University of Northern Iowa
Posted in Plant Biotechnology on Oct 25th, 2006
Genetically enhanced corn containing higher concentrations of beta carotene has been shown to increase vitamin A levels in gerbils. Researchers hope the crop will be able to reduce vitamin A deficiency in humans. According to the World Health Organization, vitamin A deficiency causes blindness in 500,000 children each year, especially in Africa and Southeast Asia.
 Food [...]
Posted in Plant Biotechnology on Oct 25th, 2006
South African scientists are developing genetically modified (GM) wine.
The University of Stellenbosch has applied to the government to grow GM grapes in field trials to see how the transgenic plants will fare.
And in a separate application, a former South African now living in Canada has applied to sell GM yeast here for use in wine-making.
The [...]
Posted in Plant Biotechnology on Oct 25th, 2006
The impact of drought on WA (West Australia) farmers would be reduced if commercial genetically modified crops were allowed, a major farming group claims.
The ban prevents the commercial release of all GM crops in WA until at least 2008. Chairman Leon Bradley said the Wheatbelt would be transformed if commercial GM canola could be grown [...]
Posted in Stem Cells on Oct 25th, 2006
D’Amour et al. describe an efficient method for converting human embryonic stem (ES) cells to cells that produce all five hormones made by the pancreas. The insulin-producing cells contain high levels of insulin and are capable of insulin secretion, although only minimally in response to glucose.
http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/nbt1259.html
Posted in Plant Biotechnology on Oct 25th, 2006
Chappell and colleagues present an approach for boosting plant production of natural products that are widely used in perfumery, medicine and the food industry. By redirecting isoprenoid precursors towards terpene synthesis in tobacco, they increase production of the fragrance patchoulol, the flavor component limonene and the precursor of the antimalarial drug artemisinin.
http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/vaop/ncurrent/abs/nbt1251.html
