US scientists corrected disease-causing gene mutation in a human embryo.
What is the experiment about?
CRISPR/Cas9 is a gene editing technology which has been used.
It is used by researchers to replace short DNA sequences with genetic material of their choice.
Scientists proved that there is also a chance to knock out disease-causing genetic mutations that parents pass on to their children.
Mutations linked to diseases like breast and ovarian cancers or cystic fibrosis can also be eliminated.
Correcting the mutation in the gene would also prevent the mutation from being passed on to future generations.
What are the issues with the experiment?
One of its controversial applications is modifying the genes of eggs, sperm, or early embryos to alter a human life.
This could result in “designer babies” i.e the ability to create smarter or more athletic humans.
The implications of introducing modified genomes into the human gene pool are vastly unknown.
Creating children with preferred traits also raised bio-ethical concerns as it goes against natural process.
If this technology becomes a realistic, the wealthy would be able to afford the selection of desirable traits in their offspring, while those of lower socioeconomic standing would not be able to access the same options.
As a result, economic divisions may grow into genetic divisions, with social distinctions delineating enhanced individuals from unenhanced individuals.
What should be done?
Experiments to change the human germ line are banned in much of Europe but are legal in the US and China.
Though they are in a premature stage, it is to be monitored that the scientific community suggest unavoidable legislative challenges as more advances are made.
It is also to be noted before placing a blanket ban that every advancement in reproductive health, starting from in vitro fertilisation to the recent birth of a baby through the “three parent” technique for mitochondria-related disease, has initially been stuck in controversy.
