The Future of Jean Editing?

The advancements in gene editing technology are poised to revolutionize the way we approach genetic modification, particularly in embryos. As the capability for multiplex edits across simultaneous genomic locations improves, practical applications such as humanizing organs from pigs demonstrate the potential of gene editing to eliminate compatibility issues in transplants. In the near future, the ability to edit DNA in embryos might enable us to directly make desirable genetic changes rather than merely selecting preferable embryos from a pool. Statistics suggest that the genetic basis for complex traits like intelligence could be refined through relatively few targeted edits, as the number of variants involved is manageable within scientific reach. With the capacity for precise gene editing, the potential exists to vastly enhance human cognitive abilities, suggesting a future where improved genetic outcomes are achievable within a 20-year timescale. Historical examples from selective breeding illustrate that significant phenotypic advancements have been made through traditional methods, indicating a vast reservoir of genetic variation could be accessed through advanced editing techniques. Ultimately, the convergence of these technologies could redefine human intelligence, creating individuals who surpass any previous benchmarks in cognitive capabilities.