2008 Volume 25 Issue 1 Pages 17-29
Insect-resistant transgenic chrysanthemum plants expressing a modified cry1Ab gene of Bacillus thuringiensis were produced, and an environmental risk assessment of these plants was undertaken in preparation for release their into the field. These plants were examined for molecular profiles, morphological and growth characteristics, cross compatibility, production of allelopathic substances, and influence on soil microbes. The results showed that the insect-resistance trait of the GM chrysanthemum plants is stably integrated in the nuclear genome, and the expression of the mcbt gene did not cause significant differences in the morphological characteristics, the production of allelopathic substances, or the effect on soil microorganisms compared to non-GM chrysanthemums. However, because these plants have cross-compatibility with wild related species, they will be forbidden to be cultured in the open field under the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. Therefore, we are attempting to introduce a male and/or female sterility trait to GM chrysanthemums with insect resistance to reinforce their biosafety for the practical uses.
