Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Definition

GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This can include plants, animals, and microorganisms.

Analogy

Think of GMOs as custom-made cars. Just as you might modify a car by adding new parts or features for better performance or aesthetics, scientists modify organisms by adding or changing genes to give them desired traits.

Related terms

Transgenic Organism: An organism that contains DNA from another species. Transgenic organisms are a type of GMO.

Selective Breeding/ Artificial Selection: A process used by humans to develop new organisms with specific characteristics by selecting which of an animal's or plant's traits will be passed on to its offspring.

Recombinant DNA Technology: The technology used in genetic engineering where DNA molecules from different sources are combined into one molecule to create a new set of genes. This DNA is then transferred into an organism, giving it modified or novel genes.