12-5-2016
In tribute to Andrés Carrasco
For several months a strong campaign has been waged to promote a group of new biotechnologies (such as gene editing, synthetic biology, the use of micro-RNA, manipulation of gene expression through intervention in complex processes involving epigenetics, to name a few examples), presenting them as ”successors” to GMOs.
Two decades ago, the promoters of GMOs presented a long menu of promises that were never fulfilled. Today, the same sectors are telling us that these new successor biotechnologies are even more accurate, safe and efficient; that with minimal genetic intervention you can achieve extraordinary results: cures for various diseases, increases in agricultural production, elimination of pesticide use and new renewable fuels to help address climate change.