The DBN-Ø82Ø5-8 soybean incorporates two important agronomic traits: resistance to lepidoptera pests and tolerance to the herbicide glufosinate ammonium. Its insect resistance is achieved through the expression of two Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) proteins, Cry1Ac and Cry2Ab2, encoded by the cCry1Ac and cCry2Ab2 genes. Herbicide tolerance is provided by the enzyme phosphinothricin-N-acetyltransferase (PAT), resulting from the integration of the cPAT gene into the soybean genome.
The newly approved SYN-ØØ26Ø-3 corn, also known as MZIR260, is designed to combat lepidopteran pests. It contains the Cry1Gb and Cry1Ig proteins, which provide effective resistance against these insects.
During the review process, Senasa specialists evaluated the safety and nutritional characteristics of both products. Their conclusion stated that the soybean and corn varieties are not inferior in quality to conventional hybrids and are suitable for both human consumption and animal feed.
The registration of these new crops brings Argentina’s total number of authorized GMO crops to 11 in 2025, the highest figure recorded in the past six years. The approvals reflect ongoing efforts to introduce advanced biotechnology into agriculture, aimed at strengthening pest resistance and providing farmers with effective crop management options.
The adoption of genetically modified crops plays a significant role in supporting Argentina’s agricultural productivity. With the new approvals, both domestic consumption and agricultural exports may benefit from improved crop resilience and efficiency. At the same time, the decision highlights the regulatory oversight exercised by Senasa to ensure that new biotechnologies meet safety standards before being introduced to the market.
The DBN-Ø82Ø5-8 soybean offers an alternative for producers seeking dual resistance against pests and herbicides, a feature increasingly important in regions affected by lepidopteran damage. Similarly, MZIR260 corn strengthens the portfolio of pest-resistant varieties available to farmers, contributing to yield stability in diverse environmental conditions.
With the 2025 approvals, Argentina reaffirms its position as a country actively incorporating biotechnology to enhance agricultural practices. The expansion of GMO crop authorizations reflects both a response to global agricultural challenges and a commitment to providing safe, effective options for food and feed production.
