Gene Editing for Space Survival: Ethical Storm Over Genetic Enhancements for Astronauts

July 29, 2024
Gene Editing for Space Survival: Ethical Storm Over Genetic Enhancements for Astronauts
  • Genome editing is being explored as a potential solution to help humans adapt to the harsh conditions of deep space.

  • Experts believe gene modifications could protect astronauts from the significant health risks posed by space radiation, including increased cancer risk.

  • Research is underway to transfer genes from tardigrades, known for their extreme resilience, to humans, potentially enhancing survival in space.

  • Potential applications of gene editing in space include inserting radiation-neutralizing genes from plants and bacteria into humans and engineering crops to withstand radiation.

  • The rapid advancement of gene editing technology outpaces the ethical discussions surrounding its use, leading to an uncertain future for human adaptation in space.

  • Concerns about permanently altering the human species may drive opposition to genome editing technologies.

  • The global controversy surrounding the 2018 creation of gene-edited babies by Chinese scientist He Jiankui highlights the ethical dilemmas posed by gene editing.

  • He Jiankui faced legal consequences for his premature attempts at gene editing, which sparked significant ethical debates.

  • A recent discussion featuring Mat Honan and Antonio Regalado with He Jiankui explored the controversial technology and its implications for the future.

  • The role of genetic enhancement in future space missions will depend on societal acceptance and regulatory frameworks governing their use.

  • Humanity faces significant challenges in space travel and colonization, including harsh environmental conditions like radiation, extreme temperatures, and weightlessness effects.

  • Countries vary in their regulatory approaches to genome editing, with Germany and Canada being particularly cautious.

Summary based on 3 sources


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Sources

Roundtables: CRISPR Babies—Six years later

MIT Technology Review • Jul 25, 2024

Roundtables: CRISPR Babies—Six years later


Genetically Enhanced Astronauts: The Future of Space Colonization?

The Daily Galaxy - Great Discoveries Channel • Jul 28, 2024

Genetically Enhanced Astronauts: The Future of Space Colonization?

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