ornamental fish that fluoresce are becoming popular in the aquarium trade worldwide. Some transgenic zebrafish (TZF) records in natural water bodies have been published, but there are no data on their biological attributes in the new areas. This study aimed to evaluate the distribution, trophic ecology, and reproductive condition of the non-native TZF in headwater creeks located in the largest Brazilian ornamental aquaculture center. Insect fragments – identified as chitinous material in the 'false stomach'- and aquatic insects were the most consumed item. TZF adults were found in breeding conditions during almost all sampling periods. The Gonadosomatic Index of females and males showed peaks during the rainy season and matched with the rising water levels. Breeding females and males were found at small body sizes, indicating early maturation, and these transgenic females produced a moderate amount of small oocytes. Sex-ratio assessment showed that females and males had the same frequencies in one site, while females were significantly more frequent than males at another location. Management recommendations, such as utilization of best management practices (e.g. screens on outlets), not using unapproved genetically modified organisms in aquaculture, and awareness with fish farmers about transgenic animals, are suggested to avoid new introductions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay argues that Kazuo Ishiguro's Klara and the Sun can be read as a novel integrating a robotic narrator and narrative unreliability. By unfolding Klara's strategy to present a false self-portrait as a successful Artificial Friend, I analyze how Klara fails to fully suppress her desire to be assimilated into human society. The essay further discusses the blurred border between humans and automatons in Ishiguro's works, as well as the necessity to empathize with a complicated nonhuman subjectivity. KEYWORDS: Kazuo Ishiguro, Klara and the Sun, subjectivity, unreliable narrator, AI, KAZUO ISHIGURO'S LATEST NOVEL, Klara and the Sun (2021), is considered another successful attempt by the author to address real-life events through his fictions. As an Artificial Friend (AF) designed [...]

The potato (Solarium tuberosum) is the fourth most cultivated and consumed crop worldwide. The swelled stolonic region of the plant is economically important due to its considerable quantities of carbohydrates plus modest quantities of minerals and vitamins. Tuber formation is governed by various external and internal factors including light, oxygen concentration, photosynthate availability, phytochromes, transcription factors, and metabolite availability. This review updates and expands upon our current knowledge regarding the involvement of these variables in the tuberization process. Tuber formation starts at the onset of the supportive season under optimal light conditions where phytochromes in leaves sense the signal. The transmittance of the signal results in photosynthate accumulation, phloem loading with sucrose, phloem transport and unloading at the stolonic region, sucrose entry into the tuber cell, and conversion of sucrose to starch, all under the direction of regulatory enzymes. Several genes are associated with tuberization and regulated either positively or negatively. During the course of these cellular micro-reactions, a very fine stolonic tip will ultimately be transformed into a fully matured potato tuber. Tuber formation can be increased by genetic modifications, that further improve tuber yield and quality. Keywords Gene * Light * Oxygen * Phytochromes * Starch, Introduction The potato tuber functions as a reservoir for a variety of macromolecules, in particular starches and proteins. Potato tuberization (TB) is a complex developmental process involving the coordination of [...]

Derivatives of biotech or genetically modified (GM) crops are widely used for food, feed, or environmental release. In the present study, 31 samples of food and feed products of corn, soybean, and rice, randomly selected from the local market of Kuwait, were screened for the presence of potential genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Conventional (qualitative) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to amplify the sequences of the GMO regulatory elements, the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter (p35S), and the Agrobacterium nopaline synthase terminator (Tnos). Obtained results demonstrated the presence of GMO sequences in 6 out of 21, 1 out of 5, and 2 out of 5 products derived from corn, soybean, and rice, respectively. The study also reports the detection of GMOs in corn-derived animal feed products for the first time. To date, Kuwait has no routine certified system to regulate the import of biotech crops. This study highlights the need to establish legislation on GMOs and to develop a reliable regulation and labeling system for imported biotech crops and their derivatives in Kuwait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are widely used in agriculture, medicine and industry. Their genetic material has been artificially modified to improve certain characteristics or add new functions. Although GMOs have been used for decades in agriculture and biotechnology, their potential to impact the environment and human health has raised concerns among the public and the scientific community. This necessitates the need for an objective and scientifically based assessment of exposure to GMOs to ensure their safe use. Exposure assessment of GMOs is important for understanding their interaction with the environment and human health. This process is carried out before GMOs are released into the environment or before they are placed on the market, in order to assess the potential risks and benefits. This article reviews the main aspects of GMO exposure assessment and the methods used for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes modern legal problems of the production of agricultural raw materials for baby food in Ukraine, taking into account the latest legislative changes in the field of baby food production, organic agricultural production, state control over the use of genetically modified organisms in the manufacture of food products. It has been established that the improvement of the legislation in the field of child nutrition should be carried out by making amendments and additions to the Law of Ukraine «On Child Nutrition» in order to bring its prescriptions into line with EU requirements, and not to cancel the specified special Law. Given the specifics of baby food and the importance of guaranteeing its quality and safety, replacing a separate special law with one article in the Law of Ukraine «On Basic Principles and Requirements for the Safety and Quality of Food Products» is hardly expedient. Taking into account the specific legal nature of a personal peasant economy, the author proves that persons who run such an economy can produce raw materials for baby food products, subject to compliance with legal requirements for the quality and safety of such raw materials. Based on the latest legislative changes in the field of legal provision of biosafety of Ukraine, the article proposes to legislate the possibility and necessity of using organic agricultural products as raw materials for baby food before creating an effective system of state control in the field of use and circulation of genetically modified organisms. In order to ensure the constitutional right of the child to sufficient, high-quality and safe nutrition, the author considers it expedient to conduct in-depth scientific research on these issues and make appropriate scientific conclusions and recommendations on improving the current legislation in this area, taking into account the requirements of EU legislation on the adaptation of the national agricultural, food, environmental and other legislation regarding the production of agricultural products for baby food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract As part of the risk assessment (RA) requirements for genetically modified (GM) plants, according to Regulation (EU) No 503/2013 and the EFSA guidance on the RA of food and feed from GM plants (EFSA GMO Panel 2011), applicants need to perform a molecular characterisation of the DNA sequences inserted in the GM plant genome. This Technical Note to the applicants puts together requirements and recommendations for the quality assessment of the methodology, analysis and reporting when DNA sequencing is used for the molecular characterisation of GM plants. In particular, it applies to the use of Sanger sequencing and next‐generation sequencing for the characterisation of the inserted genetic material and its flanking regions at each insertion site, the determination of the copy number of all detectable inserts and the analysis of the genetic stability of the inserts. This updated document replaces the EFSA 2018 Technical Note and reflects the current knowledge in scientific‐technical methods for generating and verifying, in a standardised manner, DNA sequencing data in the context of RA of GM plants. It does not take into consideration the verification and validation of the detection method which remains under the remit of the Joint Research Centre (JRC).

