PALAWAN STATE UNIVERSITY

College of Sciences

GE-STS: SCIENCE,
TECHNOLOGY AND
SOCIETY

Nanoworld
and
Gene Therapy

Module 6
Table of Contents
Content Page

Title Page
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………….1
Learning Outcomes………………………..…………………………...………………2
Overview…….………………………………………………………………….............3
Initial Activity…………………….………………….......………………………………4
Discussion ……………………………….…...…………………………….................5
6.1 The Nanoworld…………………………………………….............5
6.1.1 How Small is a Nanoscale? ………………………..................5
6.1.2 How to View Nanomaterials ………………………..................6
6.1.3 Nanomanufacturing ………………………...............................7
6.1.4 Benefits and Concerns of Using Nanotechnoligy ……………8
6.2 Gene Therapy ……………………….…………..…….…………..9
6.2.1 The Basic Process ……………….…………..………..………..9
6.2.2 Stem Cell/Gene Therapy ……………….………….…………..10
6.2.3 Sources of Stem Cells ……………….…………..…….………10
Learning Check ……………………………………………..………..……………….11
2
Evaluation………………………………………………….…………..……………….12
Rubrics………………………………………………………………………………….13
Reflection……………………….………………………..…………………………….14
References…………………………………………………………………................15

Learning Objectives
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After going
through in this
module, you
should be able to:

✔ LO1 Discuss the implication of nanotechnology in society.

✔ LO2 Describe the concept of gene therapy and its various

forms
Grasp it!
✔ LO3 Assess the potential benefits
and detriments of nanoworld and • A nanometer (nm) is a billionth of a meter.
stem cell to global health. • 1 nanometer is about 100 times smaller
than a bacterial cell.
✔ LO4 Value the learnings in
nanoworld and gene therapy • Your fingernails grow at the rate of about
1 nanometer per second.
through reflective writing.
• A 7-foot-tall basketball player is 2 billion
nanometers tall.

• Nanotechnology is already applied

commercially in products ranging from
mobile phones, computer discs, tennis
rackets and golf clubs to sunscreens and
cosmetics.

• L'oreal have developed nanosize vesicles

called nanosomes, which are used to
3
transport active ingredients such as pure

Overview vitamin e through the skin

• Nanoscience is not just one science. It is

a platform that includes biology,
chemistry, physics, materials science and
We discussed GMOs in our previous engineering.
module, how they are created, how visible they
are in our localities, and how they benefit and • Prerequisites for gene therapy include
harm us. Genetic engineering just amazed us, finding the best delivery system (often a
virus, typically referred to as a viral vector)
for the gene.

Https://www.Tcd.Ie/nanoscience/
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whatisnano /nanofacts/
now let us see
how
nanotechnology and gene therapy works.

Over the past few decades, science has been progressing into the infinitely small-
the nanoworld. Nanotechnology and nanodevice processing are now happening at a
rapid rate. Its applications are wide-ranging and have influenced many science and
industry sectors, including energy, electronics, environmental science, food protection,
and medicine.

Nanotechnology in medicine promises to revolutionize the delivery of medications,

diagnostic methods, and gene therapy. Scientists are developing new
approaches to gene therapy that offer a promise for one day treating different
inherited and acquired diseases.

We have seen the huge potentials of new technologies and different fields of
study,
but how about the risks? It is also important for 4 us to examine their potential for unintended
consequences, especially those related to human and environmental health.

In this module, we will talk about nanotechnology, gene therapy, and their benefits
and concerns.

Initial Activity
“My Wishlist”

At present, advances in science and technology have become more

pronounced. Inventions and new technologies transformed the world and the
everyday lives of every one of us. There are so many things that were just mere
visions of the future yesterday, but now, a reality. But of course, there are still a lot of
technological tools that don’t exist yet. On the table below, write down your
technological innovation wishes concerning each area of science that you wish one
day will come to reality.

