are able to target essentially any cell of choice. This cell specificity ablates all selected cell types in all sections of the embryo. This is an advantage because the number of analogous cells eliminated within a tissue has an influence on the phenotypic effects of ablation. Furthermore, because genetic ablation only requires organizing a genetic cross, it is simple technically, which allows a simultaneous examination of substantially sized populations of individuals. A larger number of samples helps authenticate the results, by providing more data to conclude from. Also, in certain cases, ablation is cell-autonomous, which eradicates any fear of compromising neighboring cells. This is seen in ricin-A and diphtheria-A chains as well as the death-inducing genes. Disadvantages There are also disadvantages associated with the genetic approaches to ablation. There is irregularity seen in expression that is driven by enhancers. These irregularities may be observed through a lack of restriction by a selected enhancer to a selected cell type or through a lack of inclusion for all cells of a certain kind in an embryo. Furthermore, the expressing cells can be killed by low levels of expression. A lack of choice of timing can prove to be a disadvantage as well. This is possible if the expression of the effector gene is GAL4- or enhancer-dependent. It is important to confirm that the toxin-encoding gene is only expressed during relevant developmental stages and in that specific cell in the embryo. This can be avoided by using mosaic expression. Technological implications Temporal control of gene expression and ablation can be attributed to evolving transgenic and gene-therapy technologies. These technologies are enhanced by an understanding of the mechanisms that affect tissue-specific gene transcription. Genetic ablation allows for genes to be removed by compounds that are introduced into the organism of interest. Genetic ablation in transgenic mice Genetic ablation technology may be able to produce mice with mutations in just about every gene present in their germ line. Although this technique is not perfected, it contains the ability to target questions surrounding the molecular and cellular biology of embryonic growth. Furthermore, it may assist in the creation of animals to serve as guides showing the effects on human diseases including demyelination, dwarfism, and immunodeficiencies. Genetic ablation in plant development Genetic ablation is a remarkable component in the study of cell lineages in mammals. This known quality encourages further study in dissecting plant developmental processes. A