Did you read the title of this post? Well you should have, if not go read it now (do it...you won't)! Anyways, from reading the title, you might be asking yourself: how can gene mutation can be beneficial? Usually when people think of mutations, they relate it to being harmful to the body because gene mutations are changes in the DNA structure that can alter a particular gene.
Well this article gives an example of how gene mutation can be somewhat helpful. In Berlin, a baby was born with bulging thighs and biceps that were credited to a unique beneficial genetic event. Now you could be asking yourself: how is this mutation beneficial? According to the article, the mutation was advantageous in the short run because the child able to lift seven-pound dumbbells with arms extended. I am not sure how scientists seem to think that this ability is beneficial to the child. Is he going to enter a weight lifting competition? Although this capability may seem profitable now, the child's future is still a mystery. Dr. McNally states that, "the boy is still very young and that problems could occur later in his life."
It was discovered that the child had a mutation in the gene that produces a protein called myostatin. And me, being the clueless airhead that I am, did not know what myostatin was... good job Serina! So I googled the word (thank god for google...the lifesaver for many of my problems). According to MedicineNet.com, myostatin is: "growth factor that regulates the size of muscles beginning in early embryonic development and continuing throughout life." Due to the abnormal amount of this protein in the child's body, researchers have concerns that his heart muscle could be damaged. Even though the child's cardiovascular system is fine at the moment, you can never be too sure about how it will be in following years.
After some thinking, this is not what I would call a "beneficial" mutation. Why? Well lets examine the main reason... does anyone know what will happen to the child as he grows? Most likely, the answer is NO (unless you're a psychic) because the child's future is unsure; no one is positive of how his life will unfold. Therefore, the child's gene mutation may seem advantageous now, but that could change at any moment; whether it be tomorrow, next week, or next year.
No comments:
Post a Comment