CRISPR. It sounded like a new cereal or snack food when my AP Biology teacher first mentioned this technology. Instead, she introduced a gene editing tool developed in 2011 by Jennifer Doudna, a graduate of Pomona College. Using proteins that precisely cut DNA, scientists can make specific genome edits, which have already resulted in cures for mice with sickle cell anemia. Almost daily, I hear about research that cures even more genetic diseases using this technique. This technology fascinates and excites me and I look forward to learning more about the impact of gene editing on our future, including its ethical dilemmas. Should humans have the right to manipulate the genomes of other species and our future generations? What exactly is the definition of gene editing? How much are humans allowed to edit?
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First, the class would would investigate genetic editing history and determine the differences between gene editing and artificial selection. Thousands of years ago, humans were selectively breeding wolves and created a new species: the domesticated dog. In the 1980s, scientists translocated genes from one species to another to create vegetables with longer shelf lives and pesticide resistant crops. Recently, biologists started directly changing base-pairs on the genome itself with tools such as CRISPR. Which of these are actually considered gene editing?
Next, the class would study the current debates behind GMOs. Some genetically modified (GM) crops increase food production, which would feed an ever-growing human population. However, many GM crops are not being fully tested for long-term human health and environmental risks. Right now, many of our most common crops are genetically modified, including rice and corn. Is it ethical to modify these crops? Should we do the same with salmon? Chimpanzees?
First, the class would would investigate genetic editing history and determine the differences between gene editing and artificial selection. Thousands of years ago, humans were selectively breeding wolves and created a new species: the domesticated dog. In the 1980s, scientists translocated genes from one species to another to create vegetables with longer shelf lives and pesticide resistant crops. Recently, biologists started directly changing base-pairs on the genome itself with tools such as CRISPR. Which of these are actually considered gene editing?
Next, the class would study the current debates behind GMOs. Some genetically modified (GM) crops increase food production, which would feed an ever-growing human population. However, many GM crops are not being fully tested for long-term human health and environmental risks. Right now, many of our most common crops are genetically modified, including rice and corn. Is it ethical to modify these crops? Should we do the same with salmon? Chimpanzees?