Creative Modern Technology: Advancing Ourselves Beyond Our Genes

Genomics  

Like other exponential technologies, genetics is becoming more affordable, more available, and is making new innovations possible. Along with curing ailments and genetic disorders, such technology may also help make us more than human. 

DNA can tell us what percentage of our ancestors came from which part of the world, or the likelihood of developing diabetes. But humanity means more than matching up 23 pairs of chromosomes. Our appearance and susceptibility to disease are not major differences, but minute variations called SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms). Like any technology, as genetics advances, it becomes more affordable, more available, and leads to innovations that take us in new directions.

Custom Genetics

In Boston in 2013, researchers were able to grow a human ear on the back of a lab rat. It was grown from living cells over a wire mesh. Physicians are already capable of growing us new corneas from our own cells. Our own DNA can grow us whatever we want, and any concerns about immune system rejection and a lifetime of immunosuppressant drugs no longer applies. Genetic advancement means doing it quickly, easily, and reliably, and even the idea of clones as personal organ banks is outdated.

Home Genetics

DNA testing kits for home use are already available. From a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, people can determine their own family risk of 23 different medical conditions. Critics might deride the tests as unreliable, but as awareness spreads, the market grows, and so will the quality, affordability, and scope of these tests.

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Computing and Engineering

Mapping thousands of combinations of nucleotides and other components of DNA would not be possible without computers. Leaps forward in genetics will not happen without more programmers and data analysts. Engineering is another field that is constantly advancing by leaps and bounds. Engineers pave the way forward to help humankind produce the best results and have the best impact we can. Online schools make it possible for virtually anyone with internet access to become accredited in computer science, or earn an online master’s in civil engineering, depending on what field you prefer. These are few specific degrees that can be earned from home but these ones are great examples. Self-paced study means students earn degrees as quickly as possible or at their leisure. Startling discoveries may come not from government labs and universities, but bright people working with their own digital models of the human genome.

Transhumanism

Being more than our genes allow is one of the dreams of genetic scientists. In a laboratory, certain enzymes are used to cut and splice DNA. As we perfect manipulating genes, the pursuit of health and eternal youth will lead us to improved health, treatments, and longevity. Man-made viruses, Frankenstein's monster, and other shortfalls lie ahead, but if genetics keeps pace with computing, or even close, stronger and healthier bodies and minds are a goal that is well within sight.

By Rachelle Wilber

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