Genetik yapısı değiştirilmiş organizma, modern biyoteknolojik yöntemler kullanılarak kendi cinsi dışında bir cinsten gen aktarılarak özellikleri değiştirilen hayvan-bitki ve mikroorganizmaları ifade etmektedir. Bu organizmalara doktrinde transgenik veya genetiği değiştirilmiş organizma (GDO) adı verilmektedir. GDO ve ürünlerinin sosyal hayattaki kullanımının artması ve ticaret hacminin genişlemesi nedeniyle insan sağlığı üzerindeki riskler konusunda endişeler artmaktadır. GDO ve ürünleriyle beslenmenin veya bu ürünlerin yem olarak kullanımının kamu sağlığı üzerinde ciddi riskler taşıdığı bilimsel çalışmalarla ileri sürüldüğünden birtakım hukuksal düzenlemelerle anılan ürünlerin kullanımın düzenlenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Ülkemizde, 5977 sayılı Kanun ve bu kanuna dayanılarak çıkarılan yönetmelikte, söz konusu ürünlerin ithalatı, ihracatı, deneysel amaçlı serbest bırakılması, piyasaya sürülmesi ile kullanımına ilişkin başvurular belli bir usule bağlanmıştır. Bu usulün yönetilmesi için ilk olarak Biyogüvenlik Kurulu görevlendirilmişti. 09.07.2018 tarihli Resmi Gazete’de yayınlanan 703 sayılı KHK ile Biyogüvenlik Kurulu kaldırılmış olup, kurulun görevleri Tarımsal Araştırmalar ve Politikalar Genel Müdürlüğü (TAGEM)’ne verilmiştir. Kaldırılan kurulun yapısı objektif ve nesnel risk değerlendirmesi bağlamında doktrinde eleştirilmekte iken, başvuruların değerlendirilmesi ve neticelendirilmesi yetkisinin bakanlıkta toplanması ve idari sürecin tamamına bakanlığın hakim kılınması biyogüvenlik kaygılarını artırmaktadır. Çalışmamızda, başvuruların alınmasından itibaren idare tarafından yürütülen sürecin ve risk analizinin kamu sağılığının korunması bakımından yeterli olup olmadığı irdelenecektir. Burada teşkilat ve faaliyet boyutuyla değerlendirme yapılacaktır. Değişen idare anlayışına rağmen sürecin geleneksel bakanlık bürokrasi eliyle yürütülmesinin, bu ürünlerden kaynaklanan riskleri engelleme, insan, hayvan ve bitki sağlığı ile çevrenin ve biyolojik çeşitliliğin korunmasına etkisi tartışılacaktır. GDO ve ürünleri için yapılan başvurular üzerine verilen idari kararların idari yargıdaki denetimi ortaya konularak tespit edilen usuli eksikliklere dair önerilerde bulunulacaktır. Genel yargılama usulü dışında bir usulün geliştirilmesinin mümkün olup olmadığı tartışılacaktır. Yargılama usulümüzde bazı konularda getirilen ivedi yargılama ve usuli güvençlerin, bu başvuruların yargısal denetiminden hangi ölçüde kullanılabileceği irdelenecektir. Yakın tarihte verilen Danıştay kararları üzerinden yargılama usulünün biyogüvenlik üzerindeki etkisi ortaya konulacaktır.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, on-ground laboratory classes switched to online learning. Many of these online laboratory activities focused less on laboratory techniques and more on data analysis. We developed an online laboratory activity for non-science majors focusing on the topic of genetically modified organisms. To allow online students the experience of learning first-hand techniques that they would have learned in the lab, we have designed interactive PowerPoint simulations covering the techniques of gel electrophoresis, constructing various GMOs and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Students complete each of these activities in order to collect data and determine whether a particular plant has undergone genetic modification. These PowerPoints are modifiable to meet the specific needs of a particular course or lesson.

