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Discover the groundbreaking concept of having three parents in DNA reproduction. Learn how mitochondrial DNA from a third parent can help prevent diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s. The future implications and ethical considerations of this innovative breeding method are being explored by scientists. Explore the possibilities and challenges ahead. Sources of pictures and information provided.
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Hi, I have three parents. + + SAY WHAAAAAT?!??!? =
How can someone have three parents? • In 2010, scientists discovered that chromosomes taken from one zygote — the single cell formed when sperm and egg fuse — and put into a zygote stripped of its original chromosomes, but left its original mitochondria. • As they grew, the resulting embryos contained nuclear DNA from two traditional parents, and mitochondrial DNA from a third.
Why is having three parents a good thing? • It helps prevent mitochondrial DNA diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. • So far, these breeding methods have only worked on monkeys and mice. • When it comes to humans, scientists have only been able to produce embryos.
In the future, people may have DNA from three people rather than two….What if you had three parents? Is it ethical? Will it actually provide health benefits? Only the future will tell.
Sources Pictures • foreignsalaryman.blogspot.com • listal.com • stayfitbug.com • flickr.com • wired.com Information • http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2010/04/mitochondria-engineering