Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This document focuses on transgenic bacteria, which are bacteria that have been genetically engineered to carry and mass produce a selected gene. GM bacteria are useful because they can quickly and easily produce large quantities of a selected gene, which can then be used to create medicines and help the environment. Some benefits of using GM bacteria include degrading oil spills, fixing nitrogen to increase crop production, and creating anti-freezing bacteria to protect plants.