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Questions and Answers
Scientists are manipulating DNA in laboratories worldwide to alter the genetic codes of various species, including humans, for better or for ______.
worse
The ability to edit DNA could potentially eliminate diseases like malaria and tick-borne illnesses, but it also raises ethical questions about playing with nature's ______.
blueprint
Genetic engineering allows for designing traits in babies such as hair color, skin color, and eye color, presenting limitless possibilities but also ethical ______.
concerns
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, and cardiac problems, leading to severe physical limitations and requiring the use of a wheelchair in severe ______.
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Crispr is a new technology likened to a spell checker for DNA, consisting of molecular scissors and a GPS device for ______.
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Gene editing technologies like Crispr could lead to super athletes and potentially reshape sports leagues by enhancing player ______.
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John Zhang has developed a technique for three-parent babies, allowing DNA from two mothers and one father to create a baby with reduced risk of inherited ______.
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The increase in gene editing technologies raises ethical concerns about creating designer babies with selected traits like eye color or physical ______.
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Biohackers like Josiah Zayner are making genetic engineering more accessible through DIY genetic engineering kits, raising concerns about regulation and ______.
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There are potential risks associated with gene editing, including the possibility of cutting important genes, immune system responses, and unintended consequences on human ______.
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Study Notes
- Scientists are manipulating DNA in laboratories worldwide to alter the genetic codes of various species, including humans, for better or for worse.
- The ability to edit DNA could potentially eliminate diseases like malaria and tick-borne illnesses, but it also raises ethical questions about playing with nature's blueprint.
- Genetic engineering allows for designing traits in babies such as hair color, skin color, and eye color, presenting limitless possibilities but also ethical concerns.
- One example of genetic engineering in progress is a groundbreaking experiment in Dallas, Texas, where a volunteer named Ben Dupree is donating cells to correct a DNA error causing his Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, and cardiac problems, leading to severe physical limitations and requiring the use of a wheelchair in severe cases.- Crispr is a new technology likened to a spell checker for DNA, consisting of molecular scissors and a GPS device for DNA.
- Crispr has the potential to correct genetic mutations in cells, as demonstrated in heart muscle cells of a patient named Ben Dupree.
- Crispr could revolutionize medicine by correcting genetic misspellings linked to 7,000 diseases.
- Geneticist Liang Zhu Lai in China has genetically engineered beagles with enhanced muscle mass, raising ethical concerns about altering genetic inheritance permanently.
- Gene editing technologies like Crispr could lead to super athletes and potentially reshape sports leagues by enhancing player performance.
- John Zhang has developed a technique for three-parent babies, allowing DNA from two mothers and one father to create a baby with reduced risk of inherited diseases.
- The increase in gene editing technologies raises ethical concerns about creating designer babies with selected traits like eye color or physical abilities.
- Gene editing technologies could widen the gap between the wealthy who can afford genetic upgrades for their children and those who cannot.
- Biohackers like Josiah Zayner are making genetic engineering more accessible through DIY genetic engineering kits, raising concerns about regulation and oversight.
- There are potential risks associated with gene editing, including the possibility of cutting important genes, immune system responses, and unintended consequences on human genes.
- Scientist Hablo Ross is exploring the concept of growing human organs inside pigs to address the organ shortage for transplants.
- Kevin S. Felt is developing a gene drive technology to engineer disease-free mice that are immune to Lyme disease, raising concerns about ecological impacts.
- As gene editing technologies advance, the line between treating medical conditions and altering physical characteristics in future generations becomes blurred.
- The discussion around gene editing extends to its potential impact on human evolution, ethical dilemmas, and the need for thoughtful oversight and regulation.
- A couple is exploring the idea of three-parent IVF to complete their family, while others consider genetic screening for disease prevention and selecting physical traits for their future child.
- There are ongoing debates about the ethical implications of gene editing, its impact on society, the environment, and the need for international regulations.
- Despite the potential benefits of gene editing in curing diseases and improving health, there are concerns about unintended consequences, societal implications, and the need for wise decision-making with these powerful technologies.
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Description
Test your knowledge on gene editing technologies such as Crispr, genetic engineering, and gene drives, and explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding altering genetic codes, creating designer babies, and potential societal impacts.
