Module 4 Disabling Genes

Student’s Name
Professor’s Name
Course
Date
Disabling Genes
Genes have been a vector in which diseases are transmitted from one generation to another. Indeed, this creates a class of disease known as genetically transmitted infection. Notably, diseases transmitted through this means are difficult to be treated and affects an individual throughout their lives. Some of the diseases transmitted through genes include sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, heart disease, arthritis, and Alzheimer (Stoppler n.d). This paper will discuss whether there exist capabilities to eliminate or to disable the gene permanently which results to the disease, the risks and advantages associated with it and whether the patient decides if they can be treated or it is a legal mandate to protect the community from the disease.
Removal or deactivating of the gene which is related to the disease need to be practiced. Essentially, this has several advantages associated with it. Firstly, it can elongate an individual’s life. Primarily, this can be achieved by having a resistance to conventional forms of organism death and disease infections (Lombardo n.d). Secondly, specific traits can be created. Primarily, the traits developed can enhance the immune system of an individual thus reducing the risks of the disease infection to the person.
Despite having merits associated with it, there are several demerits associated with it. Firstly, it can result in a permanent resistance against a particular disease-causing organism.

With this, the bacteria and viruses develop an immune which is developed by eliminating the gene thus causing the pathogens to become tougher and more immune as compared to when it is normal thus resulting to unknown future health concerns (Lombardo n.d). Secondly, it can shorten the lifespan of the individual. By removing the gene, it might result in wiping out the entire generation of the person.
For such a treatment to be administered, it requires the patient’s conscience. Currently, it is not a legal obligation for the good of society. Indeed, this is because of the risks and dangers associated with the process of removing or disabling the gene associated with the disease. Further, it will be against the ethics and rights of the individual. Thus, it better if the person can willingly accept the treatment.

Works Cited
Lombardo, Crystal. “13 Advantages and Disadvantages of Genetic Engineering.” Vittana.org, 7 June 2017, vittana.org/13-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-genetic-engineering.
Stoppler, Melissa C. “List of Genetic Diseases – Types, Symptoms, Causes, Definitions.” MedicineNet, 23 Mar. 2018, www.medicinenet.com/genetic_disease/article.htm#multifactorial_genetic_inheritance.