Genetic Engineering

Understanding Genetic Engineering

  • Genetic engineering refers to the manipulation of an organism’s genes by introducing, eliminating or rearranging specific genes.
  • This technology is applied in multiple fields such as agriculture, medicine, research and industry.
  • Genetic engineering can create genetically modified organisms (GMOs), whose genetic material has been modified in a way that does not occur naturally through mating or natural recombination.

Process of Genetic Engineering

  • Genetic engineering is a multi-step process. It starts with gene isolation, where the desired gene is identified and cut out from the organism’s DNA.
  • The gene is then inserted into a vector, a carrier used to introduce the new gene into the desired organism. This is known as gene cloning.
  • Upon successful integration of the new gene into the organism’s DNA, it is called a transgenic organism. The inserted gene can express itself to display the desirable traits within the organism.

Applications

  • In agriculture, genetic engineering is used to create transgenic crops that are resistant to pesticides, insects, or harsh environmental conditions.
  • Medicine uses genetic engineering to produce insulin, hormones, and antiviral drugs.
  • In research, scientists use genetic engineering to create animal models, where animals are genetically modified to mimic human diseases for study.

Controversies and Ethical Considerations

  • The use of GMOs and genetic engineering raises several ethical, environmental, and health-related concerns.
  • Some fear that genetically modified crops could crossbreed with nearby wild relatives, creating ‘super weeds’ that are resistant to herbicides.
  • Others raise issues related to patenting genetically modified organisms, questioning who owns the rights to life forms.
  • There is also the fear of possible health consequences from eating genetically modified foods, although vast majority of scientific research suggests they are just as safe as their non-GMO counterparts.

Regulation and Approvals

  • Genetic engineering and the use of GMOs are rigorously regulated by numerous international bodies and laws set up at a national level.
  • Before a GMO can be released into the market, it must undergo comprehensive assessments to evaluate its safety to the environment and consumers.
  • This aims to ensure that the benefits of genetic engineering are utilised with minimal chances of harm to humans and the environment.