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  CLONINGCloning describes a number of different processes that can be used to produce genetically identical copies of a living material or organism (they might not look identical). There are three different types of artificial cloning: gene cloning (produces copies of genes or segments of DNA); reproductive cloning (produces copies of whole animals); and therapeutic cloning (produces embryonic stem cells for experiments aimed at creating tissues to replace injured or diseased tissues). Researchers have cloned genes, cells, tissues and even entire organisms (remember Dolly, the sheep?). Some researchers claim to have cloned human beings as well! MUTATIONA gene mutation is a permanent change in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene. They range in size from a single DNA building block (DNA base) to a large segment of a chromosome. There are two types: hereditary mutations or germline mutations (inherited from a parent), and acquired or somatic (occurring during a person’s lifetime due to factors like exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, or if a DNA copies itself during cell division). The less favourable mutations are reduced in frequency in the gene pool by natural selection, while more favourable ones tend to accumulate, resulting in evolutionary change. CHIMERAChimera is an animal with two or more different populations  of genetically distinct cells. Each population of cells keeps its own character. This creates an animal with a mixture of mis-matched parts. Human chimeras were first discovered with the advent of blood typing. It was found that some people had more than one blood type. The likelihood of a child being a chimera is increased if the child is created via in vitro fertilisation (‘test tube baby’). Currently, a company named GloFish, US, is selling Zebrafish chimeras, which have the DNA of jellyfish. They glow-in-the-dark, and come in green, red,
and yellow.
GMO or OMG? Genetically Modified Organism or Oh.My.God!
Ms. A Gene: Well yes, there are some apprehensions about our use. Like widespread crop failure after using Genetically Modified seeds. All GM crops have identical genetic structure. So if a fungus, a virus, or a pest attacks a particular GM crop, the entire area gets affected. Pandit ji: GM seeds assure high yield. But only if they are fortified with specific pesticides and fertilisers. Also, these seeds are bio-engineered to be purchased every year, as they last only one harvest. This means they cannot be reused the next year, ultimately increasing the input costs of the farmers. Mr. Protein: And contrary to the claim of pest resistance of some of seeds, they actually require pesticides. Cotton farmers in Vidarbha, Maharashtra, were encouraged to go for higher-yield cotton. While it is not clear if the yield actually increased, the farmers spent much more on irrigation, and pesticides and fertilisers. 
Pandit ji: There is yet another fear – of cross-pollination. Genetically altered seeds can be carried into neighbouring fields by wind, birds or insects, which can cross-pollinate with genetically natural crops. This can pose a great threat to biodiversity. Also, GM organisms may destroy their natural (wild) relatives, which are weaker, and cause changes in the ecological balance.
Mr. Protein: The safety of GM food has not been tested on a long-term basis. There might be unforeseen allergens in GM foods. Or say, a fresh-looking food item might be several weeks old and have little nutritional worth, and you would never even know. Pandit ji: Genetic engineering can cause unexpected mutations in an organism, which can create various toxins. And if genetically engineered organisms, bacteria and viruses were released into the environment it would be impossible to contain them. Shreya: Oh it is like Frankenstein in making! Pandit ji: And what if someone wants a patent for this Frankenstein? Patents give inventors an exclusive right (for 20 years or so) towards utilising his/her invention, in exchange for making it public. Living organisms in general were not “patent-able” because no one ‘invented’ them. But if a person genetically engineers an organism, he may claim a patent. This is legal, and many companies are attracted to the world of genes for earning profits... Ms. A Gene: There’s more… Our use is also debated on ethical or Bio-ethical grounds! It raises question about creation of new life forms and crossing species boundaries, long-term effects on human health and the environment. There may be unforeseen personal, social, and cultural consequences. Bioethicists believe that the use of genes will blur the lines between species by creating transgenic combinations (organisms with genes of other species, like use of pig’s genes in human body), and will create physical or behavioural traits that may be different from “human”. The chimeric entity may possess special features and intelligence. So, should they be given rights and special protections? The whole definition of “normal” might change. Some even argue that crossing species boundaries is immoral, and in violation of God’s laws. Shreya: Should we just stop experimenting with genes? Pandit ji: Not at all, Shreya. The main problem with using genes is that we still don’t understand them. The workings of a single cell are too complex. There is a vast gap between what we know about genes and their actual potential. Genes present an exciting range of possibilities, from feeding the hungry to preventing and treating seemingly incurable diseases. However, there is always a risk. But the power of genes – if used responsibly – can alter the face of development and human society. |
