Through the Looking Glass - Biotechnology and its Potential Protein Impact on Traditional Forestry, 2000 Pulping / Process & Product Quality Conference Proceedings

A. S. Foudin--A century ago, Mendel’s classic work on plant genetics was rediscovered. Less than 50 years ago the structure and function of DNA was elucidated, and the genetic revolution was launched. Today, genetic engineering has profoundly altered the way new plant varieties are developed and the characteristics they possess. The leading agricultural row crops have been engineered for endogenous herbicide, pest, and disease resistance. Research and development continues to focus on plant genomics, biology, and biochemistry. More than 25% of field research involves non-traditional value-added traits such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and plastics. Although advances in silvaculture have lagged behind herbaceous plants, continued research in tree biotechnology is expected to drastically change the nature of forestry and forest products in the next two decades. Genetically engineered trees with disease, insect, and herbicide resistance are already being tested experimentally in the field.