The technology of genetic engineering can be used for a variety of purposes and

Question

The technology of genetic engineering can be used for a variety of purposes and on virtually any organism (viruses, bacteria, yeast, plants, animals, humans). While some modifications are purely beneficial, they may still be surprisingly controversial; other modifications clearly give rise to significant risks to the individual organism, the human population and the planet. However, even the most controversial application of these technologies, genetic engineering of humans, can be rationally argued from both sides. Since genetic engineering is not a “black or white” issue, it is best to consider each application on a case-by-case basis, rather than simply stating that all genetic modifications or “good” or “bad”

Identify the genetically modified organism and describe the type of modification that has been done or is being proposed. Be sure to identify the source of any transgenic genetic material that is involved.

Identify at least 3 compelling arguments in favor of the modification. List the source for each argument.

Identify at least 3 compelling arguments in opposition to the modification. List the source for each argument.

At the end of your report,

For each source you use, include a link/URL.

Explanation / Answer

The genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are those that receive the gene that attributes desired characteristic to the organism. These are developed by genetic engineering or recombinant gene technology. In this process, the genes are transferred in between the organisms of the same species and different species and the gene expression levels are altered.

The characteristics of GMOs may be synthesizing more nutrients, disease resistance or increased yielding or many other.

About 200 genetically modified (GM) crop varieties are approved by 2012 for their use as food or feed for livestock in the United States. However, only a few of them are widely used and among these, the widely used insect resistant varieties are Bt crops.

The genes encoding crystal proteins termed as cry genes have been isolated from B. thuringiensis strains and introduced into crops. These genetically modified crops are known as “Bt crops,” and are resistant to several insects. Due to their resistance towards several insects these Bt crops are now being widely used throughout the World. [1]

As per the studies conducted by Prof. Charles Benbrook at Washington University, US, the pesticide use was increased by 7% from 1996 to 2011 in the United States. This result is directly related to the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops. This is because, though the cultivation of GM crops initially decreased pesticide usage, the emergence of herbicide-tolerant (HT) crops. The most common form of herbicide tolerance is, the glyphosate-resistant weeds. Thus, HT crops emergence is the primary factor that contribute to increased pesticide usage in GM crops. (1, 2)

References:

1). Bonny, S. (2011). Herbicide-tolerant transgenic soybean over 15 years of cultivation: pesticide use, weed resistance, and some economic issues. The case of the USA. Sustainability, 3(9), 1302-1322.

2). Sirinathsinghji, E. (2012). Study Confirms GM crops lead to increased Pesticide Use. Science in Society, 56, 8-10.

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