SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

INTRODUCTION

This part discusses special topics in Science, Technology, and Society.

It includes lessons about information age, biodiversity and healthy
society, the science, health and politics of genetically modified
organisms, the Nano world, and gene therapy. We will discuss some
basic concepts and their applications including technologies used in
studying them. We will also examine the implications of these
scientific ideas to the society.

This module will cover a total of 11 hours. Some lessons will

involve community immersion as you will be tasked to interview some
members of the community. It is required, however; that you shall
comply with the minimum health standards when doing this task.

Lesson 4 and Lesson 5 do not have It’s Your Turn as the activity
will be integrated in your Post Assessment. However, all answers to
activities will be placed on long bond paper. Maximize the use of each
paper. Do not forget to write your name and section on your papers. As
usual, label with the Module # and Activity #.

LESSON 1. THE INFORMATION AGE

Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. determine the human and social impacts of the
developments during the information age; and,
2. describe how social media has affected your lives.

LET’S ENGAGE

Humans are surrounded on all sides by technology claiming to

supply information: television, smart phones, internet device, and
others. However, do all these provide information or just noise? More
voices are trying to get our attention but how can we be sure that they
share knowledge and the truth? Let us try to check this information we
hear or read from media sources if it really makes us informed. On
your Facebook account (consider the recent posts that you received),
does it give you true information? Did you gain knowledge from it?
What is the true purpose of that post/s? Whatever your answer is,
consider that information technology such as social media has
changed the way people perceive reality, thus; there could be disorder
in how you and the uploader of that post perceive the information.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Information age is the modern age regarded as a time in which

information has become a commodity that is quickly and widely
disseminated and easily available especially through the use of
computer technology (Meriam-Webster).
 The information age is considered a historic period in the 21 st
century. Characterized by the rapid shift from traditional industry, it is
also called computer age, digital and the new media age. It is marked
by very fast growth in communication and information technology.
This age holds a significant influence as educators and learners.
The invention of the computer which gave people access to
information with the touch of a button. The internet has turned society
into homebodies and individuals who do everything from the comfort
of their homes.

Historical Development
The information age, also referred to as Computer and New Media
Age, began around the 1970s and still going on today. This era
brought about a time period in which people could access information
and knowledge easily. As in the field of literature, the renaissance
influenced this age by creating the idea inventions that led to modern
ones.
Information Age also refer to people, information, and societies that
chronicle the birth and growth of electronic information from ancient
times to Samuel Morse’s invention of the telegraph in the 1890s
through the development of the telephone, radio, television and
computers (http.//www.tcf.va.edu/az/history.outline.htm).
There are four periods of the Information Age, namely:
• Pre-Mechanical – 3000 BC to 1450 AD
• Mechanical – 1450 to 1840
• Electro-Mechanical – 1840 to 1940
• Electronic/Information – 1940 to present

Some pioneers who belong to these periods were Blaire Pascal,

Alexander Graham Bell, Steven Wozmak, Steven Jobs and Bill Gates.
You may be familiar with Bell who

invented the telephone, or Jobs who is the pioneer of the Apple IOS, or
Gates the billionaire who put up the Microsoft empire.

Personal computers had become widespread by the end of the

1980s. they can be connected to local or national networks. Through a
device called the modem, individual users could list their computers to
a wealth of information using conventional phone lines.

The internet was developed during the 1970s. In the early days,
it was used mainly by scientists to communicate with other scientists.
At this time, the internet user’ problem was speed. The development
of the fiber-optic hastened the rate of sending message.

In the 1990s, the world wide web was developed mainly for
commercial purposes. New services were created to sell products.
Now, airline tickets, hotel reservations, books, cars, houses, and
almost anything you can imagine can be purchased online. Colleges
and universities would post research data on the internet so students
could find valuable information without leaving their homes.

Claide Shannon is regarded as the Father of the Information Age.

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 The Social Media
With the ease of sharing information today, reliability could be
questioned or compromised. Social media could also give dis-
information. The social media may result to building of community of
liked-minded people. Another concern would be the easy access to
personal information. Considering the many benefits from these
technologies, people must be responsible in utilizing them to avoid
harming others and themselves

Supplemental reading: This power point presentation by

Richard Stacey will

provide you a better understanding of the post-Gutenberg.

The Social Media Revolution.pdf

IT’S YOUR TURN

Activity 1.

Reflect on what you have learned on Lesson 1, then answer the

questions below.

1. How has the development of information age affected man and the
society?
2. Go on a day without using your gadgets and social media. At the
end of the day, reflect and answer this question: How has social
media affected my life? Can I live without it?
See rubric below for scoring of your answers.

