Genetic Engineering: Benefits, Risks, and Regulation

Introduction to Genetic Engineering

The process of altering genes — commonly known as genetic engineering — has become an increasingly heated subject as science and technology continue to evolve. With advances in DNA technology, genetic modifications within plants and other organisms have become a major development, particularly in the fields of agriculture and medicine. However, significant concerns remain about the inability to contain the spread of altered genetic material and its potential to "taint" non-genetically modified organisms. These concerns are shared by scientists, environmentalists, and organic farmers throughout the nation.

USDA Approvals and Agricultural Applications

Four journalistic articles discuss the possible uses of altering an organism's genetic code in order to further production and efficiency. Three of them address the prospect of genetically altered organisms, as well as the arguments for and against approval of biotech creations. In February 2011, the United States Department of Agriculture approved the otherwise disallowed manufacturing of genetically engineered sugar beets (Pollack, 2011). In the same month, the USDA also approved the manufacturing of Enogen, a corn variety created solely for the industrial production of ethanol (Pollack, 2011). Genetically engineered organisms — including alfalfa and fast-growing salmon — have likewise received approval from both the Food and Drug Administration and the USDA (Bittman, 2011). Additionally, a study on mice demonstrated that it is possible to suppress or express certain genes in order to enhance a specific positive trait and guarantee its transmission to offspring (Bhanoo, 2011).

Benefits of Genetically Modified Organisms

All four articles emphasize the importance of genetic engineering as a major area of scientific inquiry. Using DNA technology to promote the expression of positive traits within organisms can accelerate production and effectively expand available resources. By turning a particular gene "on" in mice, scientists are able to distinguish, isolate, and guarantee the passing of that gene to subsequent generations — the same fundamental principle applied to genetically modified plants. The genetically engineered alfalfa, salmon, and sugar beets would enable an increase in agricultural resources while reducing the need for pesticides (Bittman, 2011). Enogen corn would produce ethanol at a rapid and efficient rate, making it an important industrial commodity (Pollack, 2011).

Conclusion and Call for Further Research

The authors of the four articles share a broadly similar position on the pros and cons of genetically engineered organisms: while there are highly valuable discoveries and practical uses for genetically altered crops and animals, there are also significant downsides and safety concerns that require further investigation. The studies discussed suggest that genetic alterations carry knowable risks of side effects — some of which may be harmful — yet the research is far from conclusive. Further studies should be undertaken into genetically altered organisms and whether there are long-term consequences for organically grown plants and for humans who consume genetically modified substances. The promise of biotechnology is real, but so too is the responsibility to ensure its safety before widespread adoption.

Works Cited

Bhanoo, Sindya N. "Altering a Mouse Gene Turns Up Aggression, Study Says." The New York Times [New York] 27 Jan. 2011, Science sec. Print.

Bittman, Mark. "Why Aren't G.M.O. Foods Labeled?" The New York Times [New York] 15 Feb. 2011, Opinionator sec. Print.

Pollack, Andrew. "U.S. Approves Corn Modified for Ethanol." The New York Times [New York] 11 Feb. 2011, Business Day sec. Print.

Pollack, Andrew. "U.S. Says Farmers May Grow Engineered Sugar Beets." The New York Times [New York] 4 Feb. 2011, Business Day sec. Print.