Difference between revisions of "Genetic engineering"
(New page: '''Genetic Engineering''' (or genetic modification, GM) is the alteration of the genetic code (DNA) in plants and animals. ==advantage== The met...) |
m (Genetic Engineering moved to Genetic engineering: no capitals for easier linking) |
Revision as of 07:43, 30 June 2008
Genetic Engineering (or genetic modification, GM) is the alteration of the genetic code (DNA) in plants and animals.
advantage
The metabolism can possibly optimized for the habitat:
- better endurance for dark periods (e.g. dust storms, havaries, etc. )
- ability to cope with dim sunlight (grow slow, but grow ...)
- ability to cope with radiation
risk
Compared with legacy vegetables the new developed genetically engineered plants may not be stable in the long run. Genetic alteration will be necessary after a while, maybe unexpectedly. It should be used only if the settlers have the ability to do corrections. Same with computer software. If a software bug shows up in a vital system (e.g. Y2K), the settlers would want someone who can fix it. DNA is a kind of software.
Open issues
- What genetic alterations exist up to now?
