Next Steps
May 6th,
2022 Words:
1,296
Liberty University
Master of Medical Sciences
MSCI 640
Gene Therapy
By definition, gene therapy is a technique that is used to correct defective genes in order
to assist the body in fighting against diseases or to cure a disease. Gene therapy can be divided
into types; germline therapy and somatic gene therapy. Germline therapy is when there’s a direct
modification on germline cells with no targeting, thus having the potential to be passed to future
generations.1 This type of therapy is ethically forbidden and cannot be used, however, it does
have great potential. Additionally, gene therapy has been limited to somatic cells only.1
Compared to germline therapy, somatic gene therapy is a much safer option and more
conservative. This type of therapy improves the status of a genetic disease by placing a human
gene into a somatic or nonreproductive cell.2 Because of this, target cells in individuals are only
affected and can no longer be passed down to future generations.
In the light of the discussion, there are still many positive aspects of gene therapy.
However, it’s still vital to continue gene therapy because of its potential to remove any life-
threatening genetic disease to eliminate any suffering in future generations and before they
begin. Ethical concerns come up when genetic testing begins to alter a person’s body. A few
ethical concerns include how bad or good a gene may be distinguished, as well as the high cost
of making it accessible to those who are rich. In addition, the question of whether gene therapy
should be used to enhance certain human traits and does if it goes against God’s will is brought
up.3 “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with
thanksgiving” (1 Timothy 4:4)
Genetic Modified Organisms (GMOs)
Genetic modification or genetic engineering uses different techniques and various tools
from both bioengineering and biotechnology in order to modify the genetic makeup of an
organism. GMOs are a great benefit to not only society but also farmers. A majority of the GMO
crops have been genetically engineered with insect resistance and or herbicide tolerance.5 The
productivity and production of crops have gone up ever since GM technology was introduced,
and yield production rates have significantly improved farm incomes and decreased worldwide
hunger. There are other GMOs that are being used besides plants. A few classmates mentioned
how GMOs are used to produce vaccines and medicines in order to treat and prevent diseases.4
Before we had GMOs, many of the medicines were extracted from animal parts, blood donors,
and cadavers. This form of extraction results in many problems including unreliable supply,
transmitted disease, and inconsistent quality.4
There are still many concerns with GMOs even though it presents a range of different
possibilities like treating and preventing diseases and feeding the hungry. The ethical concern
that is brought up is the environmental and health risks that are associated with GMO medicines
and food. Regulations are a must and should remain diligent and dedicated to ensuring that no
medicine or GM crops pose any kind of risk to the human environment or health.5 “You shall
keep my statutes. You shall not let your cattle breed with a different kind. You shall not sow your
field with two kinds of seed, nor shall you wear a garment of cloth made of two kinds of
material.” (Leviticus 19:19)
Vaccines
One of the most important things we can use to protect ourselves from life-threatening
viruses and diseases is the use of vaccines. We know that vaccines work the body’s natural
defenses to help us safely develop immunity to certain diseases. Additionally, vaccines may also
help reduce the risk of developing cancer. Extensive testing has been done on therapeutic cancer
vaccines for those who have advanced cancer, however, there has been little clinical success,
attributed to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.6 Because of this, the
administration of preventive vaccines at pre-malignant stages of the disease holds promise, as
they function before tumor-associated immune suppression is established.6 Studies have shown
that clinical and immunological studies are yielding notable results.6
In general, vaccines are not only safe but also have very little to no adverse reactions or
side effects. A few of my classmates had brought up the topic of the Covid-19 vaccine, which I
believe is vital to discuss the major concerns surrounding the vaccine. For the past two years
with Covid-19 mandates, there have been a lot more ethical considerations surrounding the
vaccine. There’s a critical balance between the greater good of society and personal choice in
terms of the vaccine. Many questions have been brought up about how appropriate it is to
mandate the Covid-19 vaccine in the workplace and for school entry. I believe no one should be
forced to receive the vaccine or do anything against their will. Though it can be quite frustrating,
the best way to promote the vaccine is to educate those on the importance of getting vaccinated
and hope people choose to protect themselves from illnesses. “But when he heard it, he said,
“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick” (Matthew 9:12)
Why do medicine?
Medicine is very important as it bridges the gap between society and science. Not only is
medicine the sum of our knowledge of diseases but it involves feelings, emotions, doubt, fear,
and anxiety of human beings. I feel like society places a lot of faith and trust in medical
personnel. Personally, I’ve always admired the care a doctor would put on their patient as well as
their dedication and hard work. The study of medicine has a set of goals including promoting
health, relieving any kind of suffering or pain, preventing diseases, promoting a peaceful death,
and giving care to those who cannot be cured.7 Many of my classmates and I collectively agree
that the study of medicine is such an ultimate and rewarding career. Not to mention, opens doors
to managing the healthcare costs in economic sectors. Medicine creates the ability to develop
new treatments for illnesses that have yet to be solved and educate those on the importance of
health. Those who choose this career path have the chance to change and save lives as well as
make a huge difference and impact on the world. “Do not neglect to do good and to share what
you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God” (Hebrews 13:16)
References
1.Nayerossadat N, Maedeh T, Ali PA. Viral and nonviral delivery systems for gene
delivery.Advanced biomedical research.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3507026/. Published 2012.
2.Goldsbrough P. The Many Uses of GMOs. Why do we use gmos?
https://ag.purdue.edu/GMOs/Pages/WhyGMOs.aspx.
3.What are the ethical issues surrounding gene therapy?: Medlineplus Genetics.
MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/therapy/ethics/.
Published April 12, 2021.
4.Greely HT. Ethical issues in the 'new' Genetics. International Encyclopedia of the
Social & Behavioral Sciences.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B0080430767033647. Published
November 2, 2002.
5. Acker RV, Rahman MM, Cici SZH. Pros and cons of GMO crop farming. Oxford
Research Encyclopedia of Environmental Science.
https://oxfordre.com/environmentalscience/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199389414.0
01.0 001/acrefore-9780199389414-e-217. Published October 26, 2017.
6.Finn, O. The dawn of vaccines for cancer prevention. Nat Rev Immunol 18, 183–194
(2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/nri.2017.140
7.Callahan D. Managed care and the goals of medicine. J Am Geriatr Soc.
1998;46(3):385-388. doi:10.1111/j.1532-5415.1998.tb01060.x
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