Tag Archives: genetic research

Genetic engineering as an application for cures

Researchers have found at least some genetic component for many diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Autism. Although genetics may not be the only cause in such diseases, scientists have begun examining practical applications for genetic engineering. If scientist can find a link between genetics and a particular disease, they can also isolate those genes and perform more effective studies. By studying disease in this way, researchers have begun to understand the possibility of breeding out some diseases. While it is a very real possibility, some people feel that this is unethical. For example, if we only have babies with fair skin and hair, we have now created a race that is more prone to skin cancer. If we were to eliminate the genes that cause skin cancer, we may only be left with babies that will get cataracts. At what point does genetic engineering cause more harm than good? These are just some of the many ethical questions associated with genetic engineering. As with all fields of research, Genetic engineering can provide humans with cures and a natural ability to fight viruses. While it is true that we can be born with these natural immunities, we must ask ourselves if it … Continue reading