Eric J. PerkinsFor the past seven years, eighth-grade science teacher Jonathan Marks, a 2022 recipient of the Foundation for Belmont Education’s Outstanding Teacher Award, has invited me to speak to his class about genome engineering. My PhD in genetics and career as a scientist at Addgene, a nonprofit DNA repository that works closely with bioengineers, provide the technical qualifications for this endeavor. Being a father of three provides the enthusiasm for giving something back to the Belmont school system.
Genetic engineering has developed rapidly over the past decade with the advent of CRISPR technology. This year, I shared the story of a deaf toddler in the United Kingdom whose hearing was restored with an experimental gene therapy, but first we listened to examples of what sentences sounded like those for deaf people who use a cochlear implant.
I asked the students if an experimental gene treatment should be used on a child with a condition that is not life-threatening. Their answers spanned the spectrum of deeply concerned to very supportive.
Then, we talked about engineering bacteria with melanin to create black cellulose that can be used to make faux leather. Would the students wear a jacket secreted by bacteria? One student was enthusiastic about the idea. They were vegetarians and liked the idea of having a leather alternative. Other students gave bacteria clothing a hard pass.
Students this year also got to see a little piece of genetic history in person. They were led in small groups into a dark room to see the “firefly petunia” I brought in. These petunias have been modified with fluorescent proteins from fungi, and they produce a soft green glow in the dark. Not every student was blown away, but I reminded them that this type of modified organism was pure science fiction less than a decade ago, never mind when I was an eighth grader in 1989.
I love to hear these students’ thoughts and completely unpredictable questions. Some students agreed that gene therapy is cool but wanted to know how much it costs. Answer: it’s very expensive — millions of dollars right now.
One student speculated that this could create a new form of classism with the rich getting genetic cures or even cosmetic enhancements. Heady topics for eighth graders! But these are real ethical situations these kids may be tackling as adults since genome engineering will affect the food we eat, the healthcare we receive, and maybe even the pets (or the plants!) we buy for the rest of our lives.
Considering how tired I am by the end of each of these days in the classroom, these presentations also serve as an annual reminder of the heroic job our teachers are doing. It’s amazing that Mr. Marks and his colleagues do this every day. I also get a glimpse of the rewards of teaching. Yes, students’ questions may be difficult, but that means they’re really thinking and learning. It’s remarkable to be even a small part of it.
If you think you have some expertise to share with students, whether you’re a Gen X parent of teens or not, consider reaching out to teachers or curriculum coordinators. Belmont is full of smart folks with interesting jobs and experiences. Our town has students who can learn from your stories!
Eric J. Perkins writes about Gen X as part of our Generations column for The Belmont Voice.