History And Procedures of Gene Therapy

The Relative Positives and Negatives Behind the Techniques and Outcomes of Germ-line Gene Therapy Abstract: Ever since the idea of altering the human genome was created through the research of germ-line gene therapy, advocates and protestors entered into contention with one another. Supporters of the new technology argue about the benefits of germ-line therapy. Humans have the right to scientific inquiry, especially if it is beneficial to mankind. However, their counterparts claim that the difficulty and unknown side effects (coupled with a few unsuccessful and fatal trials) will cause damage greater than any potential good. Furthermore, some even argue with the ethical issues resultant of a possible eugenics movement.

"Everybody who thought it would proceed slowly and could be stopped was wrong," said Lee Silver, a professor from the University of Princeton. Without proper research to support the ban, the premature ban should be reconsidered and appealed. Cloning could provide a way for infertile couples to produce children genetically similar to themselves, a method of creating spare organs for transplants, and a cure for genetic disease. Human cloning may provide numerous benefits to mankind and should not be banned. Some people say that it is morally wrong and others are scared that a leader, such as Sadam Husian, will clone himself.

Gene splicing involves removing a fragment of DNA containing the specific DNA sequenc... ... middle of paper ... ...cientist will have to learn how to turn on specific genes when a protein of enzyme is low, and off to avoid too much to ensure the delicate chemical makeup of our bodies is not disrupted. (Blachford, 467) Although there are many risks of gene therapy, the benefits remain to enticing to ignore. Gene therapy poses many risks, but may prove the ideal solution for countless diseases. As seen throughout the past few decades, gene therapy can cure genetically inherited diseases by introducing therapeutic genes into the body. Critics may argue that there are moral and ethical problems associated with this novel technique, but for the most part scientists realize the importance this advancement will have.

The answer to the future of gene therapy relies on what we will accomplish for the future generations, but this is based on our past, our current morals, and our cooperation. "Humans have long since possessed the tools for crafting a better world. Where love, compassion, altruism and justice have failed, genetic manipulation will not succeed." As quoted by Gina Maranto, without morals and compassion, the science of gene therapy will not be successful, but many debate that the current morals are restricting the progress of gene therapy. Using viruses with “normal” genes to penetrate a cell with defected DNA to cure genetic diseases is the science of gene therapy (Nichols 17).

The engineering of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is entirely new, yet genetics, as a field of science, has fascinated mankind for over 2,000 years. Man has always tried to bend nature around his will through selective breeding and other forms of practical genetics. Today, scientists have a greater understanding of genetics and its role in living organisms. Unfortunately, some people are trying to stop further studies in genetics, but the research being conducted today will serve to better mankind tomorrow. Among many benefits of genetic engineering are the several cures being developed for presently incurable diseases.

The idea soon influenced medicine, the idea of strengthening the healthy cells and isolating them from the unhealthy ones. The simple idea Darwin discovered had changed medicine as a whole. Today, doctors and scientists are able to manipulate genes in order to create new treatments and cures. Today, Darwin’s discovery changed and saved millions of lives around the world. Despite the fact that genetic engineering can have a negative impact on society, it was an important discovery due to the advancement in conventional medicine.

A molecular biologist by the name of James Watson once said, “we used to think that the fate was in our stars, but now we know that, in large measure, our fate is in our genes.” The Oxford Dictionary defines gene therapy as the transplantation of normal genes into cells in place of missing or defective ones in order to correct genetic disorders. Gene therapy has the ability to prevent, treat, and even cure diseases by replacing a faulty gene with a stable, healthy one (American Medical Association). Aldous Huxley’s, Brave New World relates to gene therapy because they program each embryo with how they should live. This essay will first talk about why gene therapy is done and how it works. It will then inform the reader of the effects it will

26 June 2000. <http://proquest.umi.com/ pqdweb?TS=962039011&RQT=309&CC=1&Dtp=1&Did=000000049314971&Mtd=1&Fmt=3 >. “Preventing Genetic Disorders.” The Futurist Jan./Feb. 2000: 12-13. ProQuest.

Would you consider altering your DNA if it could save your life? Scientist have been working on gene therapy since the 1970's, this biotechnological form of medicine is the attempt to medically modify cells to help eliminate or prevent diseases by correcting defective genes. Imagine the possibilities of having your DNA tested for heritable diseases and being able to eliminate such diseases from your future. From 1990-2003 the Department of Energy coordinated a project called the Human Genome Project, in which it asked, "Why screen for individuals at increased risk for genetic diseases who do not exhibit symptoms? On the pro or benefit side, we want to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Others are afraid that cloning could me misused by governments and corporations creating clones to serve as slaves or soldiers to fight endless wars. I think that fear is the main argument against human cloning due to the fact that this is a newer branch in science and people are not very educated with the core concept of cloning. I believe that cloning is acceptable only if it is for the right reasons. My opinion is cloning should be allowed due to the countless possibilities we could gain in the health care field and human well being. For years, researchers have been working on finding a way to cure genetic diseases and save lives by cloning genes and organs.