Monsanto, BASF scientists disclose discovery of gene conferring drought tolerance in corn plants

摘要

Monsanto and BASF scientists have unveiled the discovery that a naturally-occurring gene can help corn plants combat drought conditions and confer yield stability during periods of inadequate water supplies. The companies stated that they will use the gene in their first-generation drought-tolerant corn product. This product will be the first biotechnology-derived drought-tolerant crop in the world. The announcement comes at a time when recent studies (including one by the US National Academy of Sciences) are warning of declining crop yields and global food shortages as a result of climate change.