Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) : University of Southern Mindanao

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN
MINDANAO
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)
Course Instructor: Meriam M. Rubio

Subject: Science, Technology and Society (STS)
Topic Outline
I. Introduction to Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
a) Definition of GMOs
b) The science behind genetic modification: Recombinant DNA technology, CRISPR, etc.
c) Historical development and evolution of genetic modification
II. Why Modify Genes: The Rationale Behind GMOs
a) Improved crop yield and nutritional value historical development and evolution of
genetic modification
b) Resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental conditions
c) Medical applications: Gene therapy, pharmaceutical production, etc.
d) Other applications: Biofuels, bioplastics, etc.
III. The Benefits of GMOs
a) Increased food security and sustainability
b) Advancements in medical treatments and therapies
c) Economic benefits for producers
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 2

Topic Outline
IV. The Risks and Concerns of GMOs
a) Increased food security and sustainability
b) Advancements in medical treatments and therapies
c) Economic benefits for producers
V. Ethical Considerations and Controversies Surrounding GMOs
a) The Right to Know: GMO Labeling and Public Awareness
b) Ownership and patent issues: The corporatization of food supply
VI. Conclusion
a) The future of GMOs: Emerging technologies and their potential
b) Balancing benefits, risks, and ethical considerations in GMO usage

Intended Learning Outcomes
• Define and describe what genetically modified organisms (GMO) are and how they
are developed.
• Understand and explain the reasons for genetic modification in organisms.

• Identify the applications and benefits of GMOs in agriculture, medicine, and other
industries.
• Analyze the potential environmental and health risks associated with GMOs.
• Discuss the ethical considerations and controversies surrounding the use of GMOs.
4
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)
MINDANAO
Introduction to
Genetically Modified
Organisms (GMOs)
Introduction to Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
What is GMO?
• It is a plant, animal, microorganism or other organism whose genetic makeup has
been modified in a laboratory using genetic engineering or transgenic technology.
• This creates combinations of plant, animal, bacterial, and virus genes that do not
occur in nature or through traditional crossbreeding methods.
• It is widely used in agriculture to improve crop productivity and food production.
Example of genetically modified Crops:
o Canola, Corn, Cotton, Papaya, Soy, Sugar beet, Yellow summer squash/zucchini,

What is the science behind genetic modification?

Genetic Modification – It refers to the process of altering an organism's genetic material
to introduce desired traits or characteristics.
 Techniques in genetic modifications

• Recombinant DNA Technology
- It involves the manipulation and combination of genetic material from different sources.
- It allows scientists to isolate specific genes or DNA segments and insert them into the genome of
another organism, resulting in the expression of new traits.
 Process in Recombinant DNA Technology:
 Isolating the target gene of interest from the source organism.
 Inserting the gene into a vector, such as a plasmid or a viral DNA sequence.
 Introducing the recombinant vector into the host organism, which can be a bacterium,
plant, or animal.
 Allowing the host organism to replicate and express the inserted gene, producing the
desired trait or protein.(VIDEO PRESENTATION REGARDING THE PROCESS NEXT SLIDE TO FURTHER UNDERSTAND)
PROCESS AND PRINCIPLES IN RECOMBINANT DNA

TECHNOLOGY
Insert Running Title 8

• CRISPR Technology
- It is based on the natural defense mechanisms found in bacteria and archaea against viral
infections.
 2 main components of CRISPR system:
 Cas9 protein
 guide RNA (gRNA)
o It is designed to be complementary to a specific target DNA sequence within a
genome.
o When the Cas9 protein is guided by the gRNA to the target sequence, it acts as a
molecular pair of "scissors" and cuts the DNA at that location.
o Once the DNA is cut, the cell's natural repair mechanisms come into play. By
introducing a modified DNA template along with the CRISPR components, it is
possible to make precise changes in the DNA sequence during the repair process.
o This allows researchers to edit, insert, or delete specific genes or DNA segments
with high precision. (VIDEO PRESENTATION TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THE CONCEPT)

PROCESS AND PRINCIPLES IN CRISPR TECHNOLOGY

Historical development and evolution of genetic modification

 Discovery of DNA Structure
• In 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick elucidated the structure of DNA, which laid the foundation
for understanding the genetic code and how genes function
 Development of Recombinant DNA Technology

• In the 1970s, the development of recombinant DNA technology revolutionized genetic modification.
• This technique allowed scientists to isolate, manipulate, and recombine genes from different
organisms. The discovery and use of restriction enzymes, which can cut DNA at specific sequences,
played a crucial role in this process.
 Creation of Transgenic Organisms
• In 1974, the first successful creation of a transgenic organism occurred when scientists inserted a
frog gene into a mouse embryo.
• This milestone demonstrated the potential for introducing foreign genes into organisms and paved
the way for future applications.


