What are Genetically Modified Organism? | Biology | Extraclass.com

Summary

This video provides an insightful overview of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), defined as organisms whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering. It highlights notable examples, including Golden Rice, which is engineered for increased vitamin A, Flavr Savr Tomatoes that resist spoilage, and Bt Maize that protects against pests. Other examples include AquAdvantage Salmon, which grows faster, and modified potatoes that are bruise-resistant. The video concludes with a quiz on key concepts, encouraging viewers to engage further with the topic of genetic modification in agriculture and its benefits.

Takeaways

• 😀 Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have altered genetic material through genetic engineering techniques.
• 🌾 Golden Rice is modified to produce more beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body.
• 🍅 Flavor Saba Tomatoes are the first commercially grown GMO food, modified to slow ripening and reduce spoilage.
• 🌽 BT maize is engineered with bacillus thuringiensis genes for insect resistance, causing paralysis in pests that consume it.
• 🐟 AquAdvantage salmon grows faster due to a growth hormone gene from Pacific chinook salmon, reaching market size in 16-18 months.
• 🥔 Genetically modified potatoes use RNA interference to resist bruising and reduce acrylamide levels during frying.
• 👖 BT cotton is an insect-resistant variety, enhancing crop yields and reducing pesticide use.
• 🐄 Transgenic cows are engineered to produce human proteins in their milk, showcasing advancements in agricultural biotechnology.
• 🐑 Dolly the sheep was the first cloned transgenic animal, produced from somatic cells, marking a milestone in genetic research.
• 📚 Viewers are encouraged to learn more about genetic modifications through additional videos and resources.

Q & A

What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques for purposes such as producing medicines, modifying food, and conducting scientific research.

What is the primary purpose of Golden Rice?

Golden Rice is modified to produce more beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, addressing vitamin A deficiency.

How do Flavr Savr Tomatoes differ from traditional tomatoes?

Flavr Savr Tomatoes have been genetically modified with an antisense gene to slow down their ripening process, preventing them from softening and enhancing their shelf life.

What is the role of the delta protein produced by BT Maize?

The delta protein from BT Maize acts as an insecticide, causing paralysis in the digestive system of insects that consume the maize, thus protecting the plant from pest damage.

What genetic modification has been made to AquAdvantage Salmon?

AquAdvantage Salmon has been modified with a growth hormone-regulating gene from Pacific chinook salmon, allowing it to grow to market size in 16 to 18 months instead of the usual three years.

What advantages do genetically modified potatoes offer?

Genetically modified potatoes are designed to resist bruising and browning and to produce lower levels of asparagine, which can convert into acrylamide when fried.

What does BT stand for in the context of genetically modified crops?

BT stands for Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterium used to modify various crops, including maize, to enhance their resistance to insects.

What is an example of a transgenic animal mentioned in the video?

Dolly the Sheep is an example of a transgenic animal, as she was the first cloned transgenic animal produced from somatic cells.

How does the modification of BT Cotton benefit farmers?

BT Cotton is genetically engineered to be insect-resistant, reducing the need for chemical insecticides and increasing crop yield for farmers.

What are the educational resources suggested at the end of the video?

Viewers are encouraged to like, share, and comment on the video, subscribe to the channel for more educational content, and download the Extra Class app from the Google Play Store for additional rewards and study materials.