Explain how this technology works.
Genetic engineering otherwise called genetic modification and can basically be described as the ‘direct manipulation of an organism’s genome’ which is the complete set of genetic material of an animal, plant or other living thing. This direct manipulation works by using modern DNA technology. This ‘involves the introduction of foreign DNA also known as synthetic genes into the organism of interest’ or curiousity.
Genetic engineering does not include traditional animal and plant breeding, in vitro fertilization, induction of polyploidy, mutagenesis and cell fusion techniques that do not use recombinant nucleic acids or a genetically modified organism in the process. Cloning and stem cell research, although not considered genetic engineering, are closely related and genetic engineering can be used within them. Synthetic biology is an emerging discipline that takes genetic engineering a step further by introducing artificially synthesized genetic material from raw materials into an organism.
Outline at least 2 advantages & disadvantages of having this technology.
Advantages;
• Better Taste, Nutrition and Growth Rate;
Genetically engineered crops are expected to have the capacity to grow on lands that are presently not suitable for farming. The manipulation of genes in crops is expected to improve their nutritional value as also their rate of growth. Biotechnology, the science of genetically engineering foods, can be used to impart a better taste to food’
• Pest-resistant Crops and Longer Shelf life;
Engineered seeds are resistant to pests and can survive in relatively harsh climatic conditions. Biotechnology can be used to slow down the process of food spoilage. It can thus result in fruits and vegetables that have a greater shelf life.
• Boost Positive Traits, Suppress Negative Ones;
Positive genetic engineering deals with enhancing the positive traits in an individual like increasing longevity or