Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) - Group 8 PDF

Genetically Modified Organisms: Science, Health, and Politics Learning Objectives At the end of this lesson, you will learn to: define genetically modified organisms; enumerate examples of commercially available genetically modified crops or products made from genetically m...

Genetically Modified Organisms: Science, Health, and Politics Learning Objectives At the end of this lesson, you will learn to: define genetically modified organisms; enumerate examples of commercially available genetically modified crops or products made from genetically modified materials; discuss the economic and health impact of GMOs or genetically modified organisms. Introduction Genetically modified organisms are among the promising solutions to ease some of the world’s problems including food security, food safety, and environmental pollution and degration. However, there are issues and concerns that pertain to the promotion and consumption of GMOs or GMO- derived products. Debates are still ongoing as to the impact of GMOs on health and the environment.  What is GMOs? Genetically modified organism (GMO) is the term used for an organism created through genetic engineering. The World Health Organization (WHO, 2014) defines GMO as an "organism, either plant, animal, or microorganism, in which the genetic material (DNA) has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating or natural recombination." Below is a diagram of how bacterial gene is introduced through genetic engineering to plant cells and tissues to develop and breed a genetically modified plant. The Genetic Engineering Process on a Plant  History of GMO In 2001, Rosalie Ellasus, a former overseas Filipino worker in Singapore turned farmer, attended the Integrated Pest Management Farmers Field School and was introduced to Bt Corn, a genetically modified corn that is resistant to the destructive Asian corn borer. - Ms. Ellasus volunteered for demo-testing in her field. This is one of the success stories of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) (Ongkiko, 2016). Genetic engineering has been with the human society since selective breeding was introduced to humankind and when animals were domesticated. It was in 1951 that the term genetic engineering was coined by Jack Williamson. This was years before actual research findings on the DNA's role in heredity and its structure, the double-helix of Watson and Crick, were published. During mid-1990s, the first genetically engineered plants for human consumption were introduced. Nowadays, genetically modified crops especially corn, sugar beets, and soybeans account for approximately 90% of available GMOs in the market.  GMOs and Health According to FDA, consumption of GMO food is safe and does not cause harm to our health similar with non-GMO food. Genetically modified plants are produced to improve nutritional quality of naturally growing plants. A classic example is genetically modified soybeans containing healthier oils which are actually used as good alternative to oils with trans fats. Since their introduction in the 1990s, genetically modified foods are believed to be just as safe as non-GMO foods (www.fda.org). moreover, research shows that GM plants that are fed to farm animals or are used as ingredients for animal food are as safe as non-GMO animal food (www.fda.org). Hence, GMO and non-GMO foods pose no significant difference in their effect to health and safety of animals. GMOs will possibly play a significant role in biomedical research in the future. With the advent of advanced biotechnology methodologies, genetically modified organisms with important medicinal compounds will be manufactured that can serve as cure to some damaging or even fatal diseases. GMOs in Food and Agricultural Industries The Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health (CEEH, 2013) identified the following roles of GMOs in the food and agricultural industries. 1. Pest resistance - genetically modified plants to resist certain pests. An example is Bt Corn. The DNA (genome) of the Bt Corn has been modified with the gene of Bacillus thuringiensis, a soil bacterium that produces proteins which is toxic to corn borers (worms). 2. Virus resistance - genetically modified plants to resist certain viruses. An example is GM papaya or rainbow papaya. The papaya ringspot virus (PRSV) is known to be detrimental to papaya plants. The protein of PRSV was introduced to the papaya plant through plant tissue which turned out to be resistant to the virus itself. The effect was like the vaccines humans have against measles or influenza virus. 3. Herbicide tolerance - genetically modified plants to tolerate herbicide. An example is Roundup Ready soybean. Glyphosate, an Herbicide for weed, was introduced to soybeans making it tolerant to the herbicide itself. Farmers then can spray the herbicide killing the weeds but not the soybeans. 4. Fortification - genetically modified plants fortified with certain minerals. 5. Cosmetic preservation - genetically modified plants resist naturaldiscoloration. 