Joining The 100: A Seoer’s Vision for Genetic Enhancement of Mountain Men

In the post-apocalyptic world of The 100, the survival of humanity hangs by a thread. Across the various factions—Sky People, Grounders, and Mountain Men—each group presents a unique challenge to the survival of the human race. If I were a part of The 100 TV show, my goal would be to ensure the longevity and resilience of the Mountain Men while also improving their shelter. Genetic enhancement would be the key to achieving this. Let’s explore the strategies I would employ to achieve this vision.

Understanding the Genetic Landscape

Firstly, it’s essential to understand the genetic landscape of The 100's factions. The Sky People, who have been living in space for generations, have undergone genetic engineering to adapt to their microgravitational environment. This engineering has, in turn, altered their genetic makeup significantly, posing the question of whether they can be considered “human” in the traditional sense anymore. Similarly, the Grounders, who have been subjected to severe selection pressures, could also potentially represent a distinct subspecies. Strong selection pressures acting on chromosomal rearrangements and large mutations can create such distinct subgroups within a single generation.

Considering the potential interbreeding between the Sky People, Grounders, and Mountain Men, it’s crucial to assess whether they can coexist. There is no evidence to suggest that they can interbreed, thereby reinforcing the necessity for separate genetic strategies for each faction.

Improving Radiation Resistance

My primary focus would be on the Mountain Men, a group still living in the post-apocalyptic world. They rely on Mount Weather as their shelter and are less technologically advanced compared to the other factions. To ensure their survival and long-term success, I would advocate for genetic enhancement that would make them more resistant to radiation. This would be crucial in a world where radiation is omnipresent and deadly.

There are several genetic modifications that could be considered for this purpose. For instance, enhancing the production of protective proteins like metallothionein, which binds and detoxifies heavy metals including radioactive isotopes, would be beneficial. Additionally, increasing the efficiency of DNA repair mechanisms, such as those involved in the base excision repair pathway, could help mitigate the damage caused by ionizing radiation. These modifications could be achieved through the use of gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9.

Enhancing the Bunker

While genetic modification is vital, improving the bunker itself is equally important. Enhancing the bunker’s resistance to radiation is key to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the Mountain Men. Strategies could include incorporating materials with high radiation-absorbing properties, such as lead or certain concrete mixtures. Structural reinforcements, like additional layers of shielding and improved ventilation systems, would also be necessary.

Furthermore, improvements to the bunker’s infrastructure, including the installation of advanced filtration systems to remove radioactive particles from the air, would enhance the Mountain Men’s chances of survival. Efficient water and food storage systems would also be crucial to sustain the group over long periods. These improvements would not only protect the Mountain Men but also provide a stable environment for genetic enhancement to take effect.

Next Steps

To achieve these goals, a comprehensive plan would need to be developed. This would involve collaboration with geneticists, engineers, and other experts. It would also require overcoming ethical and legal challenges associated with genetic modification. However, the potential benefits of ensuring the long-term survival of the Mountain Men make this goal worth pursuing.

In conclusion, joining The 100 as a genetic engineer would allow me to make a significant contribution to the survival of humanity. By focusing on genetic enhancement for radiation resistance and improving the existing bunker, we can ensure that the Mountain Men thrive in this challenging environment. This approach would not only promote the survival of the Mountain Men but also set a precedent for long-term survival strategies in post-apocalyptic conditions.