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My Wishlist

Health Environment Electronics

5
1. A technology 1. A more 1. Ai machines
that kill/destroy affordable in assisting in
cancer cells or and social (like
bacteria inside the improved call center)
human body solar panel
that creates
more
energy that
can
operates
enough a
large
building.
2. A technology 2. A 2. A sustainable
which helps in disposable but fast and
improving the air machine comfortable
quality intakes. that transportation.
converts
disposables
into
energies.
3. Technology 3. Ai 3. Phones that
which helps with machines automatically
the blood flows. near charges with
volcanic sunlight.
sites to
better
detect
volcanic
activities.

Discussion
6.1 The Nanoworld

We know that the discovery of light microscopes revolutionized human

understanding of the natural world. But did you know that modern microscopes are
once again exposing a whole new world? It is called the nanoworld. Perhaps, you
already heard the prefix “nano”. It refers to something so small that it can only be

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seen with a
powerful
microscope.
Through the use of nanoscale, scientific researchers have developed new
technological tools that greatly improved different aspects of our lives. What do you
call the area of science that conducts science and technology at the nanoscale? We
call it nanotechnology. It is concerned with manufacturing ‘things’- generally,
materials and devices on the scale of atoms and molecules which are of great help to
the advancement of different sectors of society, especially health, environment,
electricity, electronics, food, and agriculture.

6.1.1 How Small is a Nanoscale?

A nanometer is one-billionth of a meter. The illustration below shows how small
nanoscale is compared to other particles or materials.

https://www.nano.gov/nanotech-101

Discussion

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6.1.2 How to
view
Nanomaterials

Scientists are using special types of microscopes to view nanomaterials.

These are the electron microscopes, atomic force microscope, and scanning
tunneling microscope.

1. Electron microscope- It utilizes a particle beam of electrons to light up a

specimen and develop a well-magnified image. They can magnify objects up to a
million times.

https://dissolve.com/stock-photo

2. Atomic force microscope- It makes use of a mechanical probe that gathers

information from the surface of a material. It is used to determine topography
and other properties of surfaces.

https://www.polymersolutions.com/

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Discussion

3. Scanning tunneling microscope- It works by scanning a very sharp metal

wire tip over a surface. It enables scientists to view and manipulate nanoscale
particles, atoms, and small molecules.

https://www.alamy.com/

6.1.3 Nanomanufacturing

Nanomanufacturing refers to scaled-up, reliable, and cost-effective

manufacturing of nanoscale materials, structures, devices, and systems. It contributes
to new technologies and improved materials being produced. Below are the two
fundamental approaches to nanomanufacturing.

1. Bottom-up fabrication- It manufactures products by building them up from

atomic- and molecular-scale components. However, this process can be time-
consuming. Scientists and engineers are still in search for effective ways of
8 putting up together molecular components that self-assemble.

2. Top-down fabrication- It trims down large pieces of materials into nanoscale.

This process needs larger amounts of materials and discards excess raw
materials.

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Note. Information
about
microscopes used in viewing materials and the two fundamental approaches to
nanomanufacturing are from Serafica, et al. (2018).

Discussion

6.1.4 Benefits and Concerns of Using Nanotechnology

As mentioned at the beginning of the lesson, nanotechnology has various

applications in different sectors of the society and environment. However, according
to Dayrit (2005), some concerns need to be addressed before using and promoting
materials derived from nanotechnology. And these are the following:

1) Nanotechnology is not a single technology; it may become prevalent.

2) It seeks to develop new materials with specific properties.
3) New efficiencies and paradigms may be introduced that may render certain
natural resources and current practices uncompetitive or obsolete.
4) It may be complicated to detect its presence unless one has the specialist tools of
nanotechnology.

