3. Introduction
Introduction
Biotechnology. Gene Therapy. Reality or fiction? During your lifetime, gene therapy may be mainstream medicine. Here we see a representation of the insertion of DNA into the nucleus of a cell. Is this possible? Yes
Since Mendel’s time, there have been rapid advances in the understanding of genetics. As scientists understand better how DNA works, they can develop technologies that allow us to reveal the genetic secrets encoded in our DNA and even alter an organism’s DNA. Genetic engineering (or
biotechnology or
DNA technology) has helped us better understand and predict the inheritance of genetic diseases, produce new medicines, and even produce new food products. DNA technology has also made an impact on fighting crime. Because DNA is unique to an individual, the DNA in just a few hairs at a crime scene can help identify a criminal. This technology, known as DNA fingerprinting, has also helped innocent imprisoned people to appeal their case and clear their names. DNA technology has revolutionized not only criminal justice, but also many other aspects of our lives.
CK-12 Foundation, Biology. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/