Punit Virk presents Transforming Pathology: Biotechnology as a positive feedback loop for the evolution of anatomical pathology at Pathology-2015 in New Orleans, July 15, 2015
Lukas P, Organ Cloning, period 3, 11 slides (first slide blank) - Please disregard my previous upload. I uploaded wrong version. The correct version is called Organ Cloning Project Revised.
2019.12.08 Bill Faloon at Confidential Cures Summit Dec 8 2019.maximuspeto
Bill Faloon presents some remarkable advancements in human age-reversal medicine at the Confidential Cures Summit in Palm Beach Florida on December 8th, 2019.
Lukas P, Organ Cloning, period 3, 11 slides (first slide blank) - Please disregard my previous upload. I uploaded wrong version. The correct version is called Organ Cloning Project Revised.
2019.12.08 Bill Faloon at Confidential Cures Summit Dec 8 2019.maximuspeto
Bill Faloon presents some remarkable advancements in human age-reversal medicine at the Confidential Cures Summit in Palm Beach Florida on December 8th, 2019.
Bill Faloon's presentation for Age Reversal webinar on Jan 23rd 2021maximuspeto
Bill Faloon presented an age reversal update on a webinar hosted by the Coalition for Radical Life Extension on January 23rd, 2021. These are his presentation slides.
Bill Faloon on Anti-Aging Drugs at DaVinci 50 Conference, 2021maximuspeto
In this presentation, Bill Faloon gives an update on the prospects of anti-aging drugs at the DaVinci 50 Masters Conference in Key Largo, Florida on April 29th, 2021.
Bill Faloon at Healthy Masters Conference 2020maximuspeto
Bill Faloon explores the recent hyperbaric oxygen study published in the journal Aging, in which the researchers reported a 20% increase in average telomere length in the human study volunteers.
Eukaryotic cells have their genetic material in the nucleus, in the other side, prokaryotes have it dispersed in the cytoplasm.
From this DNA will be synthesized RNA, which will act as an intermediary, carrying genetic information from the nucleus to the ribosomes located in the cytoplasm to carry out protein synthesis.
genetic code consists of 64 triplets (codons) of nucleotides, each codon encodes for one of the 20 amino-acids used in the synthesis of proteins.
The study of the genetic code, allow s us identify mutations in specific genes, to detect diseases or predispositions to some pathologies such as those proposed by the articles, and with tan information, implement a PREVENTIVE MEDICINE.
Knowing the sequence of genes that cause certain genetic diseases, is essential for GENE THERAPY branch. In brief it consist in introduce a correct copy of the defective gene that was visualized into the cells, by some vectors, previously studied.
With the knowledge of genetic information, can be provided counseling before and after pregnancy to future parents (Give information about the diseases to which it is susceptible and existing treatments), having always instilled an ethical principle: THE HUMAN LIFE RESPECT.
Promote investigation in medicine basic areas, such as cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry and pharmacology, with the aim of implement humanity solutions .
October 8, 2015
From the event "Synthetic Biology: Science, Policy, and Ethics."
Sponsored by the Petrie-Flom Center for Health Law Policy, Biotechnology, and Bioethics at Harvard Law School.
For more information, visit our website at http://petrieflom.law.harvard.edu/events/details/synthetic-biology.
Bill Faloon's presentation for Age Reversal webinar on Jan 23rd 2021maximuspeto
Bill Faloon presented an age reversal update on a webinar hosted by the Coalition for Radical Life Extension on January 23rd, 2021. These are his presentation slides.
Bill Faloon on Anti-Aging Drugs at DaVinci 50 Conference, 2021maximuspeto
In this presentation, Bill Faloon gives an update on the prospects of anti-aging drugs at the DaVinci 50 Masters Conference in Key Largo, Florida on April 29th, 2021.
Bill Faloon at Healthy Masters Conference 2020maximuspeto
Bill Faloon explores the recent hyperbaric oxygen study published in the journal Aging, in which the researchers reported a 20% increase in average telomere length in the human study volunteers.
Eukaryotic cells have their genetic material in the nucleus, in the other side, prokaryotes have it dispersed in the cytoplasm.
