Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas 112 | Fyodor Urnov on Gene Editing, CRISPR, and Human Engineering
Aug 31, 2020
Fyodor Urnov, a leading expert from UC Berkeley, dives into the revolutionary world of CRISPR technology. He discusses how gene editing can cure diseases like sickle cell and HIV, highlighting its transformative potential in medicine. Urnov also explores the ethical dilemmas of designer babies and the public's perception of genetic modifications. The conversation touches on the urgency of societal implications and the need for regulation as we navigate the future of human engineering.
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Gene Editing's Double-Edged Sword
- Gene editing offers disease cures but raises ethical concerns, like the creation of super-soldiers.
- The ease of CRISPR technology makes regulating its use challenging.
CRISPR: A Game Changer
- CRISPR-Cas9, adapted from bacterial defense mechanisms, revolutionized gene editing.
- This technology allows precise DNA targeting and modification, like a word processor for genes.
Gene Editing: A Word Processor for DNA
- Gene editing precisely targets DNA sequences, acting like a word processor for genetic code.
- Fyodor Urnov coined the term "gene editing" to emphasize this precision.
