Researchers call for gene editing caution

Advances in the use of the gene editing technology CRISPR for germline modifications have prompted a group of academic researchers and bioethicists to call for a conference of stakeholders to manage public concerns and set guidelines for responsible use of the technology. The group, led by University of California Berkeley Professor Jennifer Doudna, published a Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) system to introduce changes to the genome in germline cells that would be carried to future generations.

In the Science perspective on CRISPR, Doudna and colleagues state that rapid advances in the field could expand the technique from therapeutic use in somatic cells to reproductive cells before its safety is established. The group noted that therapeutic uses of germline DNA modification is illegal or tightly regulated in many of the countries with the highest capacity for such research. They call on scientists in countries where it is not prohibited to voluntarily refrain from germline genomic modifications for clinical applications. The group argues that to gain public trust and carve a path forward for safe and ethical uses of the technology in humans, there should be a broad discussion that includes not only experts in genetics, law and bioethics but also the general public. ...