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Discussion: Identifying and Treating Genetic Diseases

Meiosis, the kind of cell reproduction in which parent cells pass genetic traits to their offspring, is typically an accurate process. Mistakes in the process, known as mutations, are rare, and not all mutations lead to changes in an organism. Some mutations, however, have significant negative effects. Genetic mutations during meiosis have produced human diseases such as hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, and cystic fibrosis. Since abnormalities in the genome cause these diseases, any true cure must address a person’s genetic makeup. Amazingly, scientists are exploring ways to change human genes to treat these diseases. For this week’s Discussion, you conduct research to identify and learn about a genetic disease that interests you. You explore current treatments for the disease, as well as treatments under development. Then, you recommend a promising treatment based on your analysis.

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Review Chapter 6 “Cancer” in the course text and consider the following:
  • What a mutation is
  • The causes and effects of particular mutations
• Review Chapter 9, “Genetically Modified Organisms,” focusing on how genetic mutations occur and ways genetic modification is being considered in the treatment of genetic disorders.
• Conduct research to learn more about human genetic diseases. Identify one that particularly interests you. Learn more about the disease and how it is being treated, as well as treatments under development. Compare and contrast the treatments you read about to identify one that you find particularly promising.
  • Explore the Internet, especially websites that contain news and articles about genetic diseases and their treatment. This week’s Optional Resources suggest websites where you could start your search.
• Read the Discussion Spark topic/question or comment posted by your Instructor in the Discussion Thread on Day 1.

With these thoughts in mind:

By Day 2

Post a 1- to 2-paragraph response to the Discussion Spark. 

Important Note: The Discussion Spark and the weekly Discussion topic below will be graded together. You will see one score in your My Grades area.

By Day 4

Post by Day 4 a recommendation (at least two paragraphs long) for a promising treatment of the genetic disease you selected. The recommendation should include:

• A brief description of the genetic disease and how it occurs
• An explanation of the treatment you selected
• Reasons why this treatment is particularly promising
• References to at least two sources outside of the Required Resources
• All references cited in APA format

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings.

Discussion Post Spark Question:

 It is possible that every person will be able to have their genome sequenced within the next decade. Would you choose to sequence your genome and learn diseases you are pre-disposed to? Or would you rather not know?