Genetic Scientists Concerned About Threat from Biological Hackers

Genetic research and technology is in its infancy, currently at the equivalent stage of computer development as producing biological 1940's AND, NAND, and NOR gates, but already concerns are being expressed at the potential for outside viral threats.

The power of the scientists is growing and so is the potential threat. In 2002 researchers recreated the polio virus after downloading genome database information from the internet. Future malicious coders could make such a creation even more potent.

One fear is that rogue scientists will target a single genetic pattern, a concern voiced by the British Medical Association in October 2004. Genome information may eventually proliferate as it has with international nuclear and chemical weapons.

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