LAB COMMENTARY #2 (5% of your mark)

THE PCR LAB was intended to show you how molecular biology is, at its heart, fairly straightforward to do (see this link for information about the lab – lecture, etc), whilst being capable of generating some very weighty data. For this lab commentary, I’d like you to comment on the two queries presented below. You can write informally if you’d prefer, but we are looking for a relatively well thought out response (somewhere in the 300 to 500 word range for each). Ideas are strongly encouraged. Please send your answer to ASIC200@gmail.com (please use PCR as the subject heading). We’ll reply shortly to confirm receiving your email. This assignment is due one week after your lab date (note that one need not fully get the mechanics of PCR to do this assignment).

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1. It was important to stress that the experiment we did in the genetics lab aimed at looking for a genetic element with no real consequence. However, the methodology (PCR) can very easily be adapted to look at something of significant consequence – i.e. a diagnosis of a genetic disorder like Huntingtons (a fatal and nasty neurodegenerative disease). What type of ethical situations come to mind when an individual is put in the position of getting one of these genetic tests done.

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2. If the opportunity presented itself, would you get one of these tests done? Why or why not?