Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This involves the modification, addition, or deletion of specific genes to create organisms with desired traits that do not occur naturally or through traditional breeding methods. GMOs can be found across various species, including bacteria, yeasts, plants, and animals.

Some applications of genetically modified organisms include:

1. Agriculture: Genetically modified crops have been developed to improve yields, increase resistance to pests and diseases, enhance nutritional content, or tolerate environmental stresses such as drought or high salinity. Examples of genetically modified crops include herbicide-resistant soybeans, insect-resistant corn (Bt corn), and virus-resistant papayas.
2. Medicine: Genetic engineering has been used to produce bacteria or other organisms capable of synthesizing medically valuable substances, such as insulin, human growth hormone, or blood clotting factors. Additionally, genetically modified animals, such as mice and zebrafish, are often used as model organisms in biomedical research to study human diseases and develop new therapies.
3. Industrial biotechnology: Genetically modified microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast, are used to produce biofuels, enzymes, and other industrial chemicals through fermentation processes. These engineered microorganisms can be designed to be more efficient or specific in their production capabilities, reducing costs and environmental impacts.
4. Bioremediation: Genetically modified organisms can be engineered to break down environmental pollutants or remove contaminants from soil or water. For example, bacteria have been modified to degrade oil spills or detoxify heavy metals, providing potential solutions for environmental cleanup.
5. Gene drives: Genetic engineering techniques can be used to create gene drives, which are designed to spread specific genetic traits rapidly through a population of organisms. While still in the experimental stage, gene drives have the potential to be used for controlling invasive species, suppressing disease-carrying insects, or conserving endangered species.

The use of genetically modified organisms has generated considerable debate and controversy, with concerns about their potential impact on human health, the environment, and socioeconomic factors. Proponents of GMOs argue that they offer significant benefits in terms of agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and addressing global challenges like food security and climate change. Critics, on the other hand, raise concerns about the potential risks of GMOs, such as the unintended spread of modified genes to non-target organisms, the development of pesticide-resistant pests, and potential allergenicity or other health impacts.

As a result, the development and use of GMOs are regulated by various national and international laws, guidelines, and frameworks to ensure that they are safe for human consumption and do not pose a risk to the environment.