With the increasing scientific research, experiments, and new developments gene editing has become an enlightening aspect of life and success. Scientists are experimenting in full swing with this newfound aspect of life longevity and endless opportunities for cures. Though, there are numerous risks involved in genome editing which have to be figured out first to implement these options in our lives.
The Francis Crick Institute London requested the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority in the UK to approve them to modify and improve human embryos by using the CRISPR-Cas9 technique of gene editing. The request was approved in 2018 and The Francis Crick Institute London started using the most powerful gene editing tool to modify disease-causing genes in embryos. And the best part of this modification is that it will continue in the upcoming generations as well. This new development has raised some ethical questions regarding designing humans. Let’s discuss the major 8 advantages and disadvantages of gene editing.
Advantages of Genome Editing
Overpower Diseases – With Gene Editing some of the most dreaded diseases will be removed from this world. With this powerful genetic mutation, this society will put an end to pain-causing human diseases.
• They have introduced new immunotherapy called “Cancer Therapeutics”, using this new development of gene editing which is likely to treat cancer. By using CRISPR T-cells can be modified and can locate and kill cancer cells.
• With gene editing implemented in drugs and medicine will take lesser time for curing an ailment or any severe disease.
• Genome editing will get rid of any inherent diseases. Diabetes and cystic fibrosis can easily be eliminated by using this method.
Life Longevity – This will ensure that you have better health and life longevity. Gene editing will alter and improve all cures for life-threatening diseases.
Food Item Quality and Production – The production of the food will also be very high and packed with nutrients. And genetic engineering can also introduce edible vaccines and increase the medicinal value of the food.
Pest-Free Crops – one of the pioneers of CRISPR, Jennifer Doudna said, “Genome editing can address pest and nutrition challenges facing agriculture”. This means that no insecticides and pesticides will be a part of your food.
Disadvantages of Genome Editing
Genetic engineering will bring a lot of benefits but there are some disadvantages as well.
Firstly, this new development has brought an ethical dilemma amongst people. Every human must be one of a kind, but gene editing will deliver pre-programmed designed human beings.
Secondly, safety concerns are exceedingly high in this process. Small changes will be made to the embryos but an even smaller mistake can lead to unpredicted results. To wipe out a specific disease there will be a huge possibility to introduce a whole new set of diseases.
Thirdly, every human being has unique qualities and gene modification will put a big question on the diversity of human nature. Supposedly the most beautiful aspect of the earth will be removed.
Lastly, Gene editing will surely be a greatly expensive procedure. Surely, the rich can undergo this process to ensure a cure to their genetic diseases but it will not be meant for poor people. If this is implemented in this society it would be widely unfair.
Science is always finding ways to ease out people in the long run and gene editing is surely a fascinating discovery that has been done by a team of highly qualified scientists around the world. But does this process truly help humankind in the long or threatens its existence is a big question. This procedure has a lot of potential, but proper law and order should be maintained to control its usage.
