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Dremmer
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Will it be possible in the future for humans to transform into other species via genetic engineering? e.g. a human becoming a gorilla
Dremmer said:Will it be possible in the future for humans to transform into other species via genetic engineering? e.g. a human becoming a gorilla
hg2051 said:I think your Gesserit (what's that?) And your Haderach (another famous nobody)
hg2051 said:Happy for my head.
Vagn said:Possible maybe, but it depends on what you define as "human". You would effectively have to reduce each cell to just the phospholipid bilayer and cytoplasm, you would have to remove all the trans-membrane proteins, antigens etc. to prevent the body having an auto-immune reaction to the new DNA and proteins, so it would be practically impossible to perform on anything older than a few hours after conception, as there would be too many cells, before this then yes, it maybe possible, but really it would be easier to use IVF treatment, you'd waste an awful lot of energy otherwise.
venton said:I really don't think so no.
If you think about it, we start off as a single cell which contains DNA.
The cells splits and unfolds and by a near miracle the embryo becomes a small human.
Genetic engineers can look at the DNA and identify certain traits like skin colour which they can tinker with. But the overall unfolding of the embryo is so immensly complex, it is only through millions of years of evolution that it has been gradually evolved to 'work'.
There isn't a gene which says 'head type' and we can swap that for a bird for example. Or a gene which says 'lung type' and we can switch it for gills.
We may be able to tweak a few things but changing to a new species, when you think of the complexity of embryolic develop that cannot happen.
Pythagorean said:Yes, the Bene Gesserit will eventually develop the Kwisatz Haderach!
While it is possible to genetically modify animals to have some human-like traits, such as increased intelligence or communication abilities, it is currently not scientifically possible to transform a human into a completely different species. Each species has its own unique genetic makeup and it would require extensive alterations to a human's DNA to change them into a non-human species. Additionally, there are ethical concerns surrounding the idea of transforming humans into animals.
Some proponents of genetic engineering may argue that transforming humans into other species could lead to advancements in medicine, agriculture, and other fields. For example, if humans were given the ability to photosynthesize like plants, it could potentially eliminate the need for food and solve world hunger. However, these potential benefits are largely hypothetical and the risks and ethical concerns outweigh them at this time.
Yes, there are numerous ethical concerns with transforming humans into other species. One major concern is the potential loss of human identity and individuality. Another concern is the impact on the environment and other species if humans were to suddenly become a part of a different ecosystem. There are also concerns about the unintended consequences and risks associated with altering human genetics.
Currently, the technology and knowledge required to transform humans into other species do not exist. While scientists have made advances in genetic engineering, it is still a complex and relatively new field. There are also numerous technical and ethical challenges that would need to be overcome before this type of transformation could even be considered.
This is a highly debated and controversial topic. Some argue that if it is possible and could potentially benefit humanity, then it is justifiable. Others argue that playing with human genetics in this way goes against our natural state and could have unforeseen consequences. Ultimately, it is up to society as a whole to decide if this type of transformation is ethically justifiable.