Germline genome editing of human IVF embryos should not be subject to overly stringent restrictions

Kevin Smith*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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    Abstract

    This paper critiques the restrictive criteria for germline genome editing recently proposed by Chin, Nguma, and Ahmad in this journal. While praising the authors for resisting fervent calls for an outright ban on clinical applications of the technology, this paper argues that their approach is nevertheless unduly restrictive, and may thus hinder technological progress. This response advocates for weighing potential benefits against risks without succumbing to excessive caution, proposing that ethical oversight combined with genetic scrutiny at the embryo stage post-editing can enable responsible use of the technology, ultimately reducing the burden of genetic diseases and enhancing human health, akin to how IVF transformed reproductive medicine despite strong initial opposition.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)1733-1737
    Number of pages5
    JournalJournal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
    Volume41
    Issue number7
    Early online date5 Jul 2024
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 5 Jul 2024

    Keywords

    • CRISPR-Cas9
    • Gene editing
    • Gene therapy
    • Germline genome editing
    • Medical ethics
    • Pre-implantation genetic testing

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