Disease resistance in apple varieties cou d be greatly improved through 'same species' genetic modification

摘要

Dutch scientists are making the prospect of producing apples with durable resistance to all major diseases a reality. They are achieving this by genetic modification (GM), but because the genes responsible for resistance are from the same species rather than of foreign origin it should be readily accepted by environmentalists and consumers. Known as cisgenesis, other big advantages are claimed for the technique, that was described at Agrovista's Spring Fruit Briefing at Ashford, Kent in February. Oneadvantage is that the genes for resistance are being inserted into established and new varieties of high eating quality; another is that genes for other very desirable characteristics, such as high antioxidant content, can also be used, and a third is that the production of the finished article is much quicker (seven or eight years) than that achieved by conventional breeding.