by Izra Jute

Created on: July 25, 2008   Last Updated: July 26, 2008

The application of genetic engineering on human beings relates to the controlled alteration of all the genes in the human chromosomal. Deoxyribonucleic acid, otherwise known as DNA, is responsible for the genetic characteristics for every living organism. It can influence the individual's physical appearance, actions and abilities. Now with the advance of DNA technology, scientists are able to change the gene expressions and the individuals' abilities, cognitively, communally or physically. In my essay, I will analyse the pros and cons of human genetic engineering by presenting two sides of an argument and my personal opinions on the topic itself.

Genetic engineering is use to repair damages or replace the missing genes in those who have genetic disorders in the form of gene therapy otherwise know as somatic. This state of genetic engineering can help lessen many genetic disorder problems, such as severe combined immunodeficiency, cystic fibrosis and so on. The process of somatic undertakes a non- pathogenic virus system. The good copy of the individual's genes is been inserted into liposomes, which are the microscopic fatty droplets. The new cells would separate as normal cells and each division would stimulate the destined cells trait. The result of the procedure would be that the individual would then have the gene cells that were absent previously. Personally, I think this trade of genetic engineering is useful as it helps those who have genetic disorders and make them better. This can lead to a improved future for them, as they do not feel isolated from the society because of their health problems.

On the contrary, genetic disorders only represent a small fraction of the ill health burden. Despite this figures, a large disproportionate amount of research funding is being spend on gene therapy protocols, yet however in spite of many years of research, none of the protocols have so far succeeded. Adenoviruses, a type of pathogenic attenuated vectors are use to transfer genes into patients. In this case, the genes may experience an unflavoured manner as it combines with wild type versions of viruses in the body and this generally results to further complications. It can weaken the patient or even can lead to fatal. This gene therapy has already resulted one death from their use. Even though it can be great achievements on patients with disorders of genetic, I feel that it is unnecessary for researchers to invest a large amount of money for the therapy protocols.

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