Discussion: Identifying and Treating Genetic Diseases
Meiosis, the kind of cell reproduction in which parent cells pass genetic traits to their offspring, is typically an accurate process. Mistakes in the process, known as mutations, are rare, and not all mutations lead to changes in an organism. Some mutations, however, have significant negative effects. Genetic mutations during meiosis have produced human diseases such as hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, and cystic fibrosis. Since abnormalities in the genome cause these diseases, any true cure must address a persons genetic makeup. Amazingly, scientists are exploring ways to change human genes to treat these diseases. For this weeks Discussion, you conduct research to identify and learn about a genetic disease that interests you. You explore current treatments for the disease, as well as treatments under development. Then, you recommend a promising treatment based on your analysis.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Review Chapter 6 Cancer in the course text and consider the following:
o What a mutation is
o The causes and effects of particular mutations
Review Chapter 9, Genetically Modified Organisms, focusing on how genetic mutations occur and ways genetic modification is being considered in the treatment of genetic disorders.
Conduct research to learn more about human genetic diseases. Identify one that particularly interests you. Learn more about the disease and how it is being treated, as well as treatments under development. Compare and contrast the treatments you read about to identify one that you find particularly promising.
o Explore the Internet, especially websites that contain news and articles about genetic diseases and their treatment. This weeks Optional Resources suggest websites where you could start your search.
Post a recommendation (at least two paragraphs long) for a promising treatment of the genetic disease you selected. The recommendation should include:
A brief description of the genetic disease and how it occurs
An explanation of the treatment you selected
Reasons why this treatment is particularly promising
References to at least two sources outside of the Required Resources
All references cited in APA format
