For most of us of our generation, at least the keyboard hitting humans, the first thing that strikes the mind when we hear the word “Genome”, is the open source linux desktop project. There is in fact a much more bigger and different World from where the word has its origin. Genome is a complete set of chromosomes,genes that make up the somatic cells. Organisms are made up of somatic cells. Somatic cells are the result of union of gametes. Gametes are the male and female cells that combine to form a somatic cell which eventually turns into an organism. This process has been in place since centuries in the name of reproduction/evolution etc. All was fine and valid till now as it was a natures game. Now humans with the help of technology have a hand in it.
Mammoth hair – Photo Released by Penn State University (Source : http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/world/2008-11/20/content_7223499.htm)
Scientists at the Penn State University for the first time have drafted the genome of an extinct animal. The animal is the mighty Mammoth. The genome was recreated using the hair preserved since thousands of years. If approved, it would not be too difficult to give life to a new Mammoth in the lab. The science fictions like Jurassic Park may loose their fictitious status in few years.
Of course, giving birth to an extinct specie is not a straight forward task, leave alone the technical difficulties involved, there would be lots of ethical, moral issues raised and discussed before the decision.
Though Homo Sapiens may have their own gains like using the Neanderthals to battle against their enemies, days wouldnt be far when this could lead us to raceism 2.0 . Black/White/brown/asian differences would be replaced by Neanderthals/Homo habilis/Homo erectus/Homo sapiens (Not in specify order).
