He collaborated with Asgrow Seed Company on the development of Freedom II , a genetically engineered virus-resistant squash, which was commercialized in 1995. Genetic engineering of fruits and vegetables can increase quality and other desirable characteristics while decreasing the amount of chemicals required for pest control. Bioengineering desired traits also reduces the time it takes plant breeders to alter a plant by traditional breeding methods, and can save millions of dollars in crop development. The transgenic papaya will have no harmful effects to humans since PRSV-infected fruits, which contain the gene, are commonly eaten by consumers. Dennis has a special gift for combining outstanding science with real-world problems to make a positive impact on society.
Deregulation is also an important landmark for academia.
Previous regulatory exemptions, starting with the FlavrSavr tomato in 1994, have gone to large corporate developers, including Calgene, Monsanto, Asgrow Seed, and Pioneer Hybrid. USDA deregulation is a major milestone in the path to commercializing a PRSV-resistant papaya, but several hurdles remain. Other federal agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, must also clear the genetically engineered papaya. In addition, licenses for use of the new technology for papaya production are still being negotiated with corporate patent holders. This aspect is being handled by the Papaya Administrative Committee, based in Hilo, Hawaii, which manages the federal marketing order for the fruit.