Answer to Question #298519 in Genetics for Levi

Question

1. Hypothetically, you are given the chance to enhance/modify a trait of certain

plant/crop. These are the things that you will consider to make a genetically modified

organism (GMO)

a. Identify special trait.

b. Identify a source organism

c. Identify a target organism

d. Identify the modified/ added trait

e. What benefit/s would the recombinant organism provide to society?

Answer 1

Examples:

1. Modified soybeans and corns

From being typical vegetables, these crops were genetically altered to have herbicide tolerance and insect resistance. In this way, farmers can conveniently grow them without much trouble. 40% of the total livestock in the United States consisting of soybeans and corn

2. Modified cotton

This kind of cotton can kill microorganisms and pests by producing internal insecticide which does not pose harm to humans. It is an ideal material for out lasting clothing. The use of cotton pesticides around the globe was approximately reduced to 90% after the creation of this cotton.

3. Papaya

The papaya industry was almost wiped out the United States in the late 20th century after the papaya ringspot virus spread like wild fire starting from Hawaii. With that in mind, a genetically engineered papaya, called the rainbow papaya, was developed and designed to resist the virus. Its seeds were distributed commercially to farmers. In just 10 years, 90% of papaya production in the States came from the rainbow papaya roots.

4. Hypoallergenic Cows

To reduce the risk of a number of people getting allergic reactions from milk, a cow named Daisy in New Zealand was genetically engineered to produce milk without the very protein which causes the allergy. This shows how humans can actually alter nutritional content of substances for a healthy cause, although the milk is still not for sale for the public.

5. Insulin

During the 1900s, insulin is being extracted from animals inorder to treat diabetes. However, since animal insulin isn't exactly compatible for humans, it sometimes give off side effects such as rashes. 70 years later, insulin was created from a human protein. From there, it had been more safe using them for medical treatment.