Genetically Modified Organisms


Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are a hot button of controversy throughout the world. Crop plants and animals with modified genomes are offered as ways of saving humanity from famine, but raise worries about creating monsters that may have unforeseen effects. Find and read/view internet materials about GMOs, and then write about the following questions:

1. What are the benefits and risks of GMOs? What regulations, if any, should apply to them?

2. Should there be limits on research on GMOs? Why or why not?



Introduction
GMOs are organisms whose DNAs have been modified or altered through genetic engineering. In most circumstances, the DNA of GMOs is modified with DNA from different organisms. Various organisms that are used in the modification DNA of other organisms are known as transgenic organisms. Gene, with favorable characteristics from distinctive organisms, can be introduced in the DNA of another organism to improve certain genetic features of that organism (Phillips, 2008). DNA from a spider, which helps spider in the generation of silk, can be introduced into the DNA of ordinary goat to produce silk protein in goat milk. Milk of these goats are harvested, and silk protein extracted, which is then used in making lightweight, a material with various medical and industrial uses. The introduction of silk protein in goat milk through genetic engineering shows the importance of GMOs. Presently, GMOs are common in various fields, such as farming industries. Crops are modified to increase crop production, resist diseases and pests; this is also true with animals and other organisms. Even though GMOs have various benefits, people are worried about GMO products (Lallanilla, 2019). For these reasons, the current paper focuses on the risks, benefits of GMOs, and some of the regulations that should apply to the use of GMO products. Furthermore, the paper discusses whether GMOs'GMOs' research should be limited or not.

Benefits risks, and regulation of GMOs
GMOs have several benefits; for instance, genetically modified crops produce high yield as compared to non-GM crops, suggesting they require less land. They also decrease the use of fossil fuels and natural resources (Phillips, 2008). GM crops contain improved nutritional benefits than conventional crops. GM crops are resistant to pests and diseases. Research indicates that GM crops assist in conserving the environment. GM crops preserve the soil, reduce the emission of carbon (IV) oxide, and conserve water. Moreover, GM crops upsurge the shelf life of crops. They last long after the harvest; this makes it possible to distribute them to industries and market places (Phillips, 2008).
Genetically modification of organisms can result in genetic contamination. Genetically modified organisms can interbreed with other compatible organisms. As a result, the original characteristics may disappear. Moreover, compatible organisms may develop tolerance capabilities, thus changing the ecological relationship and behavior of native organisms (Phillips, 2008). GMOs may lead to competition with natural organisms. GMOs have a competitive advantage. They grow faster than the native species. As a result, they become pugnacious and spread to new areas, resulting in economic and ecological damage. GMOs can also increase pressure on the targeted and non-targeted organisms (Lallanilla, 2019). They can make the targeted and non-targeted species to become accustomed to the inserted changes. GMOs may lead to the impossibility of following-up. After introducing GMOs in the environment, it is impossible to eradicate them. 

GMOs use results in the establishment of some regulations. For instance, in 2015, the FDA stated that GMO foods require additional labeling to differentiate them from non-GMO foods (Phillips, 2008). The USA needs all food containing more than five percent bioengineered materials to have BE label. However, different states are allowed to come up with their labeling requirements. 

Limitation of GMO research
GMOs' research should not be limited. The limitation of GMOs' study would lead to preventing significant invention and innovation, which could solve some of the persistent challenges (Phillips, 2008). GMO research should be permitted to allow researchers to research more about the benefits, risks of genetically modified organisms. GMOs are essential when they are used for upsurging the quality and availability of food, health care, and enhancing a cleaner environment. If GMOs are used astutely, they can improve the economy, assist in alleviating hunger. 


References
Lallanilla, M. (2019). What are GMOs and GM foods? Retrieved 11 January 2020 from https://bit.ly/39YyNqH.
Phillips, T. (2008). Genetically modified organisms (GMOs): transgenic crops and recombinant DNA technology. Retrieved 11 January 2020 from  https://www.livescience.com/40895-gmo-facts.html.



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