10 May 2011Australian researchers say they hope the genetic modification of some corn varieties could help lift world grain production.
Two Australian universities, an Australian researcher and an American biotechnology company are partnering for the commercial-scale research.
They are adding a gene found in some plants to corn which provides natural immunity to fungi.
Dr Marilyn Anderson from La Trobe University says genetic engineering of plants could provide an alternative to existing chemical controls for fungi, such as fungicides.
"This is a new gene, but this is a natural gene that we already consume in our diet because it is produced by potatoes and tomatoes," she said.
http://greenbio.checkbiotech.org/news/gm_corn_could_boost_world_grain_production
