Engineered humans are still on the unethical spectrum, so we will focus or discu
ID: 164983 • Letter: E
Question
Engineered humans are still on the unethical spectrum, so we will focus or discussion on some of the latest developments in genetic engineering. Please read the brief article http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/next/body/scientists-use-crispr-to-grow-human-organs-inside-of-pigs/
Do you think researchers should continue to pursue the development of human organs inside other species using new genetic engineering techniques or is this an overstep of ethics? Please be sure to support your viewpoint with sufficient detail/facts/examples.
Explanation / Answer
Despite the recent advancements in genetic engineering, successfully growing human organs in larger animals such as pigs is a long way off. I strongly oppose the idea of growing human organs inside other species because human cells could boost the host animal’s intelligence or develop into sperm or eggs which is gravely critical.
Until now human cells don’t mix as readily with those of other animals thus growing human organs in other species is a challenging task. Yet, this trick has been successful in rat and mice.
This research raises the prospect that someone needing a new kidney, for instance, could have it grown inside a specially conceived piglet. Yet, it has serious consequences if not keenly watched. As I mentioned earlier, human cells could boost the host animal’s intelligence or develop into sperm or eggs which is gravely critical. In my opinion, it is better to grow organs in lab conditions rather than using cross species donors.
Related Questions
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.