Transcript Obtaining the gene of interest: 2 ways: 1. Using a radioactive DNA

Examples of Completed Genomes:
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IV. Human Gene Therapy
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• Seeks to treat disease by altering
an afflicted person’s genes.
• A mutant gene may be replaced
with the normal allele.
• Could correct a genetic disorder,
or treat a medical problem.
• See steps to left:
• Bone marrow cells (stem cells
giving rise to blood and immune
system) are prime candidates.
• Success = cells will multiply and
express the normal gene,
engineered cells will supply the
missing protein, patient will be
cured.
• Ex:Treatment of infants with
SCID. But it was halted- they got
leukemia symptoms.
Safety and Ethical Issues
• Create hazardous new pathogens?
• Guidelines: strict laboratory procedures
to protect against infection and prevent
microbes leaving lab.
• Microorganisms used are genetically
crippled - cannot survive out of lab.
• Dangerous experiments banned..
• Controversy over Genetically Modified
Foods (GMO) - fear GM crops may be
hazardous to human health, harm the
environment, or pass new genes to
nearby wild relatives. Ex: create
“superweeds?”
• Study found no evidence of health or
environmental risk, but need stringent
monitoring. U.S.agencies evaluate all
projects.
• Exporters must identify GM foods.
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Ethical Questions
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• Who decides who gets human
growth hormone? Only serious
conditions?
• Should we try to eliminate genetic
defects in eggs and sperm? (Like
GATTACA?)
• But isn’t genetic variety necessary
for adaptation of species?...
• Should everyone be required to
register a DNA fingerprint? We
could solve many crimes esp.rape.
• Could you be discriminated against
with your Human Genome? Job,
Health & Life Insurance?
• Do we have the right to alter genes
or add new creations?
• Educate yourself to make informed
choices!