Monday, June 25, 2007

How are GMOs developed?

There are 6 steps involving in the makeup of a GMO.

1. Identification
The first step is to identify the gene/genes from an organism which is responsible for desired characteristic. This gene is known as the ‘Gene of Interest’.

2. Isolation
The second step is to use techniques of molecular biology to isolate and copy the desired gene from the donor organism.

3. Addition of Switches
In order for the gene/genes to function in a new species, various switches of the gene need to be removed and added to allow it to function in the recipient cell.

4. Insertion
The genes of interest, together with the gene switches, are inserted into the host of an organism with the aid of molecular biology techniques. Cells with new gene inserted into them are known as ‘Transformed cells’. These cells contain both the usual recipient genes and the newly inserted gene/genes.

5. Growth of ‘Transformed cells’
These cells; inserted into host organisms, are then grown using selective nutrient-dense media. Therefore, only ‘Gene of interest’ containing cells are allowed to grow. The newly grown organisms are then studied for properties exhibited by the gene/genes.

6. Conventional Breeding
The Genetically modified organisms are then bred with conventional plants of the same kind. The seeds produced will then be sent for further laboratory testing and studies, which might possibly be launched commercially.

References:
http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/_srcfiles/GM%20Foods_text_pp_final.pdf