Genetic technologies are everything that has to do with understanding, synthesizing, or modifying genetic material. Gene editing is one such technique that has gained widespread interest because it allows quicker, simpler, cheaper, and more accurate modifications to DNA. Just a century ago that the concept of recombinant DNA technology was merely an idea based on the notion that desired qualities might be increased via modifying the target genes’ expression in living things (Hoffman, 2021). However, in recent years, this industry has demonstrated notable contributions to advancing humanity’s way of life.
As a result of this technique, critical proteins required for health and nutritional requirements may be synthesized securely, affordably, and in sufficient amounts. This technological advancement makes it possible to handle crucial aspects of life, such as enhancing health, increasing food supply, and overcoming a wide range of adverse environmental implications. A particular case in point is genetically engineered plants in agriculture, which have more excellent resistance to hazardous agents while also increasing product production and demonstrating higher adaptation for better survival (Yadav et al., 2018). The recombinant DNA technique has a variety of uses and has enabled the development of novel enzymes that are well-suited for usage in particular food processing settings. Numerous essential enzymes, including hydrolytic enzymes and lipases, are attainable for specific food industry operations because of their different activities and applications in food production.
Another notable success enabled by recombinant DNA technology is the production of microbial strains. In recent years, various microbial strains that manufacture enzymes have been produced via genetic engineering specifically for the production of proteases. Certain fungal strains have been genetically manipulated to limit their potential to produce hazardous byproducts of their metabolism. Lysozymes are very efficient antibacterial agents used in the food industry to eliminate microorganisms. They effectively prevent the colonization of microorganisms and store food products. Therefore, gene technology has been impactful in enhancing food security. Furthermore, recombinant medications are currently being utilized with confidence, and they are gaining commercial clearance at a quick pace. Recombinant DNA technology in treating illnesses and improving health conditions has many applications.
Genome editing, regenerative medicine, and recombinant DNA technologies are extensively employed for bioremediation, treatment of severe illnesses, and research. All types of tumors have been treated with gene therapy. One of the essential players in efforts to cure cancer is the widely transmitted tumor suppressor gene p53. Chemotherapy or radiation is used in conjunction with p53 gene transfer in several treatments (Valente et al., 2018). Recombinant viral vectors expressing tumor antigens, recombinant tumor cells, and host cells that have been genetically modified to produce tumor antigens have been the most effective techniques for cancer therapy thus far. The impact of genetic engineering on modern society cannot be overstated. However gene therapy offers many advantages, but it also has certain disadvantages. A rise in cancer is one of the treatment’s potential adverse effects, a factor considerably supported scientifically. The therapy may cause new genetic anomalies as a side effect. Gene therapy can treat various diseases, stop the development of new ones, and improve the quality of life for patients.
Recombinant DNA technology has grown tremendously in scope and application over the last several decades. Therefore, this discussion board post focuses on the technique’s relevance and potential applications in everyday life. The invention of recombinant DNA technology has dramatically improved human life. Recently, the application of DNA in gene technology has expanded to include several medicinal applications, including cancer therapy and hereditary illnesses like diabetes. In support, using gene therapy, doctors can treat or prevent disease by fixing the underlying genetic issue which prevents instance of disease progression and severity.
References
Hoffman, N. E. (2021). Revisions to USDA biotechnology regulations: The SECURE rule. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 118(22), e2004841118.
Valente, J. F., Queiroz, J. A., & Sousa, F. (2018). p53 as the focus of gene therapy: past, present and future. Current drug targets, 19(15), 1801-1817.
Yadav, K. K., Gupta, N., Kumar, A., Reece, L. M., Singh, N., Rezania, S., & Khan, S. A. (2018). Mechanistic understanding and holistic approach of phytoremediation: a review on application and future prospects. Ecological engineering, 120, 274-298.