Gene Therapy
What is the Main Goal Of Gene Therapy?
To replace, repair, or correct faulty genes causing disease.
What does synthetic biology aim to design or create?
New DNA sequences, molecules, or entire organisms.
Which recent global event made mRNA technology famous?
The COVID-19 pandemic.
What does personalized medicine use to tailor treatments?
An individual’s DNA/genetic information.
Name one future goal of gene therapy.
To cure inherited genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia.
Name one disease where CAR-T cell therapy is used (from the powerpoint)
Leukemia
Give one example of a synthetic product made through synthetic biology.
Synthetic insulin.
What does the “m” in mRNA stand for?
Messenger.
Give an example of a disease that can be predicted using genetic testing.
Breast cancer (e.g., BRCA1/2 mutations).
How might synthetic biology change the materials industry?
By producing sustainable bioplastics, advanced fibers, and eco-friendly construction materials.
What type of molecule is central to mRNA-based therapies?
Messenger RNA (mRNA).
How can synthetic biology help reduce dependence on fossil fuels?
By engineering microbes to produce biofuels and biodegradable plastics.
Why is mRNA considered a breakthrough in vaccine development?
It allows rapid design and production of vaccines and can be easily adapted to new pathogens.
What is a personalized vaccine?
A vaccine designed specifically for an individual based on their unique genetic profile or tumor markers.
What is one benefit of predictive medicine for public health?
Early detection and prevention of diseases, reducing healthcare costs and improving outcomes.
how is gene therapy is different from traditional drug treatment.
Gene therapy targets and fixes the root genetic cause of a disease, while traditional drugs often only manage symptoms.
What is one way synthetic organisms can be used in medicine?
Creating bacteria that detect and treat infections inside the body.
How might mRNA be used in treating diseases other than COVID-19?
It could treat cancers, genetic disorders, and infectious diseases like HIV.
How can AI support personalized medicine?
By analyzing large genetic data sets to predict disease risks and optimize treatment plans.
What industries outside healthcare might benefit from synthetic biology?
Agriculture (e.g., engineered crops), energy (biofuels), and manufacturing (biodegradable materials).
What is one challenge or risk involved with in vivo gene editing?
Risks include immune reactions, off-target effects, ethical concerns, and difficulties delivering genes safely into cells.
Discuss the ethical concerns around creating synthetic organisms from scratch.
Concerns include unintended ecological impacts, bioterrorism risks, and debates about “playing God.”
Describe the mechanism of how mRNA vaccines instruct cells to build immunity.
mRNA carries instructions for cells to produce a piece of the virus (like the spike protein), prompting an immune response that prepares the body to fight the real virus.
What are some privacy concerns linked to genetic data used in predictive medicine?
Risks of data breaches, misuse of genetic information by insurers or employers, and consent issues.
Predict one major way genetic engineering could reshape global economies in the next 20 years.
By creating entirely new bio-based industries that replace fossil fuel-dependent sectors and revolutionize healthcare with curative treatments.