Science Media Centre

American research has shown that genetically modified canola plants grow outside of defined cultivation areas and that the plant’s modified genetic traits persist in wild. However, experts note that this is not new and that GM plants have been well documented in the wild previously. The study, published today by the online journal PLoS ONE, [...]

The Rotarua Daily Post has introduced a monthy column from the CEO of Scion, Dr Warren Parker. In his inaugural column, Dr Parker examines the issue of genetic modification in an careful light, acknowledging the  benefits but also highlighting the need to “proceed with caution”. An excerpt (read in full here): FORESTRY RESEARCH INSIGHT by [...]

Some of the research into the development of genetically engineered (GE) clover which could reduce pastoral greenhouse gas emissions will be done overseas, says AgResearch. The aim of the research is to switch on a specific gene in white clover which would reduce methane emissions and nitrogen waste, provide livestock with extra protein, and improve [...]

Ash means empty skies over Britain Thousands of travellers are feeling the effects of a large volcanic eruption in Iceland, with flights across Europe cancelled as ash floats across Britain and the continent. The impact on travel plans is illustrated well in this graphic that ran in The Guardian. Scientists meanwhile have been analysing every [...]

Eloise Gibson writes in the New Zealand Herald about the decision by Erma to allow scientists to create and work with genetically modified sheep, goats and cows. The research, to be conducted by AgResearch, will involve putting human genes into the animals in order to produce specific human proteins in their milk – it is [...]

The Environmental Risk Management Authority (Erma) has granted AgResearch approval to continue working with genetically modified cells and animals. The research, being conducted on goats, sheep and cattle, aims to develop specific proteins in milk which could be used to treat certain human diseases. An excerpt: (read in full here) “Erma said it considered the [...]

ONLINE BRIEFING: Tues 2 March 2010, 10:30 a.m. Drought-resistance, reduced greenhouse gas emissions intensity, superior nutrition for livestock — these are some of the benefits promised by researchers developing genetically modified pasture crops. But will these be enough to convince farmers — and the wider public — to accept GM pastures? No GM pasture crop [...]

Bob Brockie writes in the Dominion Post on the promise that science can save the planet from climate change. He writes about some of the exciting new science currently being undertaken, including the work of genetic engineers who have developed a means of making biofuel which does not compete with food crops. An excerpt: (read [...]

I’m pleasantly surprised to report that — contrary to some expectations — the public forum held at Te Papa last night as part of the ISBGMO conference was for the most part an exercise in respectful restraint and open dialogue. Soundings Theatre housed a fairly decent turnout — around a hundred people — many of [...]

Genetic modification (GM) is the alteration of the genome of a plant or animal by the addition of new genetic material. It underlies the concept of transgenics, in which an organism is modified to incorporate new genes that lead to new characteristics, such as the production of proteins for human health, or the expression of [...]