 Production of Genetically Modified Microorganisms
• During the 1980s, genetic modification primarily focused on microorganisms. Genetically modified
bacteria were developed for the production of pharmaceuticals, such as insulin and human growth
hormone.
 Development of Plant Genetic Modification
• In the 1980s and 1990s, researchers began exploring the genetic modification of plants.
• The first genetically modified crops were developed to exhibit traits such as herbicide resistance and
pest resistance.
• In 1994, the Flavr Savr tomato became the first genetically modified food to be commercially
available.
 Advancements in Gene Editing Techniques
• The development of gene editing technologies, such as zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) and
transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), in the early 2000s enabled more precise
modifications of the genome. However, these techniques were complex and time-consuming.


 Emergence of CRISPR-Cas9
• The breakthrough discovery of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology occurred in 2012.
• CRISPR-Cas9 revolutionized the field by providing a simple, efficient, and highly precise method for
gene editing. It quickly became the dominant gene editing tool due to its versatility and accessibility.
 Expansion of Application
• With advancements in genetic modification techniques, applications have expanded across various
fields.
• Genetically modified crops with improved traits, such as increased yield, enhanced nutrition, and
resistance to pests, diseases, or environmental conditions, have been developed.
• Gene editing has also found applications in medicine, including potential treatments for genetic
diseases and the development of more precise diagnostic tools.

MINDANAO
Why Modify Genes: The

Rationale Behind GMOs
Why Modify Genes: The Rationale Behind GMOs
Improved crop yield and nutritional value historical development

and evolution of genetic modification
• The improvement of crop yield and nutritional value through genetic modification has been a major
focus of research and development in the field of agricultural biotechnology.
• The summary of the historical development and evolution of genetic modification in relation to crop
yield and nutritional value:
 Early Genetic Modification for Crop Improvement
• In the 1980s, researchers began exploring the genetic modification of crops to enhance their yield
and nutritional value.
• The primary focus was on introducing traits such as herbicide resistance and pest resistance to
improve crop productivity.
 Development of Transgenic Crop
• Transgenic crops, also known as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), were developed during the
1990s.
• This involved the insertion of genes from other organisms into crop plants to confer specific desired
traits.
• For example, the insertion of a gene from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) into crops like
cotton and corn provided them with built-in resistance against certain pests, reducing the need for
chemical pesticides. Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 15

 Improved Nutritional Content
• Genetic modification has also been used to enhance the nutritional content of crops. One notable
example is the development of "Golden Rice" in the late 1990s.
• Scientists inserted genes responsible for beta-carotene synthesis (a precursor of vitamin A) into rice,
aiming to combat vitamin A deficiency in developing countries.
 Marker-Assisted Breeding
• Marker-assisted breeding is a technique that combines traditional breeding methods with genetic
markers to accelerate the development of improved crop varieties.
• Genetic markers linked to desired traits, such as yield or nutritional content, are identified and used
to select plants with those traits more efficiently.
• This approach has facilitated the breeding of crops with improved yield potential and nutritional
profiles.


 Precision Gene Editing
• The development of gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, has further advanced the
improvement of crop yield and nutritional value.
• Gene editing enables precise modifications of specific genes within the plant genome.
• This technology has been used to enhance traits such as disease resistance, stress tolerance, and
nutritional content in crops.
 Multi-gene Stacking
• Multi-gene stacking involves introducing multiple genes into a crop plant to simultaneously confer
multiple desirable traits.
• This approach allows for the combination of traits like increased yield potential, enhanced
nutritional content, pest resistance, and tolerance to environmental stresses in a single variety.


