One of the early successes of biotechnology has been the ability to insert genes
from a naturally occurring Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt.) bacteriium
into corn, cotton, and other crops to impart internal protection from insect
feeding. Bt. crops are proving to be a valuable tool for popular "integrated
crop management" programs and are thus making new pest control choices possible
for farmers.
Improving weed control programs.
Advances in biotechnology have made weed control more efficient and
cost-effective in soybeans and other crops by producing crops that are
resistant to broad-spectrum herbicides that would otherwise damage the crop.
Preventing crop loss to plant disease.
Agricultural crops are exposed to numerous fungi and other sources of disease
that can destroy crops in the field. Research at SBI is underway to increase
the activity of a plant's own disease defense systems. This approach promises
more effective control of plant disease in the future.
Improving food quality.
Another objective of agricultural biotechnology research is improving the
quality and nutritional benefits of food crops. Early promise is seen from
crops like "Golden Rice" which could help reduce vitamin A deficiency in the
diets of people in developing countries, or vegetables with increased levels of
dietary antioxidants that may reduce cancer and other human diseases.
