CRISPR Has Begun to Be Used to Edit Human Embryos

Described as one of the greatest discoveries of the 21. century, CRISPR/CAS9 genetic technology has controversially begun to be used in human embryos for gene editing . China had concentrated most heavily on this field until now. According to a recently published study, American scientists also succeeded, using the crispr technique, in altering human embryo genetics. This is the first experiment in America using crispr on embryos.

The CRISPR/CAS9 technique allows gene editing at any point in the human genome. The technology theoretically has the potential for removing a damaged gene and inserting a healthy one in its place. Research centers worldwide work intensively toward this. In 2015, Chinese scientists successfully used crispr to alter a human embryo with serious genetic problems, but did not transplant the altered embryo into a human. With 3 studies published so far, China remains the leader. Daily publications have encouraged many countries to increase crispr experiments.

Every new genetic technology produces exciting results for humanity while also bringing concerns.

What Are the Concerns About Embryonic Gene Editing with CRISPR?

• Genetic editing in sperm, eggs and embryos, also known as “germ line engineering”, is highly controversial because changes can pass to offspring. Many scientific authorities therefore consider embryo genetic alteration using crispr highly risky and unethical.
• The American National Academy of Sciences emphasized last year that embryo genetic alterations could be used only to treat genetic diseases. The American Intelligence Office reported potential threats, noting that crispr is easy to use and could be used as a weapon of mass destruction.
• Crispr remains under investigation “in the laboratory”. A major risk is possible DNA cutting outside targeted regions. This may cause off-target mutations to emerge.
• Another fear is that embryo genetic editing could create designer babies . Editing germ-cell genes could produce embryos with desired genetic characteristics.

CRISPR/CAS9 offers great hope for disease treatment. It is also a technology easily usable as a threat to humanity. Science should always aim at human welfare and take precautions against potential threats.