This study uses morphological characteristics and RAPD markers to evaluate the polyploidization of synthetic porang. Seeds of triploid porang (2n=2x=26) were soaked in the different colchicine concentrations for 24 hours. After colchicine treatment, the porang seeds were planted to an MS medium that contained 2.2 µM of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), then, 40 days after planting in the MS media, the morphology and molecular of synthetic polyploid porang were characterized. For DNA extraction, a total of 100 mg of young leaves of porang plantlet was collected. One way Anova followed by the Duncan test (95%) was performed for phenotypic characterization. The number of different alleles, number of effective alleles, Shannon's information index, diversity, and unbiased diversity were assessed for genetic diversity. Synthetic polyploid porang has a higher total shoot, root, and wider leaves than normal porang. Polyploidy induction also successfully increased the genetic diversity of porang, and the genetic diversity will increase porang adaptability and sustainability of porang cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term new genomic techniques (NGTs) is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of techniques that can alter the genetic material of an organism and that have emerged or have been developed since 2001, when the existing genetically modified organism (GMO) legislation was adopted. The analytical framework used to detect GMOs in Europe is an established single harmonized procedure that is mandatory for the authorization of GM food and feed, thus generating a reliable, transparent, and effective labeling scheme for GMO products. However, NGT products can challenge the implementation and enforcement of the current regulatory system in the EU, relating in particular to the detection of NGT products that contain no foreign genetic material. Consequently, the current detection methods might fail to meet the minimum performance requirements. Although existing detection methods may be able to detect and quantify even small alterations in the genome, this does not necessarily confirm the distinction between products resulting from NGTs subject to the GMO legislation and other products. Therefore, this study provides a stepwise approach for the in silico prediction of PCR systems' specificity by testing a bioinformatics pipeline for amplicon and primer set searches in current genomic databases. In addition, it also empirically tested the PCR system evaluated during the in silico analysis. Two mutant genotypes produced by CRISPR-Cas9 in Arabidopsis thaliana were used as a case study. Overall, our results demonstrate that the single PCR system developed for identifying a nucleotide insertion in the grf1-3 genotype has multiple matches in the databases, which do not enable the discrimination of this mutated event. Empirical assays further support this demonstration. In contrast, the second mutated genotype, grf8-61, which contains a -3 bp deletion, did not yield any matches in the sequence variant database. However, the primer sequences were not efficient during the empirical assay. Our approach represents a first step in decision making for analytical methods for NGT detection, identification, and quantification in light of the European labeling regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ASBU Law Journal is the property of Social Sciences University of Ankara and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of the study was to determine consumers’ perception and purchase attitudes towards foods with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the main factors impacting on their purchase decision in Erzurum province in Türkiye. The material of the research consisted of primary data obtained from face-to-face questionnaire fulfilled with 323 households residing in Erzurum in 2021 and intending to consume foods with GMOs during the Covid-19 pandemic, and then explanatory factor and cluster analyses were applied to determine the main factors affecting three homogenous consumer clusters’ attitudes and beaviors towards foods with GMOs. The results of the study highlighted that highincome consumers were of willingness to buy foods with GMOs due to positive purchase motivation with orientation of media communication and product mixes, that middle-income consumers altered consciously their purchase models by preferring GMO-foods with lower price to traditional foods, and that low-income participants did not want to buy foods with GMOs owing to negative impacts on human health, environment safety and ethical issues. As a result, high and middleincome consumers attributed positive purchasing perception and attitudes toward foods with GMOs, but low-income those were of a negative perception for these. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cadernos de Dereito Actual is the property of Asociacion Xuristas en Accion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, on-ground laboratory classes switched to online learning. Many of these online laboratory activities focused less on laboratory techniques and more on data analysis. We developed an online laboratory activity for non-science majors focusing on the topic of genetically modified organisms. To allow online students the experience of learning first-hand techniques that they would have learned in the lab, we have designed interactive PowerPoint simulations covering the techniques of gel electrophoresis, constructing various GMOs and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Students complete each of these activities in order to collect data and determine whether a particular plant has undergone genetic modification. These PowerPoints are modifiable to meet the specific needs of a particular course or lesson. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proliferation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) presents challenges to GMO testing laboratories and policymakers. Traditional methods, like quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), face limitations in quantifying the increasing number of GMOs in a single sample. Digital PCR (dPCR), specifically multiplexing, offers a solution by enabling simultaneous quantification of multiple GMO targets. This study explores the use of the Naica six-color Crystal dPCR platform for quantifying five GM soybean lines within a single six-plex assay. Two four-color assays were also developed for added flexibility. These assays demonstrated high specificity, sensitivity (limit of detection or LOD < 25 copies per reaction) and precision (bias to an estimated copy number concentration <15%). Additionally, two approaches for the optimization of data analysis were implemented. By applying a limit-of-blank (LOB) correction, the limit of quantification (LOQ) and LOD could be more precisely determined. Pooling of reactions additionally lowered the LOD, with a two- to eight-fold increase in sensitivity. Real-life samples from routine testing were used to confirm the assays' applicability for quantifying GM soybean lines in complex samples. This study showcases the potential of the six-color Crystal dPCR platform to revolutionize GMO testing, facilitating comprehensive analysis of GMOs in complex samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With their ability to rapidly increase in frequency, gene drives can be used to modify or suppress target populations after an initial release of drive individuals. Recent advances have revealed many possibilities for different types of drives, and several of these have been realized in experiments. These drives have advantages and disadvantages related to their ease of construction, confinement and capacity to be used for modification or suppression. Though characteristics of these drives have been explored in modelling studies, assessment in continuous space environments has been limited, often focusing on outcomes rather than fundamental properties. Here, we conduct a comparative analysis of many different gene drive types that have the capacity to form a wave of advance in continuous space using individual‐based simulations in continuous space. We evaluate the drive wave speed as a function of drive performance and ecological parameters, which reveals substantial differences between drive performance in panmictic versus spatial environments. In particular, we find that suppression drive waves are uniquely vulnerable to fitness costs and undesired CRISPR cleavage activity in embryos by maternal deposition. Some drives, however, retain robust performance even with widely varying efficiency parameters. To gain a better understanding of drive waves, we compare their panmictic performance and find that the rate of wild‐type allele removal is correlated with drive wave speed, though this is also affected by other factors. Overall, our results provide a useful resource for understanding the performance of drives in spatially continuous environments, which may be most representative of potential drive deployment in many relevant scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes Paraguay’s biotechnology regulatory framework and its alignment with international standards amid biotechnological advancements. It also identifies areas of improvement for enhancing framework effectiveness. Through this work, we aim to provide a resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and researchers navigating Paraguay’s biotechnology regulation.

