Question

For this assignment, research the various controversial aspects of gene therapy on humans. Gene Therapy holds tremendous promise for humanity. We may one day be able to cure a variety of diseases and conditions that are now merely treated with drugs but not truly eliminated. Discuss the benefits of gene therapy.

A more controversial application of this is gene therapy on the unborn. Does it make sense to cure genetic diseases in an unborn fetus or wait till after birth? Explain your thinking. What impact would this decision have on future generations?

Finally, if we can control genes to the point of eliminating diseases what other genes can we control? Eye color? Height or weight, perhaps IQ? (Keep in mind the fastest growing area in surgical procedures is cosmetic medicine.) Discuss this aspect of gene therapy. Think about this angle in light of the earlier concept of doing gene therapy on a fetus.