Genetic engineering is an integral part of advanced biological science. It is a field that has developed enormously over the years and has the potential to significantly impact human lives. Teaching students about examples of genetic engineering in humans can help them understand the intricate work scientists are undertaking to fight diseases and enhance human life quality.
One of the most prominent examples of genetic engineering in humans is Gene Therapy. This revolutionary bio-approach involves altering the genes inside the body’s cells to treat or prevent diseases rather than using drugs or surgery. The therapy works by supplying a functional gene to replace a mutated, disease-causing gene. For instance, in 2017, scientists used gene therapy to treat Leber’s congenital amaurosis, an inherited form of blindness.
Cystic Fibrosis, a fatal disease that causes heavy mucus collection in the lungs leading to breathing issues, is another condition where genetic engineering is being applied. Scientists aim to introduce a healthy copy of the faulty CFTR gene into the lung cells using a harmless virus or fat bubble. It endeavors to enable these cells to produce the protein that controls salt and water movement in cells, thus reducing mucus build-up.
Furthermore, Sickle Cell Anemia, an inherited red blood cell disorder wherein there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body, has also been targeted for gene therapy treatment. In 2017, a teenage boy was cured using this technology by inserting normal hemoglobin genes into his blood stem cells.
Gene Editing Technology like CRISPR-Cas9 system has also gained momentum as an accessible tool for genetic engineering in humans. It acts like molecular scissors that can cut both strands of DNA at a desired location in the genome so that bits of DNA can then be added or removed.
Lastly, mention must be made of ‘Designer Babies.’ This highly contentious use of genetic engineering refers to children genetically engineered in vitro for specially selected traits before they are implanted into a woman’s uterus.
In conclusion, teaching students about these real-world applications will not only broaden their scientific understanding but also allow them to appreciate how theoretical science can translate into practical benefits. With science advancing rapidly each day, who knows what fascinating breakthroughs and developments lie in wait for our students!
