Why Gene Editing Is Not Main Stream
Gene editing is one of the most powerful tools we have access to. We can potentially cure every disease known to humans. The ability to edit our genetic makeup to how we see fit is something only seen in movies, at least that was so until a few years ago.
Why isn’t it being used then? And why do so few people know about gene editing? Many people are concerned by the potential implications and negative effects gene editing can have on our bodies.
Yes, there are potential issues, but when are there not when talking about a technology that can change lives? Not only that, but save lives! We have the tools necessary to help so many people and it is time we use them.
I am going to explain the ethical concerns around gene editing as well as why they are valid, however should not be holding back scientific breakthroughs.
The opinions surrounding gene editing
If you have ever heard of gene editing, you have surely heard negative opinions, these usually stem from ideas such as “Designer Babies”. These so-called designer babies are children whose genetic makeup has been altered. This is frowned upon because it would create an even larger gap between classes.
Certain characteristics that would be altered are the following:
- Appearance
- Gender
- Intelligence
- Likelihood of diseases
- Personality
It is also common for people to criticize the operation on embryos and to say it is too unsafe or unpredictable. These procedures still need work, that is true, however, a chance at saving or improving your child’s life is worth it. Penicillin is believed to have saved more than 200 million lives in its 80 years since creation, however, it continues to be the cause of death of more than 500 Americans annually. Does this mean we should stop using it altogether, or even have not let it be used in the first place?
A large contributor to the negative spotlight on CRISPR in specific is the terminology in articles and news used to describe it such as hacking. The negative connotation surrounding these words puts these technologies in a bad light, making it much more difficult to show the potential these edits can have.
Why we should still fund gene editing
Even though many concerns are surrounding this topic, it has an enormous amount of potential. There is a possibility for many consequences, I am not denying that however the rewards greatly outweigh the risk. Being able to remove or edit genes that cause diseases such as cancer and diabetes is something that cannot be overlooked. Awareness needs to be brought to gene editing, there is not enough proper knowledge and information on gene editing for most people to make informed decisions. Only those who are immersed in the field truly understand what it is capable of.
Improving vs. repairing genes
There is a big disparity between using gene editing to repair a gene such as removing a gene that is causing sickle cell anemia versus improving the strength or stamina of your child.
A Chinese researcher, He Jiankui, modified the genes of human embryos to improve their resistance to HIV. This is unethical because it increases the ability of a human. Fixing or repairing a gene does not, it brings the person up to the level of their peers, it creates equality.
The repairing of genes should be permitted but improving genes should not be, at least until we have improved on the technology and it becomes more accessible. World wide regulations would need to be created for this to be possible and in reality that is the biggest reason why gene editing is not advancing as quickly as it could be.
If you believe gene editing is not right, that is fine. I am not here to tell you that you are wrong, I just want to show that there are arguments for both sides. Scientific advancements should not be held back because there is a high failure rate, there will always be room for improvements. If we start using and perfecting gene editing now, it will be ready sooner. Who knows, maybe your life will be saved in 10 years because of the use of CRISPR.
Here is a quick google form to fill out on gene editing;
Hey! I’m Thomas, a 15-year-old innovator at The Knowledge Society excited about gene editing, space and business. I am looking to find what I love and leave an impact on the world. If you would like to contact me, here is my email as well as my accounts on other platforms.
Email: Thomas.nurmi16@gmail.com
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sickle-cell-anemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20355876