Abstract Background There has been a lot of debate on genetically modified (GM) crops both globally and locally in Uganda. Whereas some of the debates have been informed by scientific research, many are not. The level of acceptance and attitudes of people towards GM crops is a function of their knowledge. However, there is a paucity of studies on the knowledge and attitudes of Ugandans on GM crops. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge of GM crops in Uganda. Methods We carried out a mixed methods study in September 2021 in Bushenyi, Jinja and Wakiso districts. We conducted 18 focus group discussions (FGDs), 13 key informant interviews (KIIs) and 698 quantitative interviews. The quantitative interviews were conducted using structured questionnaires. The FGD and KI interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. The qualitative data were analyzed using framework analysis and the quantitative data were analyzed using modified Poisson regression to identify factors associated with the level of knowledge of GM crops in STATA 15. Results Out of the 698 respondents interviewed, only 273 (39.1%) had ever heard of GM crops. About 204 (74.7%) of the 273 respondents reported having a moderate–high understanding of GM crops and 62.3% (170) of the respondents further reported that GM crops are harmful to their health and environment, despite some of their intrinsic benefits, such as high productivity, improved income and resilience to pests and diseases. In addition, Out of the 698 respondents interviewed, only 37.7% were wary of the possibility of the emergence of super pests due to the development of resistance to some GM crops. Conclusions Most of the community members do not have adequate knowledge about GM crops, hence, there is need for sensitization and legislation on GM crops before their release to the public.

Abstract Transgenic Bt soybean plants have been developed to control insect pests, such as Anticarsia gemmatalis and Chrysodeixis includens. This objective has been achieved successfully; however, recently, some authors claimed that Bt soybean plants have been more susceptible than non-Bt soybean to Bemisia tabaci MEAM1. In addition, it is unknown whether Bt soybean plants infested by B. tabaci become less resistant to target pests. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate: (i) whether the previous infestation with B. tabaci can compromise Bt and non-Bt soybean resistance to C. includens; (ii) the effects of B. tabaci infestations on Bt and non-Bt soybean plant growth; and (iii) whether B. tabaci feeding reduces contents of chlorophyll and carotenoids of soybean plants. Bt and non-Bt soybean plants pre-infested with B. tabaci showed no changes in resistance to C. includens. Bt soybean plants infested with B. tabaci showed a lower plant height than uninfested plants. Differently, non-Bt soybean plants exhibited no reduction in plant growth due to B. tabaci feeding. Bt soybean plants suffered a reduction in dry matter only under double infestation (B. tabaci and C. includens), while non-Bt soybean plants experienced reduction in dry matter when infested with B. tabaci and C. includens or by C. includens only. B. tabaci feeding did not alter contents of chlorophyll and carotenoids, and perhaps the reduction in plant growth was related to salivary toxins. Concluding, both Bt and non-Bt soybean plants were susceptible to B. tabaci feeding, evidencing necessity of developing soybean cultivars resistant to B. tabaci.

