The largest field-based study of genetically modified forest trees ever conducted has demonstrated that genetic engineering can prevent new seedlings from establishing.
The “containment traits” that Oregon State University researchers engineered in the study are important because of societal concerns over gene flow – the spread of genetically engineered or exotic and invasive trees or their reproductive cells beyond the boundaries of plantations.
“There’s still more to know and more research to be done, but this looks really good,” said corresponding author Steve Strauss, distinguished professor of forest biotechnology at OSU. “It’s very exciting.”
Findings from the study – which looked at 3,300 poplar trees in a 9-acre tract over seven growing seasons – were published today in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology.
Read more at Oregon State University
Image Credit: Oregon State University