GM Test Matrices
The GM Inspectorate GM element/event matrices are provided to assist companies or individuals submit queries about molecular-based analytical tests for GMOs. The matrices can be used either to determine how effective a particular test would be in detecting a single GMO or a number of known GMOs, or all known GMOs, or they can be used to determine what elements should be included in a particular analytical test to ensure a GMO, or number of GMOs will be detected. The matrices do not provide guidance on any other components of molecular–based analytical tests. Further information on the desirable components of analytical tests for GMOs can be found in the GM Inspectorate’s guidance document.
The information in these GM test reference matrices is presented by Fera free of charge and without warranty. All data is obtained from publicly available sources and does not originate from Defra. They have been developed with the aim of improving the quality of GM PCR tests by providing a convenient method of identifying, which genetic elements occur in which GM events and vice versa. Ultimately seed companies might use such information as a guide to the quality of their testing regime. Fera disclaims any responsibility for the consequences of using this information and shall not be held liable to any party who may choose to rely on the information to their detriment.
Food and Environment Research Agency
September 2009
How to use the matrices:
1. Open the spreadsheet using the attached link: GM test matrices
2. Select the option to ‘enable macros’ and open as a ‘read only’ document
3. A matrix is available for Brassica napus (spring and winter oilseed rape, swede and swede forage rape) and Brassica rapa (turnip, turnip fodder rape, stubble turnips, pak choi, Chinese cabbage, etc.), Zea mays (maize and sweetcorn) and Glycine max (soya), and each is provided as a separate worksheet. Select the appropriate worksheet for the crop of interest
4. Each matrix displays a list of GM test elements (e.g. P35s, TNOS) against a list of GM events (e.g. GT 73, MS8xRF3). The matrix allows the user to identify which events can be detected using different a testing regime based on specific GM test elements.
5. The list of test elements available to select are highlighted in the BOLD yellow row of cells along the top of each worksheet. The list of available elements varies depending on crop type.
Use the appropriate check box in the BOLD cyan row of cells, immediately beneath the list of test elements, to select each element relevant to your particular test regime or query.
6. The 1st column in the matrix displays the name of a GM event, entries in this column are separated into two categories, those which have been released commercially (pale yellow) and those which have been used for experimental releases (pale green).
7. The BOLD cyan column to the right of the main table indicates if an event is detected or not by the elements selected and also how many of the elements in that particular GM line that are detected out of the total number of elements in the line,
8. A summary of the number of GM events out of the total number of events in the matrix that are detected by the selected testing regime, is displayed in the BOLD yellow cell at the top of the worksheet. This summary is then further sub-divided into commercial and experimental releases
9. To clear the testing regime entered either select clear all test elements or click the relevant check box to unselect an individual element. The user can also select additional elements to see how adding extra elements to the testing regime would affect what could be detected.