Genetic engineering allows scientists to create genetically modified organisms (GMOs)... Show more
Chemistry
AlgebraSign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
142
•
Feb 12, 2026
•
Understanding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Insights into Genetic Engineering
Hazel A.
@zellymae.com
1 / 4
Understanding Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering creates genetically modified organisms (GMOs) by physically removing genes from one organism and placing them into another. Unlike traditional breeding, this technology allows scientists to transfer genes between completely unrelated species.
The process follows several key steps. First, scientists isolate both the plasmid (a small circular DNA molecule) from bacteria and the gene of interest. In many plant modifications, scientists use a bacterium called Agrobacterium tumefaciens because it naturally transfers DNA into plant cells.
Next comes ligation, where scientists cut both the plasmid and gene of interest using the same restriction enzymes. These molecular scissors recognize specific DNA sequences and create matching "sticky ends" that allow the new gene to be inserted into the plasmid using DNA ligases.
💡 Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacteria produce proteins toxic to certain insect pests but harmless to humans, making their genes particularly valuable for creating pest-resistant crops.
After creating this recombinant DNA, scientists perform transformation by putting the modified plasmid back into bacteria. When these bacteria infect plant cells, they transfer the new gene, which becomes integrated into the plant's genome and passed to all future cells.
Selection and Transformation Methods
After transformation, scientists need to identify which cells successfully incorporated the new gene. They use special nutrient media with markers that make it easy to distinguish transformed cells from untransformed ones. Only cells containing the desired gene are grown into complete organisms.
Scientists have developed several methods to insert new genes into host organisms:
Biolistic method uses a "gene gun" to fire DNA-coated pellets into plant tissues. Cells that survive this bombardment and incorporate the DNA will express the new trait. This works well for plants with tough cell walls.
Electroporation temporarily creates pores in cell membranes using electrical pulses, allowing DNA to enter. This technique works particularly well with mammalian cells that might be damaged by other methods.
💡 Heat shock transformation is particularly effective for bacteria. The rapid temperature change (4°C to 42°C and back) causes membrane pores to expand and contract, allowing plasmids to enter the cells.
GMOs have revolutionized many fields. In medicine, bacteria now produce human insulin for diabetics. In agriculture, corn with the Bt toxin gene resists pests naturally. Other applications include delayed-ripening tomatoes that stay fresh longer, golden rice with enhanced vitamin A, and even glowing fish that help detect diseases.
Advantages and Disadvantages of GMOs
GMOs offer several important benefits to society. Farmers using pest-resistant crops like Bt corn often see increased productivity with higher yields. Since these plants produce their own insect protection, farmers typically spray fewer chemical pesticides, which is better for the environment.
Some GMOs have improved nutritional profiles. Golden Rice, for example, contains beta-carotene that helps prevent blindness caused by vitamin A deficiency in developing countries. In medical research, bioluminescent animals with special protein trackers help scientists detect diseases earlier.
However, GMOs also present some concerns. Pest-resistant crops might harm beneficial insects, like when Monarch butterfly larvae consume pollen from Bt corn. There's also evidence that pests eventually develop resistance to these crops, potentially requiring more pesticides later.
⚠️ GMO technology raises social and economic issues too. Some people experience allergic reactions to certain modified foods, and farmers often face higher costs for GM seeds since companies prohibit saving seeds for future planting due to patent restrictions.
As genetic engineering technology continues to advance, society must carefully weigh these advantages and disadvantages to use GMOs in ways that maximize benefits while minimizing potential risks.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content in Science (ACT®)
Basic Biology, Botany and Genetics Reviewer
This talks about cells, differences between plant and animal cells, cells according to complexity, botany, different plant parts
Science (ACT®)Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Insights into Genetic Engineering
Hazel A.
@zellymae.com
Genetic engineering allows scientists to create genetically modified organisms (GMOs) by transferring genes between different species. This powerful biotechnology can produce organisms with new traits that help solve various problems in agriculture, medicine, and other fields.
Understanding Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering creates genetically modified organisms (GMOs) by physically removing genes from one organism and placing them into another. Unlike traditional breeding, this technology allows scientists to transfer genes between completely unrelated species.
The process follows several key steps. First, scientists isolate both the plasmid (a small circular DNA molecule) from bacteria and the gene of interest. In many plant modifications, scientists use a bacterium called Agrobacterium tumefaciens because it naturally transfers DNA into plant cells.
Next comes ligation, where scientists cut both the plasmid and gene of interest using the same restriction enzymes. These molecular scissors recognize specific DNA sequences and create matching "sticky ends" that allow the new gene to be inserted into the plasmid using DNA ligases.
💡 Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacteria produce proteins toxic to certain insect pests but harmless to humans, making their genes particularly valuable for creating pest-resistant crops.
After creating this recombinant DNA, scientists perform transformation by putting the modified plasmid back into bacteria. When these bacteria infect plant cells, they transfer the new gene, which becomes integrated into the plant's genome and passed to all future cells.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Selection and Transformation Methods
After transformation, scientists need to identify which cells successfully incorporated the new gene. They use special nutrient media with markers that make it easy to distinguish transformed cells from untransformed ones. Only cells containing the desired gene are grown into complete organisms.
Scientists have developed several methods to insert new genes into host organisms:
Biolistic method uses a "gene gun" to fire DNA-coated pellets into plant tissues. Cells that survive this bombardment and incorporate the DNA will express the new trait. This works well for plants with tough cell walls.
Electroporation temporarily creates pores in cell membranes using electrical pulses, allowing DNA to enter. This technique works particularly well with mammalian cells that might be damaged by other methods.
💡 Heat shock transformation is particularly effective for bacteria. The rapid temperature change (4°C to 42°C and back) causes membrane pores to expand and contract, allowing plasmids to enter the cells.
GMOs have revolutionized many fields. In medicine, bacteria now produce human insulin for diabetics. In agriculture, corn with the Bt toxin gene resists pests naturally. Other applications include delayed-ripening tomatoes that stay fresh longer, golden rice with enhanced vitamin A, and even glowing fish that help detect diseases.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
Advantages and Disadvantages of GMOs
GMOs offer several important benefits to society. Farmers using pest-resistant crops like Bt corn often see increased productivity with higher yields. Since these plants produce their own insect protection, farmers typically spray fewer chemical pesticides, which is better for the environment.
Some GMOs have improved nutritional profiles. Golden Rice, for example, contains beta-carotene that helps prevent blindness caused by vitamin A deficiency in developing countries. In medical research, bioluminescent animals with special protein trackers help scientists detect diseases earlier.
However, GMOs also present some concerns. Pest-resistant crops might harm beneficial insects, like when Monarch butterfly larvae consume pollen from Bt corn. There's also evidence that pests eventually develop resistance to these crops, potentially requiring more pesticides later.
⚠️ GMO technology raises social and economic issues too. Some people experience allergic reactions to certain modified foods, and farmers often face higher costs for GM seeds since companies prohibit saving seeds for future planting due to patent restrictions.
As genetic engineering technology continues to advance, society must carefully weigh these advantages and disadvantages to use GMOs in ways that maximize benefits while minimizing potential risks.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
0
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Practice Test ✓ Essay Outlines
Practice Test
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Most popular content in Science (ACT®)
Basic Biology, Botany and Genetics Reviewer
This talks about cells, differences between plant and animal cells, cells according to complexity, botany, different plant parts
Science (ACT®)Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5
App Store
4.7/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE Knowunity AI. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user