GENETIC EDITING

The Human Genome Project

■ It began in 1990 to sequence the human genome

■ Other organisms vital to science were sequenced as well.

■ Scientists wanted to know more information so we could better study diseases and their possible cures.

■ Has led to better understanding of evolution as well

■ It ended in 2003.

What Has It Led To?

■ Other projects have stemmed from it:– The Human Vaccine Project– More interest in evolution– More research in mice and fruit fly genomes– Research in cutting, transferring, and applying new DNA in foreign organisms

(transgenic organisms)

Transgenic Organisms

■ Contain information from two or more sources

■ Many say they should not be created.– Violates religion– Not enough information on how they work long-term

What Classifies?

■ TOs may be animals or plants.

■ Fish are common specimens used for experiments.– Ex.) Zebrafish are used to study bioluminescence.

■ Universities with top agricultural programs focus on crop production.

■ As more research is done, the public is slowly starting to show more approval for these projects.

GMOs

■ GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are organisms made from two or more sources that are able to crossbreed.

■ Commonly sold to the public.

■ Many sidestep USDA inspection– Face FDA inspection■ New genes make species hardier and more likely to survive against the elements and

disease.– Ex.) A cisgenic apple species that is resistant to blight.

Why Do We Need This Research?

■ We started this research as a way to better understand how the human body works.

■ Through time, we have noticed an increasing trend in the world population, so more food is needed.

– 9 billion people by 2050

■ This research is a way to find that food.

■ These people also face disease, so this research has two goals.– Cures for diabetes and cancer may be on the horizon.

Facing Change

■ Humans are a species that normally accept change without doing much to change it.

■ With gene editing, we are changing what we are told we would never be able to.