Genetic Engineering: The Pros And Cons Of Genetic Engineering

The creation of a perfect human being is a future which many scientists, philosophers and even several political intellectuals have envisioned as the best fate of the human race. To achieve this dream, scientists have carried out enormous amounts of research in the field of genetic engi-neering. It is now possible to regenerate full human organs, like a liver or a kidney, to replace damaged ones in patients with chronic diseases. Research has proven that although there are many pros and cons on this branch of science, society’s cost-benefit analysis shows the benefits outweigh the risks. In this paper, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of genetic en-gineering. I will explore the concept of genetic engineering as it related

It is a set of technologies used to change the genetic makeup of cells, including the transfer of genes within and across species boundaries to produce improved organisms. The purpose of genetic engineering is to eradicate the world of debilitating diseases. Although this is a noble goal, this branch of science also has many risks. Some people believe that we should care about genetic engineer because they believe genetically modified (GM) foods pose a serious health risk to society. However, the views concerning genet-ically modified food are mixed. Many people, including scientists, are worried about creating genetically modified humans. They are worried about numerous things like genetic mistakes be-ing passed on to the next generation; the creation of designer babies who are more intelligent, more beautiful or more athletic; and the possibility of causing severe growth abnormalities or cancer. In my opinion, the advantages of genetically modified organisms versus the cons are overwhelming. Although some believe genetically modified foods have a negative impact on consumers’ health, others believe that there is minimal difference and that it does not mat-ter. Based on my research, genetically modified foods pose a serious health risk in toxicology, allergy and immune function, reproductive health, and metabolic, physiologic and

There are several approaches to the gene discovery process (Miflin 2000). A genomics based approach involves a search for homology with known genes from other species and/or an analysis of gene expression under differing environmental conditions. Genes for specific traits may also be tagged by associating DNA markers with trait expression. Once genes are identified, they must be isolated, or cloned, and then introduced into a plant species, and their effect on the trait expression in the plant analyzed. Alternatively, known genes from metabolic pathways can be isolated, and either suppressed or over expressed, and the effect on plant function analyzed. Years of field-testing must be carried out as for any commercial cultivar, but must be done in compliance with governmental regulations so as to prevent movement of trans-genes into weedy relatives. Complicating commercialization of a genetically engineered crop are the intellectual property rights associated with the many of the tools of genetic engineering, such as plant pro-moters and selectable markers. The cost of licensing these tools can be prohibitive, making ge-netic engineering currently feasible only for very high value traits. There is currently some lack of public acceptance of genetically engineered crops for human