Table 6.1 Benefits and Concerns of the Application of Nanotechnology in Different

Areas
Example of Areas Affected by Possible Benefits Concerns
Nanotechnology
∙ Improved detection and ∙ High reactivity and
Environment removal of contaminants toxicity
∙ Development of benign ∙ Pervasive distribution
industrial processes and in the environment No
materials ∙ nano-specific EPA
regulation
∙ Improved medicine ∙ Ability to cross cell
Health membranes and 9
translocate in the body
∙ No FDA approval
needed for cosmetics or
supplements
∙ Better products ∙ Redistribution of wealth
Economy ∙ New jobs ∙ Potential cost of
cleanups and healthcare
∙ Accessibility to all
income levels.
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Note. Information of
benefits and concerns
of the application of
nanotechnology in different areas from University of Washington (n.d.)

Discussion
6.2 Gene Therapy

You have learned about nanotechnology. Now, let us unfold one of the fields
that involve an application of nanotechnology, the gene therapy. Gene therapy is a
potential method to treat or cure human disorders related to genes. It is an advanced
method using genes for the treatment or prevention of disease. In the future, this
approach may allow physicians to treat a disease by inserting a gene into a patient's
cells instead of using conventional means such as medications or surgery.

6.2.1 The Basic Process

There are several approaches to gene therapy. These are the following
(Fliesler, 2017):

Replacement of mutated gene that causes disease with a healthy copy of the
gene.
Inactivation of a mutated gene that is functioning improperly.
Introducing a new gene into the body to help fight a disease.

In general, a gene cannot be directly inserted into a human gene or cell. A

gene is inserted into another gene using a carrier or vector. At present, the most
common type of vectors are viruses that have been genetically changed to carry
normal human DNA. (Science Daily, 2017)

Two Types of Gene Therapy

The idea of gene therapy is based on the modification at the origin of a disease; the
fixation of defective genes that tend to contribute to such diseases. 10 Below are the two
forms of gene therapy.

1. Somatic gene therapy- involves the manipulation of genes in any cells of the
body except sperm and egg cells that will be helpful to the patient, but not
inherited to the patient's descendants.

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2. Germ-line
gene
therapy-
involves the genetic modification of reproductive cells, the sperm and egg cells
that will pass the change on to the next generation.

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Discussion
6.2.2 Stem Cell/Gene Therapy

Talking about gene therapy, have you heard about stem cells? If so, maybe
you were curious if they could help people with serious illnesses.
Stem cells are mother cells with the capacity to become any cell type in the
body. Under the proper conditions in the body or a laboratory, stem cells differentiate
to self-renew or replicate. They can become cells of the blood, heart, muscles, brain,
among others.

Why is there such an interest in stem cells? Researchers and doctors hope
stem cell studies can help to: (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2019)

1) Increase understanding of how diseases occur.

2) Generate healthy cells to replace diseased cells (regenerative medicine). 3)
Test new drugs for safety and effectiveness.

6.2.3 Sources of Stem Cells

1. Embryonic stem cells- are derived from a three to five-day-old human embryo that
is in blastocyst phase of development and has about 150 cells. The embryos are
usually extras that have been created in IVF (in vitro fertilization) clinics where
several eggs are fertilized in a test tube then implanted into a woman. (Crosta, 2013)

2. Somatic stem cells- are cells that exist throughout the body after embryonic
development. (Crosta, 2013) They are also capable of self-renewal and, with
appropriate signals, differentiate into various cell types from the organ from which
they are derived. The extent to which they are capable of creating various types 11 of
cells is controversial.

6.2.4 The Bioethics of Gene Therapy

There are ethical issues involved in gene therapy. Some of the inquiry cited
are the following (Genetics Home Reference, 2017):

1. How can “good” and “bad” uses of gene therapy be distinguished?

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2. Who
decides
which
traits are normal and which constitute a disability or disorder?
3. Will the high costs of gene therapy make it available only to the wealthy?
4. Should people be allowed to use gene therapy to enhance human traits such as
height, intelligence, or athletic ability? Learning Check

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Evaluation
A. Answer the following questions briefly.

1. Describe the gene therapy and its various forms using a graphic organizer.

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B Complete the following metacognitive phrases.

