Cancer and Genetics
The nature of the process that makes regular cells turn cancerous has not been studied fully yet. However, there is an assumption that cancer occurs as a result of a genetic abnormality but is not transferred genetically to future generations (“Chapter 8 – Photosynthesis”). The specified assumption is likely to be true since cancer seems to develop as a consequence of a single disruption in the functioning of a cell as opposed to the mechanism that was implanted into one’s genetic makeup since the day of one’s birth.
On closer inspection of the problem of cancer as a result of a genetic mutation, one will realize that the mechanism of the disorder in most cases is launched at an unspecified point in time in contrast to the genetic disorders that are inherent. Therefore, it would be reasonable to state that cancer will not be transferred to future generations and should not be seen as an inherent disease (“Chapter 8 – Photosynthesis”).
Even though one may inherit a faulty gene that increases the threat of developing cancer, one will not necessarily have cancer in the future. Therefore, claiming that cancer is a genetically transmitted disease would be an erroneous conclusion. The described characteristic and nature of the disorder will help to study its nature more accurately and meticulously to determine the methods of treating it effectively.
Gene Therapy
The idea of correcting genetic defects sounds very alluring due to the vast opportunities for managing a range of genetic disorders and, thus, managing numerous health concerns. Nevertheless, gene therapy as a process of transferring genes in order to correct genetic defects is likely to pose additional threats to patients’ health. The idea of transferring genes as the means of managing the described problem could be regarded as a plausible tool for managing a vast range of health issues (“Chapter 13 – Modern Understanding of Inheritance”). However, the lack of control over the process due to the limitations of the current knowledge of genetic processes and the possible outcomes makes the sensibility of gene therapy quite dubious.
In order to maximize the efficacy of gene therapy, studies that detail the outcomes thereof have to be produced. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct several researches on the subject matter prior to integrating the principles of gene therapy into the modern clinical environment.
Although a range of genetic disorders may turn out to be treatable, the proposed treatment techniques may also imply severe negative health consequences, which means that the introduction of a gene therapy may cause negative effects (“Chapter 13 – Modern Understanding of Inheritance”). Thus, the utilization of gene therapy has to be preceded by extensive research and a thorough analysis of possible outcomes.
Works Cited
“Chapter 8 – Photosynthesis.” Georgia Highlands College, n.d. Web.
“Chapter 13 – Modern Understanding of Inheritance.” Georgia Highlands College, n.d. Web.