Genetically Modified Mrganisms

What is GMO?

A genetically modified organism (GMO) is any organism

whose genetic material has been altered using genetic
engineering techniques (i.e., a genetically engineered organism).

GMOs are used to produce many medications

and genetically modified foods and are widely used in
scientific research and the production of other goods.
 Why were GMO created?

One being to develop crops with pest

resistant traits

crops that are resistant to low cost

environmentally safer herbicides

The first genetically modified mouse was created in 1974,
(the mice did not pass the transgene to their offspring)
The first genetically modified plant was produced in 1983
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.
 This can be accomplished artificially by:
Attaching the genes to a virus

Firing small particles from a gene gun.

Physically inserting the extra DNA into the nucleus

of the intended host with a very small syringe.

Using electroporation (that is, introducing DNA from

one organism into the cell of another by use of an
electric pulse).
 Biological
research

Production of
pharmaceutical
Medical
drugs research

Experimental
medicine Agriculture
Recently the first comprehensive study of GM crop performance, reported
some surprising numbers. On average GM crops increase yield by 22%,
reduced pesticides use 37%, and increased farmer’s profits by 68%. In
addition, new varieties of GM crops offer nutritional benefits that are not
present in conventional varieties of crops.
 The best known of this is Golden rice. A GM rice variety that
isn’t like conventional rice has Beta Carotene in the green.

The human body Without enough About 2 million

converts Beta vitamin A, children every year in poor
Carotene into go blind and many countries of Africa
vitamin A. die. and Asia.

In fact lack of vitamin A is the biggest

killer of children in the world today
 How many people know
for example that the
durum wheat used to
make most of our pasta

had its DNA modified and there is

by exposing seeds to no labeling
high level gamma required
radiation
 Every credible science, health and nutrition
organization in the world says the genetically
modified food available today is Safe, without
reservation.

This includes:
Today 18 million farmers in 28 countries are
growing genetically modified crops on 448
million acres; 12% of the world’s farm land
Conclusion:
1. However we must pay attention to the products what
we receive from abroad because they can contain GM

2. They Reduce the use of herbicides but the new

generation is suffering from new diseases

3. Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Foods To Humans:

Allergic reaction; Production of toxins; Reduced nutritional value;

4. Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Foods On The

Environment: Release of toxins to soil; Disruption of biodiversity;