The UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has released changes to the regulation of genome edited plants to enable freer R&D when using the technology. The step has been welcomed by the John Innes Centre, in the UK.

“Gene editing is a powerful tool that will help us make plant breeding more efficient and precise by mimicking natural processes that currently take many years to complete,” says professor Gideon Henderson, chief scientific adviser, Defra.  

Scientists and plant breeders across England can now apply gene editing technologies and plant-based R&D with greater ease. 

The rules apply to plants wher genome editing creates new varieties similar to those bred traditionally but more slowly. It will also unlock research opportunities to grow crops using fewer pesticides.

Commercial cultivation of GMOs
With the new rules in place scientists will be able to assess new crops in real-world conditions more easily. Harnessing genetic resources will help farmers to grow more resilient crops and facilitate innovative ways to protect the environment by protecting pollinators through the reduction of pesticide and herbicide use.

Gene edited plants will still be classified as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), while its commercial cultivation will continue to be authorized under the existing rules.

“We use gene editing to understand and develop crops which are more nutritious and resilient to climate change and diseases. Gene editing is a powerful technique that will play a critical role in helping us address the global challenges of climate change and food security while at the same time ensuring biodiversity,” says professor Dale Sanders FRS, director of the John Innes Centre.

Gene editing consultationGene edited plants will still be classified as genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
“This is a step in the right direction that will allow researchers to run more field trials of gene-edited crops. I am pleased to see the government acting to bring these changes in,” he says. 

“To make the most of these discoveries, we need to translate our science to benefits for consumers by making products available on supermarket shelves,” continues Sanders. 

The legislation follows the launch of the government’s response to the gene editing consultation last year. It assists in the adoption of a more proportionate approach to the regulation of genetic technologies.