Genetic Engineering is, quite possibly, the most promising and most
threatening new advance in medical technology of all time. For this
reason, new advances made in the future may or may not be implemented.
It is nearly impossible to predict what Genetic Engineering will bring to
the future, but there is some speculation.
Medicine
The most popular contribution of Genetic Engineering is in the field of
medicine. Because most diseases have a genetic component, healing
may be sped along in the future by using bacteria-made proteins to augment
the healing process. Proteins circulate through the body, reporting
to various glands whether bone and muscle mass should increase or
decrease, how salty substances should be moved through the lungs, how many
immune cells should be manufactured, and even how fast hair should grow.
The genes regulating the production of these proteins can be inserted into
bacteria, "teaching" the bacteria how to make the identical
proteins.
Unfortunately, this is a power that is easily abused. Athletes could
have their muscle mass increased for more strength. It could be that
the army with the most genetic drugs coursing through their veins will be
the one to win the war. Many people feel that these dangers far
outweigh the good that could be done speeding the healing process.
Food
One controversial advance has been in place for several years: genetically
engineered food. Dubbed "Frankenfoods" by opponents, these
foods are enhanced by genes from other plants or animals. This can
enhance nutrition, shelf life, or taste. Depending on public
reaction, these foods may be widely available in the future. |