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Articles on Genetic modification

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Xenotransplantation is the transplanting of cells, tissues or organs from animals to humans. Pre-clinical trials of organ transplant from pigs have addressed some of the technical barriers. (Shutterstock)

Organ transplants from pigs: Medical miracle or pandemic in the making?

New developments in organ transplants from animals show promise. However, there has been no public engagement about a potential risk. It may streamline a pathway to humans for new zoonotic diseases.
Mosquitoes are one of the deadliest creatures because they are carriers for many lethal viruses. Shutterstock

Genetically modifying mosquitoes to control the spread of disease carries unknown risks

Genetically modified mosquitoes were released in Brazil in an attempt to halt the spread of dengue fever by reducing the mosquito population.
A government-commissioned report estimated that South Australia’s ban on genetically modified crops cost canola growers A$33 million since 2004. Greenpeace/AAP Image

GM crops: to ban or not to ban? That’s not the question

South Australia has lifted its moratorium on GM crops, while Tasmania has extended its ban. But the question should no longer be a simple binary of being “for” or “against” GM technology.
Cavendish bananas may not be around for much longer. Steve Hopson/wikipedia

The quest to save the banana from extinction

Scientists are in a race to genetically engineer a new plant resistant to a devastating disease that is threatening to wipe out the banana.
Synthetic biology has the potential to change how we do agriculture – but will the public accept it? from www.shutterstock.com

A fresh opportunity to get regulation and engagement right – the case of synthetic biology

Synthetic biology is highly promising – but if we don’t get the regulation and engagement right, we risk alienating members of the public, and may even close doors for potentially fruitful research.

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