Germ Cell Therapy Research Paper

Due to the advancement in gene therapy, it can be done to germ cells to avoid further generations to carry the disease. This can help a family because it will remove the defective genes in the sperm and egg cells before fertilization. Mr. and Mrs. Salomon just discovered that they each carry the disease for Tay-Sachs and do not know what is best for them. Their child is guaranteed to get Tay-Sachs and cannot be cured. They are not sure if it is right to try out this experimental germ cell procedure because they do not want to play God. There are many risks that would come with the procedure but if they take the risk, it could benefit the child. I think it would be worth taking the chance to eliminate the gene that carries Tay-Sachs. Tay-Sachs is so severe that a child should not have to suffer through this disease if it can be removed. This would allow for the child to live a longer life and would not …show more content…
One risk is that is has never been done on humans. It has only be performed on mice and primates so the scientists have not discovered what would happen to humans. Scientists have not looked into this procedure enough to discover all of the symptoms and long-term problems that come along with this. Another risk with this procedure is that it might not work. Again, it has not be performed on humans so there are not statistics on whether or not it works. The Salomons can still end up with a child with Tay-Sachs and cannot do anything once the child is born. Also, they may get grief for playing God and may not be respected by many people. This is a controversial topic that many people do not agree with. The child may not be treated right and could get grief from because she should really be like that. This could make the parents feel bad and regret what they did. Lastly, the Salomons would have to be willing to pay for this procedure. The therapy could be pricey and is not guaranteed to show positive