No abstract

production and the extent and pattern of flowering. Genes that confer male sterility are of particular value to the breeder, and account for about 8% of applications.Although much of the controversy surrounding genetically modified crops concerns herbicide tolerance, only 7% of applications relate directly to this trait. These include genes encoding glutathione S-transferase IIIc, acetolactate synthase, lycopene cyclase and a protein conferring glyphosate resistance. The complexity of gene function is well illustrated by the acetyl-CoA carboxylase gene, which confers herbicide tolerance in monocotyledons but is claimed primarily for regulating oil content.