In microbiology class today we watched a film about a group of grad students creating a new bacteria with custom DNA. The idea was to create a bacteria that would change color in the presence of a pathogen that is commonly found in water in Sub-Saharan Africa. The color change would indicate that the water is unsafe to drink. They were successful. As laudable as this is, it is disturbing how relatively easy technology has made it to create new life forms. The students determined the DNA sequences they needed, then a private company created and shipped them the custom DNA. They then used chemicals to cause a bacteria they were using for a host to accept the modified DNA which it then reproduced whenever it divided. So what is to stop an evil scientist from taking a common air-borne bacteria and inserting some dreaded disease into it, one that leaves the host alive for 30 days or so in order to spread the disease? Very creepy and well within the realm of possibilities.
Posted on: Thu, 26 Sep 2013 03:38:14 +0000
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