Question

What are the different ways that food crops are genetically engineered? What traits get transferred?

What are some of the potential problems of using GMOs in the food supply?

What are some scare tactics and misuse of science against GMO's?

In what other ways have GMOs been used, besides in food?

What are some of the issues or problems that arise because of GMO's? (Ethical, or environmental,)

Answer 1

Different ways in which food crops are genetically engineered are:

Genetic engineering is the manipulation of DNA. It involves breakage of DNA molecule at two desired places by using restriction enzymes to isolate a specific DNA segment and then insert it in another DNA molecule at a desired position. This process is called gene cloning.

Plasmid DNA molecules act as vectors to transfer the piece of DNA attached to it.

Gene gun is a technique available for vectorless direct gene transfer. DNA coated onto microscopic pellets is literally shot into target cells.

A technique called RNA interference have been effectively used for pest resistance plants. Arabidopsis, a model plant, is genetically modified to produce double stranded RNA to knock out the specific parasitism gene in the nematode when it feeds on the plant roots.

Traits that may get transferred during the formation of genetically modified crops are:

• Antibiotic resistance
• Resistance to disease, pests, herbicides
• Enhanced quality
• Reduced maturation time

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