What Is Genetic Engineering, Really?
Genetic engineering is the process of taking a gene from one living organism and placing the DNA from one gene into the cell of another gene. This produces new traits that the organism didn’t have before. By doing this, a person can create or produce traits in an organism, like plants that they want it to have that it otherwise wouldn’t. For example, in a plant that is grown for crops, a farmer could insert DNA of one plant into another so that it will produce a trait that he wants it to have, such as purple flowers. Genetic engineering is an art form and modification of the traits that the living organism already has. People have used this successfully on plants and animals, but they are now starting to use it for humans.
How Does Genetic Engineering Work On Humans?
Parents who are expecting a baby use genetic engineering to add traits to the baby that they want, such as blue eyes. Questions are arising as to whether this is moral and ethical or not. Some say it is “playing God” when someone adds traits and characteristics to a fetus instead of letting nature take its course. But people really want certain traits in their offspring, so they are willing to do what it takes to make sure they have a boy with blue eyes. Genetic engineering is not a new idea, but it is definitely growing in popularity among expecting parents. When they find out how easy it is to change one or more traits in their babies. Genetic engineering is taking on a positive effect in humans, however. It is being used to treat genetic disorders, and people are finding relief thanks to this breakthrough.
Gene therapy is still experimental, but how it works is; a new gene is added to replace the old diseased one, causing healing and relief in most people.
Genetic engineering has been used in lots of ways, and it is still under experimentation, but as we advance in science we will find more ways to use it.
Tags: Genetic Engineering, genetics, science
