Genetic Engineering - Research Paper Example

Nature has the inherent ability to produce a new combination of genes through the process of natural sexual reproduction. However the number of combinations that can be produced is small due to limitations in sexual reproduction mechanism. Through the process of genetic engineering innumerable genes can be shuffled from a variety of organisms and used for the production of novel and economically viable traits (Genetic Engineering). This process was initially developed for the production of genetically modified foods that had resistance against pesticides and which provided higher yields.

Genetic engineering allows for bulk production of substances which could be an economically viable option in cases where conventional process required to produce the same compound are expensive. This technology is now being widely used for the commercial production of enzymes, antibodies, crops, drugs and vaccines. In addition, several genetically modified organisms such as insects, bacteria, plants, livestock, fishes and animals are also being produced through this process that is not otherwise possible through natural means (Epstein; Abbas, Lasekan and Khalil).

Though the technology has ushered in the production of organisms, crops and drugs with unique properties major interest groups within the society believe that genetic engineering is a threat to mankind as there are several grave consequences associated with the development. One of the main concerns is the ability of this technology to disrupt the natural ecosystems and the environment. All the genetically modified organisms such as plants, animals and microbes would further reproduce and mutate to give rise to ne life forms and all of these could cause irreversible changes to the natural ecosystems and environment (Epstein).

Most of the genetic engineering work is carried out through the use of recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology that employs vectors such as plasmids or viruses to transfer the