Genetics is like a box of chocolates, you never know what combinations you're going to get! A little warning though, the article is really interesting, but it is a longer article. So Superbaby is a child who has a genetic mutation that inhibits myostatin, which is a protein that limits muscle growth. This causes him to be extremely muscled and incredibly strong. The article branches out into talking about genetics, how it can affect athletes, and genetic testing for certain differences in genetic makeup.
So when I read this article the first thing I thought was, "That is one buff boy. Hope I never make him mad." It seems unnatural and strange that a baby is born muscled and basically fit. Most people have to work out get so strong and muscled, but this child was simply born with it! When I continued to read, the article talks about how athletes of particular sports usually share a similar genetic trait or gene. These genes influence the athlete or person to have a different capability. For instance, "Members of a particular ethnic group in Kenya, in addition to living at altitude, have thinner legs, which makes the pendulum effect necessary for distance running that much easier to create.[...] Redheads from everywhere tend to have greater tolerance for physical pain." This is extremely interesting since it is also proof of the theory of evolution and shows that humans are still changing. I think these genes will become more popular and widespread given some centuries since these genes are desirable for most athletes.
Also, I find it interesting how scientists and biologists are able to detect exactly which genetic traits do what and how they utilize this knowledge. Humans (mostly breeders) are already using such knowledge to breed fast horses and dogs, as stated in the article (which is horrifying). The author of the article seems to consider using this knowledge and applying them to humans. I really hope this does not happen. It seems like this is a little too immoral to be good for the human population. Tampering with human genetics seems risky and not right, because it seems like the scientists and biologist are playing God in these situations.
In conclusion, these genetic changes are really interesting to me and what genetics can do always surprises me. I hope the scientist will put this new knowledge to proper use and not exploit it.
I think you did a great job on this blog post. In addition to mixing your commentary and analysis with your summary, I can really hear your voice as you read it, if you know what I mean. One thing I noticed when I read this was that you only focused on one aspect of the article: the part talks about the future of human genetics. To have a more comprehensive post, you could mention things like nurture vs. nature and all that rot. Still, your post was overall really interesting.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I know what you mean!
DeleteIt's like when every person who has seen or read any Harry Potter books sees, "You're a wizard, Harry!" It's usually read in Hagrid's voice. Well, for me and some friends at least.
I agree that the article was interesting but also how you wrote your blog. I think it portrays your characteristic just like how each person have different style. It is also surprising that even humans can use the method of breeding faster that had been experimented on animals. You had a great hook and really emphasized your thought flawlessly.
ReplyDeleteThanks! I was craving chocolate when I was writing my blog, so I thought, "Why not change up the old cliche quote?"
DeleteCome to think about it, I still haven't gotten any chocolate... Thanks again!
Well written blog Tiffany. I really liked the way in which you analyzed the topic. But one thing I feel you could improve upon is by expanding your analyses to other aspects of genetics. All in all, I feel that you did pretty well and that you had a nicely written blog.
ReplyDeleteI think I might have kept blogging on the other aspects of genetics and the nurture vs. nature thing that Joanne talked about in her comment, but I already had a pretty long blog. I think writing a lot is a side effect of talking a lot. (I'm 153+ words over the minimum). I'll consider writing more next time!
DeleteThanks!
Hi Tiffany!
ReplyDeleteI really liked your hook and intro. They were interesting and immediately grabbed my attention. You had an excellent use of personal voice, as well as a good blend of analysis as well as summary. There was great commentary and you really helped understand the article with your own interpretations and opinion on the subject. What you added at the end was also really important. Many are exploiting advances in modern science and technology so it's important that powerful technology like this be used responsibly and correctly. Overall your commentary was incredibly well written and insightful.
Hi Bryan!
DeleteThanks, and sorry for that interesting... remark I made when you were commenting. I really didn't know it was mine. ><