KQED's Forum Bay Area Startups Want to Make Genetically Engineered Babies. What Could Go Wrong?
Dec 3, 2025
Join Dr. Fyodor Urnov, a gene-editing expert, Catherine Long, a Wall Street Journal investigative reporter, and Katie Hasson, an advocate for genetic ethics, as they delve into the controversial world of genetically engineered babies. They discuss Bay Area startups pushing boundaries in embryo editing, the ethical implications of such technologies, and the troubling echoes of eugenics. Through scientific insights and real-life experiences, the conversation raises critical questions about who gets to decide the future of genetics.
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Startup Aims To Edit Embryos
- Preventive is a Bay Area startup aiming to edit embryos to create disease-free babies, backed by high-profile tech investors.
- The company says it will wait for safety data but has explored conducting work in jurisdictions like the UAE to avoid U.S. bans.
CRISPR Enables Embryo Editing
- CRISPR makes embryo editing scientifically feasible and the method is well understood and clinically used for some patients.
- Fyodor Urnov expresses dread and ethical concern about applying it to creating babies.
Prefer Screening And Selection Over Editing
- Use carrier screening and IVF with embryo selection to prevent many hereditary diseases instead of editing embryos.
- Fyodor Urnov recommends these established, safer options over embryo editing.