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A genetically modified organism (GMO) or genetically engineered organism (GEO) is an organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. These techniques are generally known as recombinant DNA technology. With recombinant DNA technology, DNA molecules from different sources are combined in vitro into one molecule to create a new gene. This DNA is then transferred into an organism and causes the expression of modified or novel traits.

Genetically modified (GM) foods are foods produced from GMO that have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering. GM foods were first put on the market in the early 1990s. The most common modified foods are derived from plants: soybean, corn, canola cotton seed oil and wheat.


2008-10-20

How Neurotechnology Is Helping Blindness  

Integration of technology and neuroscience now has the opportunity to convey vision to individuals suffering from blindness. Scientists around the world are trying to use the principles of neuro-technology and other fields of natural sciences in order to develop devices that mimic the human eye, so that blind people can benefited.

Described below are some important innovations that are in this area and Neuro how technology helps blindness.

1. Eye-pod: This is a device that was developed by neuro-Tech, a Rhode Iceland based biotech firm. With its proprietary Encapsulated Cell Technology, scientists and engineers at this institute have dealt with a porous membrane, with the genetically modified human retinal cells capable of secreting a protein known as Ciliary Neurotrophic factor. This protein is known to protect the eyes. This device must be surgically implanted into the eye.

2. Another important innovation, the engineers and scientists Optobionics, Illinois, is a sensory device or a chip that can be surgically implanted in the eye. This device is based on the idea of integration of electronic devices directly into the human body. Known as Artificial Silicon Retina (ASR), this device is actually a 2mm-wide silicon chip with thousands of photovoltaic solar cells. These cells are capable of external conversion of light into electrical currents, which are capable of promoting the retinal cells in the eye.

3. Second Sight is another biotech company with headquarters in California. Scientists in this event have developed an electrode array that, when implanted into the eye captures images with the help of his small camera. These images are then processed and sent to the electronic device implant in the eye. This device then electronically stimulates retina.

 

About Author: Pauline Go is an online leading expert in medical industry. She also offers top quality medical tips like :
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