Unborn Genetic Disorders

If I found out my child would have a genetic disorder I would do one of two things. If it was a manageable disorder like Down Syndrome I would most likely keep the child. If it was a extremely debilitating or harmful disease i would seriously consider abortion.

My Phenotype

If I could change something about my phenotype it would probably height. I'm currently 5'10" but I myself would want to be more around 6'1".

Designer Babies and Reprogenetics

I think reprogenetics or "designer babies" is a very misunderstood subject. Personally I support the research because it could lead to the eradication of genetic diseases. Like Lee M. Silver, who wrote the first book on the subject, I think that if this type of technology is only allowed to be used by people who can afford it and not used universally, It could cause a rift between Genetic "haves" and "Have-nots". It could be extremely effective if universally provided, causing the human race to flourish because of the lack of genetic disorders.

What I Knew About Genetics Before This Unit

I knew some basic stuff about genetics before the unit. I know about dominance and recessive genes and punnett squares. I also know some more advanced stuff like Mendel and gene mapping.

Opinion on Stem Cell Research

I fully support stem cell research. Stem Cell research could advance medicine beyond belief. You can get stem cells from many places (specifically from pigs), not only human fetuses. Some people have a problem with stem cell research because it " harms the sanctity of life", but these people just want to put us back into the dark ages. If people are going to have abortions you might as well get something from it! We already know stem cells can repair the heart and grow back the tips of fingers and other body parts, so why waste such a precious commodity. Scientists think with further research they may even be able to grow back complete organs and body parts. We need this research to further the strenghts of humanity as a whole and to put these anti-science people to rest.

Why is Mitosis so important to learn biology?

Mitosis is important because it is the gateway into genetics which is the basis of modern biology. It is also important understand mitosis because it is the reason for reproduction which is the key to a species survival.

Why is interphase not part of Mitosis

While Interphase is an extremely important prerequisite for Mitosis it is not actually a part of it. Most of the cells life is spent in Interphase which consists of making protein, doubling organelles, and copying DNA. The reason Interphase is not part of Mitosis is because there is actually no splitting or massive change in the cell.