Should Genetic Engineering in Humans Be Legalized?
Overview
This essay examines the ethical and legal implications of legalizing human genetic engineering, using a case study of DMRT1 gene repression in human fetal testis development. The paper argues against immediate legalization of human genetic engineering due to safety concerns and ethical barriers, while discussing scientific advancements in genetic research methodology.
What this essay covers
- Introduction: Overview of genetic engineering advancements in medicine and the ethical barriers preventing human genome manipulation
- Genetics of Human Fetal Testis: Technical explanation of mammalian testis development, sex determination processes, and the role of DMRT1 gene in differentiation
- Results of the Experiment: Findings from laboratory-induced DMRT1 gene repression on human fetal testis samples across different pregnancy stages
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Should Genetic Engineering in Humans Be Legalized?
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Should Genetic Engineering in Humans Be Legalized?
Introduction
Technological advancements have redefined the landscape of many professions, including medicine. The concept of genetic engineering has enabled scientists to test the limits of life sciences. Significant milestones have been made, especially with plants and animals. However, turning imaginations into reality, especially with the human genome, remain a mirage. This is due to the ethical and legal barriers that hinder scientists from making the perceived progress. And there are several reasons not to allow genetic engineering to interfere with humanity at the moment. In one study, scientists performed a novel system for manipulating the genetics of human fetal testis. The process entailed utilizing short-term in vitro culture and, subsequently, long-term xenografting (Macdonald et al., 2018). The objective was to determine the impact of gene repression on the development of testis alongside its maintenance. This scientific study easily qualifies as genetic engineering experiment, and while the results outlaid desirable outcomes, the study established that gene repression could actually result in testicular dysgenesis.
Genetics of Human Fetal Testis
Notably, the mammalian testis and ovary development from the bi-potential gonad happens via differentiation of sex-specific and diploid somatic cell groups that help with the development of such gonad either into an ovary or testis. Crucial to this action is the population differentiation of somatic cells.