GMO entry level

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

The molecule that stores genetic information used to build and maintain an organism.

Double Helix

The twisted ladder structure of DNA composed of a sugar-phosphate backbone and nitrogen base rungs.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains instructions for building a protein.

Protein

Molecules that perform functions in cells and determine traits such as eye color and growth rate.

Central Dogma of Biology

The flow of genetic information from DNA to mRNA to protein to trait.

Enzymes

Specialized proteins that speed up chemical reactions.

Mutation

Any change in a DNA sequence that can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful.

Chromosomes

Structures made of DNA and proteins that package DNA in a cell.

Diploid (2n)

Cells that contain two sets of chromosomes, normal for body cells.

Haploid (n)

Cells that contain one set of chromosomes, typical for egg and sperm cells.

Plasmid

Small circular DNA molecules found in bacteria that replicate independently.

Gene Expression

The process of turning genes on (expressed) or off (silenced).

Genetically Modified Organism (GMO)

Any organism whose DNA has been deliberately altered using biotechnology.

EPA

Environmental Protection Agency, regulates pesticides and biopesticides.

FDA

Food and Drug Administration, regulates food safety for humans and animals.

USDA

United States Department of Agriculture, ensures GMOs do not harm other plants.

Flavr Savr Tomato

The first commercially grown genetically engineered fruit, introduced in 1994.

Golden Rice

Rice engineered to produce beta-carotene to combat Vitamin A deficiency.

GMO Salmon (AquAdvantage)

Atlantic salmon engineered to grow twice as fast, approved in 2015.

Arctic Apples

Apples engineered to prevent browning by silencing the PPO gene.

GalSafe Pigs

Genetically modified pigs that do not produce alpha-gal sugar, making pork safe for people with allergies.

Recombinant Insulin

Insulin produced by bacteria using the human insulin gene, approved in 1982.

Modified Mosquitoes

Genetically engineered to reduce populations or prevent malaria transmission.

GMO Controversies

Concerns regarding GMOs include allergic reactions and environmental impacts.

Opposition to GMOs

Reasons people oppose GMOs include fear of technology and large corporations controlling seeds.