Discussion
Genetic technology is becoming commonplace in our lives as new advances appear on a frequent basis. One genetic technology that is garnering increased attention is gene therapy and its potential to cure debilitating diseases like cystic fibrosis, hemophilia and even some cancers. But there is also concern that this technology could be misused.
What do you think are some of the pros and cons of gene therapy?
How do somatic and germ line gene therapy differ?
Might there be more ethical concern over one form of gene therapy than the other?
See Chapter 9.4 in your textbook for inspiration.
Must be original no references per the Professor. Response must be completely original
Textbook: Belk, C., & Meier, V. B. (2013). Biology: Science for life with physiology (4th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson
Solution Preview
1. There are various advantages as well as disadvantages of gene therapy.
Pros
• One of the advantages of gene therapy is that it gives hope of reduction of infant deaths that result from defects and genetic diseases. In the United States, birth defects top the list of the leading causes of infant deaths. One in every 33 babies faces a congenital disability of some sort. By use of gene therapy, some of these defects can be corrected and reduce these deaths.
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