Banning gene editing to modify human embryos could be hasty

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For many, the word “designer baby” brings to mind images of eugenics…As a result of this commonly shared fear, the practice is officially banned in the U.S., but some experts in the field suggest that blindly banning genetic modification on human embryos may not be the answer.

Through the use of CRISPR gene-editing technology, we are able to change the genes in human embryos. On the surface, the practice sounds dangerous, [but]…gene-editing embryos also would allow scientists to ensure that mothers would not pass on…deadly genetic diseases to their offspring through a process called mitochondrial replacement therapy.

Mitochondrial diseases are caused by mutations in the mitochondrial genome, and lead to a wide array of…incurable conditions affecting between 1,000 and 4,00 children born each year…Although only a handful of women carry these mitochondrial disorders, they still want to have children, and would benefit greatly from this gene-editing technology.

However, the same bill that banned gene-editing in human embryos is up for renewal this year, which means this controversial yet arguably life-saving technique could come state-side soon.

The GLP aggregated and excerpted this blog/article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion and analysis. Read full, original post: The Downside Of Banning Designer Babies

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