BIOTECHNOLOGY

A module released by Bioversity International titled "Law and policy

of relevance to the management of plant genetic resources" (Bragdon
et al., 2005).
- This module highlights the importance of managing, conserving, and
using plant genetic resources.

Biotechnology: Using biological systems to make or modify products

or processes.
Genetic Engineering: Technique involving the transfer of genes and
DNA between sources, leading to LMOs or GMOs.
Modern Biotechnology: Molecular tools for a better understanding of
gene structure and its function in living organisms.

Applications of Modern Biotechnology in Agriculture:

• Precision tools and diagnostics - Advanced tools for precise

genetic analysis and diagnostics.
• Speeding up breeding gains and efficiency - Accelerating
breeding processes for efficient crop improvement.
• Developing pest- and disease-resistant crops - Creating
crops with built-in resistance to pests and diseases.
• Enhancing nutritional quality of food - Improving the nutrient
content of crops for better public health.
• Increasing crop varieties and choice - Diversifying crop options for farmers and promoting
biodiversity.
• Reducing inputs and production costs - Minimizing resource use and costs through efficient
crop management.
• Increasing profits - Enhancing overall profitability in agriculture through improved yields and
efficiency.
GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS
- living entities whose genetic makeup has been altered
using recombinant DNA methods, gene splicing, or
transgenic technology.
Evolutionary Theory Connection - Evolutionary theory of survival
of the fittest suggests that organisms possess a natural spectrum
of characteristics. GMOs represent a departure from traditional
evolutionary processes.

The Science Behind GMOs

• Transgenic organisms are those that contain genes from unrelated species, achieved
through genetic engineering.
• Insertion of Genes: Genes from one species are deliberately inserted into the genes of an
unrelated organism, a fundamental process in genetic modification.
• Transgenic Technology: the pivotal role of transgenic technology in the creation of GMOs.

Applications of Genetic Modification:

- Food Security: GMOs can exhibit enhanced resistance to pests and diseases, leading to
increased crop yield.
- Agriculture: Pest-resistant crops and those with improved nutrient content contribute to
sustainable agriculture.
- Drug Production: Genetic modification facilitates the production of biopharmaceuticals
through organisms.
- Nutrition: GMOs can be engineered to contain improved nutritional profiles, addressing
nutritional deficiencies.

Benefits and Considerations:

Benefits:
- Improved Crop Yield and Resistance: GMOs can withstand harsh environmental conditions,
leading to increased agricultural productivity.
- Addressing Global Hunger: The potential for GMOs to contribute to global food security and
alleviate hunger.
- Advances in Medicine: Genetic modification plays a crucial role in the production of
medicines and pharmaceuticals.

Considerations:
- Ethical Concerns: Acknowledgment of ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic modification.
- Environmental Impacts: Recognition of potential environmental consequences.
- Long-term Health Effects: Consideration of potential long-term effects on human health.