Genetically Modified VS Conventional Breeding

Conventional

1. Cross breed the susceptible corn variety with its resistant wild cousin

2. Offsprings --> drought-resistance (i.e. the desired quality)

3. Selected offsprings with desired quality, crossed with its resistant parent (backcrossing)

4. Offsprings under go several more generations of backcrossing and selection

5. Ne variety of corn exhibiting drought-resistance!

LIMITATIONS:

1. require transfer of many genes randomly

2. outcome unpredictable and time consuming

3. Dependent on genetic compatibility of both donor and recipient

Genetic modified

1. more precise

2. Involves : identification, isolation, and introduction of specific gene(s) from donor to recipient organisms

3. Allow transfer of genes between two totally different organisms (e.g. turnip to a cereal grain or from a bacterium to corn)

LIMITATIONS OVERCOME

1. do not require transfer of many genes randomly. desired genes identified, isolated and introduced. prevent the introduction of unwanted traits
2. outcome predictable and no longer time consuming (faster than conventional)
3. Independent on genetic compatibility of both donor and recipient. can transfer between two totally different organisms.

reference:

GMAC. (2007). Genetically Modified Organisms. Avaiable at: http://www.gmac.gov.sg/Index_FAQs_Genetically_Modified_Organisms.html