From this DNA will be synthesized RNA, which will act as an intermediary, carrying genetic information from the nucleus to the ribosomes located in the cytoplasm to carry out protein synthesis.
genetic code consists of 64 triplets (codons) of nucleotides, each codon encodes for one of the 20 amino-acids used in the synthesis of proteins.
The study of the genetic code, allow s us identify mutations in specific genes, to detect diseases or predispositions to some pathologies such as those proposed by the articles, and with tan information, implement a PREVENTIVE MEDICINE.
Knowing the sequence of genes that cause certain genetic diseases, is essential for GENE THERAPY branch. In brief it consist in introduce a correct copy of the defective gene that was visualized into the cells, by some vectors, previously studied.
With the knowledge of genetic information, can be provided counseling before and after pregnancy to future parents (Give information about the diseases to which it is susceptible and existing treatments), having always instilled an ethical principle: THE HUMAN LIFE RESPECT.
Promote investigation in medicine basic areas, such as cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry and pharmacology, with the aim of implement humanity solutions .
October 8, 2015
From the event "Synthetic Biology: Science, Policy, and Ethics."
Sponsored by the Petrie-Flom Center for Health Law Policy, Biotechnology, and Bioethics at Harvard Law School.
For more information, visit our website at http://petrieflom.law.harvard.edu/events/details/synthetic-biology.
ENC 1101Assignment 2Topic Selection Genetics 1. Use the .docxchristinemaritza
ENC 1101
Assignment: 2
Topic Selection: Genetics
1. Use the two articles provided
a. Is it OK to make babies from 3 parents' DNA?
b. Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
2. Please include two sources from the library or the library databases
Research/Source Evaluation Paper:
A research paper is the culmination and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. Source Evaluation is needed to scrutinize and analyze the given sources on their substance and academic validity.
Assignment:
Students will submit an outline and compose a three-page (research/evaluation) paper.
Instructions:
Make sure that your paper has:
•
A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first portion of the paper.
•
Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
•
Body paragraphs that include evidential support.
•
Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).
•
A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.
Due Date:
Your three-page paper is due March 15. When typing your paper, please be sure to double-space and to use the standard 12-point font in either Times New Roman or Calibri. Follow MLA research guidelines. Be sure to also include a Works Cited.
Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
By WakingTimes January 22, 2013
Aaron Jackson, Guest Writer
Waking Times
Genetically screening our offspring to make them better people is just “responsible parenting”, claims an eminent Oxford academic, The Telegraph reports.
Professor Julian Savulescu, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Medical Ethics, said that creating so-called designer babies could be considered a “moral obligation” as it makes them grow up into “ethically better children”, this based on a few genetic links to ‘personality disorders’.
He said that we should actively give parents the choice to screen out personality flaws in their children as it meant they were then less likely to “harm themselves and others”.
Studies show that the child’s upbringing, including parenthood and schooling methods are the root causes of many ‘personality flaws’. Other studies give strong evidence that nutrition, meditation and exercise greatly influence behavioural patterns and emotional well-being. This entire theory is also blind to the side effects of many medicines, vaccines, food additives and (some) GMO foods that have been proven to affect psychological behaviour, and this isn’t even touching on the possible beneficial use of marijuana and other substances for those with undesired personality traits.
“Surely trying to ensure that your children have the best, or a good enough, opportunity for a great life is responsible parenting?” wrote Prof Savulescu, the Uehiro Professor in practical ethics.
ENC 1101Assignment 2Topic Selection Genetics 1. Use the .docxgidmanmary
ENC 1101
Assignment: 2
Topic Selection: Genetics
1. Use the two articles provided
a. Is it OK to make babies from 3 parents' DNA?
b. Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
2. Please include two sources from the library or the library databases
Research/Source Evaluation Paper:
A research paper is the culmination and final product of an involved process of research, critical thinking, source evaluation, organization, and composition. Source Evaluation is needed to scrutinize and analyze the given sources on their substance and academic validity.
Assignment:
Students will submit an outline and compose a three-page (research/evaluation) paper.
Instructions:
Make sure that your paper has:
•
A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first portion of the paper.
•
Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.
