Are Scientists Playing God by Manipulating DNA Of Human Embryos? -
Some human beings think that they are close to achieving the power of God, and widespread fear exists that even this degree of power will corrupt.
Researchers at London's Francis Crick Institute have been given the green light to experiment with and modify human embryos in the same controversial fashion that giant dogs and mini pet pigs have been created in laboratories.
Known as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR), the technology strategically identifies specific genes, alters them and changes a living organism's DNA.
Although banned in the United States, U.K. scientists are exploring methods of eradicating debilitating illness and abnormalities at the genetic, pre-birth level.
Naturally, many critics point to the fact that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions and liken genetic modification of human beings to opening a veritable Pandora's Box.
It's important to recognize that science isn't an exact science. The methods are often theoretically and include a tremendous amount of trial and error.
Take, for example, researchers that attempted to cure cancer in laboratory mice at the genetic level. The gene they thought inhibited cancer cell growth ended up causing the mice to age and die prematurely.
Paul Knoepfler, U.C. Davis professor and author of GMO Sapiens: The Life-Changing Science of Designer Babies, pointed out that, ""If we go this route, editing the genes of embryos, think about the potential if a mistake were made for that person then to pass along damaged genes, which affects generations."
Another eminent problem will be the creation of designer babies. Whereas the majority of scientists believes in responsible applications of genetic modification research, others will inevitably view it as a way to make a buck.
If a gene can be snipped to cure Down Syndrome, others can be manipulated to ensure blue eyes, blond hair and children that top six feet.
Medical science advanced skin graft research for burn victims and plastic surgeons used the science to nip and tuck clients to look younger.
At the end of the day, genetic abuse isn't a negative possibility, it's a certainty.
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