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Food and nutrition insecurity continue to risk the lives and wellbeing of millions of people throughout the world today. Further, food and nutrition insecurity are still major challenges in Kenya and have triggered the adoption of a number of modern biotechnologies for agricultural transformation. Consequently, many food technologies have been approved to secure sustainable access to food for millions of people. This study investigated the perceptions and implementation of two technologies for addressing food insecurity in Kenya, namely, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the use of antibiotics in livestock production. In particular, the study explored how their implementation can be governed responsibly through approved legislation. Therefore, the knowledge, attitudes and practices, as well as the governance, of GMO technology and antibiotic resistance risks were assessed. In-depth key interviews were conducted for a qualitative survey with triangulation using quantitative data sources. The findings showed that 46% of the population have limited knowledge about GMO technology, with about 79% indicating that foods with GM ingredients were already being consumed in the country despite the government ban. The majority of respondents agree that GMOs can contribute to an increase in the global food supply (65%), make food affordable (57%) and produce more nutritious foods (50%). Further, most agree that GMOs can produce crops more resistant to pests and reduce pesticide use on food crop plants (89). The main concerns reported regarding GMO technology by most respondents included the impact on the environment and human health and the adverse effects on traditional farming practices. About 36% of these respondents indicated that the technology diminishes traditional farming technologies, and 32% reported that it contributes to loss of biodiversity. Notably, 64% reported that GMO technology is a solution to food security and that GM foods are safe. Regarding the use of antimicrobials mainly meant to prevent diseases and access better markets, respondents perceived their use to be associated with a "large level of risk" of antimicrobial resistance (score of 2 on a scale of 1–3) (M = 1.85, SD = 1.06). A total of 56% of the respondents reported that the efforts towards promoting awareness of antibiotic resistance risks and their associated effects on human health are relatively limited. Our findings show that most of the respondents have only observed minimal awareness campaigns. Regarding the governance of the two technologies, 71% and 50% of the respondents reported that scientists and elected officials, respectively, have the greatest roles in the governance of GMOs, with small-scale farmers playing a negligible role. These findings are crucial to the advancement of food innovations that are geared towards achieving food security in Kenya as they highlight the risks associated with the poor governance and implementation of technologies. Therefore, there is a need for a framework for technological risk governance that is sensitive to local values and socio-economic circumstances and that will facilitate the achievement of food security goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance of the study lies in the growing demand for safe and high-quality bee products, primarily honey, and the non-admission of low-quality products that can harm the health of consumers in the Ukrainian and European Union markets. In Ukraine, sunflower and rapeseed honey are in the greatest demand in export potential. The purpose of the study is to determine the compliance of rapeseed and sunflower honey obtained in Ukraine with the requirements of national and European Food legislation. To achieve this purpose, organoleptic methods of natural honey research were used and the diastase number, acidity, content of pollen grains, mass fraction of water, mass fraction of reducing sugars, sucrose, and hydroxymethylfurfural were determined. Analysis of rapeseed honey for the presence of genetically modified pollen was conducted using the polymerase chain reaction method in real time. It was established that prototypes of sunflower honey from Vinnytsia, Odesa, and Kyiv regions met the requirements of the national standard and European Food legislation, without signs of fraud. Currently, the use of genetically modified organisms is subject to regulation. Samples of rapeseed honey taken from the Vinnytsia, Odesa, and Kyiv regions did not contain genetically modified deoxyribonucleic acid. In terms of physical and chemical parameters, rapeseed honey met the requirements of the national standard. Honey collected in the Kyiv and Vinnytsia regions had an average water content of more than 18.5%, which meets the requirements for first-grade honey according to the national standard. Honey collected in the Odesa region corresponded to the indicators of the top-grade honey, the water content in it averaged 17.7%. According to the main physical and chemical indicators, rapeseed honey collected in Ukraine also meets the requirements of European food legislation. In addition, rapeseed and sunflower honey from the Vinnytsia, Odesa, and Kyiv regions are natural and can be sold not only in Ukraine but also on the territory of the European Union and the World Trade Organisation

Microbiology is increasingly being incorporated into secondary school biology curricula, an important component of science technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) training. The microbiological competency of teachers and the availability of skilled laboratory technicians that understand the risks involved and the reasoning behind restrictions to protocols is vital for the safe execution of microbiology experiments in secondary schools. The addition of gene-modification experiments to microbiology curricula increases the complexity of experimental set-up and potentially exacerbates existing deficiencies in laboratory technique and disinfection practice. There is currently no targeted national program to up-skill school science teachers or laboratory technicians, which can leave these staff in vulnerable positions if they are asked to co-ordinate experiments that are beyond their expertise. It is important that such training is available, preferably as part of well-planned professional development and that continued online support is provided to answer questions swiftly and assist STEM school staff to conduct microbiology experiments safely. Improved integration between universities and high schools can be beneficial in this regard, not only in the safe teaching of microbiology in schools, but also in collaborative links formed between secondary schools and universities.

