Do You Really Know What You're Eating?

A Case Study on Genetically Modified Foods

Co Authors:	Wayne Shew Department of Biology Birmingham-Southern College wshew@bsc.edu Mary Celeste Reese Department of Biological Sciences Mississippi State University mcr4@biology.msstate.edu
Abstract:	Starting from a fictional “news” report about an apparent allergic reaction to a taco tainted by genetically modified corn, students consider some of the techniques and procedures used in modern molecular genetics and microbiology as well as some of the issues associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Originally designed for role-play and PowerPoint assignments, suggestions for a shortened version are also provided. Suitable for a general microbiology course, the case could also be used in an introductory molecular biology course with appropriate modifications. Various levels of coverage of the topic of recombinant DNA are possible.
Objectives:	To present an overview of the techniques used in the production of GMOs. To understand the role of microbes in biotechnology To consider an important ethical issue—should we genetically manipulate organisms? To understand the role that government agencies play in the regulation of development and the use of genetically modified organisms.
Keywords:	Genetically modified organism; GMO; agricultural biotechnology; recombinant DNA; transgenic plant; gene transfer; Bt protein; Bacillus thuringiensis; ELISA; allergen; food allergy; anaphylactic shock; corn
Topical Area:	Ethics, Regulatory issues
Educational Level:	High school, Undergraduate lower division
Formats:	PDF
Type/Method:	Role-Play, Student Presentations
Language:	English
Subject Headings:	Microbiology Molecular Biology Food Science / Technology Biotechnology Botany / Plant Science Agriculture
Date Posted:	06/30/07
Date Modified:	N/A
Copyright:	Copyright held by the National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science, University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Please see our usage guidelines, which outline our policy concerning permissible reproduction of this work.

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