Ask A Scientist© Biology Archive

Author:      de tar
Text:        How many years will it be before Genetically Engineered 
Microorganisms are released into the environment?

Response #:  1 of 2
Author:      moodywj
Text:        Some already have been in controlled and government-approved 
tests.  So have some non-micro organisms, mainly some food crop plants and 
cattle strains.

Response #:  2 of 2
Author:      wordsworth
Text:        In addition to the previous response, I might add that although 
there are several examples of GEMS which have been released for beneficial 
purposes, caution must be exercised in order that a potentially harmful 
organism does not escape into the environment without extremely careful 
supervision and complete control over its spread.  An example of this is the 
engineered bacteria which make use of crude oil as a carbon source, patented 
for use on oil spills.  Although spraying a solution with these organisms in 
it can help clean up spills and decrease the OIL'S impact on the environment, 
you have to be careful about knowing in advance what the organisms will turn 
to for food once the oil is gone -- will it attack the hydrocarbons of other 
living organisms?