5.1阅读输入：（4）拓展阅读Genetically Modified Food.pdf

Genetically ModifiedFood Genetically modified (GM) foods are foods derived from genetically modified organisms. Genetically modified organisms have had specific changes introduced into their DNA by genetic engineering techniques. These techniques are much more precise than mutagenesis (mutation breeding) where an organism is exposed to radiation or chemicals to create a non-specific but stable change. Other techniques by which humans modify food organisms include selective breeding(plantbreedingandanimalbreeding),and somaclonalvariation. GM foods were first put on the market in the early 1990s. Typically, genetically modified foods are transgenic plant products: soybean, corn, canola, and cotton seed oil. Animal products have alsobeen developed,although as ofJuly 2010none are currently on themarket.In 2006 apigwas controversially engineeredtoproduce omega-3 fatty acidsthrough the expression of aroundworm gene.Researchershave also developed a genetically-modifiedbreed ofpigsthat are ableto absorb plant phosphorusmore efficiently,and as a consequencethephosphorus content oftheir manure is reducedby asmuch as60%. Criticshave objectedto GM foodson several grounds,includingpossible safety issues, ecological concerns, and economic concernsraisedby the fact that these organisms are subject to intellectual property law. Method Genetic modification involves the insertion or deletion of genes. In the process of cisgenesis, genes are artificially transferred between organisms that could be conventionally bred. In the process of transgenesis, genes from a different species are inserted, which is a form of horizontal genetransfer.In naturethis can occur when exogenousDNApenetratesthe cellmembrane for any reason.Todothis artificially may require attaching genesto avirus orjust physically inserting the extra DNA into the nucleus of the intended host with a very small syringe, or with very small particles fired from a gene gun. H