THE SEARCH FOR GENETIC PERFECTION
By Matt Talbert
A commonly employed and medically sanctioned method of attempting to achieve human genetic perfection is genetic testing or screening. The definition of genetic testing varies slightly from source to source, but it generally refers to the analysis of human DNA, or other related genetic elements, in order to detect the causative genetic agents or contributors of detrimental human genetic diseases (“Genetic Testing Report,” 2004). The added medical foresight of being aware that you have inherited a disease-causing genetic abnormality possesses an immeasurable amount of benefit, aiding in life planning or reproductive choice as well as possible prophylactic treatment (Godard et al., 2003).
By Allison Amore
Gene therapy “is a technique for correcting defective genes responsible for disease development” (Gene Therapy). Researchers are currently investigating several different techniques to help correct these defective genes. The promise of gene therapy is enormous. Consider if you have a genetic disease that is due to a missing gene. What if your doctor could just inject a solution into your arm that will replace that missing gene? You could be cured! The media has often portrayed gene therapy as a sort of “miracle” cure.
By Sarah Parker
Sports authorities have long been concerned about athletes' use of performance-enhancing drugs to run faster, jump higher, and throw farther. In recent years, fears have arisen about a new form of performance enhancement: gene doping, or the use of gene therapy techniques for enhancement rather than treatment. Gene doping is the potential "dark side" of gene therapy. A synthetic, muscle-building gene could change the life of a muscular dystrophy patient, but could also easily be used to give a desperate athlete an advantage over the competition and would be far more difficult to prevent and detect than traditional doping methods. By the 2008 Olympics, this may be a very real issue that will need to be resolved.
By April Barnado
The search for the “fountain of youth” in pursuit of bodily perfection is still strong in our society as shown by the abundant anti-aging remedies and continual advertisement of ways to reverse the signs of aging and to feel, look, and act young again. In this search, science, particularly the field of genetics, has been looked to extend longevity. What causes us to age? Is there a “longevity gene” or “old age gene” that makes some people live longer than others? What role do our genes versus our environment play in determining how long we live? If scientists were able to manipulate the aging process, how long would a person want to live? How would one balance quantity versus quality of life?
By Lindsay Nakaishi
The advancements in genetic technology have opened many doors towards a healthier future. However, we must be weary of the power of this new technology because each development increases the propensity for unethical applications. It is crucial that researchers consider how the pursuit for genetic perfection will affect individuals and society.
Questions or Comments: Email Dr. Verna Case
Davidson College Biology Department
Davidson College
This web page was produced as an assignment for an undergraduate course at Davidson College.