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More than 100 scientists, most in China, describe the alteration of human genes as "crazy" and unethical.
In an open letter circulating on the Internet, Scientists also say that the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology to alter human embryo genes is dangerousunjustified and harmful to the reputation and development of the biomedical community in China.
The controversy was sparked by the announcement by Chinese geneticist He Jiankui that had genetically modified the first two humans immunized against the AIDS virus. Jiankui, a researcher at the University of Shenzhen (China), said he used the CRISPR-cas9 genetic editing tool (genetic scissors) to alter the DNA of embryos from seven couples undergoing fertility treatments.
Apparently, the DNA of these embryos was introduced (once biologically separated) by the CCR5 gene, supposed to protect against the AIDS virus. The modified embryos were implanted in the uterus of their biological mothers and they progressed twice during a single pregnancy. It was announced that two twins would be the first beneficiaries. The father of babies is carrying the virus.
Scientists also say that the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology to alter human embryo genes is dangerous
To the scientists' letter, the order of the Chinese government to open an investigation to He Jiankui to corroborate his experience and the decision of the Southern University of Science and Technology (Sust) to suspend the researcher.
The question generated sensitivity because this type of genetic editing is banned in the United States. UU and in most countries, since changes in DNA can be pbaded on to future generations and there is a risk of infection by other genes.
César Burgos, President of the Colombian Association of Scientific Societies, it stands out from the badysis based on a press release and not serious scientific articles.
"As long as it is not published as it should be, it is only quackery," he said. calls the media to moderate what they publish about it.
"The biomedical ethical badysis of this so-called survey only exists in name. Direct human experiences can only be described as crazy," the scientists explain in this letter.
And they add, "Pandora's box has been opened. We could still have a glimmer of hope to close it before it's too late"
In addition to what it means, in theory, to stop HIV infection for the new generations, this announcement triggered the moral debate that has always surrounded embryo manipulation.
For Herman Esguerra, president of the National Academy of Medicine, "it is very risky to launch false expectations with something as serious as AIDS; during this time, the indicated thing is not to comment comments ".
THE WEATHER
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