CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO

LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

A. Topic:
Genetically Modified Organism: Science, Health and Politics

B. Objectives

Discuss the ethics and implications of GMOs and potential future impacts.

C. Discussion/ Content

GMO (short for “genetically modified organism”) is a plant, animal or microbe in

which one or more changes have been made to the genome, typically using high-tech
genetic engineering, in an attempt to alter the characteristics of an organism. Genes
can be introduced, enhanced or deleted within a species, across species or even across
kingdoms. GMOs may be used for a variety of purposes, such as making human
insulin, producing fermented beverages and developing pesticide resistance in crop
plants.

Figure 1. Genetically Modified Organisms

 Result of a laboratory process where genes from the DNA of one species are
extracted and artificially force into the genes of an unrelated plant or animal
 GMOs are also known as "transgenic organisms”
 GMOS are therefore plants animals, and microorganisms with genes that have
been altered artificially.
 Purposes of GM crops generally include resistance to certain pests, diseases, or
environmental conditions, or resistance to chemical treatments (e.g. resistance to
a herbicide).

The process of modifying genes is called Genetic Engineering (GE). This is done in the
ff. ways:

 using viruses or bacteria to "infect animal or plant cells w/ the new DNA
 coating DNA into tiny metal pellets and firing it with a special gun into the cells
 injecting the new DNA into fertilized eggs with a very fine needle.
 using electric shots to create holes in the membrane covering sperm, and then
forcing the new DNA into the sperm through these holes

USES and BENEFITS of GMO

Used in agriculture and food production
 Engineered crops can dramatically increase per area crop yields and, in some
cases, reduce the use of chemical insecticides. For example, the application of
wide-spectrum insecticides declined in many areas growing plants, such
as potatoes, cotton, and corn, that were endowed with a gene from
the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, which produces a natural insecticide
called Bt toxin.
 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

Manufacture drugs
 Genetically engineered (transgenic, GMO) animals/animal cells are created so they
serve as “bioreactors” to produce these drugs at an industrial scale. Animal
products such as milk, egg white, blood, urine, and silk worm cocoons have been
used to produce complex drugs that can’t be made by chemical synthesis.

The three most common traits found in GMO crops are:

 Resistance to certain damaging insects

 Tolerance of certain herbicides used to control weeds
 Resistance to certain plant viruses

 Farmers can use less spray pesticides when they plant GMO crops. This saves
farmers money and reduces the number of pesticides that end up on crops.

GMOs IN FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRIES

The Center for Eco genetics and Environmental Health (CEEH, 2013) identify the
following roles of the GMOs in the food and agricultural industries:
1. Pest resistance- a change in the sensitivity of a pest population to a pesticide
2. Virus resistance- thought to work by a process called cosuppression-- the plant
cell senses that a gene is being overproduced, and responds by blocking both the
engineered gene and the virus' copy of the gene.
3. Herbicide tolerance- herbicide a substance that is toxic to plants, used to destroy
unwanted vegetation.
4. Fortification-genetically modified plants with certain minerals.
5. Cosmetic preservation-genetically modified plants resist natural discoloration.
6. Increase growth rate-a genetically modified organism that has higher yield in
growth the normal species.

GMOs IN NON-FOOD CROPS AND MICROORGANISMS

Genetically modified organisms in non-food crops and some microorganisms

involve the following:
1. Flower production- GMOs in flower production are seen in modified color
and extended vase life of flowers.
2. Paper production- modified characteristics of trees for higher yield of paper
production.
3. Pharmaceutical productions- modified plants to produce pharmaceutical
products.
4. Bioremediation- use of modified plants that can assist in the
bioremediation of polluted sites.
5. Enzyme and drug production-produce enzymes for food processing and
medicines.
6. GMOs in the medical field- helps in the production of drugs, gene therapy,
and laboratory researches.

 There are over 400 million acres of GMO farmlands all over the world.
 The top five countries that operate GMO farmlands are the:
• United States
• Brazil
 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

• Argentina
• India
• Canada

 Some of the GMO agricultural crops that have been approved for public
consumption and are already in the market include: • Alfalfa, Corn, Papaya, Soya
Bean, Sugar, Beets and Squash

PROS of GMO

1. Attractiveness

-GMO crops may be increasingly attractive to consumers. Examples of this

include apples and potatoes that are less likely to bruise or turn brown.

Some believe that GMO foods may have an enhanced flavor compared to non-GMO
foods. However, there is no evidence to show that genetic modification has any effect
on the taste, smell, or appearance of foods in the U.S. In fact, most people cannot tell
the difference between GMO and non-GMO foods.

2. Resilience and less waste

-Most GMO crops in the U.S. were developed to help farmers. They are more
resilient crops that help prevent crop and food loss. Some of the reasons farmers
choose to grow GMO crops include:

 higher tolerance to herbicides, making it easier to control weeds

 greater resistance to certain plant viruses, which can help increase food
security by reducing food waste
 greater residence to damaging insects, which can help reduce the use of
pesticides

GMO crops may also be more resistant to harsh climates, such as drought, heat, and
salty soils. This can help increase the growth of crops in areas where food security is a
concern. Certain genes in GMO foods may also help increase the shelf life of foods,
again decreasing food waste.