Criteria Description Point

Allotment
Focus/Main Point & The discussion is focused and thoroughly 5 to 10
Support explains the student’s reflection on the
question posed. It is also supported by
examples and proper reasoning.
Organization & Format Ideas are organized to build logical and
coherent arguments.
5
Mechanics and Uses correct grammar, spelling, punctuation
Grammar throughout the discussion.
Highest Possible Score 25/25

LESSON 2. BIODIVERSITY AND HEALTHY SOCIETY

Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. explain the importance of biodiversity to human survival;
and,
2. improve understanding on biodiversity by applying
conservation practices/activities.

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 LET’S ENGAGE
Let’s play with words. The picture at the left
describes biodiversity. Can
you define biodiversity using
these words? Do this in your
note book and let us see
how many definitions you
can form out of these words.

Basically, all things

bearing a semblance of life,
from the tiniest creatures to
the biggest ones, are part of
the vast and complex
biodiversity. Most of the Source: Can Stock Photo
resources we see and some
which we do not see also are part of biodiversity.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

What is biodiversity?

Biodiversity came from the word “bio” meaning “life” and

“diverse” which means “varied or different”. It is defined as the
richness and the variety of life forms, from genes to species and
ecosystem. Biodiversity is all that kinds of life we can find in an area,
that is, variety of animals, plants, microorganisms and other life forms
that makes up our natural world. Each of these organisms work
together in ecosystems like an intricate web, to maintain a balance
ecosystem and support life. This also means that the greater variety of
species and organisms, the healthier the environment.

Biodiversity on Earth is not evenly distributed because it

actually varies greatly across the globe as within regions. This is
because biodiversity of all living things depends on environmental
factors such as temperature, precipitation, soil, geography, and
presence of other species. So, we do not have packs of wolves in our
mountains like in America or cotton as in the Nile because organisms
require certain type of climate for survival. It is also evident that low
land vegetation (like that of Ilocos region) is different from those of the
high lands. We can also observe varied varieties or species of
agricultural crops being planted by our farmers. All of these variations
are greatly affected by environmental factors. This is the fact that
when environment is degraded, there will be loss of habitat thus the
threat for extinction of species.
Biodiversity supports everything in nature that we need to
survive. It provides for our basic and most important needs, which are
food, clean water, medicine and shelter. Humans, just like other
organisms, are dependent on healthy environment to survive. The
figure below will help you understand better the importance of
biodiversity to human survival and its connection to a variety of
aspects.

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 Figure 1. Biodiversity & human health
Source: Convention on Biological Diversity

You know now that health, food and water, climate

change, ecosystems, and sustainable development including
all aspects related to these are dependent on biodiversity (from the
figure above). There is, however; tremendous decline in
biodiversity worldwide where human activities contributed much
to its destruction. As discussed, direct drivers of this loss include land-
use change, habitat loss, and overexploitation, among others.
The transformation of forest areas into agricultural production is
indeed needed to feed the growing population, however; it equates to
decreasing habitat for wild organisms. Added to this is the danger of
soil and water pollution due to the chemical residues from agricultural
farms. These are just some of the numerous threats to biodiversity
brought about by anthropological activities.

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 Figure 2. Source: Convention on Biological Diversity
It is a global effort to conserve biodiversity. Government and
non-
government organizations are implementing programs in the effort to
conserve biodiversity, however; not all of these are sustainable.
Experts suggested a model of effective implementation of biodiversity
conservation program.

To effectively
conserve biodiversity,
three major programs
should be
implemented by the
society. The
ecological research,
management and
monitoring should be
implemented to come
up with reliable and
effective conservation
measures.
These conservation
measures should be supported by legislation through crafting policies
and guidelines of which will be enforced for implementation. The
participation of the members of the society is much important in
conservation programs if they are well informed of the issues and
concerns regarding biodiversity.
Likewise, the collaborative efforts of the different
sectors of the government and non-government organizations
together with active participation of the community is significant in
the effective implementation of any biodiversity conservation
programs.

“More than 7,100 islands fall within the borders of the Philippines hotspot,
identified

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 as one of the world’s biologically richest countries. The country’s terrestrial
and marine habitats contain some of the richest bio diversities of flora and
fauna, and its waters are considered a part of the Coral Triangle. Despite
of these, the Philippines ranks among the top ten globally with the largest
number of species threatened with extinction (CI, 2013)” – Phi.
Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan 2015 -2028, DENR

The 2010 International Year of Biodiversity

The United Nations (UN) declared 2010 to be the International

Year of Biodiversity, the International Year for the Rapprochement of
Cultures, and the International Year of the Youth. It was declared on
December 20, 2006 by the UN General Assembly. It designated the
secretariat of the Convention of Biological Diversity as the event’s
focal point.
The International Year of Biodiversity focuses on boosting
awareness of biodiversity’s importance by promoting actions to foster
biodiversity worldwide. Various partners have been committed to
actively participating in or organizing activities and projects for this
event.

