Against DNA Alteration

            The genetic code is life itself as it codes for our bodily functions and our inherited traits.  One mutation that can occur in genetic sequences can change everything and create diseases such as cystic fibrosis.  Despite some of the benefits that may be possible outcomes of altering the genetic code, mankind shouldn't be permitted to alter it.  One reason being that the techniques performed aren't perfect and may result in accidental mutations in the sequence.  Also, people who have the power to manipulate the genetic code may bad intentions, and gene modification isn't a guarantee.

           Genetic alterations are new techniques and processes that have yet to be mastered and perfected.  Nothing is perfect, especially creating recombinant DNA where accidental mutations are possible to form.  Even though these mutations can be cut out, it's unnecessary work when the organism was normal to begin with.  For example, Chinese researchers have caused an uproar when they declared they were altering the genetic code for embryos.  They noted that out of the 86 embryos they worked on, only 28 of them were successfully changed.  Based on this revelation, is gene alteration worth the risks?  It's the natural processes of life that causes plants to become diseased, or when humans develop diseases when they're older.  Mutations in DNA is the main factor in our evolutionary transition and individuality.  In addition, mutations have provided variation where they create natural defence mechanisms against diseases such as malaria and HIV/AIDS.  If scientists were to correct every mistake in the genetic code, where would that leave mankind in the near future?  

            Where there's power comes greed.  Many people are fearful for this kind of power that many scientists hold due to the unknown intentions that they may have.  Watson has already stated that he's all for genetic alterations, even if it means creating the perfect human being.  Some people, like Watson, may have the idea to create "better looking" people just because they're capable of doing so, but for what purpose and to what extent? If ill intentioned scientists who hold this power over us create an arian race, the human race will lose their individuality and variation in the gene pool which inevitably affects future evolution.  There are no guarantees when it comes to genetics because there numerous factors, out of our control, that can alter our DNA.  Watson and his crew may create the perfect human being, however things change when individuals become older as the body develops mutations due to rapid cell division. Thus, they are more susceptible to mistakes during DNA replication than younger individuals.  A baby may be born perfectly, but when the child becomes old he or she may have cancer due to exposure to carcinogens in the environment or poor living choices.

             Lastly, gene modifications don't guarantee any good results because re-writing a genetic sequence is like a lottery.  You would hope for a better outcome, but there are possible unforeseeable results in these techniques.  In addition, persistent genetic alterations may cause fetal development issues or long-term health consequences.  Gene alternation is unpredictable because of many unknown factors that come with it.  These scientific advancements are fairly new and we don't know everything there is to know about the subject matter.  There may be consequences that remains unknown and they must determine all possible outcomes of genetic alteration if scientists are to pursue it.  Also, there are many alternative methods to treat diseases that do guarantee good results in effectively aiding individuals to recover, or live with the disease.  For example, individuals suffering from sickle cell anemia have the option to have a bone marrow transplant to provide the formation of normal blood cells and flow.  In addition, those born with heart defects are often cured with surgery or even transplants when necessary.  Due to medical advancements and treatments, life expectancy has significantly increased over the past century.








Resources:

 "How are genetic conditions treated or managed? - Genetics Home Reference." U.S. National Library of Medicine. National Institutes of Health, n.d. Web. 15 June 2017.

Insider, Tanya Lewis Business. "New Technology Lets Scientists Easily Rewrite Living Organisms' Genetic Code." ScienceAlert. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 June 2017

Porostocky, Art By Thomas. "Pro and Con: Should Gene Editing Be Performed on Human Embryos?" National Geographic. N.p., 14 June 2017. Web. 15 June 2017.

Washington, Associated Press in. "Scientists debate ethics of human gene editing at international summit." The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, 01 Dec. 2015. Web. 15 June 2017.