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Ethical Issues Associated With Human Cloning

June 18, 2011 by rfcamat Leave a Comment

Dolly's remains are exhibited at the Museum of Scotland.
Dolly's remains are exhibited at the Museum of Scotland. (Wikimedia Image)

In the movie “The Sixth Day”, a clone of Adam Gibson (Arnold Schwarzenegger) takes over his family and professional role forcing the original character to prove his authenticity in the year 2015.

The movie could not be far from reality especially when experiments to produce human clones are being done clandestinely across the globe.

Cloning debate gained momentum since Dolly, the first cloned mammal, walked over the earth in 1996. The birth of Dolly opened the possibility that humans can be also be cloned using the same technique. Today, scientific cloning is yet to go mainstream mainly because it’s a difficult and expensive procedure and till now the clones produced have not been able to live long enough.

While animal cloning is quite acceptable in the society, we are yet to accept the fact that some time in future human clones will be greeting us in neighborhood parks.

Human cloning is possible through various methods. Embryo cloning, one of the methods, involves production of identical twins artificially. A few cells extracted from a fertilized embryo can be induced to develop into a duplicate embryo having DNA identical to its parent embryo. This technique has been used successfully on animals.

Another method is through removal of DNA from an ovum and replacing it with the DNA of an adult. The fertilized ovum is implanted in a womb and an identical or human clone can be produced. However, studies done on animals show that this technique can result in severe genetic defects in the newborn. Due to these side effects, this technique is banned in several countries but an Italian embryologist claimed to have developed a human clone through this procedure.

Several ethical issues of human cloning crop up through the years. Some people would like to have a clone to have a biological insurance to extract organs from in case their original ones fail or damaged. In this scenario, the existence of a clone just to save the original human being or to act as a replacement for him strongly questions human morality.

While a human clone’s right to identity is jeopardized, questions are raised on his right to inheritance, choice of a life partner, and other crucial life matters.

The safety of cloned humans is also questioned. While most attempts to clone mammals have failed, several of the clones born suffer from debilitating conditions and die prematurely. Moreover, we still don’t know how cloning impacts the brain and other vital organs in the body.

Therapeutic cloning, another technique, differs from reproductive cloning in a way that no offspring is given birth to. Only stem cells are extracted from the pre-embryo for the purpose of developing organs or tissues that can replace the damaged organs of the original DNA donor. The process eliminates the need to wait for the right donor and since the DNA is exactly the same, there are no complications in organ transplantation..

However, many decry such a procedure since the human embryo is destroyed in the extraction of stem cells. They feel that since embryo is equivalent to a human being, he should have rights equal to those of normal humans and killing him just to save the life of another person is simply unjust.

The stem cell proponents, however, claim that the stage at which the stem cells are being extracted is a very nascent stage and the embryo does not have brain to have awareness of the self and also lacks a thought process. They feel it can only be termed as human when it’s aware of the environment and has sensory capabilities, organs and limbs.

Time will tell whether humans are going to accept human cloning technology or not. But many scientists are unstoppable in developing perfect techniques on human cloning and stem cell production.


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Filed Under: Biology, Genetics

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Food

June 18, 2011 by rfcamat Leave a Comment

Btcornafrica
Kenyans examining insect-resistant transgenic Bt corn (Wikimedia Commons)

There is no love more sincere than the love for food. Food is  a uniting factor among different cultures since everybody likes to taste and enjoy exotic cuisines from around the world. This is also one of the reasons why the issue of genetically modified (GM) food is generating intense debate because we are what we eat. GM food includes crops, fruits and vegetables which are created by combining quality genes of various species and hence have better nutritional and productive value. The difference between this technique and traditional breeding is that latter occurs only between related species and hence is safe whereas there is no final word on safety of mixing genes of unrelated species.

Both sides of GM food debate are equally vociferous in expressing their opinions. While the pro lobby talks about how the GM crop can give a larger and better yield even in inhabitable conditions, the critics talk about risk to health and environment due to genetic alterations and exploitation of the poor by food corporates. Here we have a deeper look at the issue.

