Identifying and Treating Genetic Diseases

 Meiosis, the kind of cell reproduction in which parent cells pass genetic traits to their offspring, is typically an accurate process. Mistakes in the process, known as mutations, are rare, and not all mutations lead to changes in an organism. Some mutations, however, have significant negative effects. Genetic mutations during meiosis have produced human diseases such as hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, and cystic fibrosis. Since abnormalities in the genome cause these diseases, any true cure must address a person’s genetic makeup. Amazingly, scientists are exploring ways to change human genes to treat these diseases. For this week’s Discussion, you conduct research to identify and learn about a genetic disease that interests you. You explore current treatments for the disease, as well as treatments under development. Then, you recommend a promising treatment based on your analysis.