genetic use restriction technology

(Abbreviation: GURT). A proposed technology applying transgenesis to genetically compromise the fertility or the performance of saved seed of a cultivar or of second generation animals. The intention is to protect the market for the seed producer or to prevent undesired escape of genes. Two types of GURTs have been patented: variety-level GURT (V-GURT), which produces sterile progeny, and trait -specific GURT (T-GURT), in which only the added value transgenic trait is genetically protected. See: terminator gene, disrupter gene.