Should We Hack Life Itself

Should we hack life itself?
Genetic manipulation can be defined as the process of making changes to the genetic code of a living organism it
can be either for altering it or even cloning. Controversial techniques known as CRISPR and somatic cell cloning.
They have allowed remarkably the possibility to modify the human genome like the infamous Dr. Josiah Zayner
did, or like the cloning process of gaurs specifically for conservation purposes. This is such a new topic for us, it
is like we are evidencing a new era of genetic innovations.
Some people might agree with the coming of this strong scientific wave, but we strongly disagree, these kinds of
people are playing with the way of life and that could even lead to a global crisis. Josiah Zayner, a Bio-Hacker
who used CRISPR for self-administration, injected himself with this treatment to prove that it could increase his
muscle mass. Zayner used CRISPR to alter the gene that regulates the production of myostatin, a protein naturally
produced by the body that prevents muscle growth, along with other proteins that promote it. Zayner tried this
treatment on himself, but it is not known if there was any change in the gene variation. In ¨Unnatural Selection¨,
we could see how Zayner was promoting the distribution of biohacking supplies to become even ¨better humans¨,
but he says that he is more concerned about the government regulating it so that people don't have access to it.
Exposing such a delicate method to the world could put at risk the people who acquire it, we may not know the
after-effects of the so-called CRISPR, the invention considered a miracle by Josiah may not be as good as it
sounds. What if he could have an ulterior motive? That is the uncertainty that bugs us.
Talking about another way of genetic manipulation, we saw a video of scientists using cross-species cloning with
gaurs to save them from being threatened, which involves taking genetic material from one species and fusing it
into the egg of another species. A whole group of mature cow eggs that have cow DNA inside them, to use those
eggs that cow DNA was removed. So, the scientists picked up an individual gaur cell that contained a nucleus that
had DNA present and was placed into the egg applying electrical pulses allowing their fusion. A chemical was
applied infusing fertilization allowing the embryo to divide those who are kept in culture. Later, it was transferred
to a domestic cow. Even if this experiment could save this species, it can´t be assured that the offspring will be
born and then be able to assure the next generation of gaurs. Genetic variation is important for adaptation. What if
its lifespan is shorter than the original, is it possible the appearance of mutations, will it have more diseases than
the normal individual?
In conclusion, while genome alteration offers promising advances in scientific knowledge, it also creates profound
ethical and moral concerns. The case of Dr. Zayner exemplifies the possible dangers of unchecked
experimentation, as his self-administration of CRISPR raises questions about safety measures and unsure
consequences. Furthermore, the use of cloning in terms of conservation, such as cross-species cloning, provokes
doubts regarding the long-term viability and genetic diversity of the manipulated organisms. As we dive into this
new era of genetic findings, it is essential to proceed carefully, considering not only the potential benefits but also
the implications and risks associated with altering the fundamental structure of life. It is not cannot be approached
with the same simplicity as coding a computer game, it is unique and works at its own pace. As humanity, we just
can´t be hackers of what we call life.
References
Joe Egender, L. K. (Directors). (2019). Unnatural Selection [Documentary- episode #1].
Jonathan Hill, P. D. (June 6th of 2012). American Museum of Natural History. Obtenido de
https://youtu.be/atMKZgXhcps?si=h7tRUnoP1CPlGJ6f
Authors: Valentina Álvarez and Maria José Bulla 11-C

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Authors: Valentina Álvarez and Maria José Bulla 11-C

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