https://bigthink.com/the-well/gene-editing-crispr-should-we-be-worried/
"Journalist and author Walter Isaacson’s latest book chronicles the discovery
of the groundbreaking technology that enabled gene editing. Jennifer Doudna was
a young scientist captivated by RNA’s potential, while her contemporaries
focused on DNA and the Human Genome Project. In her research, Doudna discovered
how to repurpose CRISPR, a system used by bacteria to fight viruses, to edit
gene sequences — a discovery that could change the future of the entire human
species.
The perils of gene-editing technology loom large as scientists grapple with its
ethical implications. Doudna herself has had nightmares about the potential
misuse of CRISPR, fearing its capacity to aid eugenics. Isaacson urges a focus
on using CRISPR to address pressing medical needs like sickle cell anemia,
cystic fibrosis, and Huntington’s disease while avoiding a dystopian future
where the wealthy can buy better genes for their children.
Patients like Victoria Gray, who was successfully treated with CRISPR for
sickle cell disease in 2022, are already benefiting from the technology. For
Isaacson, the story of Doudna and CRISPR is a testament to the awe-inspiring
potential of human innovation when approached with curiosity and caution."
Via
Future Crunch:
<
https://futurecrunch.com/good-news-trachoma-benin-mali-deforestation-brazil-seine-paris/>
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
