Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 60-69 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 67 Genetic modifications, such as the overexpression of the zmm28 gene, have not only enhanced herbicide tolerance but also significantly increased maize grain yield and yield stability under various environmental conditions. This highlights the dual benefits of genetic engineering in improving both crop protection and productivity. The emergence of glyphosate-resistant weeds due to the repetitive use of glyphosate-tolerant crops has necessitated the development of new strategies and herbicide combinations to manage resistant weed populations effectively. This includes the use of transgenic maize with high-level tolerance to herbicides like dicamba. The future of genetically engineered herbicide-tolerant maize appears promising, with significant potential to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. The continuous development of new herbicide tolerance traits and the integration of multiple herbicide resistances in a single crop variety are likely to provide farmers with more effective tools for weed management. This will be crucial in addressing the challenges posed by herbicide-resistant weeds and ensuring long-term crop protection. Moreover, the safety and nutritional equivalence of GE herbicide-tolerant maize, as demonstrated by rigorous scientific studies, support its continued adoption and acceptance. The positive impact on yield and agronomic performance further underscores the value of genetic engineering in meeting the growing global demand for food. However, it is essential to remain vigilant about the potential risks and unintended consequences associated with genetic modifications. Ongoing research and monitoring are necessary to ensure that these technologies are used responsibly and sustainably. Collaborative efforts between scientists, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies will be key to maximizing the benefits of genetically engineered herbicide-tolerant maize while minimizing any adverse impacts. Genetically engineered herbicide-tolerant maize holds great promise for the future of agriculture. By leveraging advanced genetic engineering techniques, we can develop crop varieties that are not only more resilient to herbicides but also capable of delivering higher yields and improved environmental outcomes. This will be instrumental in achieving sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring food security for future generations. Acknowledgments Authors would like to express our gratitude to the two anonymous peer reviewers. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. References Achary V., Sheri V., Manna M., Panditi V., Borphukan B., Ram B., Agarwal A., Fartyal D., Teotia D., Masakapalli S., Agrawal P., and Reddy M., 2020, Overexpression of improved EPSPS gene results in field level glyphosate tolerance and higher grain yield in rice, Plant Biotechnology Journal, 18: 2504-2519. https://doi.org/10.1111/pbi.13428 Bao J., Gao Y., Li Y., Wu S., Li J., Dong Z., and Wan X., 2022, Genetic analysis and fine mapping of ZmGHT1 conferring glufosinate herbicide tolerance in maize (Zeamays L.), International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(19): 11481. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231911481 Bonny S., 2016, Genetically modified herbicide-tolerant crops, weeds, and herbicides: overview and impact, Environmental Management, 57: 31-48. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00267-015-0589-7. PMid:26296738 Brookes G., 2019, Twenty-one years of using insect resistant (GM) maize in spain and portugal: farm-level economic and environmental contributions, GM Crops and Food, 10: 90-101. https://doi.org/10.1080/21645698.2019.1614393 Cao M., Sato S., Behrens M., Jiang W., Clemente T., and Weeks, D., 2011, Genetic engineering of maize (Zea mays) for high-level tolerance to treatment with the herbicide dicamba, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 59(11): 5830-5834. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf104233h Champion G., May M., Bennett S., Brooks D., Clark S., Daniels R., Firbank L., Haughton A., Hawes C., Heard M., Perry J., Randle Z., Rossall M., Rothery P., Skellern M., Scott R., Squire G., and Thomas, M., 2003, Crop management and agronomic context of the farm scale evaluations of genetically modified herbicide-tolerant crops, Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London Series B, 358(1439): 1801-1818. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2003.1405
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