Biopharming reaps fear: The Denver Post

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A farmer in northeastern Colorado is set to plant a highly restricted corn crop that poses significant biosecurity risks, requiring a one-mile buffer zone to prevent pollen contamination with other crops. This crop is not intended for human or animal consumption and must remain isolated. The discussion raises concerns about the potential for genetic material from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to transfer to bacteria in the human gut. While bacteria can exchange genetic material among themselves, the possibility of plant DNA integrating into bacterial genomes remains uncertain. The conversation emphasizes the need for strict precautions to manage these risks associated with bio-engineered crops.
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A mysterious farmer at a secret location somewhere in northeastern Colorado is expected to plant a corn crop that must never be eaten by humans or animals, must never come in contact with other crops, and is so volatile, a 1-mile buffer must surround it to prevent pollen from contaminating other crops.

http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~53~1659809,00.html
 
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Has it ever been proven, or indicated, that genes of microorganisms can be transferred to other organisms in the human bowel? Since the organisms are digested, DNA is degraded and might thus provide a route for bio-engineered genes to find its way from plants to bacteria as a human being as a vector?
 
I know bacteria can obtain genetic material from other bacteria in our bowel and integrate it their genome. I don't know if they can acquire genetic material from plant, integrate it into their genome and be able to use it. It migth be possible if the DNA use for GMO was from bacterial origin.
 
I only recently learned about this. Its wonderful, but clearly precautions need to be taken/enforced.
 

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