Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A transgenic organism is one that has been genetically modified to carry genes from another species. This process involves the insertion of foreign DNA into the organism's genome using recombinant DNA technology.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Transgenic organisms are created using recombinant DNA technology, which combines DNA from different sources into a single molecule.
Common examples of transgenic organisms include genetically modified crops, such as Bt corn and Roundup Ready soybeans.
The primary goal of creating transgenic organisms is to introduce new traits, such as pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, or improved nutritional content.
Transgenic animals have been created for purposes like studying diseases, producing pharmaceuticals (e.g., insulin), and improving livestock traits.
The creation and use of transgenic organisms raise ethical, environmental, and safety concerns that are actively debated in biotechnology.
Review Questions
Related terms
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO): An organism whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering techniques.
Recombinant DNA Technology: A set of techniques used to combine DNA molecules from different sources into a single molecule.
Gene Cloning: The process of making multiple copies of a specific gene or DNA segment.