Liu Zhentao turned and strode quickly toward a corner of the laboratory, where there were several private offices and discussion rooms for researchers to conduct in-depth discussions and design experiments.
A few minutes later, he returned to the central area of the laboratory with three young people, two men and one woman.
The three young men all looked quite excited and nervous, clearly thrilled to be receiving Chen Yu.
"Mr. Chen, the telomerase research theory you see was proposed by these three people," Liu Zhentao explained to Chen Yu and the others.
According to Liu Zhentao, the three people are named Wang Haoran, Wu Songlin, and Zhao Yuxuan.
Zhao Yuxuan was the initiator of this theoretical research and a key figure in data analysis and theoretical verification. She not only possesses a solid foundation in biochemistry but is also proficient in bioinformatics and statistics. Using complex algorithms to analyze experimental data, she deduced a new mechanism for telomerase regulation.
After seeing Zhao Yuxuan's theoretical model, Wang Haoran and Wu Songlin also became interested and formed this research group. However, almost two months have passed and their research is still in the theoretical stage.
Firstly, the idea was too far-fetched and seemed somewhat unreliable. To avoid wasting resources at the base, Liu Zhentao had not approved any experimental funding or resources for them. Secondly, certain key materials and technologies required for the experiment were difficult to obtain.
Liu Zhentao was quite honest; he didn't exaggerate the feasibility of the theory or highlight his own active role in it just because he saw Chen Yu's interest in it.
It's unclear whether it was because he genuinely disapproved of the theory, or because he wanted to gain Chen Yu's sympathy and thus secure Chen Yu's strong support, or perhaps both.
After listening to Liu Zhentao's introduction, Chen Yu smiled gently and said, "Hehe, the three of you are indeed young and promising! Not bad, not bad."
His unpretentious attitude eased the tension in the three of them considerably.
However, just as they were about to respond humbly to Chen Yu, he suddenly changed the subject and said with a serious expression, "However, you have misplaced your intelligence or energy!"
Chen Yu's sudden change of expression stunned everyone, and the atmosphere instantly became tense.
"What does research on 'telomerase' mean? It means challenging the taboos of life. Have you ever thought about what serious consequences such research might bring to our Tianyu base and to the entire human society?" Chen Yu said in a deep voice.
His gaze was piercing, as if it could penetrate into everyone's heart, making everyone present feel a heavy pressure.
Zhao Yuxuan spoke first, her voice trembling slightly but her tone firm: "Mr. Chen, we are well aware of the importance and sensitivity of telomerase research. Our initial intention is not to challenge the taboos of life, but to find new ways to delay aging and treat related diseases through the power of science. This will not only improve the quality of human life, but may also bring revolutionary breakthroughs to the medical field in the future."
"We humans are facing an existential crisis, and all you're thinking about is slowing down aging? If everyone thought like you, who would have the time or energy to focus on combating the cold and disaster relief? Who would research how to improve our living environment, how to solve the food crisis, or how to protect our fragile ecosystem? Even if we expend a lot of energy and make a breakthrough in telomerase technology, even enabling people to live forever, then who will decide who gets to live that life? Will this lead to new social injustices and conflicts?" Chen Yu's voice was firm and unwavering. Every word he spoke was like a hammer blow, striking the hearts of everyone present, leaving no room for rebuttal or disregard.
Zhao Yuxuan took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down, and then said earnestly, "Mr. Chen, the question you raised is very pointed, and it is also a question we have been thinking about during our research. Indeed, the research on telomerase may bring a series of complex social and ethical issues, but we believe that the development of science should be a double-edged sword, and the key lies in how we guide and apply it."
“Yes, yes, Mr. Chen, if we can successfully develop this technology, the first spot for immortality will naturally go to you, as well as to all the leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the base,” Wang Haoran hurriedly interjected, trying to ease the tense atmosphere. However, his words did not seem to have the desired effect.
Chen Yu's expression grew even more serious. He said in a deep voice, "Xiao Wang, after all I've said, don't you understand? Science is not child's play, much less a tool for personal gain. If your research is only to satisfy the selfish desires of a few, then it has no value. As the founder of the base, I don't belittle myself; I believe my contributions to the base are considerable. But who here hasn't contributed to the base? Who isn't striving for the future of humanity? If even merit is divided into large and small, then the equality we advocate at Tianyu Base will be meaningless! If scientific research becomes a tool for privileged services, then it loses its meaning in promoting overall social progress. What we need is scientific research that benefits all of humanity and promotes overall well-being, not technology that exists solely for the selfish interests of a few!"
Chen Yu's words were powerful and righteous, leaving everyone present with an indescribable sense of awe.
"I, Chen Yu, am not willing to enjoy special privileges. What about you?" Chen Yu said, looking at Lin Lele and the others beside him.
Upon seeing this, everyone quickly shook their heads with firm expressions.
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