Knowledge-technology-based discovery of unauthorized genetically modified organisms

Various legislations worldwide provide a framework for the authorization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products derived therefrom [1]. Despite these regulations, novel GMOs occasionally enter the market without authorization [2¿22] (Table 1) and are referred to as unauthorized GMOs (UGMs). The presence of UGMs in food and feed raises safety and labeling concerns, and challenges international trade [23, 24]. Recently reported UGM incidents have created an urgent need to harmonize regulations at a global level, and call for appropriate strategies to discover UGMs. However, some novel UGMs are intrinsically difficult to detect using current analytical strategies for reasons outlined herein. We therefore propose a paradigm shift in the way UGMs can be discovered: a documentationbased screening for products that potentially contain UGMs using knowledge technologies, followed by analytical confirmation. Here, we will describe the main concepts of the novel approach, illustrate it with a case study, and outline benefits, limitations, and complementarities compared with the current analytical detection strategy.

RUTTINK Tom;  MORISSET Dany;  VAN DROOGENBROECK Bart;  LAVRAC Nada;  VAN DEN EEDE Guy;  ZEL Jana;  DE LOOSE Marc; 

2010-03-15

SPRINGER HEIDELBERG

JRC54843

1618-2642,   

http://www.springerlink.com/content/yt18331041031545/,    https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC54843,   

10.1007/s00216-009-3218-6,