The ethical implications of population suppression and the irreversibility of gene drives
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J. Kim,
International Journal of Life Sciences Research,
2018.
Gene drive systems have the ability to eradicate human diseases through a gene editing technology called the CRISPR-Cas9. Malaria, which does not have any proven vaccines, is expected to affect half of the world’s population. As such, scientists are considering the eradication of malaria-carrying mosquitos which has caused much debate and controversy. The irreversible nature of gene drives, particularly population suppression, has raised ethical concerns with increased tensions between scientific innovation and the protection of Earth’s natural resources. Thus, this paper aims to examine the current situation by presenting important ethical arguments that include Chardin’s principle of irreversibility and Weiss’ beliefs on intergenerational equity, ideals upheld by the United Nations. To determine what is arguably more harmful to the ecosystem, human deaths by malaria or potentially dangerous modifications to the biosphere, remains a challenge and is expected to be an ongoing debate. Already the United States have administered field tests and Brazil is expected to legalize gene editing, therefore, it is pertinent to set appropriate regulations to minimize risks and promote safe practices in one of the most powerful scientific breakthroughs of our time.
More related to this: The ethical landscape of gene drive research Ethical implications of fighting malaria with CRISPR/Cas9 Ethical issues in field trials of genetically modified disease-resistant mosquitoes Open until dangerous: gene drive and the case for reforming research to reduce |
