Genetically-modified babies are ‘ethically justifiable’ and could be a possibility in two years: Expert – The Independent

In his paper, Dr Smith argues that genetically modifying embryos to prevent the transmission of serious genetic diseases is indeed ethical and, from a utilitarian standpoint, the only conceivable way to deal with disease-associated genes in an embryo.

Dr Smith wrote that genetic modification would allow doctors to help prevent cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia, as well as other illnesses, in future humans. It would also stand to reason that that lifespans could be substantially extended, Smith said.

While there is still a stigma on genetic modification in society, Dr Smith believes that we are perhaps only less than two years away from ethically making genetically-modified babies.

Other bioethicists and scientists dont quite agree with Dr Smith, noting that the risks of gene editing have not all been confirmed and are still being studied.

According to CNN, Joyce Harper of the University College London (UCL) Institute for Womens Healthtold the Science Media Centre (SMC) in London that she does not believe that there are adequate experiments that will prove that this technology is safe.

While Harper acknowledges that genome editing has huge potential, she wants public debate and legislation to ensure we have carefully thought this through.

Others have also criticised Dr Smiths work. Sarah Norcross, director of the Progress Educational Trust (PET), an organisation whose aim is to improve the publics understanding and view of genetics, said that Smiths analysis is flawed.

In terms of what people think on the subject, Norcross noted that more work and research need to be done in order to better understand the risks of the technology.

Referencing the work of Chinese scientist He, Norcross told the SMC that lessons should be learned from his mistakes. If this technology is to be put to similar use in future, then far higher scientific and ethical standards need to be met, said Norcross. /TISG

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Genetically-modified babies are 'ethically justifiable' and could be a possibility in two years: Expert - The Independent