1. Nanotechnology and gene therapy are beneficial to global health because… They
bring new solutions to medicine, allowing for targeted drug delivery, accurate
diagnostics, and personalized treatments. These improvements can make treatments
more effective, minimize side effects, and help with specific genetic disorders, leading
to better global health results.

2. The nanoworld and gene therapy have some alarming concerns about potential
health risks for the reason that a person, after knowing the potential benefits and
detriments of nanoworld and gene therapy, I've come to realize that the nanoworld
and gene therapy hold significant potential for improving health, agriculture,
economics, energy, and medicine. While acknowledging the drawbacks, I believe
future generations will find ways to mitigate or eliminate adverse effects.

Rubrics

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Reflection
blog:
Nanotechnology, a paradigm-shifting phenomenon, promises transformative
breakthroughs across diverse domains. Its impact spans technology, where
advancements in miniaturization redefine electronic components, to economics,
as nanotech-driven innovations foster new industries. In agriculture, precision at
the molecular level enhances crop yields, while in health, targeted drug delivery
and diagnostics revolutionize medical practices. Furthermore, nanotechnology
holds the key to efficient energy solutions, paving the way for sustainable
alternatives. While acknowledging its potential, ongoing research and
collaboration aim to mitigate any adverse effects, ensuring a responsible
integration of nanotechnology into our evolving future. Gene therapy is really
promising for making healthcare better. It's a new way of treating genetic problems by
fixing or changing messed-up genes. Scientists are studying it more, and it could lead to
big improvements in personalized medicine, where treatments are made just for you
based on your genes. This doesn't just make medical treatments work better, but it
also helps with diseases we couldn't treat before. Gene therapy doesn't just help one
person – it can make public health better by preventing diseases and making
healthcare systems less stressed. As scientists learn more, gene therapy could totally
change how we deal with genetic issues, making the world healthier.

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Criteria 10 7-9 4-6 1-3

Rubrics for Concept Mapping

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Content Contents are Contents are Some contents Contents are
relevant. The relevant. are not irrelevant.
topics are Some of the relevant. Many
properly subtopics are Some subtopics are 14
summarized not included. subtopics are missing and
and organized. Topics are not included are not
organized. and are not properly
properly summarized
summarized and
and organized. organized.
Creativity Ideas and Ideas and Some of the The concept
figures are figures are ideas and map is plain
creative. creative. Some figures are and not
Thoughts are thoughts are creative. Some creative.
original; familiar; thoughts are
drawings are drawings are familiar;
neat and clear. almost neat drawings are
and clear. almost neat
and clear.
Instructor’s
Comments

Reflection Blog
Well done! You have finished the discussions about nanotechnology and gene therapy.
Now, please write your reflection on the topics discussed in this module.

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References
Serafica, J.P., Pawilen, G., Caslib, B. & Alata, E.J. (2018). Science, Technology and
Society. Rex Book Store, Inc. 856 Nicanor Reyes Sr. St., Manila.

Doria, B., Nacario, C. & Solis, M. (2018). Science, Technology and Society.
Jimczyville Publications. #16 Concha St., Bgry. Tinajeros, Malabon City.

Mayo Clinic. (2019, June 8). Stem cells: What are they and what they do.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/bone-marrow-transplant/in-depth/stem-c
ells/art-20048117

Medline Plus. (2020, September 21). What is gene therapy? U.S. National Library of
Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/therapy/genetherapy/

National Technology Initiative. (n.d.). Size of the Nanoscale. Nano.gov.

https://www.nano.gov/nanotech-101/what/nano-

O’Connor, T. (2014). Embryonic and somatic cells as a source of genetic medicine.

Scitable. https://www.nature.com/scitable/content/embryonic-and-somatic-stem-cells-
as-a-6067 3/

Paddock, C. (2012, May 40). Nanotechnology in Medicine: Huge Potential, But What
Are The Risks? Medical News Today.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/244972

Resourse Library. (n.d.). Nano World. National Geographic.

https://www.nationalgeographic.org/media/nano-world/ 16

Prepared by:

Mikee B. Venturillo
CS-BPS Faculty

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