3. Nutritional value

-Certain types of GMOs may add nutritional value to foods. An example of

this is golden rice. This is a product that is engineered to provide higher levels of
vitamin A to consumers. While it can provide nutritional value to those who eat it,
especially in areas where vitamin A deficiency is an issue, the growth of this product is
not widespread. It is not currently a part of the U.S. food system.

Growing plants that are more resistant to diseases spread by insects or viruses will
likely result in higher yields for farmers and a more attractive product. All these
factors can contribute to lower costs for the consumer and can ensure that more
people have access to quality food.

CONS of GMO

1. Allergic reactions

-There is a small risk that GMO foods can trigger an allergic reaction, but this
will only happen if the genetic change triggers the production of an allergen.
 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

For instance, if scientists combine a gene from a Brazil nut with a soybean, there is
a slight chance that a person with a nut allergy could have an allergic reaction to
products made with the soybean.

The World Health Organization (WHO) discourages genetic engineers from using DNA
from allergens unless they can prove that the proteins that the gene produces do not
cause allergies.

Scientists assess the likelihood of GMO foods causing an allergic reaction in humans
before a product reaches the market and can prevent its launch if necessary.

2. Cancer

-There have been concerns that eating GMO foods can contribute to the
development of cancer by raising levels of potentially carcinogenic substances in the
body.

The American Cancer Society states there is no evidence that currently available GMO
foods either increase or reduce the risk of cancer.

While cancer rates have changed over time in the U.S., there is no evidence that these
changes coincide with the introduction of GMO foods. If there is a link, it could take
several more years before a trend emerges.

3. Antibacterial resistance

-Some GMOs contain changes that make them resistant to certain antibiotics.
In theory, the genes from these plants could enter humans or animals when they eat
them. As a result, the person or animal could also develop antibiotic resistance.

The likelihood of this happening is very small, but the WHO and other health
authorities have guidelines in place to prevent it.

4. Changes in human DNA

In older research from 2009 , some food scientists noted that food DNA can
survive as far as the gut, and there have been concerns that this could affect the
immune system.

Some people have also raised fears that eating GMO food could lead to genetic changes
in humans. However, most of the DNA in food — whether GMO or not — either is
destroyed by cooking or breaks down before it reaches the large intestine.

Small fragments of DNA from food can and do enter the bloodstream and body organs,
but there is no evidence that they have any impact on genetic makeup or human
health.

5.Toxicity for body organs

In older research from 2009 , some researchers suggested that GMO foods might
impact the liver, kidney, pancreas, and reproductive system. They did not have
evidence to confirm this and called for further studies.

The use of GMO crops may even reduce the risk of toxicity from some substances, as
farmers may be able to reduce the use of pesticides.
 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

Advantages of GMO

The benefits of Genetically Modified Organisms include the following:

 GMOs improve the quality of food that is cultivated.
 GMOs are simpler to grow.
 They increase the yield that a person can produce on their current land.
 GMOs can be shipped to remote parts of the earth.
 GMO crops use fewer chemicals than other crops.
 GMOs can conserve water, soil, and energy.

Genetically Modified Plants

 They enhance the yield of the crops, which can help meet the population's
increasing demand.
 These crops are less dependent on pesticides and insecticides as they are
genetically resistant to pests.
 They have enhanced nutritional content. These crops have been engineered to
have decreased post-harvest losses.

Genetically Modified Animals

 They can be used as model organisms to study diseases, treatments, vaccines and
the toxicity of chemicals.
 They can improve the quality and quantity of milk, meat etc., produced.

Genetically Modified Microorganisms

 They can be used to produce insulin, hepatitis B vaccine, growth hormone etc.

 Purposes of GM crops generally include resistance to certain pests, diseases, or

environmental conditions, or resistance to chemical treatments (e.g. resistance to
a herbicide).

D. Activity (GROUP ACTIVITY)

Mechanics:
•There are 3 rounds the easy, average, and difficult round.
• Each round consists of 5 questions
• Each team will only be given 10 seconds to answer
• I will count to 3 before raising your board
• NO CHEATING

ROUND 1: Multiple choice. Each team will choose the best letter of the correct answer.
Each correct answer is equivalent to 1 point.

1. They enhance the yield of the crops, which can help meet the population's
increasing demand.
A. Genetically Modified Organism
B. Genes
C. Genetically Modified Plant
D. Genetically Modified Microorganisms

2. They can be used to produce insulin, hepatitis B vaccine, growth hormone etc.
A. Genes
B. Genetically Modified Microorganisms
C. Genetically Modified Animals
D. Genetically Modified Plant
 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

3. Special short segments of DNA that determine physical characteristics.

A. Genes
B. Genetically Modified Plant
C. Genetically Modified Microorganisms
D. Genetically Modified Organism

4. These are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using.
A. Genetically Modified Animals
B. Genetically Modified Organism
C. Genetically Modified Plant
D. Genetically Modified Microorganisms

5. They can be used as model organisms to study diseases, treatments, vaccines and
the toxicity of chemicals.
A. Genetically Modified Plant
B. Genetically Modified Microorganisms
C. Genetically Modified Organism
D. Genetically Modified Animals

ROUND 2: IDENTIFICATION. Each team will write the correct word that answers the
question. Each correct answer is equivalent to 2 points.

