Efficient molecular method/s for detection of Bt brinjal Event 142

Fruit and shoot borer (FSB)-resistant Bt brinjal Event 142 with cry1Fa1 gene has been approved for biosafety research level (BRL)-II field trials by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), the competent authority in India. For regulatory compliance, systematic detection of genetically modified (GM) crops would facilitate moni­toring for the presence of a GM event in the supply chain. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR are widely used for GM detection globally. Qualitative PCR and real-time PCR assays targeting cry1Fa1 transgene were deve­loped and validated with acceptable specificity and sensitivity up to 0.01%. A multiplex (hexaplex) PCR-based screening assay simul­taneously detecting five transgenic elements and an endogenous gene was developed for Event 142. Construct-specific PCR reported herein could be emplo­yed for more specific detection. These detection assays would facilitate efficient regulatory compliance by checking unapproved Bt brinjal event in the supply chain and also address the concerns of the consumers to an extent.