Challenges in testing genetically modified crops for potential increases in endogenous allergen expression for...

Area of Science:

• Food science
• Allergenicity assessment
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Premarket assessment of genetically modified (GM) plants includes evaluating food allergy risks.
• Key risks involve gene transfer of allergens and newly expressed proteins becoming allergenic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To question the relevance and value of evaluating endogenous allergens in genetically modified (GM) plants.
• To investigate the natural variation of allergens in crops like maize and soybean.

Main Methods:

• Assessment of allergenicity based on gene transfer, protein identity, digestibility, and abundance.
• Analysis of endogenous allergen expression in common allergenic sources (e.g., soybean) and rarely allergenic plants (e.g., maize, rice).
• Quantification of natural variation in major maize allergen (lipid transfer protein) and IgE binding in soybean varieties.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a 15-fold difference in a major maize allergen across nine varieties.
• Observed complex variations in IgE binding to different soybean varieties.
• Highlighted the lack of established acceptance criteria for endogenous allergen evaluation.

Conclusions:

• The value of evaluating endogenous allergens in GM plants is questionable unless the modification aims to create hypoallergenic crops.
• Natural variations in allergen concentrations complicate regulatory assessments.
• Further research is needed on acceptance criteria and natural allergen variability.