Article
Article
Genetically modified organism (GMO)
Article By:
AccessScience Editors
Last reviewed:2016
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.285260
An organism that has had its genetic material manipulated or altered in a laboratory setting through the use of genetic or genomic engineering techniques. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are microorganisms, plants, or animals that have been modified artificially in a laboratory or biological facility by recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) technologies. Researchers employ these techniques to modify specific parts of an organism's genome through deletion, alteration, or the insertion of new genetic sequences. The manipulations undertaken by researchers typically involve changes to the organism's genetic material that do not occur naturally through gene fusion, mutation, or natural recombination. Other terms for genetically modified organisms include genetically engineered organisms, bioengineered organisms, and transgenic organisms (in this latter case, genes are transferred from one species to another). See also: Biotechnology; CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing; Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA); Gene; Genetic engineering; Genetics; Genomics; Mutation; Recombination (genetics)
The content above is only an excerpt.
About AccessScience
AccessScience provides the most accurate and trustworthy scientific information available.
Recognized as an award-winning gateway to scientific knowledge, AccessScience is an amazing online resource that contains high-quality reference material written specifically for students. Its dedicated editorial team is led by Sagan Award winner John Rennie. Contributors include more than 9000 highly qualified scientists and 42 Nobel Prize winners.
MORE THAN 8500 articles and Research Reviews covering all major scientific disciplines and encompassing the McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science & Technology and McGraw-Hill Yearbook of Science & Technology
115,000-PLUS definitions from the McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms
3000 biographies of notable scientific figures
MORE THAN 17,000 downloadable images and animations illustrating key topics
ENGAGING VIDEOS highlighting the life and work of award-winning scientists
SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY and additional readings to guide students to deeper understanding and research
LINKS TO CITABLE LITERATURE help students expand their knowledge using primary sources of information
Watch the YouTube video
