GMOs

What are GMOs?

Genetically Modified Organisms, whose genes have been artificially altered to modify their characteristics.

What does GE stand for?

Genetically Engineered.

What is the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard's definition of GMO foods?

Foods that contain detectable genetic material modified through lab techniques and cannot be created through conventional breeding.

Name one example of a genetically modified animal sold as a pet.

Glofish.

What is the purpose of genetically modifying crops?

To increase crop yields, reduce pesticide use, conserve water, and improve food security.

Who created the first genetically modified organism?

Herbert Boyer and Stanley Cohen in 1973 using Escherichia coli.

What was the significance of the first transgenic mice created in 1974?

They demonstrated that foreign DNA could be integrated into a mouse genome.

What are Bt crops?

Crops genetically engineered to produce toxins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis to fend off pests.

What was the first genetically engineered crop approved by the US FDA?

Flavr Savr tomato.

What is Golden Rice and why was it developed?

A biofortified rice developed to produce a precursor to vitamin A to combat vitamin A deficiency.

What is AquAdvantage salmon?

The first genetically engineered animal approved for human consumption, engineered to grow faster.

What genetic modification was made to the American chestnut tree?

It was engineered to be more resistant to fungal blight disease.

What was the purpose of genetically modifying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes?

To control populations that transmit dengue and Zika viruses.

What are the three common techniques used to create GMOs?

1. Introducing new DNA using modified bacteria, 2. Gene targeting and homologous recombination, 3. Editing DNA regions using enzymes (CRISPR).

What is the role of CRISPR in genetic engineering?

To edit specific regions of DNA within a genome.

What is the significance of the Flavr Savr tomato?

It was modified to block the enzyme responsible for fruit softening, allowing it to stay firm longer.

What are the potential biomedical applications of GMOs?

They can be used in pharmaceuticals and biomedical research.

How do GMOs contribute to food security?

By increasing crop yields and reducing the need for pesticides.

What is the significance of the term 'Frankenfish' in relation to GMOs?

It refers to genetically engineered salmon that grow faster than traditional salmon.

What is the main concern regarding the release of genetically modified mosquitoes?

Their potential impact on ecosystems and the effectiveness in controlling disease transmission.

What is a potential application of spider silk harvested from genetically modified goats?

Uses in medicine and industry due to its strength and biocompatibility.

What is the impact of GMOs on pesticide use?

GMOs can reduce the need for chemical pesticides.

What is the significance of the term 'biofortification' in GMOs?

The process of enhancing the nutritional quality of food crops through genetic modification.

What are the ethical considerations surrounding GMOs?

Concerns include environmental impact, food safety, and the rights of farmers.

What is the role of regulatory agencies in the approval of GMOs?

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of genetically modified products before they enter the market.

What is the first step in genetically modifying a crop?

Identify the desired trait (e.g., drought resistance, pest resistance).

What organism is commonly used for its insecticidal properties in GM crops?

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).

What are Bt toxin genes often referred to as?

Cry genes, which encode proteins with insecticidal activity.

How is the Bt gene inserted into plant DNA?

Using Agrobacterium or a gene gun.

What is the purpose of growing GM plants in the lab?

To ensure they have adopted the desired trait.

What is Agrobacterium tumefaciens?

A gram-negative bacterium that transfers DNA into plant cells.

What is the role of the Ti plasmid in Agrobacterium?

It carries T-DNA that integrates into the plant's genome.

What are the main GM crops produced in the U.S.?

Corn, soybeans, cotton, and canola.

What is a common use of GM corn?

To feed livestock and as an ingredient in processed foods.

What is the purpose of Golden Rice?

To provide enhanced vitamin A content.

What are some benefits of GM crops?

Increased crop productivity, pest resistance, and improved nutrition.

What is a challenge associated with GM crops?

Potential risk of harm to non-target organisms.

What economic hazard do GM seeds pose to farmers?

Farmers must buy seeds annually due to patents.

What is a 'suicide seed'?

Plants with sterile seeds that force farmers to buy seeds each year.

What is the benefit of using antifreeze proteins in GM crops?

To enhance cold resistance in plants.

What is the role of drought-tolerant GM crops?

To maintain productivity with less water.

What is the purpose of phytoremediation in GM crops?

To metabolize toxic compounds in the environment.

What is the significance of the Arctic Apple?

It is modified to resist browning and enhance shelf life.

What is a benefit of using GM crops in conservation tilling?

It reduces soil erosion and helps maintain soil nutrients.

What is an example of a GM crop that improves nutrition?

Golden Rice, which is enriched with vitamin A.

What are 'vir' genes in Agrobacterium?

Genes essential for the DNA transfer process to plants.