 Future Directions
• Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on further enhancing crop yield and
nutritional value through genetic modification.
• This includes exploring traits related to drought tolerance, nitrogen use efficiency, and improved
nutrient uptake, as well as biofortification to increase the levels of essential vitamins and minerals in
crops.

Resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental conditions
• GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.
One of the primary goals of GMOs is to introduce specific traits into an organism that may not be
naturally found in the species.
• These traits can include resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental conditions.
 Resistance to pest
• GMOs can be engineered to produce toxins that are lethal to specific pests. For instance, certain
crops like Bt cotton and Bt corn have been genetically modified to produce a protein called Bacillus
thuringiensis (Bt) toxin.
• This toxin is harmful to certain insect pests, such as caterpillars and bollworms, but has little or no
effect on humans or beneficial insects. By expressing the Bt toxin, these GMOs are protected against
insect damage, reducing the need for synthetic pesticides.

Resistance to pests, diseases, and

environmental conditions
 Resistance to disease
• GMOs can also be engineered to have enhanced
resistance to diseases caused by viruses, bacteria,
fungi, and other pathogens.
• For example, the papaya ringspot virus devastated
papaya crops in Hawaii until genetically modified
"Rainbow" papaya, which is resistant to the virus,
was developed.
• Similarly, genetically modified soybeans have been
developed with improved resistance to certain
fungal diseases. By introducing genes that encode
proteins with antiviral or antifungal properties,
GMOs can withstand infections and reduce crop
losses.
Resistance to pests, diseases, and

environmental conditions
 Environmental tolerance
• Genetic modification can confer tolerance to various
environmental conditions such as drought, salinity, and
extreme temperatures.
• Drought-tolerant GMOs have been developed by
introducing genes responsible for improved water use
efficiency and cellular protection under water stress
conditions.
• Salt-tolerant GMOs have been engineered to express
genes that enable them to grow in high-salinity soils.
• Additionally, GMOs with enhanced cold or heat
tolerance have been developed to withstand extreme
temperature fluctuations.

Medical applications: Gene therapy, pharmaceutical production

• Gene therapy and pharmaceutical production are two important medical applications of genetically
modified organisms (GMOs). This are the overview of how GMOs are utilized in these fields:
 Gene therapy – This involves the introduction or modification of genetic material in a

patient's cells to treat or prevent a disease.
• GMOs play a crucial role in the development and delivery of gene therapies:
o Such as Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), they are used as vectors to deliver therapeutic genes
into target cells. These viruses are modified to remove their harmful properties and to carry the
desired therapeutic genes.
o Once introduced into the patient's body, the modified viruses deliver the therapeutic genes to
the target cells, where they can correct genetic defects or produce therapeutic proteins.

OVERVIEW OF GENE THERAPY

Medical applications: Gene therapy, pharmaceutical production

 Pharmaceutical production
• GMOs are widely used to produce pharmaceuticals, including therapeutic proteins, antibodies, and
vaccines.
• Through genetic engineering, specific genes that encode desired proteins can be introduced into
host organisms, such as bacteria, yeast, or mammalian cells.
• These genetically modified host organisms then produce the desired proteins in large quantities.
• For example:
 Human insulin, used to treat diabetes, is commonly produced by genetically modified bacteria
or yeast.
 Similarly, certain antibodies used in cancer treatment are produced using genetically modified
mammalian cell lines.

Other Applications of GMO

 Biofuels
• Genetically modified microorganisms, such as bacteria and algae, can be engineered to produce
biofuels more efficiently.
• These GMOs can be designed to convert biomass or waste materials into biofuels like ethanol,
biodiesel, and biojet fuel.
• By enhancing the metabolic pathways or introducing new enzymes, GMOs can increase the yield
and quality of biofuel production.
• This has the potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
 Bioplastics
• Genetically modified crops, such as corn, sugarcane, and soybeans, can be engineered to produce
bioplastics.
• Bioplastics are a type of plastic derived from renewable biomass sources.
• GMOs can be used to introduce genes responsible for the production of biopolymer precursors,
such as polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), into these crops.
• The modified crops can then serve as sustainable and renewable sources for the production of
biodegradable and eco-friendly plastics.
MINDANAO
The Benefits of GMO

The Benefits of GMO
Increased food security and sustainability

- GMOs have been a subject of debate and controversy, but they also offer several potential benefits in terms of
increased food security and sustainability. These are some of the ways GMOs can contribute to this subject:
 Enhanced Crop Yield

• GMOs can be engineered to improve crop yields by incorporating traits that make plants more
resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses.
• This increased productivity, can help meet the growing global demand for food, particularly in
regions with limited arable land or challenging growing conditions.
 Pest and Disease Resistance
• GMOs can be designed to express proteins that confer resistance to pests and diseases.
• For example, certain genetically modified crops produce insecticidal proteins that can protect them
against specific insect pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
• This can lead to lower production costs, decreased pesticide use, and reduced environmental impact.

