9 pages, Humans have improved plants for their utility through selective self-pollination, crossing, and progeny selection for >10,000 years, largely based on physical characteristics. Less than 200 years ago, the genetic basis of heritability in selection was revealed, enabling breeders to accelerate genetic gain. Breakthroughs in genomics and molecular markers for the past century have enabled breeders to locate and select genomic regions affecting desirable traits, improving breeding precision. Transgenesis has enabled crop insertion of desirable exogenous genes, enabling de novo functionality. These technologies, along with agronomic practices, have generated more than sixfold yield improvements in crops such as corn in the past century. Gene editing, with its unique ability to precisely edit, change expression, and move genes within a crop's genome, has the potential to be the next breakthrough technology. For this to come to fruition, it is critical to take a holistic view considering perspectives of scientists, farmers, regulators, and consumers.
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 141 Document Number: D06188
Notes:
See original document in file for Document D06187., Pages 23-26 in L. Johnson, Alhassan WS Anthony V, and P. Rudelsheim (eds.), 2011, Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa: stewardship case studies. Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa., Emphasizes need for communications, labeling and tracking to prevent the loss of plantlets, cultures, DNA, enzymes and other fragile materials. Regular communications with research partners is important to assure proactive responsibility and key information passed along to all persons involved. Cites example of miscommunication.
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 141 Document Number: D06187
Notes:
Pages 18-22 in L. Johnson, Alhassan WS Anthony V, and P. Rudelsheim (eds.), 2011, Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa: stewardship case studies. Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa., Emphasizes need for following standard operating procedures in data management and for communications among persons within agricultural research organizations.
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 141 Document Number: D06189
Notes:
See original document in file for Document D06187, Pages 27-29 in L. Johnson, Alhassan WS Anthony V, and P. Rudelsheim (eds.), 2011, Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa: stewardship case studies. Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa. 60 pages., Emphasizes need for labeling of plants and communications among all staff members, not just scientists.
