Biologia

Organismos Geneticamente Modificados: uma revisão
1

Rita de C. Figueiredo*; 2Luiz C. de Mattos

1

Academia de Ciência de Tecnologia de São José do Rio Preto/SP
Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto/SP (FAMERP)

2

Abstract
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can be defined as organisms in which the genetic material (DNA) has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally. The technology is often called “modern biotechnology” or “gene technology”, sometimes also
“recombinant DNA technology” or “genetic engineering”. It allows selected individual genes to be transferred from one organism into another, also between non-related species.
Such methods are used to create GM plants-which are then used to grow GM food crops.
The release of GMOs into the environment and the marketing of GM food have resulted in a public debate in many parts of the world. This debate is likely to continue, probably in the broader context of other uses of biotechnology and their consequences for human societies
(VARZAKAS; ARVANITOYANNIS; BALTAS, 2007). Despite the potential benefits of genetic engineering of foods, the technology is surrounded by controversy. Critics of GM technology include consumer and health groups, grain importers from European Union
(UE) countries, organic farmers, environmentalists, concerned scientists, ethicists, religious rights groups, food advocacy groups, some politicians and trade protectionists. Some of the specific fears expressed by opponents of GM technology include alteration in nutritional quality of foods, potential toxicity, possible antibiotic resistance from GM crops, potential allergenicity and carcinogenicity from consuming GM foods. Supporters of GM technology include private industries, research scientists, some consumers, U.S. farmers and regulatory agencies. Benefits presented by proponents of GM technology include improvement in fruit and vegetable shelf-live and organoleptic quality, improved