Genetically modified tree

<p>A genetically modified tree (GMt, GM tree, genetically engineered tree, GE tree or transgenic tree) is a tree whose <a href="/facts/DNA/nB89Iauz">DNA</a> has been modified using <a href="/facts/Genetic_engineering/vwdlDR61">genetic engineering</a> techniques. In most cases the aim is to introduce a novel <a href="/facts/Trait_(biology)/seYSUTul">trait</a> to the plant which does not occur naturally within the species.  Examples include resistance to certain pests, diseases, environmental conditions, and <a href="/facts/Herbicide/FN93bvrk">herbicide</a> tolerance, or the alteration of <a href="/facts/Lignin/CdaxpB3b">lignin</a> levels in order to reduce <a href="/facts/Pulp_(paper)/wIlq5nWm">pulping</a> costs.
</p><p>Genetically modified <a href="/facts/Forestry/puvod5MV">forest trees</a> are not yet <a href="/facts/Regulation_of_the_release_of_genetically_modified_organisms/hfDkyjSL">approved</a> ("deregulated") for commercial use with the exception of insect-resistant <a href="/facts/Populus/SSgurBpF">poplar</a> trees in China and one case of GM Eucalyptus in Brazil. Several genetically modified forest tree species are undergoing field trials for deregulation, and much of the research is being carried out by the <a href="/facts/Pulp_and_paper_industry/EkhVtwNo">pulp and paper industry</a>, primarily with the intention of increasing the productivity of existing tree stock. Certain genetically modified <a href="/facts/Fruit_tree/avWL8DgX">orchard tree</a> species have been deregulated for commercial use in the United States including the <a href="/facts/Papaya/VKB9mrnk">papaya</a> and <a href="/facts/Plum_tree/w05NWXGc">plum</a>. The development, testing and use of GM trees remains at an early stage in comparison to <a href="/facts/GM_crops/vKkn4oVs">GM crops</a>.
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Genetically modified tree open-in-new

Genetically modified tree