Question

Scientists create genetically modified organisms in which they insert the genes from an organism into another organism of a different species to give this modified organism genes for desired traits. An example of this is the genetically engineered corn with an inserted bacterial gene that produces a toxin that kills insect pests.



Which THREE statements describe ethical considerations of creating these genetically modified organisms?



A.
Humans could acquire genes for harmful traits by consuming genetically modified organisms.

B.
Genetically modified plants may produce toxins that are unintentionally harmful to other organisms.

C.
Genetically modified organisms may grow faster or require less water than organisms that are not modified.

D.
Modifying genes or inserting genes into an organism could have unintended, negative effects on the organism’s other genes.

E.
The technology for producing genetically modified organisms has only been developed recently, so there has not been time to study any long-term effects on species' health or the environment.

Answer 1

B, D, and E.

- B: non‑target ecological/toxic effects are a common ethical/environmental concern.
- D: unintended/off‑target genetic effects on the modified organism are a valid safety/ethical concern.
- E: limited long‑term data and uncertain environmental/health impacts are an ethical consideration.

(A is a common misconception—dietary DNA is generally digested and not incorporated into human genomes. C describes a potential benefit, not an ethical concern.)