Playing God?The double-edged

sword of DNA

Daniel Coral004CMEI

Genetic Engineering

Genetic Engineering

• Definition• Techniques– Isolation of the genes of interest– Insertion of the genes into a transfer vector– Transfer of the vector to the organism to be modified– Transformation of the cells of the organism– Selection of the genetically modified organism from

those that have not been successfully modified• Applications

Genetic Engineering

• Where are we now?– Genome sequencing– Function experiments– Tracking experiments– Expression studies

• Human Genetic Engineering

Basic problem

• There are many unresolved ethical issues and concerns surrounding this technology, and it remains a controversial topic.

• PLAYING GOD• http://www.triplenine.org/poll/tnss57.htm

Parts of the problem

• Distinction between treatment and improvement

• Animal testing• Genetic modification of embryos• Designed children• Breach between rich and poor• Who gets to see the information? Insurance

companies?

Causes of the problem

• Lack of knowledge• Immaturity, lack of wisdom• Religion• Responsibility• Activism on animals and embryos

manipulation• Economy, consume society• Costs, technology

Solutions

• Two extremes:– Liberal– Conservative

• Wide range between them• Respect for life• Access to information• Genetics for everyone

Individual perspective

• Get informed• Make limitations clear LAWS• Concessions for scientists• Never postpone experiments that have clearly

defined future benefits.• Respect for living beings• Lower the costs, make it public• Companies should not have access

CONCLUSION