Ans. When recombinant DNA is transferred to the target host. The host organism is transformed into a genetically modified organism (GMO).
Procedure to Make GMO ,
First Step: In the first step, the genetic engineer identifies the gene of interest in a donor organism. Special enzymes, called restriction endonucleases, are used to cut the identified gene from the total DNA of donor organism. Figure 17.5
Second Step: A vector is selected for the transfer of the isolated gene of interest to the host cell. The vector may be a plasmid (the extra-chromosomal DNA present in many bacteria) or a bacteriophage. The gene of interest is attached with the vector DNA by using endonuclease (breaking enzymes) and ligase (joining enzymes). The vector DNA and the attached gene of interest are collectively called recombinant DNA.
Third step: Recombinant DNA is transferred to the target host. In this way, host organism is transformed into a genetically modified organism (GMO).