The Benefits of GMO

 Herbicide Tolerance
• Some GMOs are engineered to be herbicide-tolerant, meaning they can withstand the application of
specific herbicides that would otherwise damage or kill the crop.
• This trait allows farmers to control weeds more effectively, resulting in higher crop yields and
reduced labor and fuel requirements.
 Drought and Salinity Tolerance
• By introducing genes from naturally drought- or salt-tolerant organisms into crops, genetic
engineering can help create varieties that can thrive in water-limited or saline environments.
• This trait is especially beneficial in regions prone to droughts or affected by soil salinization, as it
enables farmers to cultivate crops in otherwise challenging conditions.
 Nutritional Enhancement
• GMOs can be engineered to enhance the nutritional content of crops.
• This approach has the potential to address micronutrient deficiencies and improve public health,
particularly in regions where certain nutrient deficiencies are prevalent.
• For example, biofortified crops can be developed to contain higher levels of essential vitamins,
minerals, or other nutrients.
The Benefits of GMO

 Reduced Environmental Impact
• GMOs have the potential to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture.
• By reducing the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides, GMOs can help minimize the release of
harmful substances into the environment.
• Additionally, GMOs engineered for improved nutrient use efficiency or reduced fertilizer
requirements can help mitigate nutrient runoff and its associated water pollution.
 Reduced Food Waste
• GMOs can also contribute to reducing food waste. For instance, crops with enhanced post-harvest
traits, such as delayed ripening or improved resistance to spoilage, can have an extended shelf life.
• This can reduce losses during transportation, storage, and distribution, helping to address the global
problem of food waste.

The Benefits of GMO
Advancements in medical treatments and therapies

 Pharmaceutical production
• GMOs can be engineered to produce valuable pharmaceutical substances, such as proteins,
enzymes, antibodies, and vaccines.
• By introducing the genes responsible for producing these substances into organisms like bacteria,
yeast, or plants, it is possible to create efficient and cost-effective systems for large-scale production
of pharmaceuticals.
 Biopharmaceuticals
• GMOs can be used to produce complex biopharmaceuticals that are difficult or expensive to
manufacture through traditional methods.
• For example, genetically modified bacteria or mammalian cell lines can be used to produce
therapeutic proteins with high purity and yield, including insulin, growth factors, clotting factors,
and monoclonal antibodies.

The Benefits of GMO

 Gene Therapy
• GMOs play a crucial role in gene therapy, which involves introducing specific genes into a patient's
cells to treat genetic disorders or other diseases.
• Modified viruses or other vectors can be used to deliver therapeutic genes into the patient's cells,
potentially correcting genetic mutations or providing missing proteins.
• This approach holds promise for treating a wide range of genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis,
muscular dystrophy, and certain types of cancer.
 Organ and Tissue Transplantation
• GMOs offer potential solutions to the shortage of organs and tissues for transplantation.
• This field, known as xenotransplantation, has the potential to significantly increase the availability of
organs for transplantation and save many lives.
• For example, genetically modified pigs can be engineered to produce organs and tissues that are
more compatible with human recipients, reducing the risk of rejection.

The Benefits of GMO

 Disease Modeling and Drug Development
• GMOs, particularly genetically modified animals, can be used as models for studying human diseases
and developing new therapies.
• By introducing specific genetic modifications that mimic human disease conditions, scientists can
gain insights into disease mechanisms, test potential treatments, and evaluate drug efficacy and
safety.
 Diagnostic Tools
• GMOs can be used to develop innovative diagnostic tools for detecting diseases.
• For instance, genetically modified bacteria or viruses can be engineered to produce detectable
signals in the presence of specific disease markers, enabling rapid and sensitive diagnostic tests.
• This approach has the potential to improve early disease detection, monitoring, and personalized
medicine.

