Question

An experiment has been initiated in a laboratory where recombinant DNA technology has been used to substitute the gene responsible for change of colour in chameleon with another gene responsible for “glowin-the-dark”. If this experiment is successful, chameleons carrying the “glow-in-the-dark” gene will not be able to change their colours any longer. Discuss the implication of these results in terms of ethics and conservation biology.

Answer 1

In this recombinant DNA technology experiment, substantial change has been made to the genome of chameleon. Tweaking with the genome of an organism to produce such drastic changes can invite outrage form environment conservationists. Also, it may pose ethical concerns in the society. Transgenic organisms has not always been well accepted by the society as well as environmentalists. In this scenario, the alteration is such that it will affect behavior of the organism. Changing color according to the surroundings and their mood is the unique feature of chameleons. Through such camouflage, they send out signals to fellow chameleons by which they defend from any particular danger. Thus, causing such major change in the behavior may cause change in their activities. The glowing in dark phenomenon may prove beneficial. But, generally organisms are known to discard and unaccept such changes.

Environmentalists believe that every organism has a right to live with dignity and should be protected. Such transgenic organisms which don't offer much use to humanity cause a concern to them. These drastic changes in the genome might affect other cellular pathways and alter other functions. For conservation biologists, this may be a cause of worry. This may dwindle their population due to less reproduction. Ultimately, leading to loss of biodiversity.

Ethical concerns are varied. First and foremost, the procedures producing such organisms are invasive and cause pain to them. Also, larger number of organisms are sacrificed to get the final trangenic. Once the race to produce them is begun, there would be no limits. This may lead to harming the entire identity of the organism. New mutations and other disorders may endanger the life of whole species altogether.

Though, we are most intelligent beings on this planet, we also need to develop empathy towards other organisms. This doesn't mean that transgenic research should be stopped altogether but the implications should be well calculated.