Molecular Genetics

(submitted by LH) In the United States, there is essentially one male for every female. But this series of graphics illustrates that this is not always the case. There are many factors that play into a shift from a bevy of males at birth to a dearth of them at death. Biologically, male humans are more susceptible X-linked diseases than females. Having only a hemizygous state more than doubly increases the likelihood of inheriting a disease allele from a heterozygous mother. There is also the argument that males typically have more dangerous professions and are the major component of combat. Or are simply more likely to endanger themselves.
However, some societies will favour a particular gender over another and will select the sex of their child through IVF. This has led to problems in some countries as the disparity begins to impact the economy and social constructs like marriage.

(submitted by JH) The lone star state of Texas unwittingly set off a firestorm of controversy by collecting 800 samples of blood from new borns. The samples were to be part of a new study and database of mitochondrial DNA. The intent was to provide information for forensic science and other studies of variation, but after public outcry, the state has promised to destroy the samples.
However, this may not quell the fears of many. Some of whom may opt to not have their new borns genetically tested for known diseases; increasing the likelihood of delayed treatment.

Here is an opinion page about the insertion of human genes into GM crops. In theory, we have been modifying our food crops genetically for thousands of years, but we are at the dawn of a new era– in the past we have selected for advantageous traits or genes found in plants, but now we just install the ones that we want with a particular twist: they may come from an entirely different organism. These are “transgenic” organisms, not arising from evolutionary processes, but rather by design… intelligent or not.
This link is from the parent page which is a special report from NewScientist with many articles on genetically modified foods.

Very soon, the notion of prenatal gene therapy will become an ethical argument of epic proportions. Since the technology is still nascent, there has been little public discussion, however there have been some postings:
Correcting Tay-Sachs and Jewish law.

What if these treatments lead to greater problems for medical personnel and should they know about the therapy?

Correcting trisomy and Downs?