Jocellie Marquez
Transgenic zeaxanthin potatoes and their impact on potato-associated bacteria
Abstract: This project studied the impact of transgenic (zeaxanthin) potatoes on plant-associated microorganisms. Genetically modified potatoes that accumulate zeaxanthin were of particular interest due to the potential optical health benefits of zeaxanthin, a carotenoid considered to have preventive effects against age-related blindness. Culture-independent methods specifically DNA-based techniques were used to analyze the bacterial communities in the soil and parts of the potatoes. In addition, culture-dependent techniques, such as Dual Culture Test, were utilized to identify and characterize microorganisms that can grow on culture media. These bacteria and fungi were then tested and monitored for antagonistic activity against plant pathogens Rhizoctonia and Verticillium. Subsequently, the findings will then be compared to the plant-associated microorganism communities of normal potatoes as a risk assessment of the impact genetic engineered plants have on the environment.