Genetic Engineering Overview

Genetic Engineering Overview

Genetic engineering is the artificial alteration of the genetic code.

Genes are sections of the DNA, which control the traits of an

individual, such as eye colour, and are different for every person.

With natural breeding, genes are passed down generations, but with new

technology scientists are able to identify an individual gene, and

insert it into another organism, which will then carry the trait of

that gene. This organism is transgenic, meaning its DNA has been

altered. As 'Food for our Future' says, the bases of our DNA make up a

"language", and all species speak the same language, which is why it

is possible for genes to be transferred between species. Human genes

can work in bacteria, and elephant genes can work in mice. Genetic

engineering has few limits, except our imagination, and our personal

morals.

There are many useful applications of genetic engineering. It is

possible to insert human genes into sheep so they secrete

alpha-1-antitypsin in their milk, which helps to treat lung cancer. A

DNA test has been designed which detects pigs that are carriers of a

genetic mutation that causes Porcine Stress Syndrome, which affects

the quality of the meat. Also, there is cloning, which is a branch of

genetic engineering where the genetic material of an organism is

duplicated. Ian Wilmut discovered that in the body of a mature adult,

the cells "switch-off" the genes not relevant to their function. He

found a way to reactivate these genes and grow a completely new

organism from this. In 1997, Dolly the Sheep was the first adult

mammal cloned. In the future, it may be possible to make a 'twin' of

yourself, or to make 'improvements by identifying the gene that wants

altering. The Human Genome Project, which is funded by the US

Government, plans to identify the entire human genome. Its aim is to

treat genetic disorders, such as Downs Syndrome and Cystic Fibrosis.

This is called gene therapy. Research on the human genome can be done

on aborted fetuses.