Genetic Engineering Overview

Historical Context

• 20th Century Onward: Concept of genetic engineering commonly linked to this period.
• Understanding of Genes: Genes identified as mechanisms of heredity in mid-20th century.
• Direct Gene Modification: Began in the 1970s.

Early Influence on Genetics

• Dogs from Wolves: Breeding dogs from wolves over generations for traits like size, docility, and functionality (e.g., killing rodents).
• Plant Genetics: Selective breeding in agriculture, e.g., domesticating wild apple trees for size and sweetness.

Modern Genetic Engineering

• Precision: Recent decades have seen more precise DNA manipulation.
• Recombinant DNA: Inserting genes from one organism into another.
  • Example: Making apple trees resistant to diseases by inserting specific genes.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

• Benefits: Can lead to more robust, nutritious food, and increased vitamin content.
• Controversy: Uncertainty about the long-term effects and overall impact on nutrition.

Recombinant DNA Applications

• Medical Use: Inserting insulin-producing genes into bacteria to produce human insulin for diabetics.
• Agricultural Use: Making plants more resistant to diseases by inserting insect DNA.

Ethical Considerations

• Bioethics: Questions around modifying the human genome and potential consequences.
• Human Genome Editing: Debate over correcting genetic diseases vs. enhancing traits (e.g., height, hair color).
• Future Implications: Impact on offspring and the gene pool, concerns over designer babies and unintended effects.