Application of polymerase chain reaction with disposable amplicon detection device for identification of regulatory gene introduced into genetically modified maize

Abstract

A novel genetically modified organism (GMO) detection method was developed using a simple and rapid procedure to identify a regulatory gene introduced into genetically modified (GM) maize. After DNA extraction from GM maize flours, fragments of the conserved sequence of the cauliflower masaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter gene along with a competitive internal control gene were amplified using duplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Amplification products were then detected using a disposable detection device. The quantitative detection limit for GM maize 59122 was found to be 1.0% (w/w). Because the combination-method involving PCR technology coupled with a disposable detection device does not require expensive instrumentation or expertise, it will serve as a valuable alternative to immunoassays and traditional PCR-based tests in the detection of GMOs.