Genetic Disorders: The Pros And Cons Of Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is most commonly described as the ‘changing’ of genes to treat illnesses and other disorders. The science of gene therapy works by attaching a properly functioning gene to a virus, or viral vector, to further be inserted into the cell that is perceived as damaged. One specific virus used is a retrovirus, which, according to those at the Genetics Home Reference, “integrate[s] their genetic material (including the new gene) into a chromosome in the human cell.” The retrovirus then modifies the cell’s genetic makeup, and, if the process is effective, a new functioning protein will be created and replicated throughout time.

There is a type of gene therapy research that is called germ-line, this means that the integrated traits can be passed down to offspring through the gametes and, theoretically, to the following generation. In modern times, gene therapy, more specifically germ-line gene therapy, has become

A common argument in favor of germ-line gene therapy is that the probability of an overuse of human enhancement in the manner previously stated is extremely low. The situation in which a superior human race would be created and in the processes of rising is very little. Even if it were possible, this would only occur in a time distant in the future. However, just because it is a small probability, does not mean it cannot occur. This event would be much like Hitler’s attempt at genocide, but by introducing new invasive genes. The invasive genes will eventually dominate a population and attempt to eradicate the other. The idea of this event to transpire derives from everyday ecosystems in which an invasive species has been introduced. An example of this can be discovered in Grzimek’s Animal Life Encyclopedia , where the author discusses how the invasive brown tree snake caused localized extinction between native Guam bird species. Imagine this on the human