Pros and Cons of Inheritable Genetic Modification
Posted by Ardent Editor on February 18th, 2009
Technological and scientific advancements in the genetic engineering field have proceeded rapidly in the past few years. On the one hand, proponents of genetic modification argue that this technology makes our lives much better. On the other hand, opponents of genetic engineering cite numerous environmental and ethical issues. One area of genetic engineering that has sparked heated debates is germline engineering,
Arguments Against Human Cloning
Posted by Ardent Editor on February 18th, 2009
While people are in constant pursuit of ways to improve and advance the quality of human life, some activities in the field of genetics face scrutiny from many advocacy groups because they are seen as violating fundamental environmental and ethical principles. Human cloning is one area of genetic engineering that has ignited intense debates. Below are some environmental and ethical arguments against human cloning.
Genetic Testing for Neonatal Diabetes
Posted by Ardent Editor on February 11th, 2009
Neonatal diabetes is characterized by insulin-sensitive hyperglycemia usually diagnosed within the first six months of life. The prevalence of this condition is around 1 in 400,000 births. About 50% of all cases of neonatal diabetes are an effect of mutations in either the sulfonylurea receptor -1 gene (SUR1) or the KIR6.2 gene (polymorphisms of KCNJ11).
Researchers at Oxford University in the United Kingdom heade
GM Cotton Plants Found to Curb Pests in Nearby Crops
Posted by Ardent Editor on January 28th, 2009
Cotton accounts for over 10% of all pesticide use and 25% of insecticide use in the world. However, as more weeds and insects become resistant to these chemicals, farmers need more pesticides and insecticides. This is a perfect formula for health, environmental, and socio-economic disaster. Scientists have found a potential solution for this looming catastrophe: genetically modifying cotton crops.
Genetically modif
Genetically Engineered Plants may Yield More Biofuel
Posted by Ardent Editor on January 7th, 2009
Researchers at the Penn State University revealed that genetically modifying plants could be what we need for a more environmental-friendly and cheaper way of producing ethanol. This could also help convert agricultural waste into livestock food.
Lignin
At the center of the scientific study is lignin, an important element of woody plant material. This protective barrier is woven in with cellulose, making plants str
Genetically Modified Crops or Insecticides?
Posted by Ardent Editor on December 10th, 2008
The genetic modification debate on the merits and dangers of GM crops is a heated one. The pro-GM camp argues that genetic engineering of crops can increase their quality and nutritional value whereas the anti-GM camp fuels the discontent that scientists are just playing God and describes GM crops as unnatural and "Frankenstein foods."
One area of debate is whether genetically modifying crops is better
Dog Genome May Shed Light on Human Disease
Posted by Ardent Editor on November 26th, 2008
Mapping dog genome could shed light on human diseases. A complete sequence of dog genome not only helps explain dogs’ unique set of behaviors, traits, and diseases, it could also help identify human disorders. Understanding the relationship between canine genetics and diseases could eventually lead to the development of new treatments for diseases and illnesses in humans.
Dog genes and human diseases
Humans
Stem Cell Research to Benefit Horse Owners and Trainers
Posted by Ardent Editor on November 12th, 2008
Damage to bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons are common in horses used in racing, polo, and equestrian. In a potential breakthrough, Melbourne researchers are trying to harness stem cells to repair these damages.
Horse injuries
Bone, cartilage, ligament, and tendon injuries in horses range from a minor inflammation to a complete rupture. The latter can lead to permanent lameness, eventually ending the compe
Ecological Impacts of Genetic Engineering of Crops
Posted by Ardent Editor on October 22nd, 2008
Genetic modification of organisms (GMO) has recently attracted much public attention. Proponents of biotechnology highlight its beneficial effects on agriculture and food processing industry – cheaper, tastier, more durable, tasty, and nutritious food.
Critics of genetic engineering use such terms as "genetic manipulation" and "Frankenstein food" to stress the unnaturalness of the proce
Genetic Modifications in Floral Crops
Posted by Ardent Editor on October 8th, 2008
People use their scent to attract the opposite (or same) sex. Many of them prefer a natural scent, while other love the smell of perfume or cologne. Many others are turned off by bad odor. In the plant kingdom, flowers also use scent to attract pollinators. Usually, flowers with fragrant and aromatic scent attract more insects than flowers with bad or no smell.
Scent then is crucial to the ecosystem, as well as t