Scientists inserted different genetic variants into the genome of Arabidopsis thaliana to change the content of glucosinulates (bitter-tasting compound). The research focused on the impact different gene variants have on the occurrence of aphids and beneficial insects (parasitoid wasps) which parasitise the aphids (Barbour et al., 2022).

Results from the experimental field trials found a reduction in genetic diversity due to NGTs which led to a destabilisation of food webs. Frequently, the number of insects was reduced or the species being investigated became extinct. One of the genetic variants caused a strong increase in the number of the aphids and wasps, which can also cause disturbances in ecosystems (Barbour et al., 2022). The indications are that large-scale releases of NGT plants with specific changes in ‘keystone’ genes can result in a decrease of biodiversity, with cascading effects on several ecosystem levels.

Again, the number and type of genetic changes applied in these experiments are within the proposed EU threshold for fast-track release and market approval.

Publication date / last update

February 2026

Further information:

Barbour et al. (2022) A keystone gene underlies the persistence of an experimental
food web. Science, 376(6588): 70-73.