NCGA Encouraged by Study Indicating Resistance to Bt Toxin is Surprisingly Absent from Pests (10-03-03)
The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is encouraged by a recent study by USDA-funded scientists indicating insects are not developing resistance to transgenic crops containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
According to an article published in the September 2003 issue of Nature Biotechnology, findings from the study suggest that transgenic Bt crops could enjoy more extended, more profitable commercial life cycles and that the measures established to mitigate resistance before the crops were introduced are paying off.
“This indicates that refuges are working in the United States,” said Nathan Danielson, NCGA manager of research and business development.
Helen Inman, chair of the NCGA Biotech Working Group agreed with Danielson’s assessment. “I feel this study indicates producers are following the guidelines of refuge, because if they were ignoring the guidelines, resistance would be developed.”
As a result of the study, Danielson noted, there may be a movement to re-examine refuge criteria. “This is good, reproducible research that shows proper stewardship of biotechnology will pay off in biotech’s continued effectiveness,” he concluded.
To read the Nature Biotechnology article in its entirety, click here.
Last reviewed
October 3, 2003