Feng Zhang, a groundbreaking professor of neuroscience at MIT and a leader in gene editing, discusses his pioneering work with CRISPR technology. He explores the revolutionary journey of CRISPR, from its discovery to its potential in treating genetic diseases like sickle cell anemia. Zhang also addresses the ethical debates surrounding gene editing, particularly concerning germline modifications. He shares insights from his personal journey, the impact of mentorship, and the future potential of genetic medicine, highlighting both challenges and innovative solutions in the field.
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Quick takeaways
Feng Zhang discusses the transformative impact of CRISPR technology on gene editing, highlighting its evolution and practical applications for treating genetic diseases.
The podcast addresses the critical importance of effective delivery systems for gene editing tools, particularly in targeting specific tissues such as the liver and eye.
Ethical considerations surrounding gene editing, particularly issues related to germline modification and the implications of editing human embryos, are explored in-depth.
Zhang emphasizes the significance of mentorship and inspiring curiosity in STEM education to nurture future innovators in the fields of science and technology.
Deep dives
Introduction to Longevity Science
The host emphasizes the commitment to making the science of longevity more accessible, sharing insights from their website, podcast, and newsletter. The importance of member support is highlighted, allowing the production of valuable content without reliance on advertising. Membership benefits are presented, including exclusive content aimed at deepening understanding of health and wellness topics. This model seeks to ensure that members receive substantial value in exchange for their support.
Feng Zhang's Academic Journey
Feng Zhang, a prominent professor of neuroscience at MIT, shares his extensive background in academia, including his education at Harvard and Stanford. He studied chemical and biological engineering, contributing to significant advancements such as optogenetics and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. His honors include memberships in prestigious scientific academies, indicating his influence in the field. Zhang’s transition from chemistry and physics to molecular biology showcases his interdisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry.
The CRISPR Revolution
The episode delves into the origins and evolution of CRISPR technology, explaining its transformative impact on gene editing. Zhang discusses the challenges faced in gene editing prior to CRISPR and how this technology has streamlined the process. Practical applications of CRISPR, including the potential to treat genetic diseases, are explored. The importance of effective delivery systems for gene editing tools is emphasized, particularly regarding targeting specific cells in the body.
Ethical Considerations in Gene Editing
Ethical concerns surrounding gene editing, particularly germline modification, are examined. The podcast touches on the implications of editing human embryos, highlighting the debate between potential medical benefits and ethical dilemmas. The controversial case of a scientist in China who edited embryos to confer immunity to HIV illustrates the complexities of this field. Advocating for the cautious advancement of gene editing technologies, the conversation acknowledges the need for regulatory frameworks.
Philosophical Questions About Genetic Editing
The discussion shifts to broader philosophical questions regarding the implications of gene editing on society. Zhang expresses concern about the potential for designer babies and the societal consequences of selective genetic enhancements. He acknowledges the complexity of traits like intelligence, athleticism, and health, which are influenced by numerous genetic factors, making them difficult to modify safely and ethically. The balance between health benefits and potential risks of genetic modification is a recurring theme.
Fostering Curiosity in Future Generations
Zhang reflects on the importance of nurturing curiosity and passion in children to ensure a robust future in science and technology. He emphasizes the necessity of engaging educational practices that inspire young minds and support diverse interests in STEM fields. The role of committed teachers and educational systems in encouraging scientific exploration is acknowledged as a vital component of fostering future innovators. Zhang advocates for building educational environments that provide opportunities for hands-on learning.
The Future of Gene Editing
Looking ahead, the conversation explores the potential of CRISPR and other gene editing technologies in transforming medicine and enhancing human health. Zhang's optimism is buoyed by advancements in AI and data analysis, which can accelerate scientific discovery and innovation. He highlights the promise of developing more efficient and precise gene editing tools for treating genetic diseases. The potential for robots and automated systems in laboratories is also discussed, hinting at a future where experimentation becomes even faster and more precise.
Zhang's Personal Journey and Inspiration
Zhang shares his personal journey as an immigrant and the influence of his educational experiences in shaping his scientific career. His early interest in science, sparked by inspiring teachers and hands-on experiments, laid the foundation for his future contributions. He recounts the significant impact of working in a gene therapy lab during high school, where he first experienced the excitement of successful gene editing. The importance of mentorship and guidance in his life is a recurring theme in his reflections.
Feng Zhang, a professor of neuroscience at MIT and a pioneering figure in gene editing, joins Peter to discuss his groundbreaking work in CRISPR technology, as well as his early contributions to optogenetics. In this episode, they explore the origins of CRISPR and the revolutionary advancements that have transformed the field of gene editing. Feng delves into the practical applications of CRISPR for treating genetic diseases, the importance of delivery methods, and the current successes and challenges in targeting cells specific tissues such as those in the liver and eye. He also covers the ethical implications of gene editing, including the debate around germline modification, as well as reflections on Feng’s personal journey, the impact of mentorship, and the future potential of genetic medicine.
We discuss:
Feng’s background, experience in developing optogenetics, and his shift toward improving gene-editing technologies [2:45];
The discovery of CRISPR in bacterial DNA and the realization that these sequences could be harnessed for gene editing [10:45];
How the CRISPR system fights off viral infections and the role of the Cas9 enzyme and PAM sequence [21:00];
The limitations of earlier gene-editing technologies prior to CRISPR [28:15];
How CRISPR revolutionized the field of gene editing, potential applications, and ongoing challenges [36:45];
CRISPR’s potential in treating genetic diseases and the challenges of effective delivery [48:00];
How CRISPR is used to treat sickle cell anemia [53:15];
Gene editing with base editing, the role of AI in protein engineering, and challenges of delivery to the right cells [1:00:15];
How CRISPR is advancing scientific research by fast-tracking the development of transgenic mice [1:06:45];
Advantages of Cas13’s ability to direct CRISPR to cleave RNA and the advances and remaining challenges of delivery [1:11:00];
CRISPR-Cas9: therapeutic applications in the liver and the eye [1:19:45];
The ethical implications of gene editing, the debate around germline modification, regulation, and more [1:30:45];
Genetic engineering to enhance human traits: challenges, trade-offs, and ethical concerns [1:40:45];
Feng’s early life, the influence of the American education system, and the critical role teachers played in shaping his desire to explore gene-editing technology [1:46:00];
Feng’s optimism about the trajectory of science [1:58:15]; and