The Benefits of GMO
Economic benefits for producers

 Increased Crop Yields
• GMOs can be engineered to improve crop productivity by enhancing traits such as pest resistance,
disease resistance, and tolerance to environmental stresses.
• By reducing losses due to pests and diseases, GMOs can lead to higher crop yields. Increased yields
mean more produce to sell, which can result in higher profits for farmers and producers.
 Cost Savings
• GMOs can help reduce production costs for farmers.
• Additionally, GMOs engineered for herbicide tolerance can allow for more efficient weed control,
reducing the need for manual labor or expensive herbicides.
• For example, genetically modified crops that are resistant to specific pests or diseases may require
fewer chemical pesticides or fungicides, resulting in lower input costs.

The Benefits of GMO

 Improved Crop Quality
• GMOs can be designed to enhance the quality of crops, such as improving traits like taste, texture,
shelf life, or nutritional content.
• High-quality produce often commands higher prices in the market, allowing producers to potentially
earn more revenue.
 Market Access and Demand
• Some GMOs are developed to meet specific market demands or consumer preferences.
• For instance, genetically modified crops can be engineered to have longer shelf life, making them
suitable for long-distance transportation and export markets.
• GMOs can also be tailored to meet dietary preferences, such as crops with enhanced nutritional
content or allergen-free varieties. By catering to specific market demands, GMOs can open up new
market opportunities and increase the competitiveness of producers.

The Benefits of GMO

 Adapting to Climate Change
• Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural production, with increased temperatures,
water scarcity, and changing pest and disease patterns.
• GMOs can be engineered to withstand or adapt to these changing conditions.
• For example, drought-tolerant or heat-tolerant genetically modified crops can help farmers maintain
productivity in regions affected by water scarcity or rising temperatures. By enabling farmers to
adapt to climate change, GMOs can help protect their livelihoods and economic stability.
 Reduction in Post-Harvest Losses
• GMOs can be designed to have improved post-harvest traits, such as delayed ripening or enhanced
resistance to spoilage.
• This can help reduce losses during transportation, storage, and distribution, resulting in less waste
and higher profitability for producers.

MINDANAO
The Risks and Concerns of

GMOs
The Risks and Concerns of GMOs

 Biodiversity
• One concern is that GMOs may have unintended impacts on biodiversity.
• The introduction of genetically modified crops into ecosystems can potentially disrupt natural
habitats, affect non-target organisms, and decrease the diversity of plant and animal species.
 Herbicide resistance
• Many GMO crops are engineered to be resistant to specific herbicides, allowing for more effective
weed control.
• However, overreliance on a single herbicide can lead to the development of herbicide-resistant
weeds, which can reduce crop yields and increase the need for more potent herbicides.
 Gene flow and contamination
• There is a risk of gene flow from GMO crops to wild relatives or non-GMO crops through cross-
pollination.
• This can result in the spread of genetically modified traits to unintended plant populations,
potentially affecting biodiversity and raising concerns for organic farmers or farmers who wish to
maintain non-GMO crops.


 Human health concerns
• Some people have raised concerns about the potential long-term effects of consuming GMOs on
human health.
• While extensive research has been conducted to evaluate their safety, there is ongoing debate and
limited consensus on this issue.
 Intellectual property and control
• GMOs are often patented, giving companies control over their production and distribution.
• This can lead to concerns about corporate control of the food system, limited access to seeds for
small farmers, and potential monopolistic practices.


 Socioeconomic impacts
• The adoption of GMOs may have both positive and negative socioeconomic impacts.
• They can increase yields and income for farmers in certain cases, the cost of purchasing GMO seeds
and associated technologies may be a barrier for small-scale farmers in developing countries. This can
exacerbate inequalities and dependency on external inputs.
 Lack of long-term studies
• Some critics argue that the long-term effects of GMOs on the environment and human health are
not yet fully understood.
• They advocate for more comprehensive and independent research to evaluate the potential risks
and impacts associated with GMOs.


