Nourhan Hisham Mohamed

94614

DroughtGUARD soybean
DroughtGUARD soybean is genetically modified to enhance its ability
to withstand drought stress.

DroughtGUARD soybean is developed through the introduction of

targeted genes into the soybean genome, which provide the plant with
drought tolerance. This genetic modification involves incorporating
genes that encode proteins participating in stress response pathways and
water management. By augmenting the soybean's capacity to conserve
water and regulate its physiological processes when faced with drought
conditions, DroughtGUARD soybean aims to sustain productivity even
under situations of limited water availability. Through these genetic
enhancements, DroughtGUARD soybean offers the potential to mitigate
the detrimental impact of drought on soybean crops and contribute to
more resilient and productive agricultural practices.

Transgenic Genes:
The primary transgenic genes incorporated into DroughtGUARD soybean
include the " AtDREB1A " gene and the " ZmPIP2;1" gene.
1. AtDREB1A Gene: The AtDREB1A gene is sourced from Arabidopsis
thaliana, a model plant for stress tolerance research. It encodes for
a transcription factor that activates genes involved in drought stress
response pathways. By introducing the AtDREB1A gene,
 DroughtGUARD soybean enhances the plant's ability to activate
stress-responsive genes and initiate adaptive mechanisms during
water scarcity.
2. ZmPIP2;1 Gene: This gene is derived from maize and encodes for a
protein called plasma membrane intrinsic protein (PIP2;1). PIP2;1
plays a crucial role in regulating water movement through cell
membranes. By introducing the ZmPIP2;1 gene into soybean,
DroughtGUARD enhances the plant's water-use efficiency and
minimizes water loss through improved water transport and
retention

Biosafety Tests:
As with any genetically modified crop, DroughtGUARD soybean
underwent comprehensive biosafety evaluations to assess its safety for
the environment, human health, and non-target organisms. These tests
involved laboratory studies, greenhouse trials, and field trials.
The biosafety assessments of DroughtGUARD soybean focused on
evaluating its molecular characteristics, agronomic performance,
potential allergenicity, toxicity, and environmental impact. The studies
aimed to ensure that the genetic modifications introduced into the
soybean variety did not pose significant risks to the ecosystem, human
health, or non-GMO soybean varieties.

Successful Biosafety Results:

DroughtGUARD soybean successfully passed the biosafety tests
conducted, demonstrating that it does not pose any significant risks to
the environment, human health, or non-target organisms. The transgenic
soybean variety exhibited comparable agronomic performance to non-
GMO soybean varieties, both under normal and drought conditions.
Importantly, no evidence of increased allergenicity or toxicity was found
in DroughtGUARD soybean compared to conventional soybean varieties.

Commercialization:
Following the successful completion of biosafety tests, DroughtGUARD
soybean was commercialized in countries where genetically modified
crops are approved for cultivation. The commercial availability of
DroughtGUARD soybean provides farmers with a valuable tool to
mitigate the negative impact of drought on soybean yields. By enhancing
the plant's drought tolerance, DroughtGUARD soybean contributes to
the stability of soybean production, ensuring a more reliable supply of
this essential crop even in water-limited regions.