Heritable genome editing: looking through the crystal ball

Abstract

Like any other technology, concerns are raised on the misuse of CRISPR technology in human embryos. In the light of eugenics, issues such as editing of mutations for treatable conditions and correction of mutations of late onset disease or those with incomplete or low penetrance (e.g., schizophrenia and autism mutations, the heritable cancer mutations) are being heavily debated. The concern of “positive eugenics†of “desired traits†(e.g intelligence, physical appearance) and “social genetics†(HLA matched embryos) is growing amongst the circles of social scientists and bioethicists. However, the assisted reproduction fraternity is not new to such concerns of “slippery slope†and “designer baby.†The society had already faced similar dilemmas and knee jerk reactions when In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) was first demonstrated and PGT was first applied clinically.

The medical and scientific fraternity is accountable to take the appropriate steps and establish progressive guidelines to make sure that the human embryo genome editing is placed in responsible hands and not judged by unadorned morality. We are and should be the torch bearers in developing the strategies for heritable genome editing and making a positive impact for the benefit of mankind.