Agricultural Biotechnology: How Are GMO Plants Made?

U.S. Food and Drug Administration

4 Mar 202000:31

Summary

TLDRIn this video, the process of creating genetically modified (GMO) plants is explained. Scientists begin by identifying a desired trait, such as resistance to drought, insects, or viruses, in plants, animals, or bacteria. They then isolate the gene responsible for that trait and insert it into the DNA of the target plant. The modified plant is then grown to check if it expresses the desired trait. Viewers are encouraged to explore more facts about GMOs on the FDA's website for a deeper understanding of this technology.

Takeaways

😀 Scientists identify a desired trait in plants, animals, or bacteria to create GMOs.
😀 Traits that can be modified include resistance to drought, insects, or viruses.
😀 The gene responsible for the desired trait is isolated and copied.
😀 The copied gene is inserted into the DNA of the target plant.
😀 The modified plant is then grown to see if it adopts the new trait.
😀 Genetic modification helps improve plant characteristics for better performance.
😀 The process of genetic engineering enhances plants to survive environmental challenges.
😀 GMO technology is used to develop plants with increased resilience and productivity.
😀 The modification process involves inserting a gene into the plant's genetic code.
😀 More information about GMOs and their safety can be found on the FDA’s website.

Q & A

What is the first step in creating a GMO plant?
-The first step is for scientists to identify a desired trait in a plant, animal, or even bacteria.
What kinds of traits might scientists be looking for when creating GMO plants?
-Scientists might look for traits such as resistance to drought, insects, or viruses.
How do scientists incorporate the desired trait into a plant's DNA?
-Scientists copy the gene that contains the desired trait and insert it into the DNA of the plant they want to improve.
After inserting the gene, what is the next step in the GMO creation process?
-The next step is for scientists to grow the plant to determine if it adopts the desired trait.
Why is it important for scientists to test if the plant adopts the desired trait?
-It is important to ensure that the plant expresses the trait as expected and can provide the benefits intended, such as increased resilience.
What are some examples of traits that could be improved in GMO plants?
-Examples include enhanced resistance to environmental stressors like drought, protection from insect pests, or immunity to certain viruses.
Can the process of creating GMO plants involve other organisms besides plants?
-Yes, scientists may use traits from animals or bacteria as well to improve the plants.
Where can individuals learn more about GMO plants and the process of their creation?
-Individuals can find more information about GMO plants and related facts on the FDA's website.
What role do bacteria play in the creation of GMO plants?
-Bacteria may provide beneficial genes that help create desired traits in plants, such as pest resistance.
Is the process of inserting genes into a plant's DNA a natural occurrence?
-No, this process is artificial and involves genetic modification to introduce specific traits into the plant.