On the read: the coffee table book presents the

sustainable traditional forest conservation
practices applied by the people of the
Cordilleras. Chapter 3 of this books “Kawanan
nan batawa para sinan ongong-a” shows the
practices of Tadian, Mountain Province. (Book
and DVD available at the college library or at
googlebooks.com)

IT’S YOUR TURN!

Activity 2.

Biodiversity is basically life itself. Plants, animals, and humans

are part of the very diverse biodiversity. However, the depletion of our
biodiversity is mainly due to human activities.
In answering the following questions, you can ask the help of
your family or community members. The highest possible score for
this activity is 35/35.

1. Are there animal species that have existed before in your place
but are now no longer existent? ___________________

If yes, what are the name/s of the/se animals? You can give their local
name:
_______________________________________________________________________
__________

What is the reason why the animal is no longer existing today?

_______________________________________________________________________
______________

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 _______________________________________________________________________
______________

2. What problems or challenges do you see that is causing the

destruction of biodiversity in your locality or community? List at least
3.
a. _____________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
b. _____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
c. _____________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

3. Why must we protect biodiversity and in what ways can we help

conserve it? Indicate the indigenous ways (identify at least 3 ways)
your community is doing to conserve biodiversity.

LESSON 3. GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS: SCIENCE,

HEALTH, AND POLITICS

Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. discuss the implications of genetically modified organisms and
potential future impact; and,
2. identify issues on genetically modified organisms.

LET’S ENGAGE

Can you imagine what an organism will look like if we tinker

with their genes? Will these still be considered natural beings?

A genetically modified organism (GMO) is a plant, animal,

microorganism or any organism whose genetic makeup has been
altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating or natural
recombination (WHO). It is a result of a laboratory process where
genes from the DNA of one species are extracted and artificially
inserted into the genes of an unrelated organism.
Source: Worldpress.com
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

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 What is a GMO? Why the need for these organisms?

Figure 3. GMO
Source: gmoanswers.com

In plants, breeders use plant breeding technologies to improve

production and quality of crops. Through genetically modified plant
breeding methods, precise changes are made to a plant’s DNA to give
it characteristics that cannot be achieved through traditional plant
breeding methods. The illustration on the next page shows the
breeding methods done to come up with desirable plant
characteristics.

There were several GM plants that were already in the market

in which breeders claimed to be of high quality. Before we discuss this
GM products, let us look into the technologies of producing such.

Genetic Engineering and Genetically Modified Organisms

(GMOs)
Genetic Engineering is the direct manipulation of genes or the
transfer of genes between organisms of changes in the sequence of a
gene. It is the artificial manipulation, modification, and recombination
of DNA or other nucleic acid molecules in order to modify an organism
or population of organisms. The product of this technology is called
genetically modified organism (GMO).
One common method in genetic engineering is the addition of
foreign DNA in the form of recombinant DNA vectors that are
generated by molecular cloning. An organism that receives the
recombinant DNA is called a genetically modified organism. If the
foreign DNA that is introduced comes from a different species, the
host organism is called transgenic. Bacteria, plants, and animals have
been genetically modified since the early 1970s for academic,
medical, agricultural, and industrial purposes.

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 The information
about the microbe
(usually agrobacterium)
and its
reproduction
mechanism are
contained in its gene
structure. The first step
in the process is the
identification of the
desired trait
from another
organism, and its gene
containing this trait is
isolated.

Figure 4. Plant Genetic Engineering

Source: kiranbamanu site

On the Read: A Sequenced and Assembled Genome Advances Basic Biological

Knowledge

Access to the genome sequence of even one individual of a species, known as

the

reference genome, has advanced basic knowledge of the genes and alleles
that govern traits
and, as a consequence, facilitated the identification of DNA markers for
marker-assisted selection (MAS). An example is potato, a staple crop for
which breeding is challenging. Potato is native to the equatorial regions in
the Andes, where tuber development depends on short days. However, a
key trait that led to high-yielding potatoes in regions with long summers
(including Europe and North America) was tuber development under long
days. Genetic mapping revealed a major quantitative trait locus—the

maturity locus—on chromosome 5 that controlled tuber initiation (Visker et

al., 2003). Access to the potato genome sequence permitted identification

of the allelic variants of the gene that controls tuber initiation, which not
only provided a clear connection between tuberization, the circadian clock,
and the

tuberization signal but provided a molecular marker for use in MAS to

identify varieties

adapted to specific geographic regions (Kloosterman et al., 2013).