Three sisters, born from consanguineous parents, manifested a unique Mullerian anomaly characterized by uterine hypoplasia with thin estrogen-unresponsive endometrium and primary amenorrhea, but with spontaneous tubal pregnancies. Through whole-exome sequencing followed by comprehensive genetic analysis, a missense variant was identified in the OSR1 gene. We therefore investigated OSR1/OSR1 expression in postpubertal human uteri, and the prenatal and postnatal expression pattern of Osr1/Osr1 in murine developing Mullerian ducts (MDs) and endometrium, respectively. We then investigated whether Osr1 deletion would affect MD development, using WT and genetically engineered mice. Human uterine OSR1/OSR1 expression was found primarily in the endometrium. Mouse Osr1 was expressed prenatally in MDs and Wolffian ducts (WDs), from rostral to caudal segments, in E13.5 embryos. MDs and WDs were absent on the left side and MDs were rostrally truncated on the right side of E13.5 [Osr1.sup.-/-] embryos. Postnatally, Osr1 was expressed in mouse uteri throughout their lifespan, peaking at postnatal days 14 and 28. Osr1 protein was present primarily in uterine luminal and glandular epithelial cells and in the epithelial cells of mouse oviducts. Through this translational approach, we demonstrated that OSR1 in humans and mice is important for MD development and endometrial receptivity and may be implicated in uterine factor infertility., Introduction The Mullerian ducts (MD) are paired embryonic structures that arise from the mesoderm-derived invaginations of the coelomic epithelium into the mesonephros and ultimately develop into segments of the female [...]

Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome (CCS) is a rare, noninherited polyposis syndrome affecting 1 in every million individuals. Despite over 50 years of CCS cases, the etiopathogenesis and optimal treatment for CCS remains unknown due to the rarity of the disease and lack of model systems. To better understand the etiology of CCS, we generated human intestinal organoids (HIOs) from intestinal stem cells isolated from 2 patients. We discovered that CCS HIOs are highly proliferative and have increased numbers of enteroendocrine cells producing serotonin (also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine or 5HT). These features were also confirmed in patient tissue biopsies. Recombinant 5HT increased proliferation of non-CCS donor HIOs and inhibition of 5HT production in the CCS HIOs resulted in decreased proliferation, suggesting a link between local epithelial 5HT production and control of epithelial stem cell proliferation. This link was confirmed in genetically engineered HIOs with an increased number of enteroendocrine cells. This work provides a new mechanism to explain the pathogenesis of CCS and illustrates the important contribution of HIO cultures to understanding disease etiology and in the identification of novel therapies. Our work demonstrates the principle of using organoids for personalized medicine and sheds light on how intestinal hormones can play a role in intestinal epithelial proliferation., Introduction In 1955, Leonard Cronkhite and Wilma Canada documented a rare, nonhereditary disease associated with nonadenomatous cystic polyps in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, ectodermal abnormalities of alopecia, nail dystrophy, and [...]

Consumption of low dietary potassium, common with ultraprocessed foods, activates the thiazide-sensitive sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) via the with no (K) lysine kinase/STE20/SPS1-related proline-alanine-rich protein kinase (WNK/SPAK) pathway to induce salt retention and elevate blood pressure (BP). However, it remains unclear how high-potassium 'DASH-like' diets (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) inactivate the cotransporter and whether this decreases BP. A transcriptomics screen identified Ppp1Ca, encoding PP1A, as a potassium- upregulated gene, and its negative regulator Ppp1r1a, as a potassium-suppressed gene in the kidney. PP1A directly binds to and dephosphorylates NCC when extracellular potassium is elevated. Using mice genetically engineered to constitutively activate the NCC-regulatory kinase SPAK and thereby eliminate the effects of the WNK/SPAK kinase cascade, we confirmed that PP1A dephosphorylated NCC directly in a potassium-regulated manner. Prior adaptation to a high-potassium diet was required to maximally dephosphorylate NCC and lower BP in constitutively active SPAK mice, and this was associated with potassium-dependent suppression of Ppp1r1a and dephosphorylation of its cognate protein, inhibitory subunit 1 (I1). In conclusion, potassium-dependent activation of PP1A and inhibition of I1 drove NCC dephosphorylation, providing a mechanism to explain how high dietary 1C lowers BP. Shifting signaling of PP1A in favor of activation of WNK/SPAK may provide an improved therapeutic approach for treating salt-sensitive hypertension., Introduction According to the WHO, hypertension is the single greatest contributor to premature death and disability in the world (1). High salt (NaCl) consumption has long been a major culprit, [...]

