Examples of Completed Genomes :

IV. Human Gene Therapy Seeks to treat disease by altering an afflicted person’s genes. A mutant gene may be replaced with the normal allele. Could correct a genetic disorder, or treat a medical problem. See steps to left: Bone marrow cells (stem cells giving rise to blood and immune system) are prime candidates. Success = cells will multiply and express the normal gene, engineered cells will supply the missing protein, patient will be cured. Ex:Treatment of infants with SCID. But it was halted- they got leukemia symptoms.

Safety and Ethical Issues Create hazardous new pathogens? Guidelines: strict laboratory procedures to protect against infection and prevent microbes leaving lab. Microorganisms used are genetically crippled - cannot survive out of lab. Dangerous experiments banned.. Controversy over Genetically Modified Foods (GMO) - fear GM crops may be hazardous to human health, harm the environment, or pass new genes to nearby wild relatives. Ex: create “superweeds?” Study found no evidence of health or environmental risk, but need stringent monitoring. U.S.agencies evaluate all projects. Exporters must identify GM foods.

Ethical Questions Who decides who gets human growth hormone? Only serious conditions? Should we try to eliminate genetic defects in eggs and sperm? (Like GATTACA?) But isn’t genetic variety necessary for adaptation of species?... Should everyone be required to register a DNA fingerprint? We could solve many crimes esp.rape. Could you be discriminated against with your Human Genome? Job, Health & Life Insurance? Do we have the right to alter genes or add new creations? Educate yourself to make informed choices!