Genetic Engineering

Over the past decade genetic engineering has moved from the realms of fantasy to reality thanks to the sequencing of the human genome and developments in molecular biology techniques. A definition of genetic engineering is “the manipulation of DNA using restriction enzymes which can split the DNA molecule and then rejoin it to form a hybrid molecule.” It is the introduction of genes into existing cells; this may be used to prevent or cure a wide range of diseases or perhaps to genetically alter a plant so that it gives more food.

There are three types of genetic engineering. The first is used for gene therapy and involves the use of retroviruses. Retroviruses are viruses that can transfer their own genetic information and also genetically alter the human gene. This type of therapy can be used in the treatment of brain tumours. Suppose a brain tumour is forming by rapidly dividing cancer cells. The reason this tumour is forming is due to some defective or mutated gene. The ther...