Gene editing tools have become an indispensable part of research into the fundamental aspects of cell biology. With a vast body of literature having been generated based on next generation sequencing technologies, keeping track of this ever-growing body of information remains challenging. This necessitates the translation of genomic data into tangible applications. In order to address this objective, the generated Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data forms the basis for targeted genome editing strategies, employing known enzymes of various cellular machinery, in generating organisms with specifically selected phenotypes. This review focuses primarily on CRISPR/Cas9 technology in the context of its advantages over Zinc finger proteins (ZNF) and Transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALEN) and meganucleases mutagenesis strategies, for use in agricultural and veterinary applications. This review will describe the application of CRISPR/Cas9 in creating modified organisms with custom-made properties, without the undesired non-targeted effects associated with virus vector vaccines and bioactive molecules produced in bacterial systems. Examples of the successful and unsuccessful applications of this technology to plants, animals and microorganisms are provided, as well as an in-depth look into possible future trends and applications in vaccine development, disease resistance and enhanced phenotypic traits will be discussed.

People who received a more personally relevant message were motivated to pay closer attention to the information and actively process it, which ultimately may stimulate behavioral changes. Therefore, preferred information content has been used in many disciplines to promote effective communication. However, no study has explored the impact of preferred information formats (e.g., word, infographic, and video) concerning food production. With the increasing application of biotechnology to food production, a complex topic to communicate, and evidence that consumers were willing to pay less for bioengineered foods, efficient communication was important to impact consumer preferences. The results of this study showed that consumers mostly preferred information format is writing. Providing information in video format did improve consumers' trust in information about food biotechnology. However, receiving information in consumers' preferred formats did not significantly change consumers' WTP for genetically engineered orange juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reliable and efficient methods for detecting genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in unprocessed and processed food will be essential for establishing an effective system for traceability all along the supply chain. It is important to understand the detection of GMOs following microwave treatment, which is a common processing method used in various food products such as flours. Therefore, this study aimed to detect the presence of Cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter (P-35S), Figwort mosaic virus (FMV) promoter (P-FMV), and T-NOS (nopaline synthase terminator) genetic elements in DNA samples from untreated and microwave-treated genetically modified (GM) cereal flour samples using the qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based screening method. Methods and results: DNA was extracted from all samples, and the efficiency of the qualitative PCR screening technique was tested by the verification studies. We performed an inhibition study with plant-specific actin (ACT) gene to the effectiveness of confirming the DNA extraction method. Then, we made the confirming of the qualitative PCR system by method performance testing criteria. The high quality and quantity of the DNA extracts from untreated and microwave-treated flour samples indicated the applicability of qualitative PCR screening assays. The results showed that microwave radiation does not significantly impact the genetic element screening in flour materials. Conclusion: Untreated and microwave-treated flour samples had amplifiable DNA for the simultaneous screening of three genetic elements. The qualitative screening tests conducted in this study produced dependable outcomes, thus, can be successfully used for monitoring in control laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers a 30-year history of the creation, state regulation, and production of AquAdvantage transgenic salmon genetically modified (GM) with the growth hormone gene. The arguments of opponents and proponents of the concept of ecological safety of the use of transgenic fish in aquaculture are critically analyzed. It has been generalized that the adaptability of transgenic fish is lower than that of its wild relatives. On this basis, it is assumed that, in the event of an accidental ingress of GM fish from aquaculture to natural populations, transgenes are under the negative influence of natural selection. Strict security measures for the maintenance of GM fish, however, should not be weakened, since there are still unexplained cases of the survival of fluorescent transgenic aquarium fish in freshwater ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The approval status of a genetically modified (GM) event varies from country to country. GM events approved in one country (considered as authorized GM or AGM) may not necessarily have the same approval status in other countries (considered as unauthorized GM or UGM). Detecting UGM in the supply chain is a challenge as the genetic information is not always available. In India, four Bt cotton events are approved, whereas several other GM events have been imported for research purposes. Many food derivatives (non‐GM) are being imported from the countries where GM events of food crops are approved so it is necessary to track the unauthorized entry of GM products. Selected consignments or food products need to be checked for GM status for regulatory compliance. In farmers' fields, the chances of unintentional introgression or adventitious presence of transgenes also need to be monitored in a systematic manner. An appropriate strategy needs to be developed to check for UGM in the food and agricultural supply chain. In this article, approaches for UGM detection have been discussed with a focus on application in the Indian context. Detection methods based on the GMO matrix, multiplex PCR, real‐time PCR (qPCR), and loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) could be employed keeping in view the regulatory requirement or practical application. For checking UGM with unknown genetic construct, methods such as next‐generation sequencing (NGS) may be employed. The advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches are discussed in the function of the analytical strategy and its application for control purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the unique educational films prepared by science teacher candidates about biotechnology applications and getting their perceptions on the process/the educational films they have prepared. The phenomenology method was used. The study group consists of 30 sophomore teacher candidates. Teacher candidates prepared educational films. Then, the perceptions of the teacher candidates about this process were taken. According to the results of the study educational movies were prepared by teacher candidates by way of their writings about stem cells, genetically modified organisms, nanotechnology and cloning. The educational films focused on the positive and negative aspects of these biotechnology subjects, on the basis of daily life scenarios. Even though the short movies contained both negative and positive references, they mostly had a positive note. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncontrolled distribution of goods produced by genetically modified plants should be prevented by the state in order to secure food safety in the Russian Federation and to minimize health risks for consumers. We analyzed foods of plant origin for children to identify components of genetically modified organisms in them. It was done to ensure safety of such foods. The highest specific weight among the analyzed foods belonged to nectars (40.0 %) and juice-containing drinks (36.0 %). Juices and fruit drinks accounted for 12 % each. Genetically modified organisms were determined in foods by identifying regulatory sequences (35S promoter, FMV promoter and NOS terminator) that are widely used in constructions of genetically modified plants. Occurrence of regulatory genetic elements specific for genetically modified organisms was checked in juice products for children by the polymerase chain reaction in real-time mode with hybridization-fluorescent detection of amplification products and with the use of the “AmpliSens GM Plant-1-FL” and “AmpliKvant GM soya-FL” test systems. The results of this study showed that no analyzed foods of plant origin contained any regulatory sequences (35S, NOS и FMV) indicating presence of genetically modified organisms. Fluorescence through the FAM, Cy5 and ROX channels did not exceed its threshold value. Therefore, we did not detect any violations of the established requirements to occurrence of genetically modified organisms in foods for children. Further investigation that would involve examining a more extensive material is required to ensure proper assessment and control of food contamination with genetically modified organisms in order to ensure food safety.

