GMO

Overview of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Presentation Overview

  • Presented by: Borcelle Group

Objectives

  1. Identify different types of genetically modified organisms.

  2. Identify the various kinds of organisms.

  3. Understand how microorganisms help agricultural industries.

  4. Recognize the benefits of microorganisms.

  5. Identify the risks associated with genetically modified organisms.

Definition of GMOs

  • Genetically Modified Organism (GMO): An organism created through genetic engineering.

  • World Health Organization (WHO, 2014) defines GMO as an organism (plant, animal, or microorganism) whose genetic material (DNA) has been altered in a manner that does not occur naturally by mating or natural recombination.

Types of GMOs

Based on Resistance and Tolerance

  • Pest Resistance: GM plants designed to resist specific pests.

  • Virus Resistance: GM plants engineered to withstand certain viral infections.

  • Herbicide Tolerance: GM plants that resist herbicides, allowing their use without harming the crop.

Based on Fortification and Preservation

  • Fortification: GM plants fortified with essential minerals (e.g., iron, zinc).

  • Cosmetic Preservation: GM plants that resist natural discoloration to enhance visual appeal.

  • Increased Growth Rate: GM organisms that show higher yield and growth rates compared to conventional counterparts.

Non-food Crops and Microorganisms

  • Flower Production: Genetic modifications resulting in altered colors and extended vase life.

  • Paper Production: Trees modified for higher yield in paper production.

  • Pharmaceutical Production: GM plants engineered to produce pharmaceutical products.

Advantages of GMOs

  • Higher efficiency in farming practices.

  • Increased harvest potential.

  • Improved control over fertility in crops.

  • Enhanced food processing capabilities.

  • Nutritional and pharmaceutical enhancements.

  • Reduced reliance on fertilizers and pesticides.

Risks and Concerns Associated with GMOs

Scientific Study Limitations

  • The field of genetic engineering is relatively new, resulting in limited studies on the long-term effects of GMOs on human health and the environment.

  • Genetic engineering may promote mutations, with long-term consequences still being unknown.

Allergic Reactions

  • Increased incidence of allergic reactions due to potential new allergens from GMO foods.

  • Possibility of abnormal gene mutations arising from genetic alterations.

Antibiotic Resistance

  • GM foods may contain antibiotic-resistant genes leading to increased resistance in disease-causing bacteria, posing a public health risk.

  • Nutritional values of GM foods may inadvertently change.

Environmental Concerns

  • Gene Flow: Modified genes may unintentionally transfer to wild relatives or soil microbes, affecting ecosystems.

  • Emergence of new pests or weed problems may arise from overreliance on specific GMO traits meant to control pests.

Pathogen Risks

  • Recombination of viruses and bacteria potentially creating new pathogens affecting plants, animals, and humans.

Ecosystem Disruption

  • Introduction of GMOs may disrupt natural communities and ecosystem processes, leading to undesirable interactions and consequences for biodiversity.

  • Management practices may need adjustment to mitigate negative impacts of GMOs, such as resistant insect populations.

Health Concerns

  • Consumption of GMOs may have negative health effects due to their non-natural origin or organic production.

  • Alterations to human gut microbiota may result from GMO consumption.

  • Production of toxins and allergens may adversely impact human health.

Regulatory Frameworks

  • Human Genome Project: Aimed at mapping human genes for research and medical advancements.

  • Codex Alimentarius Commission (CODEX): Develops standards and guidelines related to food safety standards for GMOs.

  • Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety: International treaty regulating the transboundary movement of living modified organisms.

  • International Trade Agreement on Labeling: Requires labeling for GMO food products, giving importing nations the right to accept or reject GMO goods.