Ethics on Genes

INTRODUCTION Genetic research has advanced in a dramatic fashion in the last decade or so, to the point where it has now become possible to attempt therapeutic genetic modification, in a few cases of human genes, where a defects exists which manifests itself in certain serious disease. This possibility, known as gene therapy, is only in its infancy. At present, no one knows how effective it will prove to be, even in a few conditions …

…scientific discovery or therapy or product, to avoid creating unrealistic expectations by the public in general and especially vulnerable groups who might be anxious for any sort of remedy. It seems likely that it will be many years before more than very modest claims could be made of gene therapy, but naturally we hope and pray that its promise may be fulfilled in significant improvements for sufferers from cystic fibrosis and other diseases. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography**