GE-STS Module 6: Nanotechnology & Gene Therapy

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the references listed?

Science, technology, and society (correct)

Mathematical principles in science

Environmental science

History of technology

Which author is mentioned first in the references?

Nacario, C.

Serafica, J.P. (correct)

Alata, E.J.

Doria, B.

Which publisher is associated with the references?

Science Hub

Rex Book Store, Inc. (correct)

Jimczyville Publications

Tech Innovations Press

How many authors are mentioned in the first reference?

Four Signup and view all the answers

What city is associated with the publisher mentioned in the references?

Manila Signup and view all the answers

What is the format of the information presented in the references?

Books Signup and view all the answers

What does the prefix 'nano' refer to in the context of nanotechnology?

A billionth of a meter Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the second reference compared to the first?

It is authored by the same authors. Signup and view all the answers

What common theme is likely to be explored in the works cited in the references?

The impact of technology on social structures Signup and view all the answers

What area of science focuses on manufacturing materials on the scale of atoms and molecules?

Nanotechnology Signup and view all the answers

Which type of microscope can magnify objects up to a million times?

Electron microscope Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of microscope used to view nanomaterials?

Laser microscope Signup and view all the answers

Nanotechnology greatly impacts which sectors of society?

Health, environment, and electronics Signup and view all the answers

How is the atomic force microscope primarily used?

To determine topography and surface properties Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main benefits of using nanoscale technology?

It allows manipulation at the atomic level Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the role of light microscopes in understanding the natural world?

They provided the first insights into small objects. Signup and view all the answers

What is a nanometer (nm)?

A billionth of a meter Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a learning outcome of the module?

Describe how to manufacture nanomaterials Signup and view all the answers

What are the basic processes involved in gene therapy?

Introducing new genes into a patient’s cells Signup and view all the answers

How does nanotechnology potentially benefit society?

By improving drug delivery methods Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential concern about using nanotechnology?

It could lead to unintended biological effects Signup and view all the answers

What are stem cells most commonly used for in gene therapy?

To regenerate damaged tissues and organs Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a common source of stem cells?

Adult tissues Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main implications of nanotechnology in society?

It enhances the efficiency of various industries Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best summarizes gene therapy?

An approach to repair inherited genetic defects Signup and view all the answers

In the discussion of nanoworld, what is highlighted about its size?

It is significantly smaller than conventional materials Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

GE-STS: Science, Technology, and Society - Module 6

Module Title: GE-STS: Science, Technology and Society, Nanoworld and Gene Therapy, Module 6
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the implication of nanotechnology in society.
- Describe the concept of gene therapy and various forms.
- Assess the potential benefits and detriments of nanoworld and stem cells to global health.
- Value the learnings in nanoworld and gene therapy through reflective writing.
Overview:
- Genetic engineering and its benefits, and potential harms were mentioned in previous modules.
- Nanotechnology deals with infinitely small structures (the nanoworld).
- Nanotechnology and nanodevice processing are rapidly developing.
- Applications include energy, electronics, environmental science, food protection, and medicine.
- Nanotechnology promises advancements in medicine, including new drug delivery, diagnostics, and gene therapy.
- Potential consequences and unintended consequences, related to human and environmental health, must be examined.

Nanoworld

Nanometer (nm): One billionth of a meter, very small.
Nanoscale: The size scale of atoms and molecules, where important new phenomena occur, that are only visible using powerful microscopes.
Nanomaterials and Structures:
- Nanomaterials, structures, devices, and systems are produced using scaled-up, reliable, and cost-effective nanomanufacturing techniques.
- Two main manufacturing approaches: bottom-up (building up from atoms/molecules) and top-down (breaking down larger materials).
Viewing Nanomaterials:
- Electron microscopes, atomic force microscopes, and scanning tunneling microscopes are used to see nanomaterials in detail.
- Electron microscopes use electron beams to magnify images, and atomic force microscopes use a mechanical probe to study the surface characteristics of materials.
Benefits and Concerns of Nanotechnology:
- Potential benefits: Improved detection and removal of contaminants, development of benign industrial processes, and improved medicine for different inherited and acquired diseases.
- Potential concerns: High reactivity and toxicity, pervasive distribution in the environment, lacking nano-specific EPA regulation.

Gene Therapy

Concept: A potential method for treating or preventing diseases related to genes.
Basic Process:
- Gene replacement: Replacing a mutated gene with a healthy copy.
- Gene inactivation: Inactivating a mutated gene that functions improperly.
- Gene introduction: Introducing a new gene to help fight a disease.
- Gene delivery uses carriers, often modified viruses (vectors) to deliver normal human DNA, that don't harm the recipient cells.
Types of Gene Therapy:
- Somatic gene therapy: Modifies genes in non-reproductive cells, providing benefits for the patient but not affecting future generations.
- Germ-line gene therapy: Modifies genes in reproductive cells. This is more controversial due to risks of unforeseen consequences for future generations.

Stem Cell/Gene Therapy

Stem Cells:
- Mother cells with potential to become any cell type under appropriate conditions.
- Stem cells can be used for research to understand disease processes and create new treatments.
Sources of Stem Cells:
- Embryonic stem cells: Derived from embryos, often surplus embryos from IVF clinics.
- Somatic stem cells: Exist throughout the body after development, though their ability to differentiate into many types of cells is debated.

Evaluation & Reflection

Evaluation Questions: Answer questions on gene therapy, its forms and applications, and nanotechnology's impact.
Metacognitive Phrases: Complete phrases related to the benefits and concerns of gene therapy and nanotechnology.
Reflection: Write a reflection on the discussions about nanotechnology and gene therapy.

References

Information sources are listed, but references are omitted per instructions.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the implications of nanotechnology and gene therapy in society through this quiz. Understand the advancements and challenges in the nanoworld and their effects on global health. Reflect on the benefits and potential risks associated with these emerging technologies.