Question

Cloning is a major topic of debate and is described in the textbook. Briefly describe the process of cloning in the lab incorporating facts from the textbook.

How is cloning involved in gene therapy?

Give a specific and detailed example of how Gene therapy may be used to solve problems associated with genetic disorders. Discuss the benefits and possible hazards of Gene therapy to human health.

What might be the benefits of cloning?

What are potential dangers or treats associated with the wide spread use of cloning?

Discuss the ethics of cloning in its various proposed forms and uses.

Submission Details:

Post your response to Discussion Area by the Due Date assigned. Respond to at least two posts by the end of the week.

Answer 1

Gene cloning steps:

1. Identification of causative gene

2. Amplification of gene

3. Cloning of the gene into a suitable vector

4. Transformation and selection of positive transformants

5. Confirmation by sequencing.

Ex: Gene therapy for Cystic fibrosis patients.

Cystic fibrosis patients lack functional CFTR gene. Gene therapy involves the transfer of WT copy of the gene to the affected tissue/organ. So, CFTR gene is cloned into a sy=uitable vector and targetted to the epithelial cells in the airways.

Advantages:

1. Improving crop yields, abiotic and biotic resistance in agriculture

2. Production of therapeutics

3. Treatment of genetic disorders

Disadvantages:

1. Risk of contaminating natural varieties

2. Possible risk of misuse by people (for example, some parents may ask physicians to make their child to be taller or more fair which is unethical).

3. Bioterrorism