What are GMOs for?

The production of GMOs is considered a breakthrough in
biotechnology. These organisms have enhanced characteristics of
plants and are important in food production and agricultural
industries. The roles of GMOs in food and agriculture include:

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 1. Pest Resistance – eg. Bt Corn, the genome has been modified with
the gene of Bacillus thuringiensis, a soil bacterium that produces
proteins which is toxic to corn borers. Corn borer is one of the
major insect pests that attack corn plantations in the Philippines.
2. Virus Resistance – eg. GM papaya or rainbow papaya. The papaya
ringspot virus is known to be detrimental to papaya plants. The
protein of this virus is introduced to the papaya plant through plant
tissue which resulted to resistance to this virus itself.
3. Herbicide Tolerance – eg. Roundup Ready soybean. Glyphosate, an
herbicide for weeds was introduced to soybeans making it tolerant
to the herbicide itself. Farmers can then spray the herbicide killing
only the weeds and not the soybeans.
4. Fortification – eg. Golden Rice. Beta-carotene, a precursor of
Vitamin A was introduced through biosynthesis genes to the rice,
making the rice grains fortified with vitamin A.
5. Cosmetic Preservation – eg. Arctic Apple is genetically modified to
suppress the browning of apples due to superficial damage.
6. Increase Growth Rate – eg. AguAdvantage salmon. A gene from an
ocean pout, an eel-like fish was introduced to Pacific Chinook
salmon, making the salmon grow faster than its normal rate

GMOs are also used for other purposes. Their roles in non-food
crops and in microorganisms include the following:

1. Flower production. Ornamental crops are genetically modified

to enhance flower color and to extend vase life. Example of this is the
blue roses.
2. Paper production. Trees for paper production have modified
characteristics for higher yield. In poplar trees, lignin structure is
modified, making it easier to breakdown. This makes processing
easier.
3. Pharmaceutical productions. Some plants are genetically
modified for the production of phytochemicals and other chemical
properties that can be used for medical purposes. Bacterial genes
were added to the genes of periwinkle plants to enhance the
production of vinblastine, an alkaloid usually added to drugs for
cancer treatments like Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
4. Bioremediation. Plants that are genetically modified are
planted in polluted areas to absorb pollutants. Example of such is the
shrub tobacco which was modified with phytochelatin. This GMO
shows high level accumulation of zinc, lead, cadmium, nickel, boron,
and has high biomass.
5. Enzyme and drug production. Modified microorganisms can
produce enzymes for food processing and medicines. Example is the
cyclomaltodextrin glycosyltransferase (CGTase), an enzyme used for
food flavor enhancer. This is being produced in high quantity by a
genetically modified Bacillus bacterium.
6. GMOs in medical field. GMOs have significant role from
diagnosis to treatment of human diseases. It helps in the production of
drugs, gene therapy and laboratory researches. One example is the
Humulin, a genetically modified insulin used by type 1 diabetes who
are insulin-dependent.

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 Some other benefits of genetically modified organisms include
higher efficiency in farming, increase in harvest, control in fertility,
increase in food processing, improvement of desirable characteristics,
nutritional and pharmaceutical enhancement, and reduced use of
fertilizers and pesticides.
Some countries operate farmlands for the production of
genetically modified organism. Top countries are US, Brazil, Argentina,
India, and Canada.
GMO crops approved for market are alfa-alfa, papaya, corn,
soybean, sugar beets, and squash. Some common food with GMO
which are now in the market includes

Kellog’s corn flakes, Quaker chewy granola bars, Ultra slim fast,
Quaker yellow corn meal, and Alpo dry pet food.
In animal industries, few were being produced but not yet
approved for public consumption. Examples of which are genetically
modified pacific salmon have faster growth rate compared to nonGMO
type. Another is genetically modified chicken which is resistant to
H5N1 bird flu virus, a common disease that can wipe out poultries.

We learned that there are benefits of genetically modifying

organisms, however; there are some issues as to the use and
consumption of these products.

Potential risks of GMOs:

1. There are inadequate studies on the effects of GMOs to humans
and environment – since GE is new branch of science
2. Genetic Engineering promotes mutation in organisms which the
long term effect is still unknown
3. Human consumption of GMOs may cause more allergic reactions in
some people, gene mutation, and antibiotic resistance.

