2° Partial Project Biotechnology – Genetically modified organisms Biology II 2° Partial Project Biotechnology – Genetically modified organisms

Genetically Modified Organisms What is it? Although the definition of GMOs includes organisms that have been genetically modified by selective breeding, the most commonly used definition refers to organisms modified through genetic engineering or recombinant DNA technologies. GM foods are derived from genetically modified organisms, specifically plants and animals of agricultural importance.

Some History

Creating GMOs Genetic modification involves the mutation, insertion, or deletion of genes. Inserted genes usually come from a different species in a form of horizontal gene-transfer. In nature this can occur when exogenous DNA penetrates the cell membrane for any reason. To do this artificially may require: Attaching the genes to a virus. Physically inserting the extra DNA into the nucleus of the intended host with a very small syringe. With the use of electroporation (that is, introducing DNA from one organism into the cell of another by use of an electric pulse). With very small particles fired from a gene gun.

Creating GMOs The insulin is harvested by lysing the dead bacteria and then separating out the pre-insulin from the rest by centrifugation and filtration. The pre-insulin has then to be "folded" into its active tertiary structure by treatment in a refolding vessel with buffers of various concentrations. After enzymatic cleavage of this product and chromatographic separation, the insulin product is crystallized, deep frozen (under clean room conditions), and is then ready for fill and finish.

Current use of GMOs Agricultural plants are one of the most frequently known examples of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Some benefits of genetic engineering in agriculture are increased crop yields, reduced costs, reduced need for pesticides, enhanced nutrient composition and food quality, resistance to pests and disease, greater food security, and medical benefits to the world's growing population.

Approved Commercial Products Soybean with Herbicide Tolerance Corn with Insect Resistance Canola (oil) with Altered fatty acid composition Plum with Virus resistance

Products in Development Rice with Vitamin enhancement Tobacco with vaccines against Hepatitis B Maize with Oral Vaccines Coho Salmon with faster maturation

Many industries stand to benefit from additional GMO research Many industries stand to benefit from additional GMO research. For instance, a number of microorganisms are being considered as future clean fuel producers and biodegrades. In addition, genetically modified plants may someday be used to produce recombinant vaccines. In fact, the concept of an oral vaccine expressed in plants for direct consumption by individuals is being examined as a possible solution to the spread of disease in underdeveloped countries.

Cheaper food: Easier farming means more food which, in turn, means less expensive food. This is not only beneficial for the average consumer, but it can have global implications. Increased nutritional value: GMOs can be modified to have greater nutritional value than the organism would have naturally. Advantages Heavily tested: There have been a great number of studies tracking the effects of GMOs on animals. Impact on farming: GMOs allow plants to be modified to grow in environments that would be normally inhospitable.

Disadvantages Harm to other organisms spread of new, more resistant "super weeds” and "super pests“ major trading countries that obtain most of the benefit from the production and trade of genetically modified crops possible creation of new kinds of weapons; genetic food and beverage weapons develop. possible greed of GMO manufacturing firms larger companies might have more political power, activists’ unforeseen risks and dangers due to the complexity of nature and that allergies may become more intense, and also, new allergy types may