701-0034-10L  Integrated Practical: Environmental Impacts of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

SemesterSpring Semester 2018
LecturersA. Hilbeck, B.  Oehen
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionGerman


AbstractThe basic elements of the risk assessment of genetically modified plants are introduced, preceded by a brief introduction to gene technology and its applications in the environment. The relevant regulations and the approval procedures are explained. The elements of risk assessment are introduced using case examples and the risks and benefits of genetically modified organisms are discussed.
ObjectiveThe students will learn the:
•- Theory of risk assessment and its practical application for genetically modified plants
•- Methods and approaches to risk assessment of genetically modified
plants
•- Application of simple methods of risk assessment to real case examples
•- Practical exercises with genetically modified plants, detection of
transgene products and their bioactivity
ContentThe practical course 'Integrated Practical Risk Analysis with GMO' will explain the basic elements of risk assessment of genetically modified plants that allows an initial estimation of their environmental consequences. This will be preceded by an introduction to the technology of genetic engineering of plants and the application of this technology in the environment and agriculture. Further, since genetically engineered organisms are subject to regulation, the relevant laws and ordinances that form the basis of the approval procedures are introduced. The elements of risk assessment are taught using most recent case examples (usually maize or wheat) and their risks and benefits will be discussed.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe practical course is carried out with the help of Bernadette Oehen, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FIBL, Frick