GM crops confer multiple number of benefits yet it is required to evaluate these crops from every aspect in terms of toxicity, allergenicity or if they cause any immune response. Through brisk improvement in biotech field, a number of transgenic crops have come into prominence and permitted by regulatory authorities for farming and commercialization globally. The potential risk assessment associated with transgenes effect on non-target organisms is of great concern.

The present work was carried out to study the effect of Herbicidal resistant EPSPS protein on animals. For this purpose 40 rabbits were selected i.e., Albino red eye (Newzealand breed). Rabbits are mammals and herbivores and have 95% sequence homology and similar cellular and enzymatic functions like human. Several physical, molecular, histological and biochemical analysis had confirmed the safety of EPSPS protein on non target animals.
The first goal was risk assessment of EPSPS (glyphosate tolerant gene) on rabbits. A total number of forty (40) rabbits of approximately 5-7 weeks old were selected at the start of experiment. These rabbits were placed in 4 groups with comparable body weights, i.e. A, B, C, and D respectively having 10 animals in each group. The 4 groups of animals consisted of purely control diet group (A), non transgenic diet group (B), the 33% transgenic sugarcane diet group (C) and the 40% transgenic sugarcane diet group (D). The groups were fed their particular diets for 90 days. Weight data of each group was recorded after intervals of seven days which showed no difference between these four groups. The weight and growth of all the rabbits increased with the passage of time. Molecular analyses i.e. SDS-PAGE and PCR was also confirmed the absence of EPSPS in blood and urine samples. Furthermore, histological studies gave no evident difference in cellular architecture of transgenic and non transgenic fed rabbits. Finally biochemical tests i.e., Blood urine nitrogen, Alanine transferase, Aspartate transferase, Creatinine, BUN and Cholesterol were observed. Physiological changes of organs were not confirmed in experimental groups when compared to control.
Present studies will help in successful deployment and commercial release of genetically modified sugarcane in Pakistan. Data will also be helpful in evaluating more biosafety concerns about transgenic plants and their potential impact on animals.