This film provides detailed information on the idea of CRISPR and how it will allow us to alter genetic information. CRISPR allows us to target a specific genetic sequence and cause a break at a specific, target site in DNA. With the help of the programming of the bacterial RNA called CAS9, it will replace and provide a complementary sequence of DNA to pair the bases of a new sequence, essentially allowing us to alter changes in DNA.
The film draws out the findings of this technology and how it can be used in many different instances in not only humans, but nature as well. For instance, at the beginning of the film, we are introduced to a young boy named David Sanchez. David was born with a genetic disorder called sickle cell anemia, which is when red blood cells are misshapen, causing there to be less oxygen in the bloodstream. This can be a very deadly disorder, but it is caused by the single altercation of only one gene in a sequence of DNA.
Later on in the film, we are met with David once again and are able to assess how this genetic altercation technology could essentially eliminate his disorder altogether. Although, once asked, David mentioned he doesn't ever wan't kids, but knows this idea may change. Shockingly, his reasoning had nothing to do with his disorder, rather he claims that he wouldn't be himself without it. He also says that he has learned many important values from his experience, and only but considered the idea of changing his future kids' DNA to prevent this from occurring to them.
Another idea mentioned towards the closing of the film is how this genetic altercation can be used in nature as well. For example, this technology can help save coral reefs and save environments from the changing environments due to climate change. As many know, climate change is something extreme that we must begin to conquer head on as soon as possible. But this technology may allow us to find ways around the detrimental affects of climate change. For instance, another example mentioned was found in plans that must survive in extreme heat. Scientists found that by altering the DNA in these plants, they essentially program them to close their stomata when needed, allowing them to conserve their water, whereas in non-altered plants, their stomata never closes, causing its leaves to dry up and eventually die.
This is where, as many of the scientists in the film asked, where is the line drawn? I believe this film is one for all future generations to watch in this case. After understanding the use of technology for gene altercation and how it may be used, the line must be drawn somewhere. Take David's experience for example, he believes his disorder has shaped him into who he is today. I believe that this technology should only be used and available for those who want to prevent harmful diseases for their children in an embryonic standpoint. As one of the females mentioned, the experience of having a child should stand more with an emotional connection with your significant other. Meaning, altering only the genes that may be fatally harmful to an individual, rather than changing traits in personality or physical traits. Although changing nature may appear as unethical, there are instances where it will benefit us in an ethical standpoint. Overall, I highly recommend to watch this film, and encourage those around you to do so as well.
The film draws out the findings of this technology and how it can be used in many different instances in not only humans, but nature as well. For instance, at the beginning of the film, we are introduced to a young boy named David Sanchez. David was born with a genetic disorder called sickle cell anemia, which is when red blood cells are misshapen, causing there to be less oxygen in the bloodstream. This can be a very deadly disorder, but it is caused by the single altercation of only one gene in a sequence of DNA.
Later on in the film, we are met with David once again and are able to assess how this genetic altercation technology could essentially eliminate his disorder altogether. Although, once asked, David mentioned he doesn't ever wan't kids, but knows this idea may change. Shockingly, his reasoning had nothing to do with his disorder, rather he claims that he wouldn't be himself without it. He also says that he has learned many important values from his experience, and only but considered the idea of changing his future kids' DNA to prevent this from occurring to them.
Another idea mentioned towards the closing of the film is how this genetic altercation can be used in nature as well. For example, this technology can help save coral reefs and save environments from the changing environments due to climate change. As many know, climate change is something extreme that we must begin to conquer head on as soon as possible. But this technology may allow us to find ways around the detrimental affects of climate change. For instance, another example mentioned was found in plans that must survive in extreme heat. Scientists found that by altering the DNA in these plants, they essentially program them to close their stomata when needed, allowing them to conserve their water, whereas in non-altered plants, their stomata never closes, causing its leaves to dry up and eventually die.
This is where, as many of the scientists in the film asked, where is the line drawn? I believe this film is one for all future generations to watch in this case. After understanding the use of technology for gene altercation and how it may be used, the line must be drawn somewhere. Take David's experience for example, he believes his disorder has shaped him into who he is today. I believe that this technology should only be used and available for those who want to prevent harmful diseases for their children in an embryonic standpoint. As one of the females mentioned, the experience of having a child should stand more with an emotional connection with your significant other. Meaning, altering only the genes that may be fatally harmful to an individual, rather than changing traits in personality or physical traits. Although changing nature may appear as unethical, there are instances where it will benefit us in an ethical standpoint. Overall, I highly recommend to watch this film, and encourage those around you to do so as well.