Implantation of the PCR technique for the detection of genetically modified foodstuffs

• Grant number: 99/11559-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: March 01, 2000
• End date: September 30, 2004
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Molecular Biology
• Principal Investigator: Janete Walter Moura
• Grantee: Janete Walter Moura
• Company: ALS Laboratórios LS Ltda
• City: São Paulo

Abstract

The objective is to implement and standardize the PCR technique for the detection of GM foodstuffs, reproducing tests previously carried out in other laboratories and aiming to adapt them to the company. The project means to train personnel from Tecam - Tecnologia Ambiental Ltda. to develop and to offer molecular tests related to the detection of Genetically Modified Organisms. During the first phase, we carried out the detection of the genetic elements introduced into foodstuffs in natura through the PCR method, developing specific reagents, standardizing the methodologies of extraction and measuring the sensibility and the specificity of the reactions of PCR. The project was very successful in its first phase and for the second phase we intend to develop our own technique, the successful marketing of which will depend on constant research practice in the area of Molecular Biology. In parallel, we will be carrying out research and standardization of PCR in processed foodstuffs and other GMOs that may be important in the national scenario. In some countries such as the United States, Canada and the Argentine, foodstuffs that originate from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been widely accepted. The rejection of transgenic foods on the part of some European Community and Asian countries is generating a demand for conventional foodstuffs. These markets are demanding the assurance of the absence of contamination by GMOs through their food chain production. A large part of the raw materials exported from Brazil are destined for these markets. (AU)