The Chacra Experimental Agrícola Santa Rosa ("La Chacra") research institute, a pioneer in Argentine biotechnology research, has announced the development of the first genetically modified sugarcane in Argentina. The crop contains the glyphosate-resistant transgenic event QAB016 (NA 05-2019″RR″), which can be used for weed control.
The transgenic event is still under supervision and has completed the experimental phase of insertion gene characterization and gene expression. In addition to the above products, La Chacra has bred mosaic virus-resistant sugarcane through RNA interference, and obtained a virus-resistant transgene after several years of field experiment cultivation.
According to the company's director, German Serino, the activities took place at regulated venues for research purposes only, and a commercialization model for the technology has not yet been foreseen. He also said researchers were editing the genome to develop new varieties.
La Chacra is a non-governmental organization (NGO) serving the sugar sector in the provinces of the Northwest Region of Argentina. According to the developers of glyphosate-resistant sugar cane, the raw material for the research came from sugar mills, and the government even provided funding for specific projects.
Source: AgroPages