 Safety
• One of the primary concerns with GMOs in medical treatments is ensuring their safety for human
use.
• Extensive testing and regulatory oversight are necessary to evaluate the potential risks and side
effects associated with genetically modified therapies.
• Rigorous clinical trials and long-term monitoring are crucial to ensure patient safety.
 Immune response and allergies
• When introducing GMOs into the human body, there is a possibility of triggering immune responses
or allergic reactions.
• This is particularly relevant in gene therapy, where viral vectors or other modified organisms are
used to deliver genetic material.
• Careful consideration and testing are required to assess the potential immunogenicity and
allergenicity of GMO-based treatments.


 Unintended effects and off-target effects
• Genetic modifications can have unintended effects on the target organism.
• In the context of medical treatments, this could mean unexpected changes in gene expression,
disruption of normal cellular functions, or unpredictable interactions within the human body.
• Robust preclinical studies and thorough monitoring are essential to identify and mitigate off-target
effects.
 Ethical considerations
• The use of GMOs in medicine raises ethical concerns as well.
• This includes questions about informed consent, potential risks to future generations, and the moral
implications of genetic modifications.
• Ethical frameworks and guidelines need to be established to address these concerns and ensure
responsible use of GMOs in medical applications.


 Regulatory challenges
• Genetically modified medical treatments often fall under strict regulatory frameworks due to their
potential risks and complex nature.
• The process of obtaining regulatory approvals can be lengthy and costly, which may limit access to
innovative therapies for patients in need.
• Striking a balance between safety and timely access to new treatments is a challenge that needs to
be addressed.
 Long-term effects
• The long-term effects of genetically modified medical treatments may not be fully understood,
particularly in cases where the modifications are heritable or can affect future generations.
• Long-term monitoring and post-marketing surveillance are crucial to identify any potential adverse
effects that may arise over time.

 High upfront costs
• Adopting GMO technology often involves high upfront costs for producers.
• This includes purchasing genetically modified seeds, investing in specialized equipment, and complying
with intellectual property rights and licensing agreements.
• These costs can pose a barrier to entry, especially for small-scale farmers with limited financial
resources.
 Dependence on seed suppliers
• GMO crops are typically patented, and producers are required to purchase seeds from specific
suppliers.
• This can lead to concerns about dependence on a few seed companies, which may have control over
the pricing and availability of genetically modified seeds. It can limit choices for farmers and reduce
competition in the seed market.
 Intellectual property rights and legal issues
• The intellectual property rights associated with GMOs can raise complex legal issues.
• Farmers may face legal challenges if genetically modified traits inadvertently appear in their non-GMO
crops due to cross-pollination or other factors. This can result in lawsuits and legal disputes, posing
financial risks and uncertainties for producers.

 Market acceptance and consumer preferences
• The market acceptance of GMO products varies across regions and consumer preferences.
• Some consumers have concerns about the safety, environmental impact, or ethical implications of
GMOs and may prefer non-GMO products.
• This can create challenges for producers who rely on selling GMO crops or products, potentially
affecting market demand and prices.
 Trade restrictions and regulations
• International trade regulations and restrictions on GMOs can impact the economic benefits for
producers.
• Some countries have strict regulations or outright bans on GMO crops, limiting market access for
producers who cultivate genetically modified varieties.
• Trade disputes related to GMOs can also affect export opportunities and market access.


 Potential market segregation
• The coexistence of GMO and non-GMO crops can be challenging due to the potential for cross-
contamination.
• This can lead to the need for segregation and identity preservation measures, such as separate
storage facilities or transportation systems.
• The costs associated with maintaining segregation can add a financial burden for producers and
impact the overall profitability.
 Market volatility and price risks
• The introduction of GMO crops can influence market dynamics and potentially lead to price volatility.
• Increased production levels of genetically modified commodities may result in price fluctuations due
to supply and demand imbalances.
• Producers need to carefully consider market conditions and potential risks when making decisions
about adopting GMO technology.

MINDANAO
Ethical Considerations
and Controversies
Surrounding GMOs
Ethical Considerations and Controversies Surrounding GMOs
The Right to Know: GMO Labeling and Public Awareness

 Right to Know
• This refers to the idea that consumers should have access to information about the products they
purchase, including whether they contain GMOs.
• Proponents argue that GMO labeling is necessary for transparency, consumer choice, and the ability
to make informed decisions about the food they consume.
 Public Awareness
• Many people have concerns about the potential health and environmental impacts of GMOs.
• They believe that public awareness about GMOs is crucial, enabling individuals to understand the
potential risks and benefits associated with these products.
 Labeling Laws
• One of the main controversies surrounding GMOs is whether they should be labeled.
• Some countries, such as the European Union and several others, have implemented mandatory
labeling laws for GMO-containing products.
• In other regions like the United States, mandatory labeling laws have faced significant opposition.


