Genetic engineering is a type of manipulation of genes (DNA) that can lead to the modification of organisms in humans, plants, and animals. Over the years, it has become very relevant in the science field, promising enormous medical success, from the prevention of genetic diseases to the rich potential of developing new forms of gene therapy. The major diseases that currently have been studied with this new technique are cancer, diabetes, blood disorders, AIDS, muscular dystrophy, and Huntington’s disease (Martin, 2020).

The most common and used process to isolate the DNA from a cell to start genetic manipulation is CRISPR, which is a cutting-edge gene editing technology that helps to identify the mutated genes, cut them, and replace them with a sequence of DNA. The studies in this literature review show the effect of genetic engineering in the prevention of diseases and its efficiency. It will take into account both existing studies as well as the potential for new treatments and breakthroughs.

The advancement of genetic engineering, such as gene therapy and genetic modification, has made it possible to look closely at the prevention of certain diseases. These advances have different process steps to be studied before being open to humans; some of the animals that are part of the preclinical process are mice and pigs, and these animals are more accessible to simulate human genetic disorders. There has been proof that the CRISPR/Cas9 protein reports an improvement of 80% mutation in mice (Perleberg et al., 2018). These studies guide us to understand the research that has been done with mice relating to the genetic modification in specific proteins is higher and can lead to new mutation of DNA.

Another advancement in these techniques happened in 2013 when it was discussed to regulate the SOX-9 sequence of DNA in prostate cancer to help to regulate and decrease the androgen receptor and control this type of cancer (Kim et al., 2013). These advances have guided a deeper understanding of how the modification of genes can improve regulating proteins for the prevention of mortal diseases in human history. In addition to the advancement in this technological technique, much research has been done in pigs also to study the tissue over time and help to investigate their role in the disease process. There have been some investigations into specific pigs that carry human organs (Perleberg et al., 2018). These can lead to beneficial opportunities to study the liver and follow up on those results to have a clear understanding of how it will affect the human body.

Many investigators have proven different ways in which genetic engineering has been used to treat or prevent certain diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. After years of investigation and comparison of data in 2017, the FDA approved the first genetic engineering-based treatment introduced by Novartis for leukemia patients (Martin, 2020). The study proves that the doses of the treatment are created from the patient’s T-cells, which are a type of white blood cells modified in a laboratory and placed back into the patient’s body. This treatment opens more options to these young adults and children that are the major population to develop this disease, increasing the survival rate. At the same time, according to the Office of Commissioner (2017), the FDA also approved Actemra (tocilizumab) to treat CAR T-cell-induced severe. However, this treatment, knowing that it helps patients 2 years and older, has some restrictions and side effects that may not be beneficial for everyone. Some of the side effects are high fever, neurological events, and risk of infection. This treatment is only available for patients who have already received any other type of treatment more than once, and the cancer returns.

Third, the benefits of genetic engineering in terms of public opinion and the author also mentions the potential health risks associated with genetic engineering. These risks must be carefully evaluated and monitored to ensure the safety of individuals and the environment. For example, there are concerns about unintended consequences of genetic modifications, such as the possibility of creating new diseases or harming non-target organisms. Therefore, it is crucial to establish guidelines and regulations that govern the use of genetic engineering, including ethical considerations, environmental impact, and long-term effects.

In conclusion, genetic engineering is a promising field with the potential to revolutionize the way we prevent and treat diseases. However, it is essential to approach this technology with caution and responsibility, considering both its benefits and potential risks. By conducting rigorous testing, establishing clear regulations and ethical guidelines, and promoting public awareness and education, we can maximize the positive impact of genetic engineering and minimize its potential negative effects. With continued research and innovation, genetic engineering can become a valuable tool in our efforts to improve public health and create a healthier future for all.

References

1. De Almeida, M. C., & Diogo, R. (2019b). Human enhancement. Evolution, Medicine & Public Health, 2019(1), 183–189. https://doi.org/10.1093/emph/eoz026
2. Kim, J., So, S., Lee, H., Park, J., Kim, J., & Lee, H. J. (2013). DigSee: disease gene search engine with evidence sentences (version cancer). Nucleic Acids Research, 41(W1), W510–W517. https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gkt531
3. Lanigan, T. M., Kopera, H. C., & Saunders, T. L. (2020). Principles of Genetic Engineering. Genes, 11(3), 291. https://doi.org/10.3390/genes11030291
4. Perleberg, C., Kind, A., & Schnieke, A. (2018). Genetically engineered pigs as models for human disease. Disease Models & Mechanisms, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1242/dmm.030783.
5. Martin, C., MD. (2020, January 27). How can Genetic Engineering be used to Treat or Cure Diseases. Explore Biotech. https://explorebiotech.com/how-genetic-engineering-treat-cure-diseases/
6. Office of the Commissioner & Office of the Commissioner. (2017, August 30). FDA approval brings first gene therapy to the United States. U.S. Food And Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approval-brings-first-gene-therapy-united-states