Genetically modified Bacteria: Promise/Threat It is believed that over 3.5 billion years ago, bacteria-like organisms became the first inhabitants of the earth. Fossils from Greenland dating back to 3.86 billion years ago reveal what appears to be bacterial cells (Madigan 349). Bacteria are not only the oldest inhabitants of the earth, but also the most abundant and ubiquitous. They are found living in such unforgiving environments as Antartica and in geothermal vents deep in the ocean (Madigan 1, Willey 1). Bacteria are also the most abundant organisms, and they constitute the majority of the biomass on earth. Bacteria have affected mankind since Homo sapiens started roaming the earth. The bacteria Yersinia pestis is responsible for the black …show more content…
Future developments could include the production of artemisin for malaria, a modified lactobacillus bacteria that attacks HIV, ethanol for fuel, and others (Locke). However, there are several valid objections to the use of genetic engineering in bacteria, as well as other organisms. The ability to manipulate and modify bacteria and other microorganisms also opens the door for misuse of the technology. The creation of Biological weapons such as a more virulent form of anthrax (Willis), or the creation of more potent toxins, as well as the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria for weapons use are very real possibilities. Terrorist organizations could also potentially use genetically modified bacteria in what can be described as "asymmetric warfare" (Block). Another controversial aspect of genetically modified bacteria is their environmental impact as well as their potential negative impact to human health. New allergens could be inadvertently created by genetically modified organisms. Genes (such as pesticide of antibiotic resistance) could be passed between different organisms, potentially allowing certain plants to grow out of control which could negatively affect beneficial organisms …show more content…
Genetically modified bacteria have yielded many substantial benefits for mankind, but the concerns voiced by those opposing them should not be ignored. In order to guarantee that safety of the products obtained through genetic engineering, extensive research must be conducted, not only regarding the safety of the product per se, but to ensure that it will not bring on undesirable effects to human health, animal health or the environment. One promising step to ensure the safety of genetically modified bacteria was reported in 2015 by scientists from Harvard and Yale (Harris). According to NPR, they modified bacteria developed requires a synthetic amino acid that does not occur in nature to grow. This way, even if genes are transferred between bacteria, removal of the synthetic amino acid from the medium kills the bacteria, and since the required amino acid is not present in nature, it is highly unlikely that the organisms will be able to propagate beyond