There has been a revolutionary breakthrough in genetics that has been quietly working its way through research centers and which is about to reach critical mass. I use "critical mass" and the analogy with nuclear fission advisedly, as in "genies in bottles" and "was this really such a good idea?"
The new method, called CRISPR-cas9, allows editing of genetic sequences in a cut-and-paste manner that is breathtaking in its simplicity and economy. Look here==>
genome editing service for a company that will edit a cell line for you any way you want for $9,000. That's a viable cell line that can reproduce and express the change in every "daughter" cell. Forever.
The most revolutionary part of the process is how it can be applied to
entire populations. The process can be used to add, remove, or change a trait in individuals who are then released into the wild. Because the way the cas9 gene works, virtually 100% of the offspring will express the new trait. They're talking about being able to wipe out malaria mosquitos in 5 years for a mere pittance of effort and money.
What could go wrong, eh? I'm sure no one will consider misusing this incredible power. And did I hear someone in the back mutter "unintended consequences?"
Read the article here ==>
CRISPR-cas9 for a fairly approachable entry into the topic.
Linear Mode