Advantages of Genetically Modified Food

Supporters of GM food crops are mostly relying on scientific data claiming that these crops yield much larger quantity and hence can be the solution to the problem of world hunger. The ability of GM crops to be cultivated even in areas with poor soil and harsh weather conditions is one of the advantages of genetically modified food. Another plus point is that the food produced is higher in nutritional value and can also taste better than the traditional variety. GM crops have inbuilt resistance against pests, insects and diseases allowing them to produce higher yield. The proponents are also claiming that genetic modification can even make certain food free of common allergies. This can be done by removing the genes that express the allergens or substances that trigger allergic reactions.

The GM foods are also capable of staying ripe for long hence there is lesser problem of spoilage. This can be done by adding a gene in the crop that expresses an organic compound that will extend the shelf life of the food.

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Disadvantages of Genetically Modified Food

While the pros of GM food may seem rewarding, the critics claim that they don’t hold water. First of all, they counter the technique itself by putting forth the argument that scientists still don’t know much about the genetics GM crops. They may identify quality genes but where to introduce them so as not to disturb the natural expression is still unclear. In fact, this lack of knowledge can lead to faulty interventions and irrepressible side effects. Traditional breeding has natural checks and balances due to breeding between related species but these are missing in GM food crops.

The hope that GM food can be an answer to the world hunger is another faux pause because they claim that millions of people sleep with empty stomach not because of lack of food but because of improper distribution. Millions of tons of food are wasted every month around the world because they do not reach the needy. Financial, infrastructural and political reasons rather than less production are responsible for the large number of hungry people across the globe.

The GM food may be having inbuilt resistance to common pests and insects but these organisms are known to mutate according to changes in their environment for survival. Thus, disease-resistant crops will only give rise to superbugs which will be more difficult to destroy.

Another big issue with GM crops is that they cross-pollinate with nearby normal crops and lead to ecological issues. Furthermore, if GM crops contain vaccines and antibiotics, human health is in peril as it would contribute to the development of resistance genes to human viruses and bacteria that we normally kill using vaccines and antibiotics.

Opponents assert that GM crops are patented by big biotechnology corporations that make sure that the harvested grains/fruits are not viable source of seeds to force farmers to buy costly seeds every time they want to cultivate the land.

Tests to validate the risks of GM crops are very expensive that most corporations avoid testing each and every food item. This increases the chances of unsafe food getting served to people.

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Filed Under: Biology, Genetics

Health Benefits of Jasmine Tea

June 17, 2011 by rfcamat Leave a Comment

Jasmine tea
Jasmine tea (Wikimedia Image)

Jasmine tea has long been a favorite of the Chinese due to its aroma, flavor and numerous health benefits. The tea made from tea leaves and jasmine flowers, exudes a very favorable scent. There are exceptional and numerous benefits in drinking jasmine tea.

Drinking jasmine tea, over time, could reduce the risk of developing some forms of cancer. The tea contains numerous antioxidants that prevent cancer. In fact, studies have shown that taking in jasmine tea reduces the risk of esophageal, breast, and prostate cancer.

Jasmine tea also has the capability of lowering blood cholesterol levels. It is an excellent supplement for an individual who follows low cholesterol diet. High cholesterol can lead to a variety of illnesses like high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke so drinking jasmine tea lowers you risk of these diseases.

Jasmine tea can also reduce body fat and maintain weight loss. A compound in jasmine green tea called catechin has been shown to lower fat content in animals. However, regular daily intake of jasmine tea is necessary to maintain this effect.

Jasmine tea can reduce the chance of blood clot formation as well as numerous diseases and disorders of the circulatory system. Blot clots is a risk factor for stroke and heart attack as it impedes the normal flow of blood in blood vessels.

The antioxidants in jasmine tea are helpful in preventing cancer and reducing the effects of aging. Skin problems like wrinkles, liver spots and fading can be reduced by regular intake of jasmine tea.[ad#728-90 after post]

Jasmine tea’s aroma, together with its compounds can relieve stress while promoting calmness and relaxation. It can be drunk before bedtime to prevent insomnia and ensure a fulfilling rest. It can be used to free one’s self from worries and troubles and helps maintain a positive outlook throughout the day.

