In the past two decades, research into genetics has yielded vast results. The mapping of the human genome, and the discovery of CRISPR gene editing are examples of technological advances which have significantly progressed our understanding of genetics, and also our ability to directly change and influence gene expression. Scientists are now figuring out which genetic factors contribute to diseases, finding ways to alter genes in an effort to treat diseases, and researching how to control the genetic makeup of our offspring. In this module, you have been introduced to various genetic diseases, types of gene therapy, human embryonic stem cell research, and CRISPR.
In 2018, the world’s first “CRISPR babies” were born, and in response, many experts and philosophers have argued that human experimentation in which the DNA of an embryo is edited before the start of a pregnancy should not be conducted because of unresolved scientific and ethical issues. CRISPR has the potential to help us cure diseases (Links to an external site.) such as sickle cell anemia, but its use in editing the human germline has drawn significant controversy. The progress being made in genetic editing should make us think about our values regarding human rights, autonomy, beneficence, and research ethics.
*First, read the following editorial titled: “An Ethical Pathway for Gene Editing.”
*
Then, answer the following questions and number your responses accordingly:
Briefly explain Savulescu and Singer’s position on the He Jiankui case, and their argument regarding gene editing in general. Do you agree with their position? Why or why not? Use at least one ethical theory to support your position.
Near the end of the article, it is mentioned that some countries like Australia have passed laws restricting banning genetic profiling of embryos for non-disease traits. Do you think this is justifiable, considering that some countries like China have not banned it, and does a clear demarcation exist between normal and abnormal traits? Explain, and use outside research to support your position.
https://www.statnews.com/2018/12/17/crispr-shocker-genome-editing-scientist-he-jiankui/https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-03919-0https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bioe.12570
