Possibility of human embryo genome editing continues to be debated

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Abstract

In 2021, the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) cancelled the famous “Rule of 14 days” that has been regulating research on human embryos. This led to the emergence of novel controversial problems in bioethics, which are related to prospects of human genome editing in embryo. Theoretically, one can treat more than ten thousand inherited diseases with the use of gene editing techniques. Practically, these techniques have already been applied for treating a number of adults’ diseases. However, therapy based on gene editing technologies did not always lead to positive effects. Moreover, one may ask, whether these techniques can be used for gene editing of human embryos and gametes so that healthy children would be born that would have hereditary diseases otherwise. In this brief communication, we consider arguments “in favour” and “against”. We conclude that risks overweigh the potential good at this stage of gene editing techniques development.

About the authors

K. S. Sharov

Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences

Email: const@idb-ras.ru
Vavilova st., 26, Moscow, 119334 Russia

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