Virus-Based Cures: A Future Threat or a Potential Savior?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the theme of a virus being used as a carrier for a cure in movies, specifically in the War of the Planet of the Apes series. It is noted that the virus in the movies eventually became fatal to humans but not to monkeys, leading to a discussion about potential real-life scenarios in which a virus could mutate and harm humans. Other movies with a similar theme are mentioned, including The Omega Man and I Am Legend. The conversation also touches on the use of viruses in gene therapy and vaccines, and the potential for viruses to be used as a treatment for certain illnesses.
  • #1
Rainbows_
Has anyone watched the latest War of the Planet of the Ape? I forgot about the virus the wiped out humanity so I rewatched the earlier installments. And learned they needed to introduce stronger virus strain to serve as carrier for the formula to reach the brain because the earlier one showed rejection. And it was this virus that eventually was realized to be fatal to humans but not to moneys and it wiped out 98% of humanity.

This look plausible.. and won't we have similar scenario in the future where the virus carrier of the cure can mutate and destroy us? What other movies have you watched with this same theme beside the Apes installments?
 
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  • #3
Really enjoyed the first two in the series. Looking forward to seeing this final one. Good reviews so far!
 
  • #4
Rainbows_ said:
This look plausible.. and won't we have similar scenario in the future where the virus carrier of the cure can mutate and destroy us? What other movies have you watched with this same theme beside the Apes installments?
Gene therapy only patches small sections of DNA, it is not capable of infecting you. And most vaccines don't even have DNA in them, just the shell, which is what the immune system is triggered by. We don't really fight diseases with diseases.
 
  • #5
newjerseyrunner said:
We don't really fight diseases with diseases.

Not yet, anyway...
 
  • #6
Algr said:
Not yet, anyway...

There are a number of viruses including the measles and polio viruses that have been modified to treat such illness as Glioblastoma (brain tumor) and Myeloma (blood cancer).
 

Related to Virus-Based Cures: A Future Threat or a Potential Savior?

1. What is the plot of "War of the Planet of the Apes"?

The plot of "War of the Planet of the Apes" follows the continuing struggle between apes and humans after the devastating virus outbreak. The leader of the apes, Caesar, must navigate a delicate balance between protecting his kind and seeking revenge against the ruthless Colonel, who is determined to eradicate all apes.

2. Is "War of the Planet of the Apes" scientifically accurate?

While the movie does take some creative liberties, it does incorporate scientific concepts such as evolution, genetic engineering, and the spread of infectious diseases. However, like most science fiction movies, there are elements that are not scientifically accurate.

3. What message does "War of the Planet of the Apes" convey about the relationship between humans and animals?

The movie explores themes of empathy, compassion, and the consequences of mistreating animals. It also highlights the idea that humans are not the only intelligent beings on the planet and that we must coexist with other species in harmony.

4. How were the apes created in "War of the Planet of the Apes"?

In the movie, the apes were created through genetic engineering, which is the manipulation of an organism's genes in order to give it new characteristics. This technology is still in its early stages in real life and is not yet capable of creating intelligent apes like in the movie.

5. Are there any real-life parallels to the conflict between apes and humans in "War of the Planet of the Apes"?

While the movie is primarily fictional, it does draw parallels to real-life issues such as deforestation, animal testing, and the mistreatment of animals. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of not coexisting peacefully with other species.

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