Advanced therapies are emerging as an important class of medicinal products; among these, gene therapies are advancing at an exceptional rate. However, one of the major challenges for gene therapies relates to the additional regulatory requirements for genetically modified organisms. In this paper, we provide an overview of the regulatory requirements for genetically modified organisms in the European Union, Japan, and the United States. We share our experience in managing these requirements and their impact on the adeno-associated virus gene therapies that are under development at Pfizer. Specifically, we discuss the relative complexity of the approval process and the impact of risk assessment expectations on the clinical development of genetically modified organisms. We also compare the regulatory processes and timelines of various regions based on our experience with adeno-associated viral vectors. Finally, we propose that genetically modified organisms, for which pathogenicity and replication competency are well controlled, should be regulated solely under medicinal product regulations and be exempt from additional requirements for genetically modified organisms. Even if an exemption is not implemented, it should still be possible to significantly reduce the sponsor and agency burden by simplifying and harmonizing documentation and data requirements as well as timelines for applications for genetically modified organisms.

Until 2019, Guatemala upheld a de-facto moratorium on GMOs. The ban has been attributed to broad-based social resistance and the unlikely alliances galvanized by the issue. Recent legislation, however, has been met with little resistance. In this paper, I show how the tensions between anti-GM actors and their interactions on the ground help to explain this turn of events in Guatemala, and—more broadly— contributes to our understanding of how biotechnology advances despite significant resistance. Drawing on interviews and ethnographic observation, I demonstrate how urban, professional class Ladinos who oppose GMOs draw on scientific and technical arguments divorced from broader political-economic critiques. Meanwhile, campesino and indigenous activists center their resistance within broader structures of oppression such as colonialism, racism, and capitalism. Specifically, I show how ‘biotechnologizing’ is employed in problematic ways, not only by pro-GMO coalitions—as other scholarship suggests—but also by anti-GM allies. This case contributes to our understanding of how anti-GMO movement frames get constructed in local contexts, and the tensions that arise between anti-GM groups, revealing significant impediments to creating a more just food future in Guatemala.

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), putatively via inflammasome activation. We pursued an inflammatory gene modifier scan for CHIP-associated CVD risk among 424,651 UK Biobank participants. We identified CHIP using whole-exome sequencing data of blood DNA and modeled as a composite, considering all driver genes together, as well as separately for common drivers (DNMT3A, TET2, ASXL1, and JAK2). We developed predicted gene expression scores for 26 inflammasome-related genes and assessed how they modify CHIP-associated CVD risk. We identified IL1RAP as a potential key molecule for CHIP-associated CVD risk across genes and increased AIM2 gene expression leading to heightened JAK2- and ASXLI-associated CVD risk. We show that CRISPR-induced Asx/1-mutated murine macrophages had a particularly heightened inflammatory response to AIM2 agonism, associated with an increased DNA damage response, as well as increased IL-10 secretion, mirroring a CVDprotective effect of IL10 expression in ASXL1 CHIP. Our study supports the role of inflammasomes in CHIP-associated CVD and provides evidence to support gene-specific strategies to address CHIP-associated CVD risk., Introduction Clonal hematopoiesis (CH) of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is the age-related acquisition and expansion of somatic mutations of genes frequently mutated in hematologic malignancies (e.g., DNMT3A, TET2, ASXL1, or JAK2) [...]