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| DNA factor: Scientists
are now exploring the use of gene therapy to attack
genetic diseases by correcting faulty genes |
Genetic technology is
a term that refers to a whole range of techniques for genetic
investigation, analysis and change that depend on the direct
manipulation of DNA, the material substance of heredity.
DNA is the blueprint for the individuality of an organism,
which relies upon the information stored in its DNA for
the management of every biochemical process. The life, growth
and unique features of the organism depend on its DNA. The
segments of DNA which are associated with specific functions
and identifying marks are called genes.
Genetic engineering is performed
by modifying an organism’s own DNA or introducing new DNA
to perform desired functions. Genetic technology is already
providing new ways of preventing, treating and curing human
and animal diseases; it is helping farmers to improve agricultural
production and decrease the harmful impact on the environment;
and in the future, it will allow better food products to
be available at reduced cost.
Scientists are now exploring the
use of gene therapy to attack genetic diseases by correcting
faulty genes. The greatest breakthroughs in recent years
have been gene splicing, cloning and mapping. What
do I have to do?
Genetic engineers facilitate the
manufacture of products, particularly drugs that cannot
be obtained in any other way. It can also be used to create
organisms, such as plants resistant to attack by insects,
which are not found in nature. There are a number of techniques
for moving genes artificially into recipient organisms.
The oldest of these is called recombinant DNA, a technique
that relies on biological vectors like plasmids or viruses.
Other gene transfer techniques are electronic and chemical
poration, microinjection, and bioballistics.
Genetic engineering also allows
the bulk production of proteins that were previously available
only in tiny amounts. An example is interferon, a molecule
produced by the immune system in response to infection.
Interferon therapy is used (with chemotherapy and radiation)
as a treatment for cancer.
Human embryonic stem cells were
first described in 1998. Many researchers are using these
cells to set up models to study early human development
and also to provide genetic and cell-based therapies for
disease. It is hoped that one day, we will be able to produce
heart, pancreas or brain cells in dishes, to replace genetically
faulty tissue and tissue damaged by illness. What
should I study?
For a BSc degree in genetics,
you should have passed Plus Two with physics, chemistry
and biology as optional subjects. A student seeking admission
to an MSc in genetics should have passed BSc (honours) in
any branch of life sciences/biology/biotechnology/microbiology/agriculture
from a recognised university. Selection is made on the basis
of a written test and an interview.
You should have above average
intelligence with an aptitude for science subjects; the
ability to concentrate for long hours; an inquiring and
logical mind; imagination; a capacity for original thought;
perseverance; organising ability; an ability for team work;
a methodical, practical approach to scientific problems;
resourcefulness; and the willingness to get to the bottom
of a problem.
What next?
There are management, administration,
marketing, reporting, writing, sales and public relations
opportunities in agricultural, biotechnological and pharmaceutical
companies for those with a solid background in genetics.
The National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi; the Centre
for DNA Fingerprint and Diagnostics, Hyderabad; the Biochemical
Engineering Research and Process Development Centre, Chandigarh;
the Institute of Genomic and Integrative Biology, Delhi,
are some institutions that hire genetic engineers and biotech
scientists. One can also
work within the health service as a cytogeneticist, a molecular
and biochemical geneticist, a genetic nurse, a genetic counsellor
or as a clinical geneticist. Colleges and universities also
require researchers, technicians and lecturers in genetics.
where to study
- Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar.
- Osmania University, Hyderabad.
- Madurai Kamraj University, Madurai.
- Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
- University of Delhi, New Delhi.
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