_________1. It is also known as "transgenic organisms".

_________2. These are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic
engineering.
_________3. It is modification of organism’s phenotype by altering its genetic makeup.
_________4. They can be used as model organisms to study diseases, treatments,
vaccines and the toxicity of chemicals.
_________5. These crops are less dependent on pesticides and insecticides as they are
genetically resistant to pests

ROUND 3: ENUMERATION. Each team will answer what is asking. Each correct
answer is equivalent to 4 points.

1. Give at least two pros of GMOs

2. Give at least one uses and benefits of GMOs
3. Give at least two cons of GMOs
4. Give one advantage of GMOs
5. Give at least two GMOs in non-food crops and microorganisms

Answer Key:

Round 1
1. C.
2. B.
3. A.
4. B.
5. D.

Round 2
1. GMO's
2. Genetically Modified Organism
3. Genetic engineering
4. Genetically Modified Animals
5. Genetically Modified Plant

Round 3
ANSWER MAY VARY!!
 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

E. Generalization

 Genetically modified organism (GMO) are organisms whose genetic material has
been altered using genetic engineering. GMOs can be processed into ingredients
which are also genetically modified. Genetically modified ingredients are present in
food and personal care products. The three most common traits found in GMO
crops are resistance to certain damaging insects, tolerance of certain herbicides
used to control weeds, resistance to certain plant viruses. GMOs produced
through genetic technologies have become a part of everyday life, entering into
society through agriculture, medicine, research, and environmental management.
However, while GMOs have benefited human society in many ways, some
disadvantages exist; therefore, the production of GMOs remains a highly
controversial topic in many parts of the world. The purposes of GM crops generally
include resistance to certain pests, diseases, or environmental conditions, or
resistance to chemical treatments (e.g. resistance to a herbicide).

F. Evaluation

A. MULTIPLE CHOICE
Select the correct answer for the following question. Circle the letter of the correct
answer.
1. It is the special short segments of DNA that determine physical characteristics.
A. Genetic Engineering C. Genes
B. Fortification D. Virus Resistance

2. There are over _______ acres of GMO farmlands all over the world.
A. 4, 000 million C. 40 million
B. 400, 000 million D. 400 million

3. There are top five countries that operate GMO farmlands, which of these countries
does not belong?
A. Ukraine C. Brazil
B. Canada D. India

4. The modification of organism’s phenotype by altering its genetic makeup.

A. Genetic Engineering C. Genes
B. Fortification D. Virus Resistance

5. It is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering:
A. GMO C. Fortification
B. Gene D. Virus Resistance

B. Identification
Read each statement carefully. Identify what is being asked write the letter on the
space provided before each number.

A. Herbicide Tolerance B. Fortification C. Genetically Modified Plants

D. Cosmetic Preservation E. Increase Growth Rate

______1) Genetically modified plants with certain minerals.

______2) A genetically modified organism that has higher yield in growth the normal
species.

______3) A substance that is tone to plants used to destroy unwanted vegetation.

 CITY GOVERNMENT OF LIGAO
LIGAO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Tomolin, Ligao City, 4504
Email – Address: ligaocommunitycollege@gmail.com
Tel Nos.: 0926 – 772 - 1213 / (052) 431-4124

______4) Genetically modified plants resist natural discoloration.

______5) They enhance the yield of the crops which can help meet the population's
increasing demand.

Answer Key:

A.
1. C
2. D
3. A
4. A
5. A

B.
1. B
2. E
3. A
4. D
5. C

Source:
https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Genetically-Modified-
Organism#:~:text=Definition&text=GMO%20(short%20for%20%E2%80%9C
genetically%20modified,the%20characteristics%20of%20an%20organism.

https://www.fda.gov/food/agricultural-biotechnology/why-do-farmers-us-grow-
gmo- crops#:~:text=Most%20of%20the%20GMO%20crops,herbicides%20use
d%2 0to%20control%20weeds
https://byjus.com/question-answer/discuss-the-advantages-of-gmo/

https://www.britannica.com/science/genetically-modified-organism

https://gmo.uconn.edu/topics/pharmaceutical-use-of-gmos/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324576#cons

https://www.fda.gov/food/agricultural-biotechnology/gmo-crops-animal-food and-
beyond

https://royalsociety.org/news-resources/projects/gm-plants/what-gm-crops-are
currently-being-grown-and
where/#:~:text=GM%20crops%20made%20up%2029,Mha)%20are%20the%20l
argest%20users.

Submitted by:
MR. RENALD CELESTE JR.
MS. CHARISH LOMA
MS. JOYCE ANN LANGTA
MS. BEA LOVENDINO
MS. BEA ERIKA O. MAMADOR
MS. MARIA ANGELA NABOR
MS. ANNA MORALES
BECED 1A

Submitted to:
MR. PERFECTO ASIS