Procedures and Conditions of Genetic Engineering Research

Microbial and Microorganism Genetics
Microbial and Microorganism Genetics Part 1
Protoplast Fusion
Resistance Transfer Factor (RTF) Bacteriocin Plasmids
Bacillus Plasmids
Bacteriocins
Sexduction
F Factor / F-Prime
Plasmids
Recombination in Eukaryotes
Gene Cloning Procedure
Applications of Genetic Engineering
Medicinal Applications
Industrial Applications
Environmental Applications
Agriculture Applications
In Understanding of Biological Processes
Biohazards of Genetic Engineering
Dangers
Escape of himeric Microorganisms
Procedure and Conditions of Genetic Engineering Research
Safeguards
Restriction Enzymes
Classification of Restriction Enzymes
Class I Enzymes

Procedures and Conditions of Genetic Engineering Research

	Procedures and Conditions of Genetic Engineering Research -Currently there is a great scientific controversy going on as to whether recombinant DNA experiments should be permitted or not. Equally well known scientists are found supporting genetic engineering and opposing it. The arguments against recombinant DNA experiments are as follows : 1. Escape of genetically modified microorganisms through drainage, laboratory glassware, laboratory personnel, etc. cou1d lead to the origin and spread of new types of diseases 2. The experiments interfere with the natural evolutionary process and lead to a breakdown of the natural barrier between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
3. Genetic engineering is unnecessary and many of its anticipated results could be achieved by other, less dangerous, techniques. 4. There is a danger that genetic engineering techniques will be used for biological warfare Disease-carrying microorganisms could be used against the enemy either in undeclared, silent warfare, or in organised warfare. They could also be employed in terrorist activities
The arguments for recombinant DNA experiments are as follows: 1. There, is no genetic barrier between prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Exchange of DNA between the two has taken place continuously in evolution. 2. The dangers of recombinant DNA experiments will decline with growth of experience and accumulation of knowledge 3. With use of safety precautions which are common in medical research on bacteria and viruses there need be no danger of infections.
4. Bacterial cells produced by genetic engineering have additional traits and would not be able to compete against normal cells. Thus the chances of survival of escaped organisms would be remote. 5. It is very difficult for microorganisms to become pathogenic. Virulent gene combinations are rejected by host bacterial cells, and the unwanted genes die. Many combinations have been tried in evolution and rejected 6. All recombinant DNA, research work need not be stopped. A temporary ban on certain types of wore involving tumour viruses and I increasing drug resistance would be enough. 7. If recombinant DNA research is stopped, a promising field with a great potential for solving problems of mankind would be wrecked

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