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Gene Technology

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Gene Technology
Nelly Solorzano
Strayer University
SCI115008VA016-1158-001
Intro to Biology
Kerry Lee
November 29, 2015

Gene Technology

Biological basis - Genetic engineering is a laboratory process by which an individual genome is purposely modified. With genetic engineering a gene from one species can be transferred to another and produce an organism that is transgenic or a gene can be altered and reinserted into an individual of the same species. Either way resulting in genetically modified organism also known as GMO.
One GMO being used now is genetically modified or engineered animals which are animals in which modern technology and molecular biology are used to alter their existing characteristics or traits. Genetically modified animals are used for various purposes the biggest one now is bio pharma meaning they are intended to produce substances that can be used for human or animal pharmaceuticals. There is also a development of genetically modified animals for the use of scarce cells, tissue, or organs for transplants into humans known as xenotransplantation such as organs from pigs who are a potential source of organs for transplant.
The benefits genetically modified animals can produce depend entirely on the traits that are introduced, for example some animals can be made to grow faster and therefore requiring less food to sustain them other animals have improved fat composition providing a more healthful nutrient profile. As of now no genetic modified animal has been approved to be raised for food use in the U.S.A mostly genetically engineered animals are used for medical applications and medical research purposes.

Social and ethical implications- The animal’s condition and overall welfare may not be taken into consideration when creating these genetically modified animals. Or if the animal is coping with the conditions in which it lives

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