Question

1. Read the following passage, and then answer the questions. CRISPR is a gene editing technique that allows scientists to make changes to the DNA of an organism. Scientists used government funding to conduct research regarding the use of CRISPR on mosquitos. Based on their research, scientists decided to use the technique to alter the DNA of the Aedes aegypti species of mosquito. The modified DNA decreases the survival rate of the mosquitos' offspring. Scientists hoped that releasing modified mosquitos into the wild would reduce the mosquito population and help prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases to humans.

a. Describe how society influenced scientific research in this situation.

b. Describe one way that CRISPR technology has positively affected society.

c. Describe an impact that genetically modified mosquitos might have on the environment. Would the impact be positive or negative? Explain.

Answer 1

a. Society influenced scientific research in this situation by providing government funding for the research on the use of CRISPR on mosquitos. This funding allowed scientists to conduct their research and make decisions about how to apply their findings to benefit society.

b. One way that CRISPR technology has positively affected society is by offering potential solutions to genetic disorders and diseases. By editing genes, scientists can potentially cure or prevent genetic diseases that were previously untreatable.

c. The impact of genetically modified mosquitos on the environment is uncertain and could be both positive and negative. On one hand, reducing the mosquito population could decrease the spread of mosquito-borne diseases and benefit human health. On the other hand, reducing the mosquito population could have unintended consequences for the ecosystem, as mosquitos play a role in the food chain and provide a food source for other organisms. Additionally, it is unclear what the long-term effects of releasing genetically modified mosquitos into the environment might be, and there is a risk of unintended consequences that could be negative. Therefore, careful consideration and further research is needed to understand the potential environmental impact of genetically modified mosquitos