Will gene-edited and other GM crops fail sustainable food systems?

摘要: Abstract The role of genetically modified (GM) crops in supporting sustainable food systems is an ongoing controversy. Underlying this controversy, I will argue, are radically different definitions agricultural sustainability. One a narrow definition, based on amelioration current unsustainable practices, such as the use synthetic pesticides agriculture. other broad long-term promotion human and ecosystem health. To assess sustainability impacts GM crops, review first provides (1) brief summary herbicide-tolerant Bacillus thuringiensis pesticidal (2) overview plant breeding, with focus problem unintended traits (UTs) commercial crops. These UTs, major yet underappreciated contributor to their lack asks next whether new complex biofortification, or subset techniques called gene editing, can benefit Golden Rice case study UTs carrying traits. Given failings Rice, caused part by key question editing more precise outcomes predictable. address this, summarizes known effects potential for introducing UTs. conclude that, despite promise techniques, including gene-edited unlikely meet either agronomic broader social environmental requirements ends discussion how breeders best support promote agriculture, thus help create systems.