Potential environmental risks caused by GMOs:

1. Risk in gene flow – There is a risk that the modified gene can be
transferred from the GMO crop to its wild relative, to other soil
organisms present in the farm, and to the intestines of human who
consume GMO foods.
2. Emergence of new forms of resistance and secondary pests and
weed problems – GMO crops resistant to certain pesticides may
trigger new form of pest resistance; GMO herbicide-tolerant crops
may lead to the over use of the herbicides which may also trigger
new form of weed resistance
3. Recombination of virus and bacteria to produce new pathogens –
modified genes can be transferred and integrated in the viral or
bacterial genes which may lead to modification of genes or
mutation. These organisms may cause new diseases that may
affect other organisms including human

There are also concerns on human health risks caused by

GMOs. Some of these are:
1. Consumption of GMOs may have adverse effects since it is not
naturally or organically produced.

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 2. Consumption of GMOs may alter the balance of existing
microorganisms in the human digestive system.
3. Production of toxins by the GMOs may be detrimental to human
health.
4. Production of allergens may have adverse effects to humans.

Other potential risks were also identified. Some of these are:

1. Human Genome Project. This project was done to map the entire
human genome. Scientists were able to identify which genes is
responsible for each trait. Because of this, the ability to produce
human genetic information would create biases and give much
power to people holding the information and to the disadvantage of
those who do not have the genetic information.
2. Mutations of GMO microorganisms. GM bacteria and viruses may
mutate to become more resistant or virulent that may cause more
dreadful diseases for humans.
3. Cloning. With the success of Dolly the sheep, came the fear of
human cloning. This becomes an ethical issue of man “playing
God”.

Biosafety on GMOs
The above risks and the possible abuse of genetic engineering or
genetic modification may be prevented by regulating its use. Thus,
safety regulations and laws

were crafted and being applied by countries around the world. Some
of these are the following:

1. The Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex). This was created by

Food & Agriculture Organization & World Health Organization. It is
composed of inter-government body that develops the Codex
Alimentarius or the International Food Code. It developed principles
on pre-market assessments of GMO food products and its
evaluation of its direct and indirect effects.
2. Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. Established in 2003, this is an
international environment treaty that regulates the transboundary
movements of living GMO. It requires exporters to seek consent
from the importers before its first shipment.
3. International Trade Agreement on labeling of GM food and food
products. This requires exporters of GM food and food products to
label their products and give rights to importing parties to reject or
accept these products. Nevertheless, WHO claimed that all GM
products that are available in the international market have passed
safety assessment by national authorities.

In Philippine context, the production and use of genetically

modified organisms is also regulated by the government. This is in
addition to the international safety regulations set by designated
international committee. The country’s development as to regulation
of genetic engineering are the following:

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 1. National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines (NCBP) was
created through E.O. 430 on 1990. The committee developed
guidelines on the planned release of GMOs and potentially harmful
exotic species in 1998.
2. Dept. of Agriculture released A.O. no. 8 in 2002, a guideline for
importation and release into the environment of GM plants and
plant products. In 2002, entry of GMO importation was started and
the Philippines was the first Asian country to approved commercial
cultivation of GMOs. Genetically modified corn was first planted in
2002.
3. Philippines was classified by International Service for acquisition of
agri-biotech applications (1 of the 14 biotech-mega countries) in
2004.
4. Sen. Juan Flavier authored a bill for mandatory labeling of food and
food products with GMOs, but was not passed by the senate.
5. The Philippines became part of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
in 2006. E.O. no. 514 was issued to address the biosafety
requirements of the Cartagena Protocol and the establishment of
National Biosafety Framework.
6. Organic Agriculture Act was issued on 2010 encouraging organic
agriculture rather than GMO-related agriculture. Negros Occidental
and Negros Oriental established Negros Organic Island on 2005,
before the crafting of this Act. These provinces supported organic
agriculture and banned the entry of GMOs through provincial
ordinances. Davao City passed their Organic Agriculture Ordinance
in 2010, and prevented the field testing of Bt eggplant in UP
Mindanao Campus.
7. Rep. Teddy Casino filed a bill in 2012 for mandatory labeling of GM
food and food products
8. Supreme Court halted the field testing of GMO Bt eggplant and
declared A.O. no. 8
s. 2002 of DA as null and void in the year 2015.
9. DOST, DA, DENR, DOH and DILG passed a joint Dept. Circular No. 1,
s. 2016 on rules and regulations for the handling & use,
transboundary movement, release on the environment, and
management of GM plant and plant products derived from the use
of modern technology. This joint dept. circular order paved way for
issuance of new permits for planting & importing GM crops in the
country.

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 In connection:

In early 2001, the International Rice

Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines
became the first licensee of Professors Ingo
Potrykus and Peter Beyer for what became
known as Golden Rice.
IRRI agreed to develop Golden Rice to fulfil
the inventors' vision: to make the

nutritional benefits of Golden Rice

available as an additional intervention for
vitamin A deficiency (VAD), without any
additional cost compared to white rice, in
developing countries to governments, small
farmers or

consumers. Except for commercial export,

no restrictions were imposed on what the
farmers could do with the seed. Golden Rice
was designed by its inventors, and the
technology donated by them, to help the
‘resource poor’.

