Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of the production of genetically modified crops.
The advantages of the production of genetically modified crops are: They have proved to be extremely valuable tools in studies on plant molecular biology, regulation of gene action, identification of regulatory/ promontory sequences. Genetically modified crops have improved agronomic and other features such as resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Over-ripening losses can be reduced, e.g. flavor saves tomato. Nutritional values are improved, e.g. Golden rice has high vitamin A content. Viral resistance can be introduced. The number of pharmaceuticals like insulin, interferon, blood clotting factors are improved. Insect resistance can be introduced, e.g. cry gene can be introduced into cotton, wheat, and rice from Bacillus Thuringiensis. The main disadvantages of the production of genetically modified crops are: Many transgenes are expressed at low levels which usually limit their usefulness. Sometimes, the expression of transgenes is suppressed in transgenic plants, this is called gene silencing. The undesirable features are also carried along with desirable features in transgenic plants such as necrosis, reduced growth, sterility, etc. Genetic pollution can be there. Weeds also become resistant. Bt cotton, Bt wheat also destroy pollinators and disseminators.
