New developments in GMO science – from gene function to application

Abstract

Genetic transformation exploits DNA technology and has been used in plant science in different contexts. Genetic modification can be a tool to unravel gene functions and has mainly been pursued in model plants. The basic knowledge of gene functions in model plants has to be verified in crop plants, e.g. food or ornamental plants. The first commercial genetically modified (GM) plant cultivars were introduced to the market in the early 1990s in China and the USA. Since then, several new varieties of agricultural crops and also a limited number of horticultural plants have been developed through GM technology. Presently, only a few of the transgenic ornamental plants have reached the market. Reviewing existing applications of GM food and ornamental plants reveals distinct geographical differences. Most of the currently produced GM crops are grown in only five countries: USA, Brazil, Argentina, Canada and India. In Europe, the application of genetic transformation in commercial breeding is still marginal due to investment costs, legal regulation and low public acceptance. During recent decades, several innovative biotechnologies on the borderline between conventional breeding and genetic transformation have emerged, and it is no longer straightforward to distinguish between transgenic and non-transgenic biotechnological breeding techniques. Future costs of product development and commercial release are highly dependent on the legislation and public acceptance of novel biotechnological approaches. In the present review, examples of useful breeding traits are presented and their potential in a horticultural context is evaluated. Advantages and disadvantages of GM technologies and new biotechnologies are discussed and assessed with a focus on practical application.