Release No. 0172.95

                                   Cynthia A. Eck  (301) 734-5931
                                   Jerry Redding   (202) 720-6959

USDA TO RULE ON GENETICALLY ENGINEERED CORN

     WASHINGTON, March 1, 1995--The U.S. Department of
Agriculture is asking the public for comments on a petition for a
determination of nonregulated status for "Event 176 Corn" that is
genetically engineered for insect resistance.

     Ciba Seeds, a division of Ciba-Geigy Corp., Research Park,
N.C., has asked to produce its genetically engineered corn
without securing further USDA permits or acknowledged
notifications, according to John Payne, acting director of
biotechnology, biologics and environmental protection for USDA's
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.

     "After reviewing information submitted by Ciba Seeds, as
well as other relevant data and public comments, we'll determine
whether it is appropriate to approve or deny this request that we
no longer regulate this corn," Payne said.

     The corn is currently regulated because it is genetically
engineered with the synthetic gene that codes for an insecticidal
protein naturally produced by Bacillus thuringiensis subsp.
kurstaki (Btk).  As described in Ciba Seeds' petition, the "Event
176 Corn" was genetically engineered to produce an insect control
protein representing a truncated form of the CryIA(b) protein
that occurs naturally in Btk, a common gram-positive soil
bacterium.  

     Btk proteins are very effective against certain lepidopteran
(caterpillar) insects, including the European corn borer
(Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner)).  This major corn pest reduces
yield by disrupting normal plant physiology and causing to the
plant and ear physical damage that results in stalk lodging,
dropped ears and damaged grain.

     Payne said that USDA has the responsibility to assure that,
in releasing any bioengineered plant, no plant pest risk is
presented.  APHIS reviewers focus on the biology, propagation and
cultivation of the plant.  The reviewers examine the source of
the engineered genes, the vector used to transfer them and the
stability of the insertion.  

     For further information, contact Ved Malik, biotechnologist,
biotechnology permits, BBEP, APHIS, USDA, 4700 River Road, Unit
147, Riverdale, Md. 20737-1237; (301) 734-6774.  To obtain a copy
of the Ciba Seeds petition, contact Kay Peterson at the same
address, (301) 734-4885.

     Notice of this was published in the Feb. 21 Federal Register.
     Comments will be considered if received on or before April
24.  An original and three copies of written comments should be
sent to Docket No. 95-007-1, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service, Policy and Program Development, Regulatory Analysis and
Development, 4700 River Road, Unit 118, Riverdale, Md. 20738. 
Comments may be reviewed at USDA, Room 1141 South Building, 14th
and Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C., between 8 a.m.
and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays.  Persons
wishing access to this room are requested to call in advance of
visiting at (202) 690-2817.

                                #