Summary
There is renewed interest in gene-editing to modify human embryos, driven by advances in technology and interest from private companies. A company named Manhattan Project plans to carefully explore gene-editing technology while aiming to gain regulatory approval. The approach follows a cautious path due to ethical and safety concerns associated with modifying embryos.
Key Facts
- Gene-editing advances are sparking new interest in modifying human embryo DNA.
- A Chinese scientist created the first gene-edited babies in 2018, leading to global controversy and his imprisonment.
- Scientific bodies support careful research on gene-editing but oppose altering embryos that could become babies any time soon.
- Venture capitalists and others see potential in using gene-editing for health, appearance, or intelligence improvements in children.
- U.S. regulations currently prohibit editing genes in embryos, but future policy changes could alter this stance.
- A company called Manhattan Project aims to explore gene-editing responsibly, with bioethical oversight.
- The company plans to start testing on animals and cells before potentially moving to human embryos.
- The goal is to gather evidence to support future regulatory approval for gene-editing research on embryos.
