X-Message-Number: 3443
Date: Thu, 8 Dec 1994 14:25:46 -0500 (EST)
From: 
Subject: SCI.CRYONICS Frozen animals and gene transference

Date sent:  8-DEC-1994 14:18:21 

Again the important issue to study animals that can survive frozen
conditions is addressed. This time the practical application of such study
cannot be denied. This technique is already used in medicine.  I like to
point out that one need not be young to have seed cells for storage. studies
with animals cells have shown that any somatic cell's chromosomes can be
divided and be used for fertilization. Age of the donor does not effect the
integrity of the embryo and fetus. Apparently damage (if any) to the DNA is
repaired after the somatic cell "divides".
It is an ethical issue. Should, say a 90 year old, person pay someone to
develop a fetus from his cells for the soul purpose of obtaining seed cells
for rejuvenation or seed cells that had DNA transferred from animals that
can survive the frozen state in order to make it possible for a human to
produce chemicals to survive this state.  The argument that these animals  
are not frozen to a low enough temperature to survive entropy for 200 or 
more years needer holds because these animals are able to repair damage that 
occur at that temperature.  Hence no need for LN temperatures and the problems 
associated with it.

Jan (John) Coetzee

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