Genetic

Engineering
& GMOs
 Genetic Engineering also called
Genetic Modification is one of the
many branches of applied biology. It
is the changing of an organism’s
genome using biotechnology. This
lesson discusses the basic concepts
on Genetic Engineering or GE and
identifying some of the Genetically
Modified Organisms or GMOs.
 The history of Genetic Engineering can
be traced back in 1953 when James
Watson discovered the structure of DNA,
after which scientists were able to
understand and changed the structure.
The idea of Genetic Engineering is
something that we associate with the 20th
century.
 No one knew that genes were actually the
mechanism of Heredity until the middle of the
20th century. The direct modification of genes
for some purpose did not even start until the
1970s. but it is worth noting that human
beings have been, in some ways, influencing
the genetics of organisms for a very, very, very
long time.
 No one knew that genes were actually the
mechanism of Heredity until the middle of the
20th century. The direct modification of genes
for some purpose did not even start until the
1970s. but it is worth noting that human
beings have been, in some ways, influencing
the genetics of organisms for a very, very, very
long time.
Objectives
At the end of this module, you should be able to:
1. Describe what is Genetic Engineering and its processes
(MELC20_LR1&2);
2. Identify the different types of Genetic Engineering and give
examples for each type. (MELC20_LR3&4);
3. Give some uses of Genetically Modified Organisms (MELC21_LR1);
4. Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages/risks of
GMOs. (MELC21_LR2&3);
5. Discuss moral issues that beset Genetic Engineering (MELC21_LR4).
Genetic Engineering Processes
Biotechnology is the use of biological techniques
and engineered organisms to make products or plants
and animals that have desired traits. In order to carry on
this technology, it employs different processes such as:
• Restriction Enzymes which is the cutting of the DNA
strands into fragments. It is basically used to create
DNA fragments with sticky ends or blunt ends that can
join with other DNA fragments.
• Gel Electrophoresis separates DNA fragments by size.
It is used to study DNA fragments of various sizes.
Genetic Engineering Processes
• Recombinant DNA Technology is the
combination of a DNA fragment with the DNA
from another source also called exogenous DNA.

• Gene Cloning is the production of the large

numbers of identical recombinant DNA
molecules. It is used to create large amounts of
recombinant DNA to be used in genetically
engineered organism.
Genetic Engineering Processes

• DNA Sequencing is used to identify the DNA sequence of

cloned recombinant DNA molecule to further study. It is
used to identify errors in the DNA sequences to predict
the function of a particular gene and to compare to other
genes with similar sequences from different organisms.

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) makes copies of

specific regions of sequenced DNA. It is used to copy
DNA for any scientific investigation including forensic
analysis and medical testing.
3 Types of Genetic Modification
Plant Genetic Modification - The easiest
method of plant genetic modification used by
our wandering ancestors and until today, is
simple selection. That is, genetically
heterogeneous population of plants is
inspected, and “superior” individuals - plants
with the most desired traits, like improved
palatability and yield - are selected for
continued propagation. ex. Production of
pest-resistant plants
3 Types of Genetic Modification
Animal Genetic Modification - Modern breeds of
livestock differ dramatically from their ancestors
as a result of breeding strategies. Established and
emerging biotechnology in animal agriculture
include assisted reproductive technologies; use of
naturally occurring hormones, such as
recombinants, and biotechnologies to enhance
reproductive efficiency without affecting the
genome; and biotechnologies to enhance
expression of desirable genes. ex. Increase of milk
production per cow ex. Double production of eggs
in chickens
3 Types of Genetic Modification
Genetic Modification of Microbes - Microorganisms
play significant roles in food production. They serve as
primary and secondary roles in food fermentation and
in food spoilage, and they can produce enzymes or
other metabolites used in food production and
processing. Humans have used and genetically
modified microbes for centuries to produce food, wine,
bread, and cheese are common examples of ancient
foods, still popular, depend on microbial ingredients
and activities.
ex. Increase microbe-dependent-food production
ex. Increase human immunity/ resistance to microbe-
caused-diseases
Advantages/Benefits
One of the main reasons why scientists conduct Genetic
Engineering (GE) is to provide and sustain human. The modern
practice of genetic engineering goes beyond cross-breeding
different species to create a new outcome. There are many
advantages that genetic engineering can bring the world today.
One is that it makes agricultural practices much safer by reducing,
if not totally eliminating the use of pesticides. This will result in
creating greater yields since farmers will no longer spend extra
money for pesticides. No use of pesticides would lead to improve
growth rate of crops and consequently create better food
products. GE allows specific traits to be developed for plants and
animals.
Advantages/Benefits
It can improve resistance to diseases and even stop
genetic diseases in humans. We already have genetic
testing in place to test for certain cancers. GE could be
used DNA manipulation to help treat or cure people who
are born with genetic disorders. The different tools of
genetic engineering could produce novel medical
treatments like vaccines, insulin, and even hormone
treatment. Through GE we can create more treatments
that allow us to be proactive more often against
pathogens that can have life-threatening characteristics.
Disadvantages
There are also disadvantages that genetic
engineering can bring like: amount of diversity that
is available is limited. The reason for this is the
industry will focus on the product or organism that
performs well. Another disadvantage is, it’s prone
to technological abuse. Currently, we have laws and
treaties in place to prevent genetic engineering
abuse. However, that does not mean that abuse on
its use will not occur.
Disadvantages
The next disadvantage is the genetic
engineering process can only be copyrighted in the
United States, a rule that GE DNA sequences can be
patented. That makes the rule more profitable for
organizations to study DNA manipulation instead of
working for the good of humanity. Another
disadvantage is, it can bring difficult legal liabilities
with unintended consequences. Seeds and crops
can also be patented.
Disadvantages
This brings issues for farmers who encounters GMOs
on their land due to unintentional spread. GE does
create a natural barrier against disease and harsh
environmental conditions. It also just extend the
resilience of plants and animals. The changes made are
not permanent benefits. More modifications are
required over time because nature eventually adapts.
Pathogens become stronger to affect the stronger plants
and animals. Our own experience with medicines that
we take like antibiotics is an evidence to this fact.
Summary
• Biotechnology – is the use of biological techniques and
engineered organisms to make products or plants and animals
that have desired traits.
• DNA – Deoxyribonucleic Acid – is any of various nucleic acids
that are usually the molecular basis of heredity.
• Exogenous DNA – is produced by growth from superficial
tissue.
• Gel Electrophoresis - separates DNA fragments by size.
• Gene Cloning is the production of the large numbers of
identical recombinant DNA molecules.
Summary
• Genetic Engineering – is a technology that involves
manipulating the DNA of one organism in order to insert the
DNA of another organism called exogenous DNA
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) – is an organism
whose genomes has been engineered in the laboratory in
order to favor the expression of desired physiological traits or
the reproduction of desired biological products.
• Genes – is a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA
that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the
functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and
expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure
 Give 10
examples
of
Genetically
Modified
Organisms
or GMO’s