The introduction of new genetic material into an organism via sperm results in the activity of the inserted genes in the resulting mice embryos. Indicating that the new genetic material is inherited, the inserted genes were present and functioned in all of the three generations of mice that were tested. If this process is successful in humans, it would provide major advancement in genetic medicine. Diseases and disorders can be more effectively treated, or potentially cured at the genetic level. In addition,
human organ regeneration may be possible.
Link to the article
The prospect of preventing or curing illness at the genetic level certainly is attractive. Many good treatments can result from the research presented in this
FASEB Journal article. However, when treating organisms, especially humans at the genetic level, one must be very cautious. Any mishap will likely be permanent. Also, this process may be positively used in preventing diseases and disorders, but it may lead to purely superficial gene selections in humans; causing potential social issues.
I think this is a really interesting article. It's surprising that the mice took to the genetic material so well. I agree that this can lead to many possibilities in preventing future diseases.
ReplyDeleteThis whole concept is wild to me, and although it can lead to good things down the road, I feel that no drastic moves should be made just yet in humans. Scientists can predict all they want what will happen if the genes are successfully passed through generations, but I feel that no true prediction can be made; but we must just watch and see what plays out. I also think loads more of trials should be done, this is just the beginning to a world where we get to custom design organisms; that in itself sounds remotely terrifying. I do see the positive side to helping those families with heritable health complications, but I seriously hope it doesn't turn into a matter of people ordering "designer babies," custom fit to their liking.
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