The passage discusses the advancements and challenges in genetic engineering, particularly in the context of β-thalassaemia and sickle-cell anaemia. New techniques using enzymes to distinguish patient genes from normal ones are promising but still in early stages. The production of human proteins, such as insulin, is a significant benefit, with companies like Eli Lilly testing bacterial-produced human insulin. However, the focus is on producing familiar hormones and enzymes rather than new drugs. The potential for developing new antibiotics through genetic engineering is also highlighted, especially in microorganisms like streptomycetes.
Regulation of genetic engineering is a critical issue, with strict rules initially aimed at preventing harmful outcomes. As the dangers are better understood, controls are being relaxed, but agreements are needed to prevent the misuse of genetic engineering for biological weapons. Ethical considerations must be addressed before developing these technologies.
Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is a rare, progressive, and often fatal disease, more common in women. Diagnosis involves ruling out secondary causes, and symptoms include syncope, breathlessness, and cyanosis. Physical signs are subtle and often require advanced imaging and tests like echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. The disease progresses rapidly, and survival is typically within 2 to 10 years, though rare cases show regression. Treatment options are limited, and spontaneous regression has occurred, encouraging further research. The exact cause of PPH is unknown, but it may be associated with pregnancy, female hormones, and connective tissue disorders.
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition where liver disease affects mental and nervous function. It can lead to various disturbances, including paraplegia, Parkinsonism, dementia, and clouding of consciousness. There are three main patterns: portosystemic encephalopathy, temporary encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients, and fulminant hepatic failure. Management is crucial in liver failure, and understanding the underlying causes is essential for effective treatment.The passage discusses the advancements and challenges in genetic engineering, particularly in the context of β-thalassaemia and sickle-cell anaemia. New techniques using enzymes to distinguish patient genes from normal ones are promising but still in early stages. The production of human proteins, such as insulin, is a significant benefit, with companies like Eli Lilly testing bacterial-produced human insulin. However, the focus is on producing familiar hormones and enzymes rather than new drugs. The potential for developing new antibiotics through genetic engineering is also highlighted, especially in microorganisms like streptomycetes.
Regulation of genetic engineering is a critical issue, with strict rules initially aimed at preventing harmful outcomes. As the dangers are better understood, controls are being relaxed, but agreements are needed to prevent the misuse of genetic engineering for biological weapons. Ethical considerations must be addressed before developing these technologies.
Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is a rare, progressive, and often fatal disease, more common in women. Diagnosis involves ruling out secondary causes, and symptoms include syncope, breathlessness, and cyanosis. Physical signs are subtle and often require advanced imaging and tests like echocardiography and cardiac catheterization. The disease progresses rapidly, and survival is typically within 2 to 10 years, though rare cases show regression. Treatment options are limited, and spontaneous regression has occurred, encouraging further research. The exact cause of PPH is unknown, but it may be associated with pregnancy, female hormones, and connective tissue disorders.
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition where liver disease affects mental and nervous function. It can lead to various disturbances, including paraplegia, Parkinsonism, dementia, and clouding of consciousness. There are three main patterns: portosystemic encephalopathy, temporary encephalopathy in cirrhotic patients, and fulminant hepatic failure. Management is crucial in liver failure, and understanding the underlying causes is essential for effective treatment.