The detection of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is becoming very
complex, with new GMOs, approved and unapproved, constantly entering world
markets. Traceability and labelling of GMOs is defined in regulations
worldwide, demanding accurate and reliable testing to support the requirements
of legislation. This Brief provides the current state-of-the-art on all key
topics involved in GMO testing and is a source of detailed practical
information for laboratories. Special focus is given to qualitative and
quantitative real-time PCR analysis relevant to all areas where detection and
identification rely on nucleic acid-based methods. The following topics,
important for testing laboratories, are also discussed: organization of the
laboratory, focusing on aspects of the quality system and methods for testing,
validation and verification of methods, and measurement uncertainty. The Brief
also discusses the new challenges of GMOs and novel modified organisms, using
new technologies, and the possible solutions for GMO detection, including
bioinformatics tools. Finally, legislation on GMOs and sources of information
on GMOs are provided, which are relevant not only to testing laboratories, but
to anyone interested in GMOs.The authors of this Brief have many years of
experience in GMO testing, development of real-time PCR methods, implementation
of quality system requirements, validations and verification of methods, and
measurement uncertainty. The National Institute of Biology is a highly
qualified research laboratory and a National Reference Laboratory, which also
performs routine analyses of food, feed and seed. The Institute for Health and
Consumer Protection of the European Union Joint Research Centre has extensive
knowledge and experience of GMO detection. It hosts the European Union
Reference Laboratory for GM Food and Feed in addition to chairing the European
Network of GMO Laboratories.
