By Karen Phan, Staff Writer
Over 60 years ago, Francis Crick, Rosalind Franklin and James Watson pioneered a biological revolution after they discovered the structure of DNA. In the recent years, a gene-editing tool called Crispr-Cas9 took the science field by storm. The technology stirs controversy, but should be acknowledged as tool for discovery rather than one for danger.
Gene modification isn’t new, dating back to over 30,000 years ago when hunters and gatherers selectively breeded and domesticated wolves. Technology has allowed genetic engineering to advance, but the main argument against it is the potential consequences of modifying modern eugenics. Many also fear what will happen if Crispr-Cas9 falls into the wrong hands, because it is easy to use.
Simply put, restriction enzymes work by snipping out viral genes. Crispr works the same way as it uses two molecules, RNA and an enzyme such as Cas9, to cut DNA. RNA guides Cas9 to a target area in the DNA, and Cas9 makes a cut. Other enzymes can also be used in place of Cas9. Unlike in nature, Crispr allows material to be inserted, removed or edited in the DNA.
Many researchers have used the technology for innocent and uncontroversial experiments with good intentions. For example, it is especially popular in medicine because it can potentially treat genetic diseases. Scientists have been able to target the control center of cancer, slow down the growth of tumor cells and extract the HIV virus from an organism in 2017. Despite the flexibility and benefits of Crispr, not all are accepting of it.
Two years ago, Chinese researchers from Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou used Crispr to study and correct beta thalassemia, a disease that affects the ability to properly produce healthy red blood cells. Their goal wasn’t evil, but here’s the catch: they worked with human embryos. Once word of their research got out to the public, they were put under a spotlight for experimenting on a human embryo. They defended their unsuccessful germline editing by claiming they used non-viable embryos.
Germline editing is the modification of human embryos and reproductive cells which can potentially affect future generations. Scientists worry that germline editing can cause permanent change to the human blueprint, such as a genetically inherited mutation. It is also regarded as unethical and problematic, because future generations may severely affected by the results.
The Chinese researchers intended to use germline editing to combat a disorder. However, germline editing isn’t limited to just being a therapeutic tool. It can be used to alter human characteristics, such as wrinkles or create designer babies. While genome editing isn’t limited, our knowledge is. Crispr is extremely flexible and its full potential has yet to be discovered.
Although the current technology we have is much more reliable, it is important and reasonable to acknowledge that there are still possibilities for error. On the other hand, one of the best ways to learn more about DNA and genetics is through using Crispr and other gene editing tools. As technology improves, it will become more capable of modifying DNA accurately.
Scientists, organizations and even the public have also proposed restrictions to draw the line when using Crispr to minimize mistakes and reflect ethical concerns. But, there are no definite answers and lines in science. Whatever lines may be drawn are likely to be crossed and blurred as time changes, science progresses and technology advances.
Unfortunately, regardless of how airtight gene editing tools may come to be, public concern and ethics are one of the leading obstacles to the widespread use of gene editing technology. However, transparency between scientists and the public may demystify genetic engineering and enlighten citizens, resulting in less opposition.
In spite of the risks and concerns associated with Crispr, it is a valuable tool and is sure to continue to be used in research. We must overcome our fear of the unknown and keep up with the ever changing world. Editing genetic material gives us more knowledge, and with knowledge comes power, and with power comes great responsibility.