•
Body paragraphs that include evidential support.
•
Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).
•
A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.
Due Date:
Your three-page paper is due March 15. When typing your paper, please be sure to double-space and to use the standard 12-point font in either Times New Roman or Calibri. Follow MLA research guidelines. Be sure to also include a Works Cited.
Oxford Professor Says Genetically Altering Unborn Babies Personalities A Moral Obligation
By WakingTimes January 22, 2013
Aaron Jackson, Guest Writer
Waking Times
Genetically screening our offspring to make them better people is just “responsible parenting”, claims an eminent Oxford academic, The Telegraph reports.
Professor Julian Savulescu, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Medical Ethics, said that creating so-called designer babies could be considered a “moral obligation” as it makes them grow up into “ethically better children”, this based on a few genetic links to ‘personality disorders’.
He said that we should actively give parents the choice to screen out personality flaws in their children as it meant they were then less likely to “harm themselves and others”.
Studies show that the child’s upbringing, including parenthood and schooling methods are the root causes of many ‘personality flaws’. Other studies give strong evidence that nutrition, meditation and exercise greatly influence behavioural patterns and emotional well-being. This entire theory is also blind to the side effects of many medicines, vaccines, food additives and (some) GMO foods that have been proven to affect psychological behaviour, and this isn’t even touching on the possible beneficial use of marijuana and other substances for those with undesired personality traits.
“Surely trying to ensure that your children have the best, or a good enough, opportunity for a great life is responsible parenting?” wrote Prof Savulescu, the Uehiro Professor in practical ethics ...
Slide deck for annual meeting of Transplant Regenerative medicine Community of Practice of American Society of Transplantation at noon in Room 204 in John B. Hynes Convention Center. Everyone welcome! Many exciting initiatives to discuss!
Kim Solez Xenotransplantation- The Rest of the Story April 8 2022 6.pptxKim Solez ,
Nephrology Grand Rounds Presentation at the University of Alberta discussing the big picture issues surrounding xenotransplantation and its relation to stem cell generated organs and bioengineered organs in the future
Kim Solez Hooking-Up Physical Forces Optimism and Dark Energy Presentation Se...Kim Solez ,
Kim Solez Banff New Media Institute Presentation, "Smart, Sexy, Healthy" ThinkTank, Sept 6 2001
Hooking-Up, Physical Forces, Optimism and Dark Energy: Imagery, Hope, and Health.
Kim Solez 384 years of banff spirit new june 26 2019Kim Solez ,
Kim Solez 384 years of Banff spirit new June 26 2019 The most remarkable slide is number 137. "By Spring of 2019 every erroneous statement we complained about had been reversed. We celebrated by creating a new video trailer on our YouTube channel on June 25 2019." How about that!
Lung Cancer: Artificial Intelligence, Synergetics, Complex System Analysis, S...Oleg Kshivets
RESULTS: Overall life span (LS) was 2252.1±1742.5 days and cumulative 5-year survival (5YS) reached 73.2%, 10 years – 64.8%, 20 years – 42.5%. 513 LCP lived more than 5 years (LS=3124.6±1525.6 days), 148 LCP – more than 10 years (LS=5054.4±1504.1 days).199 LCP died because of LC (LS=562.7±374.5 days). 5YS of LCP after bi/lobectomies was significantly superior in comparison with LCP after pneumonectomies (78.1% vs.63.7%, P=0.00001 by log-rank test). AT significantly improved 5YS (66.3% vs. 34.8%) (P=0.00000 by log-rank test) only for LCP with N1-2. Cox modeling displayed that 5YS of LCP significantly depended on: phase transition (PT) early-invasive LC in terms of synergetics, PT N0—N12, cell ratio factors (ratio between cancer cells- CC and blood cells subpopulations), G1-3, histology, glucose, AT, blood cell circuit, prothrombin index, heparin tolerance, recalcification time (P=0.000-0.038). Neural networks, genetic algorithm selection and bootstrap simulation revealed relationships between 5YS and PT early-invasive LC (rank=1), PT N0—N12 (rank=2), thrombocytes/CC (3), erythrocytes/CC (4), eosinophils/CC (5), healthy cells/CC (6), lymphocytes/CC (7), segmented neutrophils/CC (8), stick neutrophils/CC (9), monocytes/CC (10); leucocytes/CC (11). Correct prediction of 5YS was 100% by neural networks computing (area under ROC curve=1.0; error=0.0).
