GMOs: SCIENCE, HEALTH, AND POLITICS

Question 1

Are organisms whose genetic make-up was artificially modified through genetic engineering.

Answer 1

Genetically modified organisms

Question 2

Give the 4 processes of making GMO

(Remember that before GMOs can be produced and consumed public, they must undergo a lot of processes. like biosafety, economic feasibility, and social acceptance, among others).

Answer 2

1. Identification of a trait of interest
2. The gene responsible for the trait of interest is isolated
3. The gene is inserted into the genome of the organism being modified
4. The GMO is allowed to grow

Question 3

An example of genetically modified biofortified rice. Biofortification is the process of adding nutrients or minerals to a food source.

Answer 3

Golden Rice

Question 4

An example of the process of using animal organs, tissues, and cells for human needs. it aims to address the lack of organs for organ transplant needs.

Answer 4

Xenotransplantation

Question 5

An example of genetically modified zebrafish. it was modified to become bioluminescent or be able to produce light. it was initially intended to detect pollutants in the water.

Answer 5

Glofish

Question 6

Give 7 Risks and Downsides of GMOs.

Answer 6

1. Ecosystem Risk
2. Genetic Contamination or interbreeding
3. Adverse Effects on Health
4. Social Acceptance
5. Economic Issues and Access
6. Animal Welfare
7. Pest and Antibiotic Resistance

Question 7

Refers to the condition by which potential harm, damage, or threats are caused by the intentional or unintentional intro. of biotechnology is under a manageable or acceptable level.

Answer 7

Biosafety

Question 8

Refers to the process of evaluating or identifying potential hazards or damages to human or animal health and the environment and developing mitigation measures for them.

Answer 8

Risk Assessment

Question 9

An international protocol to regulate the production and use of GMOs to ensure biosafety.

Answer 9

Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological diversity

Question 10

It is an international agreement that aims to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology that may have adverse effects on biological diversity, taking also into account risks to human health.

Answer 10

Cartagena Protocol

Question 11

In Phil., a system of biosafety regulations was already in place way back in 1990. It was the first in the world.

Answer 11

Executive Order No. 430

Question 12

An agency in charge of implementing regulations related to the evaluation or assessment of biotechnology, research, regulation of commercialization of GMOs, and labeling of GMO products, among others.

Answer 12

National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines