Gene-Edited Baby by Chinese Scientist: the Opener of the Pandora’s Box

Abstract

Gene editing is not limited to human and animal systems only but also in plant technology for improved food production. Gene editing have also been applied in disease control, manufacture of drugs, and vector control. The concept of gene-editing could accelerate the field of gene therapy as a major source of scientific and biotechnology circles. Utilization of this technology may have a number of positive impacts and consequently negative impacts on human life and the environment. Gene editing technology also comes with unintended consequences which offset any positive effects. It can be time-consuming to characterize the basic parameters in the system. Chinese scientists claimed to have successfully produced the first ever gene edited babies. The central objective of the procedure was to protect the twins from contracting HIV virus. Gene editing can result in an alteration of genes other than those targeted by scientists. Moreover, safety concerns have been raised and the Chinese scientists championing for its implementation have been asked to stop for a while. The researchers and scientists should, therefore, focus on advancing the technology in order to prove it safe and ethical. It is equally important to appreciate and improve on what the technology can do.