[Next-Generation Sequencing Book]
  • [Photo] J.W. Bizzaro • May 17, 2001
    ``Dr. William Folk, a professor at the University of Missouri, wants to genetically engineer soybeans to improve their nutritional value. But he faces more than scientific hurdles. He and Monsanto never agreed on how he might use a patented technique for inserting genes into the beans. `These procedures that have by and large been most useful are now inaccessible,' Dr. Folk said. Dr. Folk is feeling the effects of a major change engulfing agricultural research. Once the realm of public institutions like land-grant colleges, it is increasingly being controlled by private companies. This fundamental shift alarms some farming experts, who point out that the public research system trained thousands of farmers over the decades and vastly improved farm output both in the United States and overseas. Now, these critics say, patent restrictions are choking the free exchange of seeds and technology that nourished the public system. Research on potential crop improvements has been delayed or abandoned. And in the quest for profits, crop development for poor countries could be neglected.''

    Full story (free registration required):
    http://www.nytimes.com/2001/05/15/science/15CROP.html

    Reference by Slashdot.org.

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