Science-based safety assessment of genetically modified DP915635 maize

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology
• Genetics

Background:

• Corn rootworm infestations cause significant damage to maize crops.
• Genetically modified (GM) crops offer a targeted approach to pest control.
• Maize event DP-915635-4 was developed to express the IPD079Ea protein for insect resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety of genetically modified maize event DP-915635-4.
• To evaluate the safety of the IPD079Ea protein for food, feed, and environmental use.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of a modernized safety assessment model.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the modernized safety assessment model by CropLife International (CLI).
• Conducted molecular characterization of inserted DNA and protein expression analysis.
• Performed safety assessments for food, feed, and environmental impact, including non-target organisms.

Main Results:

• No hazards were identified for human or animal consumption of DP-915635-4 maize.
• The IPD079Ea protein's safety was confirmed, negating the need for supplementary studies.
• Environmental risk assessment indicated no unreasonable adverse effects on non-target organisms.

Conclusions:

• Genetically modified maize event DP-915635-4 is safe for food, feed, and environmental use.
• The modernized safety assessment model effectively demonstrates the safety of GM crop plants.
• DP-915635-4 maize provides a viable solution for managing corn rootworm damage.