Genetic engineering is, in effect, all around us today.
3. Some of the most common genetic engineering test subjects are mice and zebrafish
Some of the most common animal test subjects for genetic engineering are mice and zebrafish. Both have relatively short lifespans, and so any modifications to their DNA can be assessed very quickly in the growing animal.
Zebrafish are particularly useful as their larval phase is, more or less, completely translucent. This allows researchers to easily see what's going on inside the infant fish as a result of genetic modifications made.
4. Genetic modification is something of an ethical dilemma
While the practical benefits of genetic engineering are readily demonstratable, there are some ethical and ecological concerns around them. For example, genetic modification of human embryos is, rightfully, considered unethical.
With regards to ecology, it has been argued that GM organisms, if ever released into nature, could readily outcompete wild organisms. This could be devastating for natural habitats and species.
Others disagree.
5. GM researchers can build completely synthetic genomes
Genetic engineering has come a long way since the 1970s. Today, researchers can actually build a long base cheaply, and accurately on a large scale.
This allows GM researchers to be able to conduct experiments on genomes that don't actually exist in nature. Called synthetic genomics, this field of study is really finding its stride.
Some companies, like Synthetic Genomics, have even been founded to study potential commercialization opportunities from custom designed genomes.
6. GM scientists can even build complete chromosomes in the lab
Further to the above, genetic engineers can, today, create entirely synthetic chromosomes in the lab. For example, the first synthetic chromosome for yeast was created only a few years ago.
This is considered a very big deal in the field of synthetic biology.
7. Genetic engineering can be used on any kind of organism
As we have seen, a wide swathe of organisms can be altered using genetic engineering. This can range from anything from a lowly virus to an entire sheep.
8. Genetically modified animals are helping with some very serious human diseases and disorders
As we have already touched on, genetic engineering is being used to treat some very serious human diseases and disorders like diabetes with insulin. But it is also being put to work providing therapeutic solutions for other serious health issues like Alzheimer's and cystic fibrosis.
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