Steve,
I'm not sure if you're expecting me to provide answers, or if you're just explaining your concern aloud. I don't have the answers. Did you watch the video with Dr. Michio Kaku? You might find it a good starting point since it touches up on the very subject.
Hey Steve,
This theory was proposed on a recent episode of ancient aliens by dr michio kaku. He mentioned image slicing and the ability to replicate the brain of an insect and even suggested humans would have the capability in the near future to replicate the brain. He goes on to say that this is a means to space travel... Not just for humans. Do I think it's possible? Yes.
Do I also think there's a different path, other than a physical one? Yes. I think there are two paths here...
But before I explain further, let me share this video. I could not find the ancient aliens episode available to show you, probably because it's so new.
But here is what I did find that kind of gets into this whole question you've posed for yourself.
For your amusement
~