how are GMOs created?

Expert response from Kurt Boudonck

Greenhouse Group Leader, BASF

Tuesday, 01/12/2015 16:04

There are several different ways to create a GMO. One of the most commonly used methods for making genetically modified plants is through Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which uses bacterium as a host to transfer cells. 

A historical method is using particle bombardment, whereby microscopic gold particles are coated with the DNA of interest and then inserted into cells.

For more information on how GMOs are created, please see the following key points from previous GMO Answers related questions as well as links to the full responses.

• “When researchers make changes to the genetic make-up of a plant – such as turning off an existing gene or adding a gene from another source – to create a new, desirable characteristic (or trait), the resulting plants are considered GMOs. The process starts by defining the desired trait.” Read full response from Bobby Williams here. 
• “Specific traits, such as herbicide tolerance, insect resistance or disease resistance, among others, can be added without potentially introducing other undesirable traits.” For more information see Keith Reding’s full response here.
• “The transfer of genes can be done in many ways. Today, the most common methodology for producing a genetically modified plant is to place plant cells in a container with a naturally occurring, soil-born bacterium known as Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Check out Patrick Walker’s full response here explaining the process used to make GMOs. 

Video resources also available:

Here is a five minute video that offers a great visual illustration on how GMOs are made using particle bombardment: 

Lastly, here is a five minute video on how GMOs are made using the naturally occurring, soil-born bacterium known as Agrobacterium tumefaciens: