3 Types of Genetic Modification
pesticides. No use of pesticides would lead to improve
Plant Genetic Modification
The easiest method of plant genetic modification used
by our wandering ancestors and until today, is simple
selection. That is, genetically heterogeneous
population of plants is inspected, and “superior”
individuals - plants with the most desired traits, like
improved palatability and yield - are selected for
continued propagation.
ex. Production of pest-resistant plants ex. Increase of
crop production
Animal Genetic Modification
Modern breeds of livestock differ dramatically from
their ancestors as a result of breeding strategies.
Established and emerging biotechnology in animal
agriculture include assisted reproductive
technologies; use of naturally occurring hormones,
such as recombinants, and biotechnologies to
enhance reproductive efficiency without affecting the
genome; and biotechnologies to enhance expression
of desirable genes.
ex. Increase of milk production per cow
ex. Double production of eggs in chickens
Genetic Modification of Microbes
Microorganisms play significant roles in food
production. They serve as primary and secondary
roles in food fermentation and in food spoilage, and
they can produce enzymes or other metabolites used
in food production and processing. Humans have used
and genetically modified microbes for centuries to
produce food, wine, bread, and cheese are common
examples of ancient foods, still popular, depend on
microbial ingredients and activities.
ex. Increase microbe-dependent-food production ex.
Increase human immunity/ resistance to microbe-
caused-diseases
Advantages of Genetic Engineering
One of the main reasons why scientists conduct
Genetic Engineering (GE) is to provide and sustain
human. The modern practice of genetic engineering
goes beyond cross-breeding different species to
create a new outcome. There are many advantages
that genetic engineering can bring the world today.
One is that it makes agricultural practices much safer
by reducing, if not totally eliminating the use of
pesticides. This will result in creating greater yields
since farmers will no longer spend extra money for
growth rate of crops and consequently create better
food products. GE allows specific traits to be
developed for plants and animals.
It can improve resistance to diseases and even stop
genetic diseases in humans. We already have genetic
testing in place to test for certain cancers. GE could be
used DNA manipulation to help treat or cure people
who are born with genetic disorders. The different
tools of genetic engineering could produce novel
medical treatments like vaccines, insulin, and even
hormone treatment. Through GE we can create more
treatments that allow us to be proactive more often
against pathogens that can have life-threatening
characteristics.
Disadvantages of Genetic Engineering
There are also disadvantages that genetic engineering
can bring like: amount of diversity that is available is
limited. The reason for this is the industry will focus
on the product or organism that performs well.
Another disadvantage is, it’s prone to technological
abuse. Currently, we have laws and treaties in place to
prevent genetic engineering abuse. However, that
does not mean that abuse on its use will not occur.
The next disadvantage is the genetic engineering
process can only be copyrighted in the United States,
a rule that GE DNA sequences can be patented. That
makes the rule more profitable for organizations to
study DNA manipulation instead of working for the
good of humanity. Another disadvantage is, it can
bring difficult legal liabilities with unintended
consequences. Seeds and crops can also be patented.
This brings issues for farmers who encounters GMOs
on their land due to unintentional spread. GE does
create a natural barrier against disease and harsh
environmental conditions. It also just extend the
resilience of plants and animals. The changes made
are not permanent benefits. More modifications are
required over time because nature eventually adapts.
Pathogens become stronger to affect the stronger
plants and animals. Our own experience with
medicines that we take like antibiotics is an evidence
to this fact.