What are GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms)?

GMO or genetically modified organisms are organisms with their DNA modified, usually by adding new or different DNA from another organism. GM crops are crops that have genes from bacteria. These genes allow the plants to either produce chemicals that can kill only insect pests, or be resistant to herbicide. Since the plants have DNA from another species, they are called transgenic crops. We grow GM crops on nearly 185 million hectares in 26 countries, including 19 developing countries. That’s roughly 12% of the global cropland. We regularly produce GM soybean, corn, cotton, alfalfa, canola, apples, papaya, potatoes, summer squash, sugar beets, and pineapple. So, what is the science behind these crops? How do we make such crops in the lab?