Using Gene Editing to Cure Disabilities Discussion
Question Description
With respect to gene editing in human embryos, most research is focused on fixing or removing harmful mutations that may cause diseases, but there are some fears of creating designer babies. In addition, we can edit the genes in adults, if we use a targeted approach. Read the articles below, and then respond to the prompt.
Pro and Con: Should Gene Editing be Performed on Human Embryos? Pro by Harris (2016) and Con by Darnovsky (2016).
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/2016/08/human-gene-editing-pro-con-opinions/
A human has been injected with gene-editing tools to cure his disabling disease. Here’s what you need to know. (Kaiser, 2017) http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2017/11/human-has-been-injected-gene-editing-tools-cure-his-disabling-disease-here-s-what-you
CRISPR fixes disease gene in viable human embryos (Ledford, 2017)
https://www.nature.com/news/crispr-fixes-disease-gene-in-viable-human-embryos-1.22382
The first CRISPR edited babies are (probably) here. Now What? From: Science Friday
https://www.sciencefriday.com/segments/the-first-crispr-edited-babies-are-probably-here-now-what/
For your original post:
- Find a reputable resource, making sure to add an attribute or URL so that we can all view it, concerning gene editing in human embryos or adults.
- Make sure to add a descriptive title so that others know what you are discussing.
- Briefly summarize the main take home points of the research – make sure to include scientific terminology and discussion (remember, we are in a biology class!).
- Some questions to consider: What is your take on the research? Are there any benefits and/or costs? Should we be focusing on this? Is there reason for concern?
