GCU BIO-181 Biotechnology
GCU BIO-181 Biotechnology
GCU BIO-181 Biotechnology
Mercy Arulanandu
BIO-181L / T-3:15
25 November 2016
The genetic modification of plants has been a major influence in many areas of science
and industry. The idea first began with Gregor Mendels study of the pea plant. He ran
experiments using cross-breeding and created the inheritance theory. This led to the theorization
and discovery of genes, which set the foundation for genetics (Stewart 21). Since then, plant
genetics has progressed rapidly. Dr. Norman Borlaug used cross-breeding and different growth
techniques to create a quickly-produced and disease-resistant wheat crops in Mexico (14). Dr.
Mary-Dell Chilton worked with Agrobacterium plasmids to insert desired genes into the target
plants genome (16). Currently, the most high-profile genetic engineering is being used by food
because of how it relates to the hunger crises in other countries, as well as the American food
industry and farming ethics. This topic is quite intriguing due to ethical discrepancies largely
founded on misconceptions, and a fuller understanding of the subject puts many of these ideas to
rest. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present information on the operation of genetic
modification, current usage, the pros and cons, and ultimately evidence to encourage the
furtherance of research and development in this area as well as how this research can be
conducted.
There is a multiplicity of ways that genetic modification occurs. One of the most
common is the aforementioned method provided by Dr. Chilton. Agrobacterium plasmids are
loaded with the desired DNA, which then take DNA out of the bacterium and into target cells.
The DNA then inserts itself into the plant DNA, which then codes for mRNA and the production
of proteins just like the plants own DNA (Stewart 16). Another method of engineering is the
gene-gun method. Plant tissue is placed on shelves, in Petri dishes, at variable lengths from a
syringe filter unit. Particles of metals are sterilized and coated in the desired DNA. The particles
are loaded into the syringe filter, which is attached to a compression unit. Compressed gas bursts
through the filter, sending the particles into the desired material. The DNA then disperses
This technology is used in a wide variety of ways. For instance, in poorer countries, these
techniques are used to provide larger yields of cheaper and hardier food that does not need
pesticides. Pesticides lower product yields, although those yields are higher than those ridden by
bugs. The genetic modification makes the plants insect-resistant, eliminating the need for
pesticides and therefore greatly increasing yields (Chow). In the United States, it is used to
increase the quality and quantity of products as well. Genetically modified crops generally have
longer shelf lives, and they are fortified with vitamins and minerals, making it easier for lower-
income families to get the necessary nutrients from base-quality foods (Johnson 34).
organisms are making leaps in bounds regarding the issues of world hunger. Lower costs make
the crops available to more producers, who can then lower the price of the product. Greater
yields mean that the product is available to more people. Fortifying the crops helps combat
malnutrition and disease in countries with nutrient-low soil. It can also be adjusted to fit
geography-specific concerns. In India, one-third of all land has high salinity levels because of
overirrigation and intense use of chemical fertilizers. Therefore, a research team has created rice
with a saline resistance, allowing the crops to be grown in areas with three times the normal
salinity levels. However, the disadvantages are present as well. There is worry of the creation of
super weeds. Based on how pollination spreads genetic information, crops may pass the traits
that prevent them from being affected by herbicides and pests to neighboring species of weeds,
which would make those weeds difficult to control. Another concern is that the proteins created
through modification would create new allergens, which would begin to pose health risks.
However, these concerns are currently being combatted. So far, the super weed has yet to show
possibility of production, and researchers would test the newly-created proteins to determine if
While there are legitimate concerns, those should not stop the advancement of the genetic
modification of plants. These concerns, as with other that have risen as this technology has
advanced, are being dealt with and put to rest as they come. However, the advantages are
indispensable. The contributions made to the food supplies in other countries, as well as the
increase in quality of foods for low-income families in first world countries, cannot be
overstated. While there are ambiguities and caution as this technology evolves, they are to be
expected with any technology. As long as these ethical issues are met and resolved, then the
technology should continue to improve the lives of people across the globe.
techniques used are being constantly improved, which makes the new products cheaper and
easier to obtain. It makes agriculture more viable for all and creates a safer and better food
supply. The exciting advancement of this biotechnology provides a hopeful future for the food
Chow, Steve et al. (2016). Insight into the Genetically Modified Foods: from Concerns of Safety
to Food Development (Part I). Science Insights, 2016.
Finer, John J. et al. (1992). Development of the particle inflow gun for DNA delivery to plant
cells. Plant Cell Reports, 11, 324-325.
Reece, Jane et al. (2014). Campbell Biology. (10th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson. Print.
432-433.
Stewart Jr, C. Neal. (2016). Plant Biotechnology and Genetics: Principles, Techniques, and
Applications. (2nd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons. Print. 14, 16, 21.