CONCLUSIONS: 5YS of LCP after radical procedures significantly depended on: 1) PT early-invasive cancer; 2) PT N0--N12; 3) cell ratio factors; 4) blood cell circuit; 5) biochemical factors; 6) hemostasis system; 7) AT; 8) LC characteristics; 9) LC cell dynamics; 10) surgery type: lobectomy/pneumonectomy; 11) anthropometric data. Optimal diagnosis and treatment strategies for LC are: 1) screening and early detection of LC; 2) availability of experienced thoracic surgeons because of complexity of radical procedures; 3) aggressive en block surgery and adequate lymph node dissection for completeness; 4) precise prediction; 5) adjuvant chemoimmunoradiotherapy for LCP with unfavorable prognosis.
Flu Vaccine Alert in Bangalore Karnatakaaddon Scans
As flu season approaches, health officials in Bangalore, Karnataka, are urging residents to get their flu vaccinations. The seasonal flu, while common, can lead to severe health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Vidisha Kumari, a leading epidemiologist in Bangalore, emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated. "The flu vaccine is our best defense against the influenza virus. It not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus in our communities," he says.
This year, the flu season is expected to coincide with a potential increase in other respiratory illnesses. The Karnataka Health Department has launched an awareness campaign highlighting the significance of flu vaccinations. They have set up multiple vaccination centers across Bangalore, making it convenient for residents to receive their shots.
To encourage widespread vaccination, the government is also collaborating with local schools, workplaces, and community centers to facilitate vaccination drives. Special attention is being given to ensuring that the vaccine is accessible to all, including marginalized communities who may have limited access to healthcare.
Residents are reminded that the flu vaccine is safe and effective. Common side effects are mild and may include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or muscle aches. These side effects are generally short-lived and far less severe than the flu itself.
Healthcare providers are also stressing the importance of continuing COVID-19 precautions. Wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing are still crucial, especially in crowded places.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated. Together, we can help keep Bangalore healthy and safe this flu season. For more information on vaccination centers and schedules, residents can visit the Karnataka Health Department’s official website or follow their social media pages.
Stay informed, stay safe, and get your flu shot today!
- Video recording of this lecture in English language: https://youtu.be/lK81BzxMqdo
- Video recording of this lecture in Arabic language: https://youtu.be/Ve4P0COk9OI
- Link to download the book free: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/nephrotube-nephrology-books.html
- Link to NephroTube website: www.NephroTube.com
- Link to NephroTube social media accounts: https://nephrotube.blogspot.com/p/join-nephrotube-on-social-media.html
New Drug Discovery and Development .....NEHA GUPTA
The "New Drug Discovery and Development" process involves the identification, design, testing, and manufacturing of novel pharmaceutical compounds with the aim of introducing new and improved treatments for various medical conditions. This comprehensive endeavor encompasses various stages, including target identification, preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory approval, and post-market surveillance. It involves multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists, researchers, clinicians, regulatory experts, and pharmaceutical companies to bring innovative therapies to market and address unmet medical needs.
Title: Sense of Taste
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the structure and function of taste buds.
Describe the relationship between the taste threshold and taste index of common substances.
Explain the chemical basis and signal transduction of taste perception for each type of primary taste sensation.
Recognize different abnormalities of taste perception and their causes.