IT’S YOUR TURN

Activity 3.

Read the attached story about the Golden Rice by Ed Regis, 2019. ..\..\
Lecture
2019-20\^Science Technology and Society_\The True Story of the
Genetically Modified Superfood That Almost Saved Millions.docx

After reading and understanding the article, answer the following

questions.

1. How was Golden Rice produce? What technology was applied to

come up with such product? (5 pts)

2. Discuss the advantages of genetically modifying plants, as in the

case of Golden Rice.
(5 pts)

3. If the commercialization of Golden Rice have been realized, what

could be its potential impact to the society, specially to the
developing countries, as it was meant to be? (5 pts)

4. Will you eat GMOs (aside from the presented example of GMO)?
Why or why not?
(10 pts)

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 LESSON 4. The Nano World

Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. define the major potential and realized impacts of nanotechnology
on society.

LET’S ENGAGE

Have you watched the movie GI Joe? The sci-fi action movie showed
how nanotechnology was used in the villain’s pursuit of power. It is
literally very small but has profound impacts and implications to
science and technology.

In the pursuit of S&T, humans are now dealing more and more
with a world not seen by the naked eye. The information we search for
is always available in nature but we need tools to get these. The Nano
world like other scientific principles, provides both knowledge and
instrument to control nature.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Nanotechnology

Nano is a
unit meaning one
billionth or 10 - 9. It
expresses a very tiny
amount of size.
Nanotechnology
is the manipulation of
matter on an atomic or
subatomic scale. Some
innovations developed
include microprocessors
and strain-resistant
fabrics. It involves
operating at a very small dimension and it
allows scientists to make use of the
Source: Australian Academy of
Science exceptional optical, chemical, physical,
mechanical, and biological qualities of materials of small scale.
Nanostructures can be found in nature such as catalysts,
minerals and other particles, and are measured in nano scale. For
example, the DNA strand measures 2.5nm, most bacteria measures
about 2.5 micrometer long, and a large raindrop measures 2.5mm.
This measurement is very small and requires special tools to study
them. Since the nano world cannot be seen by the naked eye, it was
only recognized and identified after technology has allowed for the
discovery of nano structure.

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 Nanoscience and nanotechnology employ the study and
application of exceptionally small things in other areas of science
including engineering, physics, biology and chemistry. These concepts
started in 1959 when physicist Richard Feynman discussed a method in
which scientists can direct and control individual atoms and molecules.
Nano structures cannot be viewed by our naked eye. Scientists
study these structures using special viewing equipment.

1. Electron Microscope. This is a scanning electron microscope &

transmission electron microscope. This utilizes a particle beam of
electrons to light up a specimen and

develop a well magnified image. This produces higher and better

resolution than older light microscope because they can magnify
objects up to a million times.

2. Atomic Force Microscope. This was first developed by Gerd Binig,

Calvin Quate & Christoph Gerber in 1986. It makes use of
mechanical probe that gathers information from the surface of a
material.
3. Scanning Tunneling Microscope. This enable scientists to
manipulate nanoscale particles, atoms, & small molecule. It was
developed by Gerd Binig and Heinrich Rohrer in 1986, and won the
Nobel Prize in Physics.

Distinct features of Nanoscale

1. Scale at which much biology occurs.

This is because various cell activities take place at the
nanoscale. Biological materials such as the DNA which
measures about 2 nanometers in diameter and hemoglobin of
about 5.5 nanometers in diameter, are examined using electron
microscope.
It uses bio-barcode assay, an inexpensive approach for
identification of specific disease markers in the blood despite
their small number in a particular specimen.

2. Scale at which quantum effects dominate properties of materials.

Quantum effects directs the behavior and properties of
particles in nanoscale; thus, the properties of materials are
highly dependent on their size. Essential properties of
nanoscale that change as a function of size are: chemical
reactivity, fluorescence, magnetic permeability, melting point,
and electrical conductivity.
Eg. Nanoscale gold – appear red or purple (not only yellow gold
color). Nanoscale gold particles selectively build up in tumors,
where they permit both precise imaging and targeted laser
destruction of tumor while avoiding damage to healthy cells

3. Nanoscale materials have far larger surface areas than similar

masses of larger-scale materials.

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 As the surface area increases per mass of a particular
material, a greater amount of the material comes in contact
with another material can affect its reactivity.

