A new study from North Carolina State University and Clemson University finds that the toxin in a widely used genetically modified (GM) crop is having little impact on the crop pest called corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) – which is consistent with predictions made almost 20 years ago that had been largely ignored.
The study may be a signal to pay closer attention to warning signs about the development of resistance in agricultural pests to GM crops.
At issue is genetically engineered corn that produces a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) protein, which in turn produces a toxin called Cry1Ab. This GM corn was originally designed to address a pest called the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) and went on the market in 1996.
More information available here: https://news.ncsu.edu/2015/05/reisig-zea-2015/
