A Three Generation Study with Genetically Modified Bt Corn inRats: Biochemical and Histopathological Investigation

Dina GhannamBiology Department Salem State College

What this study is aboutInvestigation of health risks using GM crops (Bt corn) in rats

Genetically modified food (GM): What is GM food? Advantages Disadvantages

Bt corn Bacillus thuringiensis

http://bacillusthuringiensis.pbwiki.com/f/Bacillus%20Thuringiensis.jpg

http://www.bio.davidson.edu/people/kabernd/seminar/2004/GMevents/LH/LH.html

Materials and Methods RatsAge, gender, generations, housing and environment.

Groupsgroup I, group II, group III.

DietsStandard, reference, and transgenic

Groups and diets

ExaminationGeneral observation Fertility, off springs and weight Histopathology Tissue samples, microscope, glomeruli from kidney, and liverBiochemical Blood sample, serum analysis (urea, nitrogen, uric acid, etc.)

Results General result FertilityBody weight Organ weightsHistopathology (Group III)Stomach: normalLiver and kidney

Photomicrographs of liver and kidney

Liver A-C, kidney D-F.

Blood Serum ResultsSignificant change of:Creatinine, gllobulin and albuminGroups and genders Urea uric acid

Conclusion GM food is both beneficial and harmful at the same time.Using Bt corn did not have any adverse effects.

Many (minor) changes happened at the tissue level and body fluid level

Short term study is not enough. A long term study is strongly suggested using other kinds of animals.

Because of FDA approval of GM food, considered relatively safe

http://www.nextnature.net/research/wp-content/uploads/2006/10/cube_apples(530).jpg