Manipulate The Dna Of Bacteria Essay

“Should we manipulate the DNA of bacteria?” This is a question that has no definite answer, but a limitless amount of controversy. Since DNA is the code within each and every cell that instructs them on how to function and bacteria are rapidly reproducing microbes, genetic engineering is something to be considered. In fact, Bacteria were the first organisms to be genetically engineered. Modifying or manipulating the DNA of microbes and bacteria should continue to be allowed because it can be used for human benefit in regards to pharmaceuticals and as a fuel supply.
Bacteria can be manipulated to create pharmaceuticals that humans can use. For Example, genetically modified Insulin is a synthetic insulin made of manipulated bacteria instead of the original cow or pig pancreas. To create this insulin, the human gene for insulin production must be attached to E.coli bacteria, the microbe that is responsible for most cases of food poisoning. This is beneficial because bacteria have the capability to reproduce faster with fewer resources than mammals so that means it is much more affordable to use
In regards to engineering the bacteria for pharmaceuticals, a patient can express severe side effects. Although this is true, most treatments for illnesses can result in side effects either way. For example, radiation therapy for cancer patients does not involve modified microbes, yet can result in side effects such as dry skin, blistering, nausea, diarrhea, and shortness of breath. Side effects come along with treatments and in some cases, do not even appear. Another argument against manipulating the DNA of bacteria would be that some believe that modifying creations of God is challenging His authority. However, Genesis 1:26 implies that humans are a part of nature because they are “creatures within creation (Heaf)” so their discoveries can simply be viewed as results from the powers that were given to them by God