Key Topics:
Significance of Taste Sensation:
Differentiation between pleasant and harmful food
Influence on behavior
Selection of food based on metabolic needs
Receptors of Taste:
Taste buds on the tongue
Influence of sense of smell, texture of food, and pain stimulation (e.g., by pepper)
Primary and Secondary Taste Sensations:
Primary taste sensations: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Umami
Chemical basis and signal transduction mechanisms for each taste
Taste Threshold and Index:
Taste threshold values for Sweet (sucrose), Salty (NaCl), Sour (HCl), and Bitter (Quinine)
Taste index relationship: Inversely proportional to taste threshold
Taste Blindness:
Inability to taste certain substances, particularly thiourea compounds
Example: Phenylthiocarbamide
Structure and Function of Taste Buds:
Composition: Epithelial cells, Sustentacular/Supporting cells, Taste cells, Basal cells
Features: Taste pores, Taste hairs/microvilli, and Taste nerve fibers
Location of Taste Buds:
Found in papillae of the tongue (Fungiform, Circumvallate, Foliate)
Also present on the palate, tonsillar pillars, epiglottis, and proximal esophagus
Mechanism of Taste Stimulation:
Interaction of taste substances with receptors on microvilli
Signal transduction pathways for Umami, Sweet, Bitter, Sour, and Salty tastes
Taste Sensitivity and Adaptation:
Decrease in sensitivity with age
Rapid adaptation of taste sensation
Role of Saliva in Taste:
Dissolution of tastants to reach receptors
Washing away the stimulus
Taste Preferences and Aversions:
Mechanisms behind taste preference and aversion
Influence of receptors and neural pathways
Impact of Sensory Nerve Damage:
Degeneration of taste buds if the sensory nerve fiber is cut
Abnormalities of Taste Detection:
Conditions: Ageusia, Hypogeusia, Dysgeusia (parageusia)
Causes: Nerve damage, neurological disorders, infections, poor oral hygiene, adverse drug effects, deficiencies, aging, tobacco use, altered neurotransmitter levels
Neurotransmitters and Taste Threshold:
Effects of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) on taste sensitivity
Supertasters:
25% of the population with heightened sensitivity to taste, especially bitterness
Increased number of fungiform papillae
TEST BANK for Operations Management, 14th Edition by William J. Stevenson, Ve...kevinkariuki227
TEST BANK for Operations Management, 14th Edition by William J. Stevenson, Verified Chapters 1 - 19, Complete Newest Version.pdf
TEST BANK for Operations Management, 14th Edition by William J. Stevenson, Verified Chapters 1 - 19, Complete Newest Version.pdf
Basavarajeeyam is an important text for ayurvedic physician belonging to andhra pradehs. It is a popular compendium in various parts of our country as well as in andhra pradesh. The content of the text was presented in sanskrit and telugu language (Bilingual). One of the most famous book in ayurvedic pharmaceutics and therapeutics. This book contains 25 chapters called as prakaranas. Many rasaoushadis were explained, pioneer of dhatu druti, nadi pareeksha, mutra pareeksha etc. Belongs to the period of 15-16 century. New diseases like upadamsha, phiranga rogas are explained.
MANAGEMENT OF ATRIOVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION BLOCK.pdfJim Jacob Roy
Cardiac conduction defects can occur due to various causes.
Atrioventricular conduction blocks ( AV blocks ) are classified into 3 types.
This document describes the acute management of AV block.
Report Back from SGO 2024: What’s the Latest in Cervical Cancer?bkling
Are you curious about what’s new in cervical cancer research or unsure what the findings mean? Join Dr. Emily Ko, a gynecologic oncologist at Penn Medicine, to learn about the latest updates from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) 2024 Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer. Dr. Ko will discuss what the research presented at the conference means for you and answer your questions about the new developments.
2. Genetics and Pathology
Genomics and Moore’s Law
Current Limitations of Genomics
A Genomic Singularity
Painless, Satiated, Designer Babies-
combating Pathology
You and Me—Juggling Humanity
Outline
3. {
Why Genomics?
• Genetically information forms the basis of some
of the most intriguing biological phenomena.
• Genomics plays a role in 9/10 leading causes of
death, including: Heart Disease, Cancer, Stroke,
Diabetes, and Alzheimer's.
4. Genomics and Moore's Law
• DNA sequencing technology have arguably exceeded Moore’s
law.
• Speed of genome sequencing has far better than doubled every
two years.
• What now? How does this sequence data connect with
anatomical pathology?
7. Pathology and AI
“With too little data, you won’t be able to make any conclusions you
trust. With loads of data you will find relationships that are not real.”-
Douglas Merrill
9. Ending World Hunger?
Is genetically-engineered and lab-grown food the remedy for worldwide
malnutrition and hunger?
