Author : Gilissen, Luud J.W.

Summary : Conclusion: Important points in the biosafety evaluations of E. coli GUS in genetically modified plants are: 1) The GUS gene applied in genetic modification originates from the enterobacterial species Escherichia coli, that is generally present in the vertebrate intestine and feces. The presence of the E. coli GUS gene and its gene product, the GUS enzyme, are, as a result, also relatively common in soil and water environments. This implies that the (agricultural) environment is fully familiar with E. coli GUS. Therefore, the conclusion is justified that any GUS activity added to ecosystems through genetically modified plants is of no or minor influence. 2) There are no selective advantages to genetically modified plants associated with possession and expression of the E. coli GUS transgene. Therefore, no increased weediness is expected from genetically modified cops, nor from putatively outcrossed wild relatives. 3) A functional GUS homologue is endogenously present in substantial amounts in the tissues and in the digestive tract of vertebrates (including human) and other animals. Thus, the presence of E.oli GUS and endogenous GUS, as well as the importance of glucuronidation as the main detoxification pathway in the relevant organs of vertebrates allows the conclusion that consumers will not face a new situation. The presence of E. coli GUS in genetically modified plants can be considered substantially equivalent to the current situation. The likelihood of transgenic GUS accomplishing a change in food stuffs that could be harmful is negligible. GUS-containing genetically modified plants and their products can be generally regarded as safe.