1. Explore - Understanding GMOs and Their Impact

1.3 Examples of GMOs in Real Life

GMOs are widely present in modern biotechnology and agriculture. Common examples include:

  • Genetically modified crops, such as maize or soybeans, designed to resist pests or tolerate environmental stress. ​​Bt maize or Roundup Ready soybeans, designed to resist pests or tolerate herbicides (MON810, approved 1990s). (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetically_modified_maize
  • GMO microorganisms, used to produce medicines like insulin or vaccines. Example: E. coli engineered to produce human insulin (Humulin, FDA-approved 1982) 
  • Research organisms, modified to study gene function and disease mechanisms.

 These examples show that GMOs are not limited to food production but play a broader role in science and medicine.