 Scientific Consensus
• The scientific consensus is that GMOs currently on the market are safe to eat and do not pose any
greater risks to human health or the environment than conventional crops.
• Many scientific organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National
Academy of Sciences (NAS), have supported this view.
 Consumer Choice
• GMO labeling proponents argue that labeling provides consumers with the ability to exercise their
right to choose whether to consume GMOs or not.
 Cost and Practicality
• Opponents of GMO labeling argue that mandatory labeling would increase the cost of food
production and distribution, which could ultimately be passed on to consumers.


 Stigmatization and Market Impacts
• Critics of GMO labeling argue that mandatory labels may create a stigma around genetically
modified products, leading to negative consumer perceptions.
• This could result in market disadvantages for producers and limit the potential adoption of
beneficial GMO technologies, such as those aimed at improving crop yields, nutritional content, or
resistance to pests and diseases.
 Need for Education
• Some experts believe that, instead of mandatory labeling, efforts should focus on educating the
public about GMOs, their benefits, and potential risks.
• They argue that providing accurate and accessible information can empower consumers to make
informed choices without stigmatizing GMOs.

Ownership and patent issues: The corporatization of food supply

 Intellectual Property Rights
• GMOs are often developed by biotechnology companies, which invest significant resources in
research and development.
• These companies argue that they should have intellectual property rights and patents on their
GMOs to recoup their investments and incentivize further innovation.
• Patent protection allows them to control the use, production, and distribution of GMOs, including
the collection of royalties or licensing fees.
 Concentration of Power
• Critics argue that the patent system and intellectual property rights in GMOs have led to the
concentration of power in the hands of a few large biotech companies.
• They contend that this concentration limits competition stifles innovation from smaller players, and
creates monopolistic practices that can harm farmers, consumers, and the environment.


 Farmers' Rights
• Farmers' rights are a significant concern in the context of GMO ownership and patent issues. Some
GMOs are designed to be resistant to pests, diseases, or herbicides, which can provide benefits to
farmers.
• However, when farmers purchase genetically modified seeds, they often enter into contracts that
restrict their ability to save and replant seeds from their harvested crops. This can lead to increased
dependency on seed companies and additional costs for farmers.
 Genetic Diversity
• GMOs typically have a narrow genetic base, as they are created using a limited number of genetic
traits.
• This can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity within crop populations, which is essential for
adaptation, resilience, and long-term food security.
• Critics argue that the concentration of genetically modified crops and the associated patent issues
can exacerbate this problem by limiting access to diverse genetic resources.


 Farmers' Legal Challenges
• There have been cases where farmers have unintentionally grown genetically modified crops on
their fields due to cross-pollination or seed contamination.
• In some instances, biotech companies have sued these farmers for patent infringement, even if the
presence of GMOs was unintended or unavoidable.
• These legal challenges have sparked debates about the fairness of holding farmers liable for the
unintentional presence of patented GMOs on their land.
 Access to Genetic Resources
• The patenting of GMOs has raised concerns about access to genetic resources and the ability of
farmers and researchers to use and further develop genetically modified crops.
• Some argue that patents and intellectual property rights can limit access to genetic resources,
hindering research, innovation, and the development of locally adapted GMOs that address specific
regional challenges.

MINDANAO
CONCLUSION
CONCLUSION
The future of GMOs: Emerging technologies and their potential

These are the key points and the summary of the future and the potential of
emerging technologies of GMOs
 Precision and Efficiency
• Emerging technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 offer precise and efficient gene-editing capabilities,
enabling scientists to modify organisms with unprecedented accuracy. This holds great potential for
developing crops with enhanced traits such as nutritional content and resistance to pests and
diseases.
 Sustainable Agriculture
• GMOs have the potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for chemical
inputs, optimizing resource utilization, and mitigating environmental impacts such as soil erosion.
These advancements can help address global challenges in food production and ensure a more
resilient and efficient agricultural system.

