Reference no: EM132407287

Discussion 1: After reading the prompt below, post your answer using about 200 words. Post your initial response at least 24 hours prior to the assignment due date, then return to respond to another classmate's post with about 50 words. Make sure to address them with their first name and sign your response with your own first name.

Doctors and scientists now have the ability to sequence a person's DNA to look for abnormalities. One common example of genetic testing is screening for an extra chromosome 21 in human fetuses. This test is used to detect if a child will have Down's Syndrome. Do some research and describe another example of genetic testing. What specifically do they look for in the DNA? How can genetic testing be beneficial and how far should we take it?

Discussion 2: In the past 25 years, we have learned a lot about DNA, and are now able to manipulate genes. Plants are genetically modified to possess desirable traits such as resistance to disease and to grow with less water and fertilizer. There are even certain Idaho potatoes that all grow to the same size, so McDonald's french fries are the same length! Human genes are inserted into bacteria to inexpensively produce drugs that treat diseases. Soon, non-life threatening cosmetic changes will be available for those who can afford them.

Conduct an internet search to find an interesting example of genetic engineering. Then, summarize what you discovered in about 200 words. Do not copy and paste or plagiarize in any way. Post your initial comment at least 24 hours prior to the assignment due date. Next, return to the discussion and read the posts of your other classmates. Respond to at least one other student's findings with about 50 words. Make sure to address them by their first name and then sign your response with your own first name. Check the course schedule for the assignment due date.