Jasmine tea can also reduce the risk of infections because of its anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. This helps prevent influenza, cholera, ulcers, and diarrhea. It can also improve mouth odor while cleaning the teeth and strengthening the gums. It reduces the risk of cavity formation and tooth decay. As an anti-bacterial, it helps cleanse unwanted microbes from the digestive tract and also reduces instances of food poisoning by protecting against Listeria and Salmonella species.

Jasmine tea has been taken by diabetics to improve their condition. It lowers the body’s blood sugar levels while augmenting the production of insulin that enables blood sugar level regulation.

Jasmine tea can also help alleviate pain. Pain from muscle cramps, headaches and stomachaches can be eased by enjoying the aroma and taste of jasmine tea. Compounds in jasmine tea  help enhance the feeling of calmness and relaxation. Also, it can relieve several symptoms of allergies, and can help clear nasal blockages.

Jasmine tea is enjoyed all over the world for its fragrant aroma yet there is more to jasmine tea than just a pleasant odor. The numerous health benefits of jasmine tea make regular consumption a healthy and positive effort towards a productive life. Drinking jasmine tea would reduce the risks of many diseases and conditions, making you live worry free and reducing medical costs. Drinking jasmine tea is a good way to enhance a low fat diet for those losing weight or maintaining it. These benefits and many more that may be discovered in the future makes jasmine tea one of the most viable means of attaining a long and happy life.[ad#afterpost]

Filed Under: Alternative Medicine, Health

Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering in Humans

June 16, 2011 by rfcamat Leave a Comment

DNA
DNA, the molecular basis for inheritance (Image from Wikimedia Commons)

Tweaking a gene or two can bring the desired changes in human body but the technique brings along several moral and ethical issues.

You will have a perfect face if that stub of a nose you got from your father is sharpened a bit. Susceptibility to seasonal allergies is another issue that hassles you day in and day out. We all have something which needs to be altered and made perfect. Developments in science may make such modifications a reality through the use of genetic engineering.

However, the technology is still inviting lots of debates and controversies related to its optimum use. Here we discuss the pros and cons of genetic engineering.

Genetic engineering means alteration of your gene structure to replace any dysfunctional gene with a more efficient one. For instance, if somebody is suffering from cancer, his mutated genes can be replaced with healthy ones through genetic engineering. Another use can be to prevent any family disorder from passing on to a child through gene alteration.

Genetic engineering can either happen through intervention in the sperm and egg cells or via introduction of a viral vector carrying the healthy gene into the body of a person.  Not many people know that one of the first uses of genetic engineering was for production of synthetic insulin which has proved to be a great boon for diabetics.

Pros of Genetic Engineering

As explained above, there are several reasons why genetic engineering can work wonders for the human race. Though we have progressed a lot from the times when smallpox, chickenpox and plague used to wipe out entire cities, new and more lethal diseases like cancer, AIDS, cardiac ailments and Alzheimer’s are still a challenge.

Auto immune diseases are another set of disorders which are troubling several people around the world and are still a mystery for scientists.  With genetic engineering, we can hope to weed out these diseases from their roots which means replacing the faulty genes that allow them to exist and flourish in our bodies. Development of medicines specific to genetic makeup of each individual to get the best results can be one of the pros of genetic engineering.

Not only the diseased and hapless but even healthy and sound can look forward to reap benefits of the technique. Scientists are talking about longer lifespans since the ageing process can be stopped by tweaking particular genes. In fact, not only life spans but complete reversal of time – from old age to childhood or youth – may become a reality.

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Cons of Genetic Engineering

Though benefits of genetic engineering may seem like our ultimate dreams coming true, it is not so easy. There are various risks as well as moral and ethical dilemmas associated with the technique right now. Scientists are still experimenting with genetic engineering and some of these attempts have resulted in death of the subjects because there is still no clarity on how and in what way the healthy genes can be introduced in a body. In addition, the risks of making such an alteration are also not known. There can be an inherent capacity in human body to resist any attempt for genetic makeover by making corresponding changes in the genes elsewhere.

The risk of creating a seemingly perfect race is also manifold. Due to diversity of genes, there are some people who are more prone to a certain disease while there are others who are completely resistant to it. Since with the ‘perfect gene’ theory, we will all be genetically same, a new and more lethal disease can finish off the whole human population in one go.

