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  3. World’s First Genetically Modified Rubber Planted in Guwahati

World’s First Genetically Modified Rubber Planted in Guwahati

  • 24 Jun 2021

The world’s first genetically modified (GM) rubber plant was planted on the outskirts of Guwahati, Assam, on 22nd June 2021.

  • It was developed at the Kerala-based Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII).
  • The GM rubber plant, the first of its kind developed exclusively for the northeast, is expected to thrive in the climatic conditions of the region.

MnSOD Gene is expected to Revolutionise Plantation

  • The plant, which has additional copies of gene MnSOD (manganese containing superoxide dismutase) in it, is expected to revolutionise natural rubber production in India.
  • Growth of young rubber plants remains suspended during the winter months, which are also characterised by progressive drying of the soil. This is the reason for the long immaturity period of this crop in the region. The MnSOD gene has the ability to protect plants from the adverse effects of severe environmental stresses such as cold and drought.
  • Laboratory studies conducted at the RRII showed the GM rubber plants overexpressed the MnSOD gene as expected, offering protection to the cells. The plant is thus expected to establish well and grow fast in the region.