What the next decade holds for gene editing

On June 28, 2012, a team of researchers published a paper in the prestigious journal Science about the mechanism by which bacteria protect themselves from biological attacks, a kind of immune system.

That paper was the first to document Crispr, a gene editing enzyme that, once scientists realized they could harness it, opened up new realms of possible applications.

Crispr’s innovations aren’t done yet. We’re just now starting to see some of the most exciting applications of the technology in humans.

In our latest for The Forecast, we look at what Crispr will enable humanity to do next.

Below is an extended preview of what you can expect in every issue of The Forecast. Unlock this email and join Quartz today with 50% off.

Become a member with 50% off

Crispr’s Greatest Hits

Here are the innovations Crispr has already brought about:

😷 Fought cancer. From the lungs to the cervix, Crispr has shown promise in combating many different kinds of cancers. Some experiments use the enzyme to harness the immune system to attack the cancer.

🌾 Improved crops. Using Crispr, researchers were able to make crops grow, look, and taste different, as well as offer more nutrients and make them more resistant to disease.

👶 Changed babies’ DNA. In Nov. 2018, Chinese researcher He Jiankui presented at a conference that he had modified the genetic code of three children who had recently been born. This sparked an international scandal that landed the scientist in jail.

Predictions

What will Crispr help us do next?

Crispr-based medical treatments will reach the clinic. Some speculate that this could happen as soon as next year.

There will be some bold conservation projects. As the increasing effects of climate change are felt around the world, researchers will turn to Crispr as a tool to mitigate some of the losses.

We’ll face some thorny ethical questions about who gets Crispr-based treatment.

The Forecast is written to help you prepare for the trends, industries, and technologies that change how we live.

To receive every issue, become a member today with 50% off.

Join Quartz with 50% off

Save this email to start commenting

Save this email to start commenting