X-Message-Number: 7837
Date: Mon, 10 Mar 1997 16:50:29 -0500
From: Jim Waldron <>
Subject: re: DNA storage

Regarding the value of storing DNA while you are young to preserve a good
blueprint for regenerating tissue at the time of reanimation...

Paul Wakfer writes:

>>
..... I believe that the number of cells which would be stored in 3 cc of
tissue, blood or semen of even an older person are almost certain to
contain many cells with virtually undamaged DNA. In addition, it would also
be possible to piece together a complete undamaged DNA from millions of
cells with partially damaged DMA.
>>

I agree that its probably possible to infer the undamaged state of DNA by
inspecting many damaged ones (but can't be sure).  I also feel that getting
a good DNA sample will be the least of the reanimators worries.  However,
its one of the few things I can do to help and so I've done it on the
somewhat small chance the info will be useful.

There is another thing that I, a non-biologist, can do to more effectively
improve my chances of reanimation.  That is to contribute (or invest) in
cryonics activities.  I'm aware of Promethius and other projects and will
be considering them in the near future.

Mike Coward writes:

>>
I understand and almost agree with what you are saying, but are those
mutations part of our evolution? Are those mutations physical evidence of
events in our lives, a nonneural memory?
>>

Thats an interesting point that I'm not qualified to answer, but I'd guess
that the DNA mutations are more of a random nature, than of a nature that
is somehow recording information of value.  But in any case, there will be
plenty of mutated DNA stored with my frozen body.

(Mr) Brook Norton
aerospace engineer


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