It is now possible to improve many aspects of life by using gene editing to prevent or treat disease. Gene editing is in the experimental and developmental stages. scientists are finding out what can be accomplished with different types of gene editing and what the limitations are. There are ethical questions to deal with. There are questions about what the right uses for gene editing can be
What Are Genes and Cells?
The basic building blocks of human beings and other organisms are cells. Cells are differentiated to form all of the tissues and organs that make up an organism. In humans, this includes bones, muscles, blood, connective tissues, organs, skin, nervous system, and more. Genes are the tiny parts of the cells that have the information needed to make the different kinds of cells and control the chemical reactions in the cells.
A person inherits some genes and DNA from each parent and that combination of genes forms the traits of the individual. In some, the inherited genes have defects. It can affect the development and future health of the person.
New science technology in the form of gene therapy and genetic engineering both involve altering the genetic material in an organism.
What is Cas-CLOVER Gene Editing?
The company Hera BioLabs has developed the technology for Cas-CLOVER Gene Editing. It is a form of non-commercial gene editing for use in scientific labs doing non-commercial gene editing experiments. It is similar to an older technology called CRISPER/Cas9 but has made improvements in the technology to make it more usable and higher precision. This company offers licensing and other support services to its customers.
What is Non-Commercial Gene Editing?
Gene editing is a very precise way to replace, correct, or delete faulty DNA or genes. Scientists can work for commercial companies or for research institutions that have a goal of making medical breakthroughs for the good of patients. Gene editing is the process of rewriting DNA or our genetic code to correct harmful gene mutations and to change specific gene activity.
Why bother with gene editing? Well, by editing genes the medical profession can treat human diseases or even prevent diseases. There are numerous genetic disorders that are passed from parent to child affecting their health and well-being in the future. One in 25 children is born with some form of genetic condition or disease.
Gene editing can save these children from suffering by rewriting corrupt DNA in patients’ cells. It has been used to fix defective genes in human embryos so the babies do not inherit serious diseases. Genetic editing has already started to be used to modify immune cells in people to fight cancer and to be resistant to HIV infection. There are many more inherited diseases and other diseases that can be treated with gene editing. The future looks bright.
Controversy About Gene Editing
As with any new advancement in science and medicine, there are always concerns and controversies. The argument for gene editing sites the advantages of fighting disease and improving health outcomes. Gene editing has good uses in agriculture to create improved crops and in the pharmaceutical industry to create better medicines.
The arguments against gene editing include a fear that the process might be too dangerous. Another argument is that gene therapy invites discrimination. The process is expensive and so those with more money can benefit while it may be withheld from people with limited money.
Another argument is that not enough research has been done to ensure the safety and efficiency of the technology. There is a fear of unforeseen results.
There is room for debate and caution in this promising medical breakthrough.
