Assessment of genetically modified maize MON 89034 × 1507 × MIR162 × NK603 × DAS-40278-9 for food and feed uses, under regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 (application EFSA-GMO-NL-2018-151) by Dow AgroSciences

The GMO Panel assessed the five-event stacked maize MON 89034 x 1507 x MIR162 x NK603 x DAS-40278-9, which is derived from crossing four genetically engineered maize events (EFSA, 2022a). The maize contains genes conferring resistance to four herbicides and produces six insecticidal proteins:
• MON 89034 expressing Cry1A.105 and Cry2Ab2 insecticidal proteins;
• 1507 expressing the Cry1F insecticidal protein and phosphinothricin acetyl transferase (PAT) protein for tolerance to glufosinate-containing herbicides;
• MIR162 expressing Vip3Aa20 (for protection against certain lepidopteran pests) and PMI (selectable marker);
• NK603 expressing the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (CP4 EPSPS) and its variant CP4 EPSPS L214P protein
• DAS-40278-9 expressing the aryloxyalkanoate dioxygenase 1 (AAD-1) protein for tolerance to 2,4-D and quizalofop.

Consequently, the stacked maize produces four insecticidal toxins (Cry1A.105, Cry2Ab2, Cry1F and VIP3A20) that target lepidoptera insects). Further, the maize is resistant to four groups of complementary of herbicides (glyphosate, glufosinate, quizalofop- and 2,4-D-containing herbicides).