Genetic Engineering: Past, Present, and Future

Introduction

• 1980s Prediction: Computers would take over many aspects of life, which seemed absurd but happened.
• Today: We're at a similar point with genetic engineering.
• Focus: Discussing the origin, current state, and potential future impact of genetic engineering.

Historical Context

• Selective Breeding: Ancient practice to strengthen traits in plants and animals.
• Discovery of DNA: Deoxyribonucleic Acid guides growth, development, function, and reproduction of life.

Early Genetic Engineering Efforts

• 1960s: Scientists used radiation to cause mutations.
• 1970s: DNA snippets inserted into organisms for research and modification; first genetically modified animal—a mouse.
• 1980s: Commercial applications began, including engineered oil-absorbing microbes.
• 1990s: First genetically modified food (Flavr Savr tomato); experiments in human genetic engineering.
• Recent Advances: Super muscled pigs, fast-growing salmon, featherless chickens, see-through frogs, and glowing zebrafish.

CRISPR Revolution

• Overview: Costs and time for genetic engineering have plummeted by 99%.
• Mechanism: Utilizes bacteria's natural defense mechanism against viruses.
• CAS9 Protein: Acts as a precise DNA surgeon to cut virus DNA.

Applications of CRISPR

Medical Applications

• HIV: Successful reduction of HIV in cells and animals.
• Cancer: CRISPR could make immune cells better at targeting cancer.
• Genetic Diseases: Potential to fix thousands of genetic diseases; single-letter modifications to correct DNA.

Ethical and Future Implications

• Designer Babies: Editing embryos' genomes could spread engineered traits across human gene pool.
• Aging: Potential to significantly extend human life expectancy.
• Engineered Humans: Could be more resilient to diseases and suitable for space travel.

Ethical Considerations and Challenges

• Pre-selection: Ethical dilemmas in selecting for healthy traits (e.g., terminating Down syndrome pregnancies).
• Accuracy: Current challenges with unintended DNA changes and ensuring accurate edits.
• Totalitarian Use: Risk of genetic engineering being misused by states (e.g., North Korea).

Conclusion

• Future Outlook: Genetic engineering could become as ubiquitous as computers are today.
• Participation: Importance of participating in guiding research to ensure ethical standards.
• Opportunities and Challenges: Balancing benefits like disease eradication and life extension with ethical concerns.