10. Designer Babies
Will biotechnology breakthroughs during the technological singularity enable
us to manipulate what it means to be human? And our relationship with
pathology
11. Technology and Pathology
Would we really be manipulating our own genetics? Are we vulnerable
for entrusting our code life in the hands of strong, self-aware AI?
12. Genomics and Everyday Life
1. Could individuals start imposing limitations upon
themselves if genetic profiles become available?
2. What if employers and universities eventually gained
access to such information, could affect admission or
employment?
3. Could discrimination based on genetic information
present a drawback for advances in genetic research?
13. 2 Moms + 1 Dad
The British government recently legalized 3-parent babies. A child can be born with
3 genetic parents. Is this a step towards ‘designer babies,’ or a innovative technique
to eliminate mitochondrial disorders
14. The Red Queen Hypothesis?
Could we end up in an arms race between pathology and genetic engineering?
15. Agar, Nicholas. (2006, April). Designer Babies: Ethical Considerations. Retrieved from:
http://www.actionbioscience.org/biotechnology/agar.html#top
Baker, Catherine. Your Genes, Your Choices: Exploring the Issues Raised by Genetic Research . (1999). Retrieved from
http://ehrweb.aaas.org/ehr/books/index.html
Borlaug, Norman. E. (2000). Ending World Hunger. The Promise of Biotechnology and the Threat of Anticscience Zealotry. Plant
Physiology, 124(3), 487-490.
Burt, R.K., Slavin, S., Burns, W.H., Marmont, A.M. (2002). Induction of tolerance in automimmune diseases by stem cell
transplantation: getting closer to a cure? Blood, 99 (3), 768-784. http://bloodjournal.hematologylibrary.org/content/99/3/768.full.pdf
Carr, Geoffrey (2010, June 17). Biology 2.0. The Economist. Retrieved from http://www.economist.com/node/16349358
Danaylov, Nikola. Mind Over Matter: The Future of Human-Computer Interfaces. Retrieved from:
http://www.singularityweblog.com/mind-over-matter-the-future-of-human-computer-interfaces/#disqus_thread
Enriquez, Juan (2012, June 4). Will our kids be a different species? Retrieved from:
http://www.ted.com/talks/juan_enriquez_will_our_kids_be_a_different_species.html
Gerlinger, Marco. (2012). Intratumor heterogeneity and branched evolution revealed by multiregion sequencing. N Engl J Med. 367
(10), 883-892.
Giles, Chrissie. (2010, June 24). Great expectations: Celebrating a decade of research from the human genome sequence. Wellcome
News, 63, 10-13.
Kurzweil, Ray. (2005). The Singularity Is Near. New York: Penguin, Print
Merrill, Douglas. (2013, October 30). Beyond R and Ph.Ds: The Mythology of Data Science. Retrieved from:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2sgObXbIWY
Muehlhauser, Luke., Salamon, Anna. 2012. “Intelligence Explosion: Evidence and Import.” In Singularity Hypotheses: A Scientific and
Philosophical Assessment.
Mueller, Thomas. Genomics and The Future of Medicine: Gene chip diagnoses and designing ourselves. Retrieved from Lectures Notes Online
Web site: http://cybernephrology.ualberta.ca/LabMP_590/Fall2012/Mueller_genomics%20THM%20talk%20Nov%2002,%202011.pdf
Pearce, David. (2013, October 15). Transhumanist Philosopher David Pearce on Singularity 1 on1: Giving Up Eating Meat. Retrieved
from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wv8Hytp-c8&feature=player_embedded
Pearce, David. (2013, October 17). Abolition of Suffering/Will Humanity’s Successors Be our Descendents? Retrieved from:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4upY7aKEQ4&feature=c4-overview&list=UU3l8ghdgNRdRGa7MeMn9Sdw
Van Valen, Leigh. M. (1972). Laws in biolog and history: structural similarities of academic disciplines. New Literary History 3, 409-419.
