Genetic modification is a scientific term that can conjure up fear as scientists are let loose tampering with nature.  

But putting genetic engineering is actively being used all over the world today, most commonly in crops to help them to become more resilient to a changing climate, but also in clinical trials and medical treatment to help cure human diseases such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and diabetes.

While the world moves forwards with genetic modification, it is heavily regulated in New Zealand, and has been since the passing of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act in 1996. 

So what exactly is genetic modification, what are the positives and negatives of it, and should New Zealand be reconsidering its current laws to help more scientists here to carry out cutting edge research?

For today’s episode, Michelle is joined by New Zealand Herald science reporter Jamie Morton, to discuss his recent reporting in this area, and University of Otago Geneticist and Director of Genomics Aotearoa Professor Peter Dearden to discuss the science.

Read more on Jamie's reporting here