Biopharming reaps fear: The Denver Post

  • Thread starter Ivan Seeking
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In summary, a farmer in northeastern Colorado is planting a corn crop that must not be consumed by humans or animals, must not come into contact with other crops, and requires a 1-mile buffer to prevent pollen contamination. There is concern about the possibility of genes from bio-engineered plants being transferred to bacteria in the human bowel, though it is uncertain if this is possible.
  • #1
Ivan Seeking
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A mysterious farmer at a secret location somewhere in northeastern Colorado is expected to plant a corn crop that must never be eaten by humans or animals, must never come in contact with other crops, and is so volatile, a 1-mile buffer must surround it to prevent pollen from contaminating other crops.

http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~53~1659809,00.html
 
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  • #2
Has it ever been proven, or indicated, that genes of microorganisms can be transferred to other organisms in the human bowel? Since the organisms are digested, DNA is degraded and might thus provide a route for bio-engineered genes to find its way from plants to bacteria as a human being as a vector?
 
  • #3
I know bacteria can obtain genetic material from other bacteria in our bowel and integrate it their genome. I don't know if they can acquire genetic material from plant, integrate it into their genome and be able to use it. It migth be possible if the DNA use for GMO was from bacterial origin.
 
  • #4
I only recently learned about this. Its wonderful, but clearly precautions need to be taken/enforced.
 

1. What is biopharming?

Biopharming is the practice of using genetically modified plants or animals to produce pharmaceutical products. This includes using plants to produce proteins that can be used as drugs or vaccines.

2. Why does biopharming cause fear?

Biopharming raises concerns because of the potential for cross-contamination between genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and non-GMO crops, as well as the potential for unintended consequences on the environment and human health.

3. How does biopharming differ from traditional pharmaceutical production?

Traditional pharmaceutical production typically involves using bacteria or yeast to produce proteins, while biopharming uses plants or animals. Biopharming also allows for the production of larger and more complex proteins, potentially leading to more effective drugs.

4. What are the potential benefits of biopharming?

Biopharming has the potential to lower the cost of producing pharmaceuticals, increase access to life-saving medications, and reduce the environmental impact of traditional pharmaceutical production. It also allows for the production of drugs that cannot be produced through traditional methods.

5. How can the risks of biopharming be mitigated?

To mitigate the risks of biopharming, strict regulations and safety protocols must be in place to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of the environment and human health. Additionally, public education and transparency about the use of biopharming can help alleviate fears and concerns.

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