Wasi, Safia. (2003, May). RNA Interference: The Next Genetics Revolution? Retrieved from:
http://www.nature.com/horizon/rna/background/pdf/interference.pdf
Wilson, Edward. O. (1998). Consilience: The Unity of Knowledge. New York: Vintage Books, Print.
Citations
Editor's Notes
Heart Disease: Changes on chromosome 9 of human DNA indicate a direct correlations to increased risks of heart attack (The Tech Museum of Innovation).
Cancer: We know that mutation of proto-oncogenes (genes responsible for normal cell division and growth), result in uncontrollable cell division and growth, these cells can metastasize to different parts of the body (thus be malignant and cancerous). Additionally, mutations in tumor suppressor genes.
Many pathological states (at birth or in life) can be linked back to genetics in the form of mutations or epigenetics. Whether it’s deletion mutation in a specific gene or substitution, or addition… changes our genetic fabric can draw consequences that manifest themselves in the form of anatomical pathologies.
At this exponential pace, by 2020 it may be feasible mathematically to decode the DNA of every member of humanity in a single 12-month stretch.
More importantly, what purpose does sequencing serve? How can we process genomic information? Utilize it to devise cures for chronic diseases? What use is genomic information.
There’s isn’t currently a clear connection with pathology, many diseases are polygenic and rely on the interacts of more than one gene. The sequences and known mutations can only play, at most, a limited role even today.
Pathology, but also in particular pathologies associated with specific organ-systems. There is a desire to make revisions at the DNA or gene expression level and prevent a cascade of downstream of events that would eventually result in some pathological condition or state.
BUT…
Where does current genomic research put us?
Despite more than 700 genome scanning publications and nearly $100 billion dollars spent, geneticists still haven’t found more than a fractional basis’ for human disease from the genome.
Ever since the first draft of the human genome was released in 2003, scientists are slowly beginning to realize that the genome isn’t just a human blue print, but rather layers and layers of regulatory mechanisms that govern the end result.
We’ve also come to realize that nearly 85% of human DNA doesn’t encode protein (‘junk’ DNA), however we’re slowly unraveling that this DNA has regulatory roles for gene expression.
Going forward, one of the main challenges that’ll surround breakthroughs in genomics will really be our understanding of genetic features and components and what implications they may have on: behavior, cognition, circadian rhythms, and physical fitness.
There’s still a lot of unknown territory.
To really put into perspective how little we actually know about the genome…
About 10% of the genome has yet to be sequenced. So that’s DNA that exists but hasn’t been sequenced.
Gene-environment interactions and epigenetic factors are poorly understood and hard to study in human populations.
Mutigene effects are likely to be a common phenomenon, and account for a complete phenotype.
‘Rare’ genetic variants for certain diseases, are better understood as being surprisingly common.
Douglas Merrill in a 2013 presentation, what we can sort of assume from this is that our data dredging as humans can potentially lead to the acceptance of inexistent relationships from large sets of data. This could inadvertently result in misdiagnoses and maybe even ineffective or incorrect treatment plans. Essentially we create room for error, and can miss the mark on some underlying genetic association with a disease.
With the rise of a technological singularity and development of robust AI. AI have would the potential to process not only large sets of genomes collectively, but also individually and personal ones. Unlike the limitations of current computing technology and there reliance on human programming, self-aware, conscious, and developed AI will exceed the intellectual capacity of the human brain. Consequently, AI would take into consideration factors neglected, uncalculated, known or even considered by humans when processing genomic information. This would provide a much more whole understanding pathology and also pave the way for personalized treatment plans. Organization of genetic data may also make it more accessible for the purposes of research, when studying specific pathologies and their genetic influence more closely.
Additionally, the strong processivity would allow AI to take a multiplicity of factors into consideration at once. Such as biostatistics, demographics, environmental factors, and genealogical comparisons- in addition to a persons genetics when looking at a diseased state.
Existing bioinformatics issues are namely concerned with data storage, and analysis, AI would be able internalize the information, secure it and analyze –allow it to serve a multi-facetted function. So where then does the role of flesh and blood pathologists fit?
With the enforcement of AI, improved understanding of genetic information, of both protein-coding genes, regulatory regions, mutations and multiple variants… genomics is an untapped potential in redefining what the limitations of being human essentially and our understanding of human ailments.
