Can a person be improved? It would seem that it is not only possible, but also necessary! If science could improve the human body, then we would become healthier, more beautiful, intelligent and, accordingly, happier. But is it that simple?
DIY DNA
Not long ago, the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DAPRA) at the Pentagon provided subsidies of $ 32 million for the production of artificial DNA.
A unit codenamed "Forge", formed on the basis of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is engaged in developments in this area. One of the laboratory's directors, Robert Nichol, is one of the world's foremost experts in applying industrial manufacturing principles to DNA modification processes.
The first step towards creating "man-made" DNA was decoding the genome. Today, scientists are able to decipher the genome of not only humans, but also other living organisms, from bacteria to whales.
What will the process of "making" DNA look like? First, the computer will generate a "blueprint" of the genome, after which the artificially modeled gene sequence will be placed into living cells, which then begin to grow and divide in the usual way.
“People use the gifts of nature, which have complex chemical structures,” commented Robert Nichol in his speech dedicated to the opening of the Forge laboratory. “Previously, our ability to program living cells to, for example, reproduce materials that resemble wood or seashells, but with new properties, were not so great. Synthetic biology products have been limited to small, organic molecules. I want to push the boundaries of genetic engineering to have the same capabilities as nature.
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Infants on order
In April last year, the press reported the discovery of Chinese scientists who managed to block a gene that causes a rare blood disease using CRISPR-cas9 technology, which replaces individual DNA components. True, it is still far from perfect: it allows you to remove the target code only in 40% of cases, and correctly disable genes - in 20% of cases.
Nevertheless, the developments were considered promising. Some researchers have asked the question: why not use genetic technology not only to prevent disease, but also to improve the human breed as a whole?
According to robotics expert Rob Neil, "design" of babies will soon come into vogue. While still in the womb, the embryo will be adjusted to minimize genetic defects. Probably, the parents themselves will decide what qualities their child should have. Let's say they can "order" a tall or increased lung capacity for a child, if they want him to do some kind of sport.
Probably, it will be possible to genetically "set" intellectual properties. Today, there are already studies showing that the level of intelligence also depends on the work of certain genes.
"Accident-resistant" body
Recently, the artist Patricia Piccinini worked with Australian surgeons to develop a model of a person with a crash-resistant body. The product is composed of silicone, fiberglass, resin and human hair. The dummy was named Graham. He has a massive skull with a protruding forehead. The mannequin's neck is virtually absent: the head immediately passes into the body, and the ribs are almost at the very chin.
But that's not all! Graham's "body" is covered with a thick layer of adipose tissue, which helps prevent bone injuries in the event of an accident. The role of the "airbag" is played by numerous skin folds on the chest.
The model's feet resemble horse hooves rather than human limbs. And this makes sense: when the body hits the walls of the car, they act as shock absorbers and reduce damage to a minimum.
Now let's think - what does such a development actually give us? Piccinini's model, frankly, is far from a real person … But even if we assume that really people with massive heads and legs, a bovine neck and an impressive fat layer risk their lives and health less if they fall into a disaster, then where can they be found in such numbers? Let's say 10% of people who are lucky with the "parameters" will survive. And the rest?
In the light of recent scientific research, the derivation of "crash-resistant" individuals does not seem such a fantastic nonsense. Another thing is whether most people want to look like this mannequin (and it looks pretty ugly)? Even if it will increase our chances of survival.
Can't you change the future?
From June 1 to 5 this year, the World Science Festival was held in New York, within the framework of which a discussion was held on the revolution in genetics.
Columbia University bioethicist Josephine Johnston spoke about "edited" children. “If one day I open the newspaper and read that the first genetically programmed child has been born in the world, I will understand that my biggest nightmare has come true,” she said. And she added: “Before we understand whether CRISPR can be applied to human embryos, we need to understand how the“edited”genes will be passed on to future generations and whether we have the ability to return the genome to its previous state.
Even a change in the structure of DNA with the good purpose of making a person healthy is, whatever one may say, a modification, that is, an interference with the natural processes of the body. Let us also recall the rumors that in the future it will be possible to obtain individuals with certain given characteristics. For example, girls with inborn model parameters, men with increased physical endurance, from which athletes and soldiers will be trained.
At the same time, it is not at all a fact that the modification will be aimed only at improving innate physical characteristics. After all, you can change the DNA and so that the body begins to break down …
According to Professor Francis Boyle, author of the 1989 Biological Terrorism Act, the United States has spent about $ 100 billion over the past 15 years on developing biological weapons. Another conspiracy horror story? But if you think about it, the ability to synthesize DNA - the basis of life on Earth - opens up colossal prospects for control over humanity and over the whole world.
However, the already mentioned Rob Neil is convinced that “editing” of the genome should not be prohibited. In any case, sooner or later, the achievements of genetic engineering will change our lives. Moreover, the expert believes, humanity is actually transforming into a new species, or even into many different species. It remains to wait quite a bit.
Author: Ida Shakhovskaya