Can cancer patients have their genomes altered safely? Since the invention of the ability to alter genomes, people have been looking to find as many applications for it as possible. The process of altering genomes has become common practice in some instances, offering new and improved treatments for those suffering from life-threatening illnesses.
But can cancer patients have their genomes altered safely?
What does altering genomes mean?
First, what does genome altering even mean? The simplest explanation is that being able to edit someone’s genomes means their DNA can be changed. Parts of the DNA are removed, new elements can be added, and it can completely change a person’s genetic structure. One of the most famous and most advanced forms of genome altering is called CRISPR. This process will likely lead to considerable steps in dealing with genetic abnormalities in fetuses; this could be used to ensure they are born healthy and free from deformities. Some DNA offers no benefit at all; they just carry unwanted genetic mutations. CRISPR will make it possible to destroy that DNA. This could save countless lives.
Can Cancer Patients Have Their Genomes Altered Safely?
Are there any drawbacks from genome altering?
While genome altering aims to remove defective DNA, it can, unfortunately, do the opposite. One of the long term side effects is triggering genetic disorders in people such as cystic fibrosis. While genome altering has come such a long way in such a short time, there are still complications that must be considered. By removing certain parts of people’s DNA, this can sadly encourage the mutation of those genes, which could make things worse than they already were.
Can Cancer Patients Have Their Genomes Altered Safely?
There are problems with people using genome altering immorally. While genome altering could be done on the embryo to remove genetic abnormalities and save lives, it could also be used for “selective breeding.” Choosing what traits people should be born with can be seen by some people as “playing God” and should be avoided. One could argue that preventing a child from being born with a genetic disorder is a good thing, but what about if their DNA was edited so the child would become very tall, or very smart? This is a real concern for many people. The possibility of trying to develop a more advanced set of humans could lead to severe complications for everyone else. This may sound very science fiction, but it is a big topic of discussion in the scientific community.
You can read more about that here: CRISPR superhuman.
Why would people alter their genomes?
Because so many diseases and illnesses can be caused by problems with someone’s DNA, trying to find a way to prevent or, in some cases, stop that can be vital. If someone suffering from cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder, could have their genes edited to cure them, why wouldn’t they try? After all, they already have a genetic disorder, it is a slight gamble, but the pay off could be huge.
Can cancer patients have their genomes altered safely?
So, can cancer patients have their genomes altered safely? Yes, they can. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work for everyone, though. Heres why genome altering can help people suffering from cancer:
The reason cancer can be so destructive for some people is that some people’s genomes cause their T cells found in blood to prevent the immune system from fighting off cancer. This is why cancer can be so catastrophic to our health. Our own body doesn’t even recognize cancer as an issue in some cases. But, by using genome editing, they can remove those T cells from the blood, alter them to attack the protein NY-ESO-1 in the cancer cells, and add them back into the body. This example of genome editing can be life-saving for some people whose bodies resist chemotherapy. Sadly, this doesn’t work for everyone. Yet. The studies into this have only just begun; while there have been successful and failures, there has most importantly been evidence that it is possible.
Can Cancer Patients Have Their Genomes Altered Safely? Conclusion
Can cancer patients have their genomes altered safely? Yes, but there is still a lot of work to be done before this becomes a common treatment. These early steps are promising, hopefully, with hard work and a bit of luck, genome editing can be used to cure people of not just cancer but all sorts of life-threatening illnesses.
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