How Can We Better Detect Unauthorized GMOs in Food and Feed Chains?. Issue 6 (June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fraiture, Marie-Alice; Herman, Philippe; De Loose, Marc; Debode, Frédéric; Roosens, Nancy H.
• Is Part Of: Trends in biotechnology. Volume 35:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 508
• Page End: 517
• Publication Date: 2017-06
• Subjects: unauthorized GMO -- detection -- monitoring -- new workflow -- qPCR -- next-generation-sequencing -- DNA walking; Biotechnology -- Periodicals; Biochemical engineering -- Periodicals; Genetic engineering -- Periodicals; Industrial microbiology -- Periodicals; 660.605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2017.03.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-7799

Abstract

Abstract : Current GMO detection systems have limited abilities to detect unauthorized genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Here, we propose a new workflow, based on next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, to overcome this problem. In providing information about DNA sequences, this high-throughput workflow can distinguish authorized and unauthorized GMOs by strengthening the tools commonly used by enforcement laboratories with the help of NGS technology. In addition, thanks to its massive sequencing capacity, this workflow could be used to monitor GMOs present in the food and feed chain. In view of its potential implementation by enforcement laboratories, we discuss this innovative approach, its current limitations, and its sustainability of use over time. Trends: Most European Union (EU)-unauthorized GMOs can be detected by enforcement laboratories via the current GMO detection system. However, based on the current approach, distinguishing EU-unauthorized GMOs from EU-authorized GMOs is almost impossible. One possible way to overcome this issue is a new workflow using NGS technology. This new workflow may improve the ability of the current system to detect EU-unauthorized GMOs. The high-throughput property of NGS technology, enabling the generation of massive amounts of sequence data from several samples in parallel, may also enable the monitoring of GMOs that are present in the food and feed chain.