The implications of CRISPR
On October 7th, 2020, two brilliant scientists were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, becoming the first two women in history to receive it. They were recognised for their revolutionary discovery, CRISPR.
CRISPR is a gene-editing technology that allows one to cut a DNA sequence at its exact location. Researchers have figured out how to feed the enzyme fake genetic information, replacing the naturally occurring CRISPRs with an RNA sequence of their choice. Together (CRISPR-Cas9) they function as a pair of versatile scissors that serve as a genetic find-and-replace function.
CRISPR has the potential to benefit humanity in practically all fields. From medicine and agriculture to de-extinction, this technology revolutionises the future of genome editing. CRISPR has uses in cancer and cell therapies, to prevent and treat radiation sickness, germline edits for prevention against hereditary diseases, and xenotransplantation to edit pig genes and prevent rejection of organs by the human body. It could cure blood disorders, cystic fibrosis, Huntington’s disease, and muscular dystrophy. It can make livestock less susceptible to diseases, create greener biofuels, and create allergy-free foods. It is a game changer.
This cheap, effective, and endlessly adaptable form of gene manipulation has unbridled potential, but then why are intellectuals nervous about its implications? The answer is simple – if CRISPR use goes unchecked it can create huge dangers.
For example, the techniques used to locate diseases can also be used to eliminate our body’s ability to cure a virus – it can make something as harmless as a common cold deadly. Even the bioethics regarding embryo editing is a grey area – its ability to “cure” people at the genetic level can threaten those, that society deems inferior. Excessive germline edits may also have severe implications not only on an individual but its future generations.
CRISPR achieves progress of great heights, its regulation that one needs to be careful about. If we remain aware of all the developments around us, all progress can remain ethical.