Downloads: 2 | Views: 123 | Weekly Hits: ⮙1 | Monthly Hits: ⮙1
Review Papers | Genetics | India | Volume 12 Issue 7, July 2023 | Rating: 5 / 10
Designer Babies: Revealing the Ethical and Social Implications of Genetic Engineering in Human Embryos
S. Sanjay | N. Hari Prasath
Abstract: The idea of "designer babies" was born as a result of advances in genetic engineering, which made it possible to create and modify the genetic makeup of human embryos. The advent of CRISPR-Cas9 technology revolutionized genetic editing, offering scientists a more efficient way to target specific genes and make modifications compared to previous methods. This breakthrough, combined with pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and in vitro fertilization (IVF), has opened up possibilities for advancements in the field of designer babies. However, it is crucial to recognize that genetic engineering is still evolving and numerous technical, ethical, and safety challenges must be addressed before designer babies can become a commonplace practice. This article highlights the ethical considerations involved in using CRISPR-Cas9, PGD, and IVF in the pursuit of designer babies and regulatory frameworks and policy considerations surrounding these reproductive techniques. It also acknowledges the potential benefits, such as the prevention of genetic diseases, but underscores the significance of responsible research and regulation to ensure that these technologies are employed ethically and in line with societal values.
Keywords: Designer babies, CRISPR-Cas9, Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis, In Vitro Fertilization, Human embryos, Genetic Engineering, Ethical Considerations, Social Implications, Regulatory Frameworks, Case Studies
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 7, July 2023,
Pages: 688 - 693