3.13 Treating Disease with Genetic Engineering
A. Genetic Engineering to Cure Disease
If we can change DNA inside a bacteria cell to create insulin? Can we create cures for genetic diseases like hemophilia by changing DNA inside many cells inside our body?
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Directions: Below is a story from CNN about one of the first people ever to have his genes edited. As you listen, think about:
- Who was treated?Â
- What was his illness?
- How did genetic engineering help him?
B. Treating Jude and Jonnathan
Scientists are working to create treatments for all kinds of genetic engineering, including hemophila. Soon, people like Jude might also be able to receive treatments. But medical treatments aren’t free.
Guess how much it costs to be treated for sickle cell? The first digit in the cost is 3. How many digits come next?Â
C. Think About It
Genetic treatments are expensive. The average person doesn’t have that much money, so what should we do?
Directions: Read the examples below and decide which one you agree with and why?
- We shouldn’t create expensive treatments if people can’t afford them.
- It’s better to have no treatment than a treatment only some people can afford.
- It’s better to treat some people even if others can’t afford it.
- We should find cures, but we also need to find a way to make sure everyone can access them.
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