https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/aug/10/gene-editing-to-remove-viruses-brings-transplant-organs-from-pigs-a-step-closer
Quote
Growing human transplant organs in pigs has become a more realistic prospect after scientists used advanced gene editing to remove threatening viruses from the animals' DNA.
Porcine endogenous retroviruses (Pervs) are permanently embedded in the pig genome but research has shown they can infect human cells, posing a potential hazard.
That's fascinating.
I think CRISPR is going to change society more than anything humans have done so far. We're just getting started and there's going to be applications which we can't imagine at this point.
From that page:
Quote
What is Crispr?
Crispr, or to give it its full name, Crispr-Cas9, allows scientists to precisely target and edit pieces of the genome. Crispr is a guide molecule made of RNA, that allows a specific site of interest on the DNA double helix to be targeted. The RNA molecule is attached to Cas9, a bacterial enzyme that works as a pair of "molecular scissors" to cut the DNA at the exact point required. This allows scientists to cut, paste and delete single letters of genetic code.
For those who don't know about it yet.
Crispr was another dinner topic last night, but not unusual to be in the news now. I have very uneasy feelings about 'designer babies' in the near future. Trav says China will be making a supersmart breed with this tech, even if we impose limitations. Debbie agrees with Trav.
It is interesting to think about, I am sure there will be designer high IQ babies coming and probably many unforeseen consequences. Also very likely: extended life span.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khan_Noonien_Singh
CRISPR-Cleaned Piglets Have Been Cloned for Organ Donation
http://bigthink.com/robby-berman/crispr-cleaned-piglets-have-been-cloned-for-organ-donation
This article is something of a reality-check on the topic. Pretty good read.
Genetically-modified wheat used to make coeliac-friendly bread
https://www.newscientist.com/article/2148596-genetically-modified-wheat-used-to-make-coeliac-friendly-bread/