Genetic engineering was one of the greatest breakthroughs in recent history that has immensely helped mankind, according to Harikrishna Ramaprasad Saripalli, Associate Professor at Aksum University in Ethiopia.
Sri Durga Malleswara Siddhartha Mahila Kalasala Department of Zoology organised a lecture on ‘Genetic Engineering and Cell Culturing-Animal Science Perspectives’ here on Wednesday.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Harikrishna said that there were many advantages of genetic engineering. Diseases could be prevented by detecting people or animals that were genetically prone to certain hereditary diseases and preparing for the inevitable.
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Genetic engineering, a technique used to manipulate genes, makes human bodies better, and has the capacity to make disease a history, he said.
Animals and plants can be ‘tailor made’ to show desirable characteristics. The genetic engineering would bring novelty. Another advantage of genetic engineering is that animals and plants can be made to have desirable characteristics which could help solve some of the world’s problems. The underlining principle behind every research and novelty should be aimed at solving the problem faced by the people, he said.
All these techniques and technologies should be used for the betterment of society. If a vaccine for diseases like polio was found, it should be used for the community. Otherwise there was a danger that commercial motives behind research may bring an end to community itself, he felt.
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Mr. Harikrishna said that the students would excel in the field of life sciences only if they love their subject. There were plenty of job and research opportunities in the field of genetic engineering. Every country, including India, was focusing on research and development in genetic engineering. The only quality that a student should have was determination, dedication and love to the subject, he added.
College Principal T. Vijaya Lakshmi and Department of Zoology Head Uma also spoke.