Uses of Genetic Modification
Applied Science: BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma, topic 5.1.3
Uses of Genetic Engineering
There are a number of applications of genetic engineering, including:
Transferring genes into animals
- Sheep have had their genomes modified so that their milk contains drugs that can be used to treat human diseases.
Transferring genes into plants
- Many genetically modified (GM) crops exist. They have been engineered to have the following characteristics:
- Resistance to diseases, insects, or herbicides.
- Production of larger or ‘better’ fruits.
Transferring genes into bacteria
- Bacterial DNA has been engineered in such a way that it contains the human insulin gene.
- By creating a colony of this modified bacteria, there can be rapid and cheap production of large quantities of human insulin. This can be used to treat type 1 diabetics.
Advantages of Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering is an exciting technology that has some potentially groundbreaking uses. These include:
-min,w_800.png)
Advantages of genetic engineering
- Preventing inherited diseases.
- Improving food production efficiency.
Advantages of genetically modified (GM) crops
- GM crops generally show increased yields.
- They could help to provide the nutrients that are often missing from the diets of those living in developing nations.
- For example, golden rice can help reduce vitamin A deficiency, which can cause blindness.
- GM crops are popular in some parts of the world and no complications have been experienced so far.
Disadvantages of Genetic Engineering
Many people object to (disagree with) the use of genetic engineering. Some concerns are:
Concerns about genetic engineering
- Because it is a relatively recent development, it is uncertain what the long-term effects may be.
- Some consider it unethical to create new life forms or move genes between species.
Disadvantages of genetically modified (GM) crops
- Some people expect GM crops to negatively impact wild flower and insect populations, thus reducing biodiversity.
- Some people think that there will be long-term effects of consumption on human health.
- If transplanted genes managed to escape into the natural environment, we could accidentally create a ‘superweed’ that is resistant to herbicides.
Test yourself on Uses of Genetic Modification
What is genetic engineering not typically used to achieve?
Why might we want to genetically modify plants?
Which of the following is NOT an advantage of GM crops?