How is the papaya genetically modified?

The papaya is primarily genetically modified to be resistant to the papaya ringspot virus (PRSV), which devastated papaya crops, especially in Hawaii. This was achieved through the introduction of a gene from the virus itself, allowing the plant to produce a protein that protects it from infection. The most well-known genetically modified variety is the "Rainbow" papaya, which was developed in the 1990s. The genetic modification has helped restore papaya production in affected areas and has been deemed safe for consumption by regulatory agencies.