6. Increase growth rate - a genetically modified organism that has higher yield in growth than normal species. 4. Fortification - genetically modified plants fortified with certain minerals. An example is Golden Rice. Beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, was introduced through biosynthesis genes to the rice, making it the rice grains fortified with vitamin A. 5. Cosmetic preservation - genetically modified plants resist natural discoloration. An example is Arctic Apple. The apple variety was genetically modified to suppress the browning of apple due to superficial damage. 6. Increase growth rate - a genetically modified organism that has higher yield in growth than normal species. An example is AquAdvantage salmon. A gene from an ocean pout, an eel-like fish was introduced to Pacific Chinook salmon, making the salmon grow faster than its normal rate.  Nonfood GMOs Genetically modified organisms are not always food or they are not always edible. The technique used in creating GMOs is also used in developing medicines. For instance, human insulin (Eli Lilly & Co.’s Humulin) which is a medicine made to treat diabetes was manufactured using genetic engineering. Medicines prepared through genetic engineering follow a rigorous process for FDA approval. Aside from medicine, GMOs are also used in the textile industry. Some genetically modified cotton plants are utilized for the production of cotton fiber which is then used for manufacturing fabric for clothing and other materials.  Benefits of GMOs Higher Farming Efficiency: GMO crops resist pesticides and herbicides, reducing the need for chemicals and lowering farming costs. Increased Harvest: GMO crops resistant to pests and diseases means increase in potential growth and harvest. Fertility Control: GMO seeds are designed to ensure higher yields by maintaining seed purity. Increase in Food Processing: Altered traits in GMO crops make food production faster and easier. Enhanced Characteristics: GMOs provide longer shelf life, better color, and taste, and can modify enzymes in plants and animals for improved use. Nutritional and Pharmaceutical Benefits: Examples include crops like Golden Rice (fortified with vitamin A) and maize with lysine, plus GMO vaccines for diseases. Reduced Fertilizer and Pesticide Use: GMO crops reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, benefiting the environment. Potential Risks of GMOs Allergic Reactions: GMOs might cause more allergies or new types of allergies due to genetic changes. Gene Mutations: GMO foods might develop unexpected mutations or abnormalities. Antibiotic Resistance: GMOs can carry genes that resist antibiotics, which might lead to more antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Nutritional Changes: GMOs could have altered nutritional values compared to non-GMO foods.  Potential Environmental Risks caused by GMOs Potential Environmental Risks Caused By GMOs Karki (2006) summarized the perceived potential environmental risks caused by GMOs. 1. Risk in gene flow - The modified gene from a GMO crop could be transferred to wild organisms in soil and human intestine, potentially causing harm to bacteria and fungi, though no studies have yet been conducted on the effects. 2. Emergence of new forms of resistance and secondary pests and weed problems - GMO crops resistant to certain pesticides may trigger new form of pest resistance while GMO herbicide-tolerant crops may lead to the over use of the herbicides which may trigger new form of weed resistance. 3. Recombination of Virus and Bacteria to Produce New Pathogens - Recombination of viruses and bacteria can lead to the transfer of modified genes, potentially causing new pathogens that can affect other organisms, including humans. Other direct and indirect environmental risks caused by GMOs ( Molfino & Zucco, 2008): 1. Direct environmental risks are : ☆ The introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) into the natural environment could potentially disrupt natural communities through competition and interference. ☆ The potential for GMOs to unexpectedly behave in the environment, potentially posing threats or becoming pests, if they escape their intended use. ☆ GMOs may disrupt natural biochemical cycles, potentially leading to harmful effects on ecosystem processes. ☆ The persistence of GMO genes post-harvest may have adverse effects on consumers of GMO products. 2. Indirect environmental risks are: ☆ The alteration of agriculture practices involves managing negative factors like the evolution of insects, pests, and weeds that have become resistant to GMO crops. ☆ The alteration in agricultural practices may have potential impacts on biodiversity. ☆ The interaction and release of GMOs in the natural environment may have varying environmental impacts.  