The process of altering existing genomes has much potential. The Zinc Finger Consortium, started by Daniel Voytas of the University of Minnesota and J.Keith Joung of Harvard University, both point to the overall possibilities of this research. Without introducing new genes into organisms, many of the concerns over genetically modified foods can be dispelled. In addition, healthier and more robust plants and vegetation may help with the problems of food shortages as well as the potential for the increased use of biofuels.
Utilizing zinc finger technology, geneticists can disable dominant mutations. In the mutant allele, double-strand breaks are created in heterozygous genes. Without the template for a homologous set, the strand repairs itself through a process known as non-homologous end-joining. Basically, the two ends of the remaining strand fuse together. This creates a situation in which the mutation no longer exists.
Some problems arise with the process of using zinc finger domains. It is still a very new technology. Non-specific targeting may cause too many double-strand breaks. This can result in a rearrangement of chromosomes and possible cellular death. It can also cause randomized integration of DNA. There are also risks associated with an organism's immune system. Often, the immune system will attempt to respond to a foreign protein, hindering the ability for geneticists to modify the organism.
