Chapter 9 Module 2: Genetically Modified Organisms:

Science, Health and Politics

This section discusses the moral and ethical issues concerning GMOs
and their impacts on society. It also sheds light on the various forms and
applications of gene therapy.

Learning Objectives
At the end of this topic, students will be able to:
1. Identify the uses and effects of GMOs and gene therapy on society,
particularly in the context of health and economy; and
2. Discuss the moral and bioethical questions concerning genetic engineering.

PRESENTATION OF CONTENTS

Genetically Modified Organisms

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are products of artificial

manipulation and alteration of a species’ genetic material in a laboratory using
genetic engineering. Plant, animal, bacteria, and virus genes may be
combined or may be crossbred to produce another kind of species that do not
naturally occur in the environment.

One of the most controversial issues in science and technology is the

introduction of genetically modified seeds in the agriculture sector that
resulted in increased crop yield. New technologies are used to artificially
develop traits in plants, such as resistance to browning and pests. With the
aim to improve harvest and the agriculture sector as a whole, humans seem
to be disinterested in preserving genetic diversity the natural way.

Genetically modified Tomato

Increase crop yield, pest resistance, and other benefits of GMOs are indeed
advantageous, yet there are also disadvantage that need to be studied
comprehensively. In addition, the growing concern with how GMOs may affect
consumers’ health and the environment needs to addressed.

Genetic engineering, usually associated with recombinant DNA

technology, is founded on the work of many scientists over the years. In 1953,
the discovery of DNA by James Watson and Francis Crick opened the gates
for the countless possibilities of genetic engineering. In 1973, Herbert Boyer
and Stanley Cohen were the first scientists to genetically modify an organism
by combining genes from two different E. coli.

In 1982, the US Supreme Court ruled to allow the patenting of GMOs.

This ruling allowed the Exxon Oil company to start using a microorganism that
can consume oil.

In 1982, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first GMO
– Humulin, a type of insulin produced using genetically engineered E. coli
bacteria to be available in the market.

In 1993, FDA approved bovine somatotropin (bST), a metabolic protein

hormone used to increase milk production in dairy cows for commercial use.

In 1994, FDA approved the Flavr Savr tomato for sale on grocery stores.
This kind of tomato has a delayed-ripening effect that gives a longer shelf life
compared with natural tomatoes.

In 1995, Bt Potatoes and Corn, and Roundup Ready Soybeans were

approved safe by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In 1996, weeds resistant to glyphosate, the herbicide used for many GMO
crops, were detected in Australia. Research shows that the super weeds are 7
to 11 times more resistant to glyphosate than the standard susceptible
population. In the same year, Dolly, the first cloned animal, was born.

In 1997, the European Union ruled in favor of mandatory labeling on all

GMO food products, including animal feed.

In 1998, a genetically papaya in Hawaii was found to be resistant to the

Ring spot virus and produced the Bacillus thuringiensis toxin, an insecticide
that is not harmful to humans.

Starting 1999, over 100 million acres worldwide are planted with
genetically engineered seeds.

In 2000, golden rice was developed in the Philippines to address vitamin

A deficiency, which is a public health issue in Asian countries where rice is a
staple food crop. Golden rice is a variety (Oryza sativa) genetically modified to
biosynthesize beta-carotene, a precursor of Vitamin A, in the edible parts of
rice. Additional three beta-carotene-synthesized genes differentiate the golden
rice from its parental strain. The introduction of golden rice from its parental
strain. The introduction of golden rice was opposed by environmental and
anti-globalization advocates because this GMO was thought to compromise
food production, nutrition, and financial security.

APPLICATION- “IMAGINATION MO LANG ANG LIMIT”

Activity 3 Module 2 “Imagination mo lang ang limit”

Draw a possible GMO in a ¼-sized illustration board using your art materials.
In conceptualizing a GMO, think of the features or characteristics that you
imagine it possesses and its potential impacts on society. Be ready to share
your output in class. Answer the questions that follow.
1. What is your GMO, its modified characteristics and features?
2. In what ways do you think this GMO can positively impact society?
3. What ethical issues or concerns may arise as a result of this GM

Assignment 3 module 2 GMOs in Food

Instructions: search the internet for edible products that make use of GMOs
as ingredients. Choose a particular GMO and research on it. Paste a photo of
your chosen GMO and answer the question.
“How does the use of a GMO ingredient in the product reduce the drawbacks of the
same product that use non GMO ingredient? “