On the other hand, if there are only a few who get this benefit of having a perfect gene, there will be discrimination. A few “mentally and physically perfect” people ruling large number of lesser mortals can be one of the cons of genetic engineering.

Parents will start making a beeline to have a “designer baby” who can bend it like Beckham and sing it like Bryan Adams while having the looks of Tom Cruise.

So is it really necessary for scientists to play God and change the genetic character of people to make them healthy or increase their life spans? Maybe with time and greater knowledge, we get to understand things better. Moral and ethical issues aside, genetic engineering holds a great scope in medical field and restricting the use of this technology only to deal with chronic and deadly diseases can be the solution which helps us all.

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Filed Under: Biology, Genetics

Nicotine Withdrawal Duration

June 16, 2011 by rfcamat Leave a Comment

N-I-C-O-T-I-N-E. However  I spell it, this is the same thing my mother has been obsessed with all these years. She has been in a continual struggle to beat the addiction and I wonder when she will be able to finally conquer it. Each time I see her smoking, there is only one thing that comes across my mind—she is digging her own grave.

I have tried putting myself in her shoes and looking for answers to my questions as to how long it will take for her to overcome the plight and how she can completely unhook herself from the deadly bondage. Here is what I have come up with:

Duration of Nicotine Withdrawal

Nicotine withdrawal duration depends on the individual; some endure a gradual and slow process while some only take a short period of time. The primary reason nicotine withdrawal is important is not the severity but rather the continuance. Numerous studies have shown that the average duration of nicotine withdrawal is about three weeks and that a significant percentage of smokers (40%), have withdrawal symptoms that last longer than the withdrawal span itself. It is the chronic and painstaking discomfort that impedes smoking cessation. Furthermore, many smokers who are still in irritable and anxious phase after three weeks believe this is how they will determine themselves without cigarettes. Faced with such tendency, it is apparent why many smokers would relapse. Studies earlier conducted that focused on the severity of withdrawal symptoms did not find that withdrawal could preempt cessation. The evidence thus supports the presumption that the duration of withdrawal is important.

Nicotine Withdrawal Stages

  • Pre-contemplation– This is considered to be the initial stage when someone is not yet serious in his decision to quit smoking.
  • Immediate Stage- The effects of nicotine withdrawal impact the smoker immediately. There have been reports that the signs of nicotine withdrawal appear as quickly as 30 minutes after the last cigarette was finished. The body’s physical reaction, for smokers who never fail to smoke a pack of cigarettes each day, includes feelings of anxiety after three hours without nicotine.
  • Three to Five Days-The exact nature of withdrawal symptoms vary on a person and the number of cigarette sticks smoked per day. Smoking and nicotine withdrawal symptoms reach a pinnacle at three to five days for most smokers. Physical symptoms at this stage may include cramps, nausea and headaches during the day, trouble sleeping at night and tension. Most people also feel being irritable and impatient. In extreme cases, the former smokers may go through panic attacks and temperamental episodes.
  • Two Weeks– The National Institute of Health showed some reports that after a week of avoiding smoking, addiction symptoms dwindle. Harvard’s Simon estimates that the major effects of nicotine withdrawal dissipate approximately two weeks after halting the smoking habit. Minor problems with depression are the most prevalent remaining withdrawal symptoms, along with anxiety and nicotine cravings.
  • Long Term– Depressive feelings, for instance, are magnified when people stop smoking.  This withdrawal risk will last for about six months from the time the person stops. The condition may be so severe that family members and friends may even encourage the smoker to start again to relieve the withdrawal condition.

I can only imagine how tedious it is for my mother to kick the deadly habit. However, if she does not do something to change her life, then only the worse has to be expected. Smoking in my opinion is the only vice that does not give any person any health benefits.

References

1. US Department of Health and Human Services. The health consequences of smoking: nicotine addiction. A report of the Surgeon General, 1988. Rockville, Maryland: Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, Office on Smoking and Health, 1988. (DHHS Publication No (CDC) 88-8406.)

2. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fourth edition. Washington: American Psychiatric Association, 1994.

