The history of literature is littered with tales of genetic engineering. From hybrids of Greek mythology to medieval dragons to "The Island of Doctor Moreau"... Storytellers have always looked to splice animals together, for better of for worse. Usually for worse.
In real life?
Genetic engineering is all too real. Thanks to Paul Berg, Jew.
Berg is considered the father of genetic engineering, receiving a Nobel in Chemistry for his efforts. Among his many contributions is the ability to recombine DNA.
Of course, genetic engineering presents all kinds of benefits for humans, but we can't help but think of those hybrids. Griffins? Unicorns? Dragons? Platypi? We just hope there is no real-life Doctor Moreau...