Can you take a non human gene and implant it?

In summary, it is possible to take a non human gene and implant it into a human through a process known as gene therapy. The ethics of this practice is still being debated, as there are concerns about potential risks and consequences. Some potential risks include an immune response, unintended mutations, and the inserted gene not functioning as intended. In most cases, gene therapy using non human genes is not hereditary and will not be passed down to future generations. However, there are exceptions where the therapy targets reproductive cells and can be inherited. There have been successful cases of gene therapy using non human genes, such as the 2017 approval of a treatment for a rare form of inherited blindness.
  • #1
cronxeh
Gold Member
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Rattlesnakes have infrared cavity sensors, and I was wondering if it was possible to, ahem, take their Pax6? Pax7? genes and clone them into human embryos, creating a super baby human that can see IR waves
 
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  • #2
No.

Snakes almost certainly rely on more than a single gene to detect IR (ex proper organs to make sense of the information.). Also, something as basic as a Pax gene shouldn't be introduced into human embryos willy nilly. (will-he nill-he).
 
  • #3


It is currently not possible to take a non-human gene and implant it into a human embryo. While genetic engineering and manipulation techniques have advanced significantly, there are still many ethical and technical limitations that prevent this type of gene transfer. Additionally, even if it were possible, it is important to consider the potential consequences and ethical implications of creating a "super baby" with enhanced abilities. It is important to carefully consider the ethical and moral implications of altering human genetic makeup before pursuing such endeavors.
 

Related to Can you take a non human gene and implant it?

1. Can you take a non human gene and implant it into a human?

Yes, it is possible to take a non human gene and implant it into a human. This process is known as gene therapy and involves inserting a functional gene into a person's cells to replace a non-functioning or mutated gene.

2. Is it ethical to insert non human genes into humans?

The ethics of inserting non human genes into humans is a complex issue that is still being debated. Some argue that it is necessary for medical advancements, while others have concerns about the potential risks and unforeseen consequences.

3. What are the potential risks of inserting non human genes into humans?

Some potential risks of gene therapy using non human genes include an immune response, unintended mutations, and the possibility of the inserted gene not functioning as intended. It is important for extensive research and trials to be conducted before any gene therapy is approved for human use.

4. Can non human genes be passed down to future generations?

In most cases, gene therapy using non human genes is not hereditary. This means that the inserted gene will not be passed down to future generations. However, there are some exceptions where the gene therapy targets reproductive cells and can be inherited.

5. Are there any successful cases of non human genes being implanted into humans?

Yes, there have been successful cases of gene therapy using non human genes. For example, in 2017, a gene therapy was approved for use in the United States to treat a rare form of inherited blindness caused by a non functioning gene. This treatment uses a non human gene to replace the non-functioning one and has been successful in restoring sight for patients.

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