BIOL 223: Topic 7-Microbes and Society

This set of flashcards focuses on important vocabulary and concepts related to microbes, genetic engineering, and the impact of GMOs on society.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.

Golden Rice

A genetically modified crop engineered to produce beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A.

Beta-Carotene

A pigment found in plants that is a precursor to vitamin A, important for human nutrition.

Phytase

An enzyme that breaks down phytic acid to release phosphate and other bound nutrients.

Phytate

A stored form of phosphorus in plants that is often unavailable to humans and many animals.

Biofortification

The process of enhancing the nutritional value of food crops through biotechnology.

Escherichia coli

A bacterium that is commonly used in biotechnology and genetic engineering.

Bt corn

Corn genetically engineered to express a protein from Bacillus thuringiensis, which is toxic to certain insect pests.

Ferritin

An iron storage protein that helps to regulate iron levels in the body.

Iron Deficiency

A common nutritional deficiency that can lead to anemia and other health problems.

Microbial Phytase

Phytase produced by microorganisms that aids in the availability of phosphates in the soil.

Transgenic Rice

Rice that has been genetically modified to include genes from other organisms for improved traits.

Nutritionally Improved Lines

Crops that have been genetically modified to enhance nutritional value.

Bacillus thuringiensis

A bacterium used in genetic engineering for its insecticidal properties against crop pests.

Plant Available Phosphorus

Phosphorus in soil that is accessible for plant uptake, crucial for plant growth.

Agricultural Practices

Methods and techniques used in farming, including the use of GM crops to enhance production.

Insecticidal Proteins

Proteins introduced into crops to provide resistance against insect pests.

Soybean

A major crop that has been genetically engineered for herbicide tolerance and pest resistance.

Canola

A crop that has been genetically modified to be herbicide tolerant.

Daffodil

A plant used as a source of genes for enhancing beta-carotene synthesis in Golden Rice.

Wild Rice

A type of rice incorporated into Golden Rice's genetic makeup to enhance its nutritional value.

Controversies around GMOs

Debate surrounding the safety, environmental impact, and ethics of genetically modified organisms.

Animal Feed

Food given to livestock, where GM crops like corn and soy are commonly used.

Herbicide Tolerance

The ability of a plant to survive applications of herbicides that would normally kill it.

Fungal Disease

Diseases caused by fungi, which can affect crop yields significantly.

Conventional Breeding Techniques

Traditional methods of breeding plants and animals as opposed to genetic engineering.

Nutrient Absorption

The process by which nutrients from food are taken up by the body or plants.

Plant Biotechnology

The use of scientific tools and techniques to manipulate plants for desired traits.

Environmental Impact of GMOs

The effects that genetically modified crops may have on ecosystems and biodiversity.

Cereal Crops

Grain crops that are major sources of carbohydrates and have varying levels of phytate.

Nutrition Deficiencies

Lack of essential nutrients in the diet that can lead to health problems.

GM Food Consumption

The use of genetically modified organisms in food products available to consumers.

Global GMO Cultivation

The worldwide practice of growing genetically modified crops.