Most of the downsides of recombinant DNA technology are ethical in nature. Some people feel that recombinant DNA technology goes against the laws of nature, or against their religious beliefs, due to how much control this technology gives humans over the most basic buildings blocks of life.
Other ethical concerns also exist. Some people worry that if companies can pay scientists to patent, buy and sell genetic material, then genetic material could become an expensive commodity. Such a system might lead to people having their genetic information stolen and used without permission. It may sound odd, but such cases have already happened. In 1951, a scientist used unique cells stolen from a woman named Henrietta Lacks to create an important cell line (the HeLa cell line) which is still used in medical research today. Her family did not know about her involuntary donation until after her death, and never received compensation, but others have profited from the use of HeLa cells.
Many people worry about the safety of modifying food and medicines using recombinant DNA technology. Although genetically modified foods seem safe in multiple studies, it is easy to see why such fears exist.
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