People I (Mostly) Admire 67. We Can Play God Now
Mar 19, 2022
In this discussion, Jennifer Doudna, a Nobel laureate and trailblazer in gene editing, shares her insights on the revolutionary potential of CRISPR technology. She voices concerns about humanity's readiness to handle such transformative advances responsibly. The conversation touches on the real-world impacts of gene editing in medicine and agriculture. Doudna highlights the ethical dilemmas and public perceptions associated with these innovations, suggesting a future where society learns to navigate these powerful tools safely.
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CRISPR's Impact on Biological Research
- CRISPR has revolutionized academic biology and biochemistry due to its accessibility and programmability.
- It allows scientists to modify any DNA sequence, enabling targeted studies across various organisms and diseases.
CRISPR in Agriculture
- A CRISPR-edited tomato is now available in Japan.
- Other major crops like corn and rice are in development, with potential for significant yield increases in rice.
CRISPR for Sickle Cell Disease
- Sickle cell disease is a prime candidate for CRISPR therapy due to its well-understood genetics and its prevalence.
- Clinical trials show promising cures, but the high cost remains a barrier.