The Genetic Screening Dilemma Essay -- Technology Science DNA Essays

The Genetic book binding DilemmaThe National Academy of Science defines genetic book binding as the systematic search of a population for persons with latent, early, or asymptomatic disease. The limit genetic testing is often used interchangeably, but differs in that it yet targets those individuals cogitated to be at high risk for an inherited condition. Genetic application has a much broader target population. As genetic screening becomes easier, faster, and less(prenominal) pricey, there is a growing debate about who should be tested, what those results should be used for, and who should have access to those results. Before addressing these questions it is necessary to understand the elementary processes involved in genetic screening.The techniques used for genetic screening argon based on the recognition of nucleotide sequences in the DNA. The most unremarkably used method is called prohibition fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP). RFLP uses restriction enzymes to part the DNA at specific sequences. Cleavage of the DNA generates small restriction fragments of varying length. Electrophoresis is then used to separate the fragments with respect to sizing and/or charge. The sample is added to an agarose gel plate which is electrically charged for a specific length of time. The smaller and more negatively charged fragments fire to the positively charged pole the quickest. A banding manakin with umteen bands is generated. The bands are then transferred to a nylon membrane by Southern Blot. A radiolabled probe which binds specifically to a sequence of interest is added to the membrane. The banding pattern set up now be observed and specific sequences identified. The problems with RFLP are that it is expensive and time consuming. RFLP is the process used for... ...for research.I do not believe that the knowledge of genetic information willing affect the decision to puke to the extent that alleles will actually be eliminated. Many great deal will probably not even know their exact genetic makeup. Those who do may decide to have children regardless of the risks. Due to these situations, the elimination of an allele from a human population would be very unlikely. There is excessively a high likelihood of gene flow occurring between populations because people are highly mobile. Gene flow between populations would act to cast up diversity and counteract any reduction of alleles that is taking place.Genetic screening is a powerful technology. Many risks are involved, but they can be easily reduced by responsible management of information. The information that can be gained with the aid of genetic screening far outweighs the risks.