Introduction

The question of whether gene insertion can be done on a daily basis in humans is often a subject of intense debate and misinformation. While it is true that genes from various organisms are introduced into our food and pharmaceutical solutions, the direct insertion of genetic material into human genes on a routine basis is currently far from being a reality. This article aims to clarify common misunderstandings and explore the current state of gene editing in humans.

Gene Insertion in Daily Life

It is a misconception that gene insertion can be performed daily on humans. The gene alterations found in our food and pharmaceutical solutions do not involve direct insertion into our own genetic material but rather affect organisms we consume or use. For instance, certain crops, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), are often engineered to enhance resistance to pests and improve nutritional content. Similarly, many pharmaceuticals are based on biotechnology and do not directly alter human genes. Instead, they may target specific proteins or enzymes in the body.

Furthermore, there are indeed viruses, fungi, and bacteria that have been engineered to alter our genome, but these are mainly used in specialized medical treatments. Viruses, for example, can be modified to deliver therapeutic genes directly to specific cells in the body, a technique known as gene therapy. However, these treatments are not performed on a daily basis and are still considered experimental and highly regulated.

Cell and Gene Therapy

Despite the current limitations, gene insertion is indeed feasible under certain medical conditions. Cell and gene therapy, a rapidly advancing field, has developed sophisticated techniques to modify specific cells in the human body. For instance, mitochondrial defects can be corrected in hematopoietic stem cells, which can then be reintroduced into the patient to overtake the defective cells. However, these medical interventions are resources-intensive, exceedingly expensive, and are only accessible to a limited number of patients.

Current Applications and Advancements

In recent years, significant progress has been made in the application of gene editing techniques. One of the most notable advancements is the development of CAR T-cell therapy, which uses genetically modified cells to fight cancer. These T-cells, when infused back into the patient, can specifically target and destroy cancer cells. While the technology has shown great promise, it is still in the experimental stages and not yet widely available.

Another area where gene editing is showing promise is in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Engineered cells have been developed to modulate the immune system, potentially offering long-term solutions for these chronic conditions. However, these treatments remain far from being routine clinical practices.

Conclusion

The direct and frequent insertion of genes into human beings is not currently technologically feasible or economically viable. While gene editing has made significant strides in treating serious diseases, it is still relatively expensive and its application is limited to a small subset of patients. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more widespread application in the future, but for now, daily gene insertion is a myth.