Genetic Engineering

Genetic Engineering

Everyday science and new technology are digging their roots deeper into society. Biotechnology is expanding continuously with new fields of research. Genetic engineering has swallowed today's world and many people don't even realize it. Genetically modified foods are in our diets and on the shelves in the supermarket. We are being introduced to new types of food, ones that are more healthy and fresh than before. This modifying process is taking place in biotechnical laboratories all over the world, where scientists study which genes are strong and which ones are weak. They then slice and dice these genes, sandwich them in any order, and pack them "to go".
With gene splicing these special scientists are on the verge of modifying certain foods to become "prefect". Not only are we altering foods but also animals. Labs are genetically altering animals to become more adaptive to their testing need. Rats without immune systems or pigs that carry a gene for growth hormones and show significant improvement in weight gain and reduced fat. With genetic engineering we as humans could respond to diseases before they become a threat. A person's entire gene makeup could be mapped out before they are even born. This in turn raises many controversial issues such as gene discrimination and "human perfecting". Through the gene makeup we are able to help prevent and cure many diseases, however, life and health insurance companies could use this map to make more money off the individuals who are more likely to become sick.
The world of biotechnology is huge, but scientists are only beginning to explore the dangers and benefits of genetic engineering and it is going to become a very mainstream part of our lives.

DEFINITIONS

"Genetic Engineering, or gene splicing is the scientific alteration of the structure of genetic material in a living organism. It involves the production and use of recombinant DNA and has been employed to create bacteria that... [continues]

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