Gene Editing and the Ethical Challenges of Biotechnology

Source: The post Gene Editing and the Ethical Challenges of Biotechnology has been created, based on the article “Gene editing: Are humans really ready to rewrite the book of life?” published in “Live mint” on 14 May 2025. Gene Editing and the Ethical Challenges of Biotechnology

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- bio-technology

Context: Since the discovery of DNA’s double helix in 1953, gene editing has progressed rapidly. With tools like Crispr, major advances have occurred in medicine and agriculture. These developments raise ethical, legal, and social concerns, making regulation and oversight essential.

For detailed information on Human genome editing: significance and associated challenges read this article here

Scientific Advancements in Gene Editing

1. From Recombinant DNA to Genome Mapping: In the 1970s, scientists created recombinant DNA, enabling gene transfers across species. The 1980s introduced genetically modified organisms. The Human Genome Project, launched in the 1990s, aimed to map the entire human genome.
2. Human Genome Decoding Milestone: By 2003, 92% of the human genome was successfully mapped. This provided a base for personalized medicine and advanced genetic science.
3. Rise of Crispr Technology: Crispr-Cas9, developed in 2012, made gene editing faster, cheaper, and more accurate. It expanded research opportunities and intensified ethical debates about genetic interventions.

Applications in Medicine and Agriculture

1. Therapies for Genetic Diseases: Between 2023 and 2025, the UK and US approved Crispr-based therapies that cured sickle cell anaemia. Patients are now free from chronic pain and regular transfusions.
2. Immune Cell Reprogramming: Gene editing is being used to modify immune cells for targeted cancer treatment. This boosts the body’s ability to destroy tumour cells.
3. Genetically Modified Crops: Crispr is helping develop crops that resist drought and spoilage. These advances aim to improve nutrition and enhance food security amid climate change.

Ethical and Regulatory Concerns

1. Risks from Unregulated Use: Crispr kits sold online raise concerns about misuse. Though no major incidents are known, the ease of access underlines the need for regulatory checks.
2. Lulu and Nana Case: In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui edited embryos of twin girls to make them HIV-resistant. The lack of approval and secrecy led to international criticism and demands for stricter rules.
3. Call for Global Frameworks: The case exposed gaps in regulation. Experts urge the creation of international standards to guide responsible gene editing.

Legal and Social Implications

1. Cloning Developments and Boundaries: Animal cloning, like Dolly the sheep in 1996, is used in farming and conservation. Human cloning remains ethically and legally restricted.
2. Gene Patents and Public Access: In 2013, the US Supreme Court ruled that naturally occurring genes cannot be patented. But synthetic or altered gene sequences can be, raising questions about access and control.
3. Concerns over Genetic Inequality: Gene-editing technologies are costly and not equally accessible. Without fair regulation, they may widen the gap between the rich and the poor. Genetic advantages could be limited to the wealthy, creating new forms of social and biological inequality.

Balancing Innovation with Responsibility

1. Clear Lines Between Therapy and Enhancement: Therapeutic gene editing is broadly accepted. However, editing for appearance, intelligence, or athletic ability remains controversial. Embryo editing for heritable traits is mostly restricted.
2. Need for Cautious Progress: Gene editing offers major benefits but also poses serious risks. Responsible innovation requires strong ethical standards and equal access for all.

Question for practice:

Examine how advancements in gene editing have raised ethical, legal, and social concerns, and discuss the need for responsible regulation.