Ethical and Scientific Concerns Relating to CRISPR/Cas Gene Therapy

Abstract

CRISPR is a genome editing tool that uses the Cas protein to edit genes. CRISPR has begun clinical trials in a few fields but there is still a lot of work to be done before the tool is ready. The main issues with CRISPR stem from the technical and ethical concerns. The technical concerns are primarily about off-target effects and inefficient delivery methods which can cause dangerous genetic mutations. Scientists are trying to remedy this issue through the further development of the Cas protein, improving guide RNA, and using in silico to predict where these issues may occur. Beyond the technical issues are the various ethical concerns that CRISPR stem from philosophical, theological, and social viewpoints. These varying viewpoints have their own beliefs on CRISPR but the common consensus disapproves of genetic enhancement through CRISPR due to fears of extreme inequality caused by its use. To remedy this many call for greater regulations placed on CRISPR and gene editing as a whole to ensure human safety. CRISPR has extreme potential in the field of biotechnology and can revolutionize how science and medicine is done for years to come, but before that can happen these important issues must be thoroughly addressed.