3. Shadel WG, Shiffman S, Niaura R, et al. Current models of nicotine dependence: what is known and what is needed to advance understanding of tobacco etiology among youth. Drug Alcohol Depend 2000;59:S59-S62[Medline].

4. Shoaib M. Is dopamine important in nicotine dependence? J Physiol 1998;92:229-233.

 

Filed Under: Health, Medicine Tagged With: cigarette, nicotine, nicotine withdrawal, smoking

Herbal Remedies for Gout

June 16, 2011 by rfcamat Leave a Comment

Gout
Gout complicated by ruptured tophi (exudate tested positive for uric acid crystals)

Gout is a debilitating condition caused by inflammation of certain areas of the body due to the accumulation of uric acid. It results in swelling, sensitivity, and intense pain, making even minor movements excruciating. High levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia) eventually accumulate as crystals (tophi) in body areas. This induces an immune response, resulting in inflammation which usually occurs in joints and tendons in close contact with blood vessels. Particularly common is the accumulation of tophi at joint of the big toe (metatarsal-phalangeal joint). Gout is an acute condition that reoccurs frequently depending on the uric acid levels in a person’s body.

The presence of gout limits mobility. It also causes intense pain and suffering to the patient. Gout pain manifests itself during periods of low body temperature, like during nighttime, making sleeping difficult.

Treatment of gout usually involves alleviating the pain on the affected joint, or preventing serum uric acid levels in the blood from becoming too high. Serum uric acid levels are increased by seafood, alcoholic drinks, meat and fructose rich food. These foods should be avoided to prevent raising the level of uric acid in blood. However, there are some foods that can help prevent gout as well as alleviate the pain associated with it.

Consumption of foods rich in vitamin C has been known to prevent the increase in serum uric acid blood levels.  Tomatoes, citrus fruits, berries, and leafy vegetables all contain high vitamin C levels that can help improve gout symptoms.

Cherries have long been known as a remedy for gout. Eating cherries or drinking cherry juice 2-3 times a day can reduce blood uric acid content and also reduce inflammation. Cherries and berries are rich in anthocyanins, preventing bone connective tissue from being eroded by tophi.

To flush out uric acid from the body, several herbs may be used in combination. Celery seed, parsley, and birch tree leaves can effectively remove uric acid from the body when taken together or separately. Celery seed can be taken three times a day, each dose consisting of two teaspoons celery seed extract in a cup of warm water. Stinging nettle is also an effective herb in removing uric acid from the body. It can stimulate the body to excrete uric acid when taken in 250 mg daily doses. Additionally, it can be applied on the surface of the area affected with gout, to minimize pain and inflammation.

Pine bark and grape tree extracts can help in alleviating pain from attacks of gout. Devil’s claw can also reduce pain at the same time reducing serum acid and cholesterol levels in the blood. Turmeric can likewise be used to treat gout pain and inflammation.

The medicinal herbs mentioned above have certain compounds, which when taken in large doses, or if mixed with certain chemicals, could do more harm than good. Children and pregnant women should not take herbal medicines unless specifically prescribed by an expert or a doctor. Several drugs can also cause complications when taken with some herbal medicines, particularly colchicine.

Gout is a particularly painful and inconvenient condition. It prevents one from enjoying a full lifestyle and also makes nights particularly unbearable. Prevention of uric acid to reduce accumulation in joints is the first step to avoid having gout. Avoiding and minimizing intake of uric acid rich food can go a long way in preventing attacks of gout. Relieving pain and preventing more attacks are the objectives when gout does occur.  Herbs, fruits, and vegetables can help with treating gout, but great care must always be exercised when using alternative medicine, especially in combination with prescribed drugs. Living with gout can be difficult but with the proper precautions and with knowledge of potential remedies, it can be made easier.

References

  • Choi, H.K. (2010). A prescription for lifestyle change in patients with hyperuricemia and gout. Curr Opin Rheumatology
  • Terkeltaub, R. (2010). Update on gout: new therapeutic strategies and options. Nat Rev Rheumatology

Filed Under: Alternative Medicine, Health, Medicine Tagged With: arthritis, gout, herbal remedies

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