A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered in the laboratory. Genetic modifications are made to produce certain traits (such as disease resistance in crops) or to cause the organism to produce specific biological products (for example, bacteria have been altered in order to produce insulin for diabetes treatment, and plants have been altered to make antibodies and blood-clotting factors).
GMOs are used in the production of medicines, and in new forms of medicines such as gene therapy.
Genetic modification is also a useful tool for scientists in many areas of research, including those who study the mechanisms of human and other diseases.
