Development and Agronomic Performance of the First Genetically Modified Bean Golden Mosaic Virus-Resistant Common Bean Cultivar

Golden mosaic, caused by Bean golden mosaic virus (BGMV), is the main common bean viral disease in Brazil, causing grain yield losses ranging from 40 to 100%, depending on the rate of occurrence, time of sowing, and the cultivar used. Up to now, effective resistance to the disease has not been identified in genotypes of the Phaseolus genus tested in Brazil. For this reason, Embrapa used genetic engineering to develop a transgenic common bean resistant to golden mosaic (Embrapa 5.1 event), using RNA interference (RNAi) technology and plant transformation through the biolistic method. The first commercial product developed with the golden mosaic-resistance technology is the cultivar BRS FC401 RMD, the first genetically modified common bean cultivar developed in the world. It has high yield potential, standard commercial grains, a normal cycle (85–94 days), and effective resistance to golden mosaic and to common mosaic viruses. It also has moderate resistance to other important bean diseases, such as anthracnose, rust, and common bacterial blight. Nevertheless, it is susceptible to angular leaf spot and to Cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV, carlavirus). BRS FC401 RMD can contribute in an effective manner to sustainability of the common bean crop in Brazilian agribusiness, and to stability in the supply and price of common bean grains in the domestic market. It is also recognized as a good example of applying biotechnology tools for the improvement of agricultural sustainability and food security for a non-industrial crop.