CONCLUSION
The future of GMOs: Emerging technologies and their potential

 Health and Medicine
• GMOs offer exciting prospects in the medical field, where they can be used to produce vaccines,
develop gene therapies for inherited diseases, and synthesize drugs. These advancements have the
potential to revolutionize healthcare, offering more effective treatments and improved patient
outcomes.
 Ethical Considerations
• It is crucial to address ethical considerations associated with GMOs, such as intellectual property
rights, farmer rights, and access to genetic resources. Additionally, comprehensive risk assessments,
transparency, and robust regulatory frameworks are necessary to ensure the responsible and safe
deployment of GMO technologies.
 Public Engagement and Trust
• Fostering open and inclusive dialogue among stakeholders is essential to address concerns, promote
public awareness, and build trust in GMO technologies. By involving the public in decision-making
processes and providing accurate information, we can create a more informed and accepting
society.

CONCLUSION
Balancing benefits, risks, and ethical considerations in GMO usage

These are the key points and the summary on the importance of balancing
benefits, risks, and ethical considerations in GMO usage:
 Maximizing Benefits
• GMOs offer significant potential benefits, including increased crop productivity, improved
nutritional content, and enhanced disease and pest resistance. Balancing benefits involves
harnessing these advantages to address global challenges such as food security, malnutrition, and
sustainable agriculture.
 Evaluating Risks
• It is essential to conduct comprehensive risk assessments to understand and mitigate potential risks
associated with GMOs. These assessments should consider potential health and environmental
impacts, unintended consequences, and long-term effects. Rigorous scientific evaluation and
regulatory oversight are crucial to ensure the safety of GMOs.

CONCLUSION
Balancing benefits, risks, and ethical considerations in GMO usage

 Ethical Considerations
• GMO usage raises ethical considerations related to intellectual property rights, farmer rights, access
to genetic resources, and transparency. Balancing ethical concerns requires addressing issues such
as corporate control, farmer autonomy, equitable access, and fair distribution of benefits.
 Precautionary Approach
• Adopting a precautionary approach involves considering potential risks and uncertainties associated
with GMO usage. It emphasizes the need for scientific research, transparency, and stakeholder
engagement to make informed decisions and minimize potential harms.
 Inclusive Decision-Making
• Balancing benefits, risks, and ethical considerations requires inclusive decision-making processes
that involve multiple stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, farmers, consumer groups,
and the public. Open dialogue, public engagement, and access to accurate information are vital to
ensure decisions reflect diverse perspectives and foster trust in GMO usage.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)

Course Instructor: Meriam M. Rubio

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 2

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 3

• Understand and explain the reasons for genetic modification in organisms.

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 6

What is the science behind genetic modification?

 Techniques in genetic modifications

PROCESS AND PRINCIPLES IN RECOMBINANT DNA

Insert Running Title 8

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 9

PROCESS AND PRINCIPLES IN CRISPR TECHNOLOGY

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 10

Historical development and evolution of genetic modification

 Development of Recombinant DNA Technology

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 11

Historical development and evolution of genetic modification

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 12

Historical development and evolution of genetic modification

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 13

Why Modify Genes: The

Improved crop yield and nutritional value historical development

Improved crop yield and nutritional value historical development

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 16

Improved crop yield and nutritional value historical development

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 17

Improved crop yield and nutritional value historical development

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 18

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 19

Resistance to pests, diseases, and

Resistance to pests, diseases, and

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 21

Medical applications: Gene therapy, pharmaceutical production

 Gene therapy – This involves the introduction or modification of genetic material in a

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 22

OVERVIEW OF GENE THERAPY

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 23

Medical applications: Gene therapy, pharmaceutical production

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 24

Other Applications of GMO

The Benefits of GMO

Increased food security and sustainability

 Enhanced Crop Yield

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 27

Increased food security and sustainability

Increased food security and sustainability

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 29

Advancements in medical treatments and therapies

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 30

Advancements in medical treatments and therapies

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 31

Advancements in medical treatments and therapies

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 32

Economic benefits for producers

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 33

Economic benefits for producers

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 34

Economic benefits for producers

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) 35

The Risks and Concerns of

Increased food security and sustainability