Microarray Method for the Screening of EU Approved GMOs by Identification of their Genetic Elements

A new method developed for the detection and identification of GMOs and based on the use of microarray technology was validated in the framework of a European project (Co-Extra project) and with the assistance of the scientific community working on GMOs. The validation was coordinated by the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission, organised by Eppendorf Array Technologies and is part of the European Co-Extra project. The validation was performed according the international ISO norms. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of the DualChip GMO as microarray method for the screening of EU approved GMOs. The method is a multiple target detection tool adapted to the screening of multiple GMOs. The method is commercially available as a GMO detection kit (Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany). The technology is based on the identification of the genetic elements first amplified by PCR, followed by hybridisation on a predefined microarray, labelling, detection, data acquisition and data analysis. Eppendorf Array Technologies provided the test samples to each validation laboratory as blind samples consisting of DNA reference samples specifically adapted to each GM element. The samples contained different GM concentrations (expressed as % of genome copies of the GM specific and the species specific DNA) enabling sensitivity tests. The trial involved twelve laboratories from eight countries of the European Union, most of them members of the ENGL and the Co-Extra project. The JRC conducted the data analyses and tested a novel fuzzy-based approach for validation of multiplex assays. The mission of the JRC is to provide customer-driven scientific and technical support for the conception, development, implementation and monitoring of EU policies. As a service of the European Commission, the JRC functions as a reference centre of science and technology for the Union. Close to the policy-making process, it serves the common interest of the Member States, while being independent of special interests, whether private or national. LB -N A - 2235-EN -C