Nanotechnology gained recognition worldwide. Government

funding for nanotechnology includes:

1. US National Nanotechnology Initiative. This is the best known and

most funded, established in 2001 to coordinate US federal
nanotechnology Research &Development, with a billion fund – 1.4-
1.5 (2008, 2009).
2. European Nanoelectronics Initiative Advisory Council launched by
European Commission in 2008
3. Nanotechnology Research Institute in Japan
4. National Science and Technology Program for Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology – Taiwan
5. Other countries: India, China, Israel, Australia, Canada, South
Korea, Thailand, Malaysia

Applications of Nanotechnology in the Philippines

The possible applications of these technology in the Philippines

could be in the field of ICT and semiconductors, health and medicine,
energy, food and agriculture, and environment. As such, the PCASTRD-
DOST laid the Nano Road Map of the Philippines for ICT &
semiconductors, health and biomedicine, energy, environment,
agriculture and food, health and environment risk, nano-metrology,
and education and public awareness.

Concerns about Nanotechnology

Despite the promising potential of nanotechnology, there are

some issues and concerns that needs to be addressed. Just like any
other scientific technologies, application of nanotech should follow
guidelines set by authorized entities. Concerns related to nanotech
includes the following:

 Nanotech is not a single technology; it may become pervasive.

 Nanotechnology seeks to develop new materials with specific
properties.
 Nanotech may introduce new efficiencies & paradigms w/c may
make some natural resources & current practices unproductive or
obsolete.
 It may be complicated to detect its presence unless one has the
special tools of nanotechnology.

Benefits from Nanotechnology

Specifically, what can we benefit from nanotechnology?

1. On environment – use of this technology can improved detection
and removal of contaminants. Development of benign industrial
processes and materials is also possible. However, there are
concerns on high reactivity and toxicity, pervasive distribution in

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 the environment, and no nano-specific regulation being
implemented.

2. On Health – this paves way for the formulation of improved

medicine. However, nano materials may have the ability to cross
cell membranes and translocate in the body. Likewise, it can pose
danger to users since approval of Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) is not needed for cosmetics or supplements using nanotech.

3. On Economy – There is opportunity for the production of better

products. It could also create new jobs specially on the technical
aspect of nanofacturing. Concerns related to economy is that,
nanofacturing could result to redistribution of wealth wherein those
who are financially capable are of advantage. Expenses on cost of
cleanups and health care could also affect the economy. Lastly,
nanotech is not accessible to all income levels.

LESSON 5. Gene Therapy

Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to:

1. describe gene therapy and its various forms.

LET’S ENGAGE

In the previous module, The Nano World, we discussed

nanostructures which are on atomic or subatomic scale. Gene
technology focuses on the developments in the

nanotech as applied in living organisms. Concerns on human health

such as aging, disease treatment and prevention, and diet and
general lifestyle have greatly benefited from biological technologies.
Medicine is one example of scientific and technological innovation that
made a breakthrough in the area of human health. Before, aspirin was
never understood at the nano level, now it is known for its effects as
pain reliever. The aspirin was already an “old” technology at the
beginning of 20th century as more recent findings in the areas of nano
and gene science can now be incorporated to medicine. If new
discoveries in the areas of molecular and atomic physics are applied
to the genes, even greater technologies for human health may be
found.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

What is Gene Therapy?

In medical science, gene therapy is a potential method to cure

genetic-related human illnesses. It is simply viewed as insertion
foreign DNA into a patient’s tissue that is hoped to successfully
eradicate the targeted disease.
Examples of experiments done: Restored hearing in genetically
deaf mice – the experiments restored a higher level of hearing by

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 using improved gene therapy vector developed – “Anc80” which
enables the transfer of genes to the inaccessible outer hair cells when
introduced into the cochlea.

Gene therapy requires scientific and technological skills. Basic

approaches in gene therapy includes the following:
• Replacement of mutated gene that causes disease with a healthy
copy of the gene
• Inactivation of a mutated gene that is functioning improperly
• Introducing a new gene into the body to help fight disease
• Most common vector used in human gene therapy are viruses
which have been genetically modified to carry normal human DNA
• Viruses have evolved a way of encapsulating and transporting their
gene to human cells in a pathogenic manner

There are two types of gene therapy. The Somatic Gene Therapy
which involves the manipulation of genes in cells that will help the
patient but cannot be inherited by the next generation. The genetic
modification is done on somatic cells; thus, it cannot be inherited.
Another type is the Germ-Line Therapy. This involves the genetic
modification of germ cells and thus pass the manipulated genes to the
next generation.

Stem cell therapy is breakthrough in medical science. This

method uses stem cells, thus; the term stem cell therapy. Stem cells
are somatic cells that are totipotent, that is, it has the ability to renew
itself or multiply while maintaining the potential to develop into other
types of cell. The ability to self-renew enable these cells to generate
range of cell types from originating organ or even regenerate the
entire organ. In other words, stem cells are mother cells that have
potential to become any type of cell in the body.

