Report claims that scientists are able to edit any part of the human genome
In Great Britain a new technique known as Crispr, enables
scientists to engineer parts of the genome with extreme precision. This type of
precision holds the key to new treatments towards cancer, HIV, and inherited
genetic disorders. Crispr operates by enabling the most detailed and specific
possible alteration to any part of DNA of the 23 pairs of human chromosomes
without introducing unintended mutation or flaws. 2006 Nobel Prize winner Craig
Mello describes Crispr as, “incredibly powerful and it has many applications,
from agriculture to potential gene therapy in humans.” Tofigure out the
alterations that could take place Crispr works by using an RNA guide molecule
that can be programmed to match any unique DNA sequence in the human genome.
The molecule is attached to a special enzyme that cut both strands of the DNA
double helix. The copied DNA then is inserted into the double helix and
defective DNA is deleted. Some scientists are arguing that the technique could
be used to eliminate certain genetic diseases like Down Syndrome and Huntington’s
Disease by altering the DNA of an embryo before implanting it in the mother’s
womb.http://www.foxnews.com/science/2013/11/07/report-genetics-breakthrough-enables-scientists-to-edit-any-part-human-genome/
http://guardianlv.com/2013/11/genetic-crispr-radical-game-changer-against-incurable-conditions/
I have mixed feelings about hearing of genetic engineering. I am glad that such techniques can be use to help in treatment of several diseases, such as HIV and cancer (both of which are frightening). Yet, I fear what such a breakthrough will lead to. Will people be able to engineer the perfect child? Will we be able to eliminate all of our flaws and make ourselves "super humans"? I believe there are some aspects that we are meant to be born with that should not be tampered with. I cannot help but think of the film Gattaca and the implications of genetic engineering discussed in the film.
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