The Intelligence from The Economist
Gene genies: CRISPR’s critical moment
Apr 18, 2025
Emily Steinmark, a writer for The Economist's technology quarterly, and Leo Marani, the Asia correspondent based in Mumbai, delve into the transformative potential of CRISPR technology in medicine and agriculture. They discuss the challenges and regulatory hurdles that accompany this Nobel-winning innovation. The conversation shifts to Asia's surging gold demand, particularly in India, exploring the cultural and economic factors behind it. Lastly, they touch on the alarming trend of New Zealanders emigrating due to economic dissatisfaction.
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Quick takeaways
- CRISPR technology promises revolutionary advancements in healthcare by enabling precise gene editing for genetic disorders, yet faces significant barriers like cost and regulatory hurdles.
- The cultural and economic significance of gold in Asia drives substantial consumer demand, influencing both local traditions and global markets extensively.
Deep dives
The Revolutionary Impact of CRISPR Technology
CRISPR technology is transforming the field of gene editing by allowing precise alterations to an organism's genetic code. This method, developed by Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuel Charpentier, utilizes a protein called Cas9 to cut DNA, facilitating the removal or addition of genetic sequences. The potential applications of CRISPR are vast, encompassing therapeutic breakthroughs for genetic disorders such as sickle cell disease, where a CRISPR therapy appears to be curative. Beyond human health, CRISPR also shows promise in agriculture, enabling scientists to enhance crop yields and develop varieties of food that are more nutritious and resistant to pests.
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