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Genetic Engineering Of Organisms Is Ethically Correct

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The genetic modification or genetic engineering of organisms is ethically correct. Genetics is the study of heredity and the similarities and differences between organisms due to their genes and their environment (Dictionary.com, 2016). At a cellular level, genes are made up of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) which act as instructions for amino acids to form molecules (proteins). DNA is inherited from the parent/s. At a physiological level, these proteins allow for certain functions to occur. Organisms have small differences in their DNA that contribute to different features (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2016). Through scientific methods, procedures and technologies, genetic modification or genetic engineering can be achieved …show more content…

β-carotene or Beta Carotene creates the yellow pigment (shown in figure 1) in the golden rice and becomes vitamin A when being digested by the body which is needed for healthy skin and mucus membranes, our immune system, and good eye health and vision (Nordqvist, 2016). The two transgenes that were used in the formation of golden rice are “…phytoene synthase (PSY) and a bacterial phytoene desaturase (CRTI)…” (Golden Rice Humanitarian Board, 2015). PSY uses the synthesised geranylgeranyl-diphosphate (GGPP) to create phytoene. “Phytoene is a colourless carotene with a triene chromophore…” (Golden Rice Humanitarian Board, 2015). A chromophore is a molecule that is responsible for light absorption. CRT I activates the β-carotene in the grain. The two transgenes allows for the formation of lycopene. Lycopene is a red compound that delivers substrate for enzymes and allows for the creation of the observed outcomes (Golden Rice Humanitarian Board, 2015). It occurs through the alteration of the DNA sequence which affects the production of particular proteins during protein synthesis. Protein synthesis creates amino acids and these amino acids make up the proteins in the DNA. The DNA base code determines the structure of proteins. The stages of protein synthesis include transcription and translation. The gene coding of the selected protein breaks its hydrogen bonds during transcription (shown in figure 2). This frees RNA

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