Will we use genomics to formulate designer babes? abolition pain entirely? (as David Pearce had mentioned in one our course lectures) elevate world hunger? genetically enhance baby boomers?
The United Nations estimates that nearly 870 million people of the 7.1 billion people in the world, nearly 1 in 8 people are suffering from chronic undernourishment between 2010-2012.
There are numerous hunger associated diseases such as: iron deficiency (causing blindness and anemia), iodine deficiency (swelling of the thyroid gland/ in some cases doubling the necks size). These pathological states, parts of the body enter all tie back to starvation and impoverishing the body of essential nutrients.
How then could bioengineering and sophisticated AI play-out in this context?
Many proponents of the technological singularity, including Ray Kurzweil agree that cloning technologies in the future could create meat and other protein sources (in mass production) without animals, by cloning animal muscle tissues. his could significantly reduce the cost of food, avoidance of pesticides, and greatly reduce the environmental impact ensued by factory farming. Addition of specific nutrients could also serve as a preventative measure against diseases associated with malnutrition as well.
Genetic engineering would give parents the option to modify their unborn child, not only could this pare offspring from disease, but conceivably, make them tall, well-muscled, intelligent, essentially blessed with desirable traits. This would not only serve to prevent the occurrence of congenital genetic diseases but rather enhance ones in-born features to resist disease and pathology in-life. This would be a dramatic shift to what’s available today, of course it would have numerous implications…
Advocates for genetic engineering argue that it would eliminate disease, but also that intellectual and physical enhancements would better prepare our descendants for severe environmental conditions in the future. It would also better equip our descendants to deal with international political crisis’, healthcare problems etc.
Opponents argue that this technology would take socio-economic divisions to a new level. The rich would prosper and the poor would continue to remain disadvantaged.
There’s also the question of diversity, our diversity would dwindle to the point all humans are either “Ken” or “Barbie” or both.
Another implication that arises from genetic engineering is whether our descendants would even be considered humans?
What we’ve sort of established now, essentially a satiated, painless, super child.
What’s interesting with this is that this presents a different outlook on the technological singularity, in this instant technology would necessarily become some external or even internal device that’s independent or linked to the body, but rather a direct means of fabricating human biology.
We would essentially use technology as a means to genetically engineer and rapidly accelerate our own evolution.
Our production and development transcends our control. This sort of goes back to the title in humanity becomes its own positive feedback loop. As the technology we established, now reciprocates that role in developing and improving us.
Technological advances of the singularity would allow us to overcome existing human limitations.
Of course this is only one possibility.
If genetic information became so processible and accessible- would information on our individual susceptibilities for specific pathologies be used against us?
Could this be a step towards ‘designer babies’. In our efforts to avoid mitochondrial diseases and highly pathological conditions inherited from the biological mother… Legalizing this bypasses the risk of the child inheriting any pathology from his mother’s mitochondria, by using the egg nucleus of the in-tended mother, a donor egg (with no nucleus) a child effectively has two mothers, but bypasses the possibility of mitochondrial diseases if his mother has known mutations.
In simplest terms the Red Queen Hypothesis dawns in Lewis Carroll’s sequel to Alice in Wonderland, ‘Through the Looking Glass’. The dialogue goes as follows:
“Well, in our country,” said Alice, still panting a little, “you’d generally get to somewhere else — if you run very fast for a long time, as we’ve been doing.”
“A slow sort of country!” said the Queen. “Now, here, you see, it takes all the running you can do, to keep in the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that!”
With biotechnology and the introduction of genetic engineering, could we be inadvertently introduce pathologies to the body? Or could we become so quickly adapted to our engineering we need to endlessly evolve?
Could we end up in an arms race between genetics and pathology, where as one advances the other stays up to par? Regardless of how this relationship could play out, it is possible the two propel one another.
Pathology catalyzes our desire to modify our genetic code, while genetic alterations could unbeknownst to us, create new pathological states. In this arms race, for us, it would become a matter of biotechnology and genetic engineering maintaining a step up, rather than having to catch-up to pathological developments.