Genetically Modified Organisms: Science, Health and Politics Quiz

What is genetic engineering?

• The process of altering an organism's genome

• The process of studying an organism's genome

• The process of cloning organisms

• The process of hybridizing different species

What are the benefits of GMOs?

• Increased food production

• Environmental sustainability

• Improved nutritional content

• All of the above

What is the purpose of PCR in genetic engineering?

• To amplify DNA for analysis

• To produce medications such as insulin

• To compare genomes of different species

• To insert genetic traits into a new genome

What is the function of restriction enzymes and ligase in genetic engineering?

• To cut and paste DNA

• To compare genomes of different species

• To amplify DNA for analysis

• To insert genetic traits into a new genome

What is the role of CRISPR/Cas9 in genetic engineering?

• To remove problematic retroviruses from pig genomes

• To create hornless cattle

• All of the above

• To produce leaner pigs with lower fat content

What is the aim of genetic engineering in most cases?

• To introduce a new trait to the plant

• To reduce spoilage in crops

• To produce pharmaceutical agents

• To improve the nutrient profile of the crop

What is the main rationale behind genetic modification for crop protection?

• To increase nutritional value

• To enhance flavor

• To make crops more resistant to diseases

• To reduce damage and increase production

What is a drawback associated with GMO foods according to the World Health Organization?

• Allergic reactions

• Outcrossing

• Antibacterial resistance

• Cancer

What are the major environmental risks caused by GMOs according to Karki (2006)?

• All of the above

• Recombination of virus and bacteria

• Emergence of new forms of resistance

• Risks in gene flow

What is a success of genetic engineering mentioned in the text?

• Production of beneficial GMOs

• Decreased effectiveness of vaccines

• Increased cost of GMO creation

• Failure in crop protection