ABSTRACT
Envirocore Research Centre, Department of Science and Health, Institute of Technology Carlow, Kilkenny Road, Carlow, Ireland.
Emails: germaink@itcarlow.ie; Martina.McGuinness@itcarlow.ie; David.Dowling@itcarlow.ie * Corresponding author
A microbe that is modifi ed using genetic engineering techniques is referred to as a genetically modifi ed microorganism (GMM) or, alternatively, a genetically engineered microbe (GEM). Microbes can be engineered so as to (i) improve expression of benefi cial traits, and (ii) be traceable in plant and soil systems. Studies carried out under controlled laboratory, growth chamber or greenhouse conditions facilitate the understanding of some of the underlying mechanisms of GMMs. However, fi eld studies are necessary for evaluation of the ultimate potential of GMMs in plant and soil systems since local environmental factors appear to play a critical role in the survival of microbes (both unmodifi ed parent strains and engineered strains) and in the expression of benefi cial traits. It is important, therefore, that fi eld release experiments be carried out to further investigate the factors infl uencing the introduction of engineered microbes into plant and soil systems.
