LAUSR

The CRISPR-cas9 gene-editing system (CRISPR) is a revolutionary technology that promises unparalleled abilities. It is the first technology that allows for the precise, efficient modification of DNA sequences. Less than five years since it was first developed, it has been used to alter a diverse range of organisms, including plants, livestock, insects and primates. There is little doubt that it will soon be technically possible to use the CRISPR system to rewrite the human genome. It is crucial that we consider the impact such technologies will have on future generations. The ability to alter our biological makeup will create immense opportunities but also pose novel threats. It is crucial that we make sensible decisions about the development and use of gene-editing technologies. In this commentary, I discuss the effect that germline gene editing will have on the health of future generations (Note: By ‘germline’ gene editing, I mean the editing of DNA in cells which could potentially be heritable, e.g. germ cells or embryonic cells.). I argue that provided germline gene editing is well regulated, it could greatly improve the health of our descendants. The use of germline gene editing in researchwill greatly increase our knowledge of development and could lead to novel treatments for disease. Germline gene editing also has enormous potential as a clinical tool. It could soon be used to prevent simple genetic diseases, and eventually to reduce the incidents of polygenic diseases.While the use of germline gene editing to prevent disease raises contentious philosophical issues, conceptual uncertainty shouldnot prevent the development of germline gene editing as a research tool and a treatment for fatal genetic conditions.