Risks When Using Micro-organisms

Risks When Using Micro-organisms

Introduction

• While manipulating the genetic material of micro-organisms offers many benefits, there are also potential risks and considerations.

1. Risk of Uncontrolled Dispersal

• Micro-organisms can escape into the natural environment.
• Uncontrolled dispersal can lead to unintended consequences.

2. Disruption of Ecological Niches

• Micro-organisms are adaptable and can thrive in various environments.
• Introduction of modified micro-organisms can disrupt existing ecosystems.

3. Sideways Transfer of Genetic Material

• Genetic material from modified micro-organisms can transfer to other species.
• This horizontal gene transfer can have unpredictable outcomes.

4. Unforeseen Metabolic Modifications

• It can be challenging to predict and control metabolic changes in modified micro-organisms.
• These modifications may have unintended effects.

5. Creation of Pathogenic Micro-organisms

• Manipulation of genetic material could potentially lead to the creation of new pathogenic micro-organisms.
• These new micro-organisms could pose health risks.

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Biology

Risks When Using Micro-organisms

Summary

• Manipulating micro-organisms' genetic material offers benefits but also comes with risks.
• Risks include uncontrolled dispersal, ecological disruption, genetic transfer, metabolic changes, and the creation of harmful micro-organisms.
• It's essential to consider and mitigate these risks in biotechnology and research involving micro-organisms.