Cystic Fibrosis, the CRISPR Solution, and Ethical Considerations.
Abstract
The world of genetics is complex and increasingly astounding as scientists
continue to uncover layers of its depths. DNA, the genetic coding design, is responsible
for the successful functioning of the human body. Yet a miscoding of this critical
blueprint can be detrimental. Cystic Fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive genetic
disorder, is just one example of the impact a genetic defect can have on the entire
functioning of the human body. Stemming from a flaw in the Cystic Fibrosis
Transmembrane Conductance Regulator gene, the mutation causes salt and water to be
imbalanced in the body, resulting in thick mucus that inhibits primarily the respiratory
and digestive systems. A myriad of treatment methods have been developed to
downstream the effects of the disease. Medications are being researched in the area of
gene therapy in an effort to successfully inject healthy genes to replace defective ones.
Most recently scientists are working to correct mutations at their DNA core, through
remarkable gene editing technology; the most popular of which is the CRISPR/ Cas 9
system. By cutting a DNA sequence at a specific locus, a mutation can be cut out and
potentially corrected for a lifetime. Prospects are exciting while ethical concerns are
daunting. But the possibility of correcting previously believed incurable genetic disorders
continues to propel research and complex discussions in both the scientific and Jewish
religious communities.
Description
The file is restricted for YU community access only.
Permanent Link(s)
https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12202/4477Collections
- Honors Student Theses [208]
Item Preview
The following license files are associated with this item: