Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) refer to organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques to exhibit desirable traits. These modifications are carried out to enhance productivity, improve resistance to pests and diseases, and improve nutritional content. GMOs encompass genetically modified crops, animals, and microorganisms used in agriculture, medicine, and research.

1. Presented By
Sijo A
Ph.D. Research Scholar (Microbiology)
School of Biosciences, MACFAST College
Tiruvalla, Kerala
GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS

2. Genetically Modified Organisms
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) refer to organisms whose genetic
material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques to exhibit
desirable traits.
• These modifications are carried out to enhance productivity, improve
resistance to pests and diseases, and improve nutritional content.
• GMOs encompass genetically modified crops, animals, and microorganisms
used in agriculture, medicine, and research.

3. Methodology of Genetic Modification
The creation of GMOs involves several sophisticated techniques, including:
1. Identification of Desired Gene – The process begins with identifying the gene responsible for
the desired trait, such as pest resistance or enhanced nutrition.
2. Gene Isolation – The identified gene is isolated from the donor organism using restriction
enzymes.
3. Gene Insertion – The isolated gene is inserted into the target organism’s genome using
various techniques:
1. Gene Gun Method (Biolistics) – Small particles coated with the desired DNA are shot
into target cells.
2. Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation – A naturally occurring soil bacterium,
Agrobacterium tumefaciens, is used to introduce foreign DNA into plant cells.
3. Microinjection – A fine needle injects the DNA directly into the nucleus of animal cells.
4. Electroporation – An electric pulse creates temporary pores in the cell membrane to
allow DNA entry.

4. Methodology of Genetic Modification
4. Selection and Screening – Successfully modified cells are selected using antibiotic resistance markers or
reporter genes.
5. Regeneration and Growth – Modified cells are cultured to develop into mature organisms exhibiting the
introduced trait.
6. Field Trials and Regulatory Approval – GMOs undergo rigorous testing for safety, efficacy, and
environmental impact before commercialization.

5. Merits of GMO
• Enhanced Agricultural Productivity – Crops modified for pest and herbicide resistance
lead to higher yields.
• Improved Nutritional Content – Biofortification enhances the nutritional profile of
food, e.g., Golden Rice rich in Vitamin A.
• Pest and Disease Resistance – Reduces dependence on chemical pesticides, benefiting
the environment and human health.
• Drought and Salinity Tolerance – GM crops can grow in adverse environmental
conditions, improving food security.
• Reduced Post-Harvest Losses – Longer shelf life of GMO products reduces wastage.
• Medical Benefits – GMOs contribute to pharmaceutical production, such as insulin
synthesis and edible vaccines.

6. Demerits of GMO
• Environmental Risks – Uncontrolled cross-pollination can lead to genetic
contamination of wild species.
• Biodiversity Loss – GM crops may outcompete native varieties, reducing genetic
diversity.
• Health Concerns – Potential allergic reactions and antibiotic resistance concerns
arise from GM foods.
• Economic and Ethical Issues – Dependence on biotech companies for patented
seeds increases costs for farmers.
• Unpredictable Ecological Consequences – Unforeseen effects on non-target
organisms and ecosystems.

7. Transgenic Animals
• Transgenic animals are genetically engineered to express foreign genes for
research, agriculture, or medical applications.
Features, Merits, and Demerits of Specific Transgenic Animals
1. Polly and Rosie the Cow
Features:
• Polly and Rosie were genetically modified sheep and cows engineered to
produce human therapeutic proteins in their milk.
• Polly was created to produce Factor IX, used for hemophilia treatment.
• Rosie was engineered to produce milk enriched with human proteins,
beneficial for infant nutrition.
Merits:
• Production of pharmaceutical proteins in milk is cost-effective.
• Reduces reliance on synthetic drugs.
Demerits:
• Ethical concerns over animal welfare.
• High production costs and regulatory hurdles.

8. Transgenic Animals
2. GloFish
Features:
• First genetically modified pet fish, engineered to express
fluorescent proteins derived from jellyfish and coral.
• Available in various colors such as red, green, and blue.
Merits:
• Useful for scientific research on environmental toxins.
• Aesthetic appeal as an ornamental pet.
Demerits:
• Ecological concerns if released into the wild.
• No direct benefit to human health or agriculture.

9. Transgenic Animals
3. GFP Animals (Green Fluorescent Protein Animals)
Features:
• Express the GFP gene from jellyfish, allowing researchers to track gene
expression and protein interactions.
Merits:
• Used in medical research to study diseases like cancer and
neurodegenerative disorders.
• Helps in understanding genetic modifications and developmental biology.
Demerits:
• High costs and ethical considerations in animal experimentation.

10. Genetically Modified Crops
1. Golden Rice
Features:
• Engineered to contain β-carotene (a precursor of Vitamin A).
• Aimed at reducing Vitamin A deficiency in developing countries.
Merits:
• Addresses malnutrition and prevents blindness.
• Cost-effective compared to supplementation programs.
Demerits:
• Public resistance and regulatory challenges.
• Concerns over long-term ecological impact.

11. Genetically Modified Crops
2. Flavr Savr Tomato
Features:
• First commercially grown genetically modified food.
• Engineered to delay ripening and improve shelf life.
Merits:
• Reduces food spoilage and waste.
• Enhances taste and marketability.
Demerits:
• High production costs led to market failure.
• Consumer skepticism over GMO foods.