We should alter our human genome...

WE SHOULD ALTER THE HUMAN GENOME...



Image result for human genomeThroughout our history, there have been various types of diseases and disabilities that have plagued the human species for generations, such as cancer, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. These act as obstacles towards the human life, and make it extremely difficult for people with such illnesses, along with their surrounding loved ones. Given the present information about the human genome, along with enhanced modern technological advancements, there is no limit on how effective altering the human genome can be.

Image result for human genomeFirstly, altering the human genome will make it possible to prevent and/or find cures for current medical abominations. Within the human genome, there are an estimated of over 25000 genes which are located within 23 chromosomes. These genes contain the genetic coding that makes each person unique in their own image and likeness. Unfortunately, these coding's also determine whether or not certain diseases and disabilities will have an effect on your life. Fortunate enough, with modern technology being as advanced as it is, along with the information of the human genome, these defects in the genetic coding can be altered or removed completely. This will allow patients to not have to endure the hardships of living their lives with disabilities or illnesses anchoring them in place.


Image result for genesSecondly, if the human genome can be altered, billions of dollars can be saved towards the research for many diseases such as cancer. Presently, for cancer only, billions of dollars are spent towards finding and funding treatments, along with the search for a cure. If altering the genetic coding through processes such as gene therapy will allow for various cancers to be eliminated, then the funding and money can be used for other applications of science. The money can even be used towards the research of altering the human genome, which in this present day, has the most potential than any medical advancement.

Image result for human genomeLastly, with any modern day illness and disability, there are current relieves, such as medicine and treatments that allow for life to be as comfortable as possible. With cancers there are chemotherapy and radiation, for kidney disease there is dialysis etc. But the side effects of these treatments could actually worsen the quality of life, especially if it is required for a longer period of time. Chemotherapy and radiation for example will kill off both cancerous and  normal functioning cells. This results in a patient feeling weak, cause organ damage and potentially even cause second cancer, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. With altering the genetic coding, there have been no immediate side effects so far. Even if side effects are yet to be discovered, the positive effects are so tremendous that it would always outweigh the negative.


Work Cited

"Side effects of chemotherapy - Canadian Cancer Society." Www.cancer.ca. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2017

"What is gene therapy? - Genetics Home Reference." U.S. National Library of Medicine. National Institutes of Health, n.d. Web. 16 June 2017.

"All About The Human Genome Project (HGP)." National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2017.




Comments

  1. Anonymous18 June 2017 at 19:36

    Hey Jason! I really like how your blog has a very positive outlook on the future. I totally agree - individuals shouldn't have to suffer from such diseases if there is a way around it. What I find difficult to grasp is where you draw the line with to what extent genetic alterations can be made. It would be nice to cure disease, but then again, would individuals be able to cure minor imperfections such as a crooked finger? To me, while I do understand that it would be advantageous to have less individuals suffer from disease, it seems unethical not to accept a child with its minor flaws. As for the funding, it could be advantageous in the long run, but I can see it being an expensive venture, between all of the testing and technology required before this system even becomes legal. It may also cause the loss of many jobs in research firms, pharmacy and many other similar areas. Finally, as we are unaware of the side effects, it really is hard to tell if this endeavour would be worth it in the end. However, to me, knowing that humans may be harmed in the process is enough for me not to support this cause, as while it may be amazing, it may also cost some lives. In summary, I really like the idea of creating a better quality of life for many, but the costs and risks associated with it outweigh these benefits.

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  2. Anonymous20 June 2017 at 11:44

    Hi Jason, long time no talk! After reading your post, I somewhat see your point of view, however, you stated in your second paragraph that there are 25000 genes within 23 chromosomes.... A specific gene that a scientist is looking to target would be really difficult to find, especially in such a long sequence... What if the scientist takes too less or too much of the target area that codes for a genetic disease? Wouldn't this be harmful to the other codes of DNA? Also, when you mentioned all those billions of dollars could be redirected into science, I don't entirely agree.. Not all cancer is inherited through genes... Therefore, not all cancer can be determined through looking at specific gene sequencing.... Also, in your last paragraph, you mentioned there are "no immediate side effects so far." What if there are long term effects? What if these are only discovered when it is too late? The risk of gene-editing is too great to outweigh the benefits you discussed in your blog, but that is just my opinion....

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