A New York Times article written by Harold M. Schmeck Jr. discusses how a group of scientists from the National Academy of Sciences have genetically altered plants to become immune to viruses. Plants do not have an immune system like animals. They cannot produce antibodies to protect themselves from illness. These scientists have implanted "key virus substances", not the entire virus.The purpose of using genetic engineering is to incorporate new traits efficiently and in a way that leaves little doubt as to what has actually been transplanted and what the effects will be.
This could be a major improvement for farmers. They will be able to produce crops without the fear of losing them to viruses. This will be a positive increase in the economy.
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