DNA-based Methods for Detection of Genetically Modified Events in Food and Supply Chain

Efficient detection strategies for genetically modified (GM) crops need to be in compliance with regulatory frameworks and address consumer concerns. The present review describes widely employed DNA-based technologies for GM detection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR (qPCR) are the methods that can be used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of GM crops due to their specificity, sensitivity and robustness. With increase in number and complexity of genetic elements in newly developed GM events, strategies based on matrix approach, real-time PCR-based multi-target system, loop-mediated isothermal amplification, next generation sequencing, have emerged, which could facilitate cost-effective, rapid, on-site or high throughput GM detection.