How GMOs can cure vitamin deficiency

Vitamin deficiency is a serious medical condition, especially in developing countries where it is more common. Without the correct vitamins the body cannot grow or function properly which can lead to abnormalities.

The Golden Rice project is an example of how GMOs can be used to help people suffering from vitamin A deficiency. Golden Rice was first developed in 1999 at Ghent University and is genetically modified to contain β-carotene, a molecule needed to make Vitamin A. When the body does not have enough vitamin A this can lead to inflamed skin, night blindness, infertility, delayed growth and respiratory infections. Therefore by increasing β-carotene levels, vitamin A levels increase and these symptoms are reduced. The process of modifying the rice to make it golden and contain β-carotene is one which involves the use of genetic engineering to create a GMO. The diagram below demonstrates this process and although it is specific to that of Golden Rice it can be applied to all sorts of products. The possibilities are endless!

golden rice