Final answer:
Humans can control gene function through gene editing with technologies like CRISPR and through epigenetics that involve chemical modifications to DNA. These advancements have therapeutic potentials, such as the development of new cancer therapies that modify gene expression without changing DNA, as well as the creation of more specific drugs based on an increased understanding of the human genome.
Step-by-step explanation:
Humans have the potential to control the functioning of genes through various biotechnological methods. One such method is gene editing, particularly using technologies like CRISPR, which allows scientists to alter DNA sequences and thus modify gene function. Another level of control is epigenetics, which does not change the DNA sequence but instead involves chemical modifications that can turn genes on or off.
The epigenetic regulation is vital in the study of human health since malfunctioning gene expression can lead to diseases like cancer. The advancement in understanding and manipulating epigenetics can lead to new therapies for cancer that do not necessarily alter the DNA of the cancer cells but instead rely on modifying how genes are expressed, effectively silencing harmful genes.
The human genome project has increased our knowledge of how genes regulate cellular function and has contributed to the development of more specific pharmaceuticals directed at protein targets, exemplified by the progress in treatments for conditions such as cystic fibrosis. With ongoing research, the possibilities for using gene control in therapeutic contexts continue to expand, offering hope for better treatment and prevention strategies.