DNA-TRACK: Traceability of DNA fragments through the food chain by DNA/PNA techniques: application to novel foods

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 00.0342

Key words (English)

GMO; real time PCR; PCR inhibitors; polyphenol; DNA extraction;
Agriculture; Economic Aspects; Food; Industrial Manufacture; Life Sciences; Medicine; Health; Safety

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: QLK1-2000-01658

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 5. Frame Research Programme - 1.1.1 Food, nutrition and health

Short description (English)

See abstract

Partners and International Organizations (English)

Coordinator: University of Parma (I)

Abstract (English)

The project concerns DNAs detection in raw materials and foods. Traceability of DNA tracts through the food chain will be studied. The project involves well-established methods based on PCR , advanced PCR methods real time PCR (RT-PCR) which allow precise quantitation, and new method development based on DNA microarrays. A new PNA-technology, actually aimed at biomedical diagnostics will be established as complementary to PCR, aimed at improving sensitivity, selectivity and increased detection limits in food. Validation of different methods will be performed, in order to provide updated criteria of choice in food control through the food chain. Application to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) will be performed. Food industries, retailer's groups, consumers' associations and universities are involved.

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 00.0342