Scribd Logo
Upload

Welcome to Scribd!

  • 10 views

    Gene Editing

    Uploaded by

    Rudra Malhotra

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd

    Gene Editing

    Uploaded by

    Rudra Malhotra
    10 views1 page

    Copyright

    © © All Rights Reserved

    Available Formats

    DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd

    Did you find this document useful?

    Is this content inappropriate?

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    10 views1 page

    Gene Editing

    Uploaded by

    Rudra Malhotra

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    of 1

    Science: The Role of CRISPR in Gene Editing

    CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is a


    groundbreaking technology that has reshaped the field of genetic
    engineering. First discovered as a part of the immune system in bacteria,
    CRISPR has evolved into a tool that allows scientists to make precise
    modifications to DNA in plants, animals, and humans. The CRISPR-Cas9
    system, in particular, is widely used because of its simplicity and
    efficiency. It works by using a specialized RNA sequence to guide the Cas9
    enzyme to a specific location on the genome, where it cuts the DNA. Once
    the DNA is cut, it can be repaired or edited to insert, delete, or modify
    genes.

    Applications and Potential


    CRISPR is transforming medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. In
    healthcare, it offers the possibility of curing genetic disorders such as
    sickle cell anemia, muscular dystrophy, and cystic fibrosis by correcting
    defective genes. In agriculture, CRISPR is used to create genetically
    modified crops that are more resistant to pests, diseases, and changing
    climates. The technique can also accelerate research into cancer, HIV, and
    other diseases by allowing scientists to edit genes in disease models.
    Researchers are even exploring its use in developing therapies to combat
    viral infections, including HIV and COVID-19.

    Ethical and Social Concerns


    Despite its immense potential, CRISPR raises several ethical concerns,
    especially regarding its use in human germline editing. Altering the DNA of
    embryos could lead to unintended consequences, as these changes would
    be passed on to future generations. There is also concern over the
    potential for "designer babies," where parents could select for desired
    traits, such as intelligence or physical appearance. The scientific
    community has called for stricter regulations and a cautious approach to
    using CRISPR in humans, stressing the importance of ensuring that the
    technology is used responsibly and safely.

    Conclusion
    CRISPR is one of the most promising developments in biotechnology, with
    the potential to revolutionize many fields. However, its use comes with
    ethical challenges that must be addressed to ensure it benefits humanity
    as a whole.

    You might also like