Muhammad Haris1, Hafiz Muhammad Noman Ajmal2 and Hassan Bashir
1School of Soil and Water Conservation, Beijing Forestry University, China 2Centre of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan 3Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) in Surakarta, Indonesia
*Corresponding author: agrihassanba@gmail.com
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) have marked a significant turn in the trajectory of modern agriculture, demonstrating the power of genetic engineering in augmenting crop performance. This review paper comprehensively explores the multifaceted aspects of GMOs, their impacts, and future prospects. We begin by decoding the science behind GMOs, discussing genetic engineering techniques and notable GM crops. Subsequently, we delve into the implications of GMOs on agricultural productivity, including yield improvement, pest and disease resistance, and tolerance to abiotic stresses. This paper also explores the economic impacts of GMOs, highlighting both the benefits and potential disparities arising from their adoption. A vital part of our discussion centres around the environmental effects of GMOs, such as the impact on biodiversity, potential for gene flow to wild relatives, and influence on pesticide usage. Considering the direct human interface with GMOs, we evaluate health and safety concerns related to their consumption, discussing current regulations and testing protocols for GMO safety. Our paper also assesses public perception and acceptance of GMOs, underlining the role of public opinion in shaping GMO regulation and development. Looking towards the future, we introduce next-generation genetic engineering technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, synthetic biology, and genomics. We outline potential applications of these technologies to emerging agricultural challenges related to climate change, food security, and sustainability. The paper concludes with a call for more nuanced, context-specific research on GMOs' socioeconomic, environmental, health, and safety implications. We underscore the importance of interdisciplinary research that marries scientific findings with ethical, legal, and societal considerations, to ensure the inclusive, responsible, and beneficial advancement of GMO technology.