Potential Human Health Risks caused by GMOs A major concern in the use and consumption of GMOs is its effect on human beings, primarily on human health. Some potential human health risks are identified (Akhter, 2001), such as: - Consumption of GMOs may have adverse effects since it is not naturally or organically produced - The consumption of GMOs has been linked to potential changes in the balance of microorganisms in the human digestive system. - production of toxins may be detrimental to human health - production of allergens may have adverse effects on humans. Globally, groups campaign against GMO food consumption, encouraging boycotts and vigilant food checks. In the Philippines, the Supreme Court ruled against Bt eggplant use. (Ongkiko, 2016). Human Genome Project (HGP) - The mapping of human genes for medical research was feared to create biases and disadvantage those without genetic information. Mutation of genetically engineered microorganisms - Genetically modified bacteria and viruses can mutate, becoming more resistant or virulent, potentially leading to more severe diseases for humans. Cloning - Genetic engineering, including the birth of the first mammal, Dolly, in 1997, raised ethical concerns about human cloning and the concept of "playing God."  Biosafety on GMOs International organizations have developed principles and treaties to ensure biosafety on GMOs, protecting the general human population from concerns about GMOs, including initiatives such as: The Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex) is an intergovernmental body created by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to develop the International Food Code. It is responsible for creating standards, codes of practices, guidelines, and recommendations on food safety. In 2003, Codex developed principles for human health risk analysis of genetically modified (GM) food products, including pre-market assessments and evaluation of direct and indirect effects.  Biosafety on GMOs Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. Established in 2003, Cartagena Protocol is an international environmental treaty that regulates the transboundary movements of Living Modified Organisms (LMOs). The Cartagena Protocol requires exporters to seek consent from the importers before its first shipment of LMOs (WHO, 2014). International Trade Agreement on labeling of GM food and food products. The agreement requires exporters of GM food and food products to label their products and give rights to importing parties to reject or accept the GM products. The premise of this policy is that consumers have the right to know and the freedom to choose GM or non-GM products (Whitman, 2000). GMOs in Philippine Context GMOs in our country created issues and controversies similar to other countries with GMOs. Proponents and opponents of these issues -1990s started with the creation of the National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) through Executive Order No. 430 of 1990. -1998 the NCBP developed the guidelines on the planned release of genetically manipulated organisms (GMOs) and potentially harmful exotic species -2002 the Department of Agriculture released Administrative Order No. 8, the guideline for the importation and release into the environment of GM plants and plant products. Also the same year the importation started. -The Philippines was marked to be the first country in Asia to approved commercial cultivation of GMOs when GM corn planting was approved in 2002 (Serapio & Dela Cruz, 2016) GMOs in Philippine Context From December 2002 to present: In 2002, 70 GMO applications were approved for environmental use and processing. 62 GMOs were approved for food feed and processing. 8 GMOs were approved for propagation. In 2004, the Philippines was recognized as a biotech mega country, growing over 50,000 hectares of GMO crops annually. In 2006, the Philippines joined the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety and established the National Biosafety Framework. The Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 promoted organic agriculture over GMO-related practices. In 2012, a bill for mandatory GMO labeling was proposed. A 2006 study revealed weak biosafety regulations. In 2015, the Supreme Court halted GMO Bt eggplant field testing. In 2016, Joint Department Circular No. 1 was issued, outlining rules for GM crops research, development, and use. Genetic engineering is an emerging field of science. Its quests are to preserve and prolong life. In more than four decades since the first genetically modified bacteria was Summary produced, thousands of genetically modified organisms have been created and propagated. Some are approved by experts and government authorities for human use and consumption while others are kept in institutional research laboratories subject for more experiments. There are advantages and disadvantages in using genetic engineering in both fields of medicine and food and agriculture, there are controversies that are still debatable up to the present. The major concern of the opponents is the long-term effect of GMOs to humans while the proponents' flagship is the success stories of the GMO recipients. There is still a long way to go for GMOs to prove itself, as humans seek answers to life's predicaments or as humans play like God.