Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Bioengineering

Dear Science Daily,


     I have grappled with this question a lot as well. If we can create genetically modified rice that is much more nutritious, and ship it around the world for the same price as regular rice, why shouldn't we do that? As far as keeping species alive with bioengineering, well, that is really like playing 'God' and I'm sure tons of people would be upset over such a drastic action. There is little doubt in my mind that we will utilize these technologies in new and unusual ways, but where should we draw the line?

It can be used to produce bacteria that make insulin- for people with diabetes as insulin lowers blood sugar levels. Extracted from the pancreas of pigs and cattle.  Also it can be used to make plants and animals and even humans with certain characteristics.  Genes could also be manipulated in trees, for example, to absorb more CO2 and reduce the threat of global warming.  It can also increase the genetic diversity of species populations, especially those that are endangered.

Sincerely,
       Robert Mena

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