Stem cell therapy requires donor cells that can be used for
medication. Sources of this therapy may come from embryonic stem
cells or from somatic stem cells.

1. Embryonic stem cells are derived from a 4 to 5day old human

embryo, usually in the blastocyst phase of development. The
embryos are usually extras that have been created in in vitro
(meaning cultured) fertilization clinics where several eggs are
fertilized in a test tube then implanted into a surrogate woman.

2. Somatic stem cells are cells that composed the body after
embryonic development, and composed the different body tissues.
These cells can be found in tissues of the brain, bone marrow,
blood, blood vessels, skeletal muscles, skin and liver.

Bioethics of Gene Therapy

Despite the medical importance of this technology specially in
treating cancer, there were several bioethics to consider.

Bioethics of gene therapy questions the following:

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 • How can GOOD or BAD uses of gene therapy be distinguished?
• Who decides which traits are normal and which constitute a
disability or disorder?
• Will the high cost of gene therapy make it available only to the
wealthy?
• Could the widespread use of gene therapy make society less
accepting to people who are different?
• Should people be allowed to use gene therapy to enhance basic
human traits such as height, intelligence, or athletic ability?
These are questions that challenge the application of gene therapy.

“Transplant cells, not organs” by Dr. Susan Lim. This video

will provide you a better understanding about stem

cell therapy. D:\Lecture 2019-20\^Science
Technology and
Society_\_videos_\_gene therapy_\Susan Lim Transplant cells, not
organs.mp4

POST ASSESSMENT

Into the Future

This module focused on the advancements that we have on science
and technology. It doesn’t end there though! Man is still improving and
creating new technologies. With all of this happening, we can’t help
but think, what will become of our future?

For your final task on this activity, you will dig deep into your
imagination. Your task is to come up with a story, just a short one,
where the impacts of the technologies discussed here (GMO,
Nanotechnology, Gene Therapy) are described but in the context of 10
to 20 years from now. The impacts should be to biodiversity, to man
and to society in general. Your story should reflect your understanding
of the costs and benefits (or advantages and disadvantages) of the
technologies mentioned.

For example, instead of saying that gene therapy can help cure
certain diseases, you may say in your story: “….. the once illusive
treatment for the Big C or cancer has now answers through gene
therapy! Because of this, the people of subdivision X were elated…”

Be creative in coming up with your own story! This is not just

simply defining what the technologies are, or saying the costs and
benefits – it is about integrating them in a story form so that it
becomes interesting. Just think of GI Joe! You do not necessarily have
to make a long story; remember – it’s a short one. One page is
enough.

You have the option to do this by pair or individually. Again, place this
activity on a long bond paper with the same format as the activities
you had in module 1 and 2.

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 Your works will be graded according to the following criteria:
Content (35) – this includes how you integrated the costs and
benefits and impacts of the technologies in your story;
Creativity (15) – this includes the kind of story you made, and
how you wrote it to become fun to read; and,
Mechanics (10) – this includes how you followed instructions,
your grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
The highest score for this activity is 60/60.

REFERENCES

Biodiversity [image]. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.canstockphoto.com/illustration/biodiversity -
word.html.

Claudio, A., Garsi, J., Madjaco, G., & Umayat, A. (2014). “Kawanan
nan batawa para sinan ongong-a” in Guardians of the Forest,
Stewards of the Land. Manila: Cover and Pages.

DENR. Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, 2015-2028.

Retrieved on July 18, 2020 from denr.gov.ph

Infographic on Biodiversity & Health [image]. (n.d.).

Retrieved from
https://www.cbd.int/health/planetaryhealth/infographic/

McNamara, D., Valverde, V.M., & Beleno, R. (2018). Science,

Technology, and Society. Quezon City: C&E Publishing, Inc.

Nanoscale [image]. (2020). Australian Academy of Science. Retrieved

from
https://www.science.org.au/curious/technology-future/how-
small-nanoscale-small

Plant Genetic Engineering [image]. (2016). Retrieved

from
https://kiranbamanusite.wordpress.com/2016/05/18/
genetic-engineering/

Seludo-Ballena, N., Bernal, R., Samaco-Paquiz, L. P., Ramos, R., &

Viet, L. (2004). Science, Technology and Society. Philippines:
Trinitas Publishing, Inc.

Serafica, J., Pawilen, G., Caslib Jr. B., & Alata, E. (2018). Science,
Technology and Society. Philippines: Rex Book Store

What is a GMO [image]. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://gmoanswers.com/ask/what-are-causesand-effects-
gmos

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