Problem formulation and phenotypic characterisation for the development of novel crops.

Problem formulation and phenotypic characterisation for the development of novel crops.
Transgenic Res. 2019 Aug;28(Suppl 2):135-145
Authors: Raybould A
Abstract
Phenotypic characterisation provides important information about novel crops that helps their developers to make technical and commercial decisions. Phenotypic characterisation comprises two activities. Product characterisation checks that the novel crop has the qualities of a viable product-the intended traits have been introduced and work as expected, and no unintended changes have been made that will adversely affect the performance of the final product. Risk assessment evaluates whether the intended and unintended changes are likely to harm human health or the environment. Product characterisation follows the principles of problem formulation, namely that the characteristics required in the final product are defined and criteria to decide whether the novel crop will have these properties are set. The hypothesis that the novel crop meets the criteria are tested during product development. If the hypothesis is corroborated, development continues, and if the hypothesis is falsified, the product is redesigned or its development is halted. Risk assessment should follow the same principles. Criteria that indicate the crop poses unacceptable risk should be set, and the hypothesis that the crop does not possess those properties should be tested. However, risk assessment, particu...

Source: Transgenic Research - July 20, 2019 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Raybould A Tags: Transgenic Res Source Type: research