Unlocking the Potential of CRISPR Gene Drives: Modifying Genes for a Better Future - Essay Sample

Introduction

When we talk about gene drive, "CRISPR" comes to our mind. CRISPR is an abbreviation that stands for "clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats". This is a tool that enables people to edit the genome sequence of an organism. That means we are able to modify DNA sequences of organisms. This technology is used in biomedical research in order to delete genotypes that we do not require. The technology is also used to modify genes so that resulting organisms can be resistant to certain diseases. For example, in an area that is regularly infested with plant diseases, the genome of the crops can be edited in such a way that the vegetables are resistant to diseases (Janssens n.p). However, this technology is susceptible to being misused by individuals. This technology can be used in the wrong way, hence leading to the extinction of some organisms.

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Coming to think of it, this technology gives us the power that should not be in our possession. We can decide which organisms to live and those that should be eliminated. By use of the CRISPR technology, we can delete some genetic sequences that are very crucial in the survival of some species. We have to realize that the existence of some species is just as important as the survival of our species.

Moreover, recently, the world health organization has taken into consideration to use the technology to wipe out some organisms that are harmful to human beings (Jansenns, 2019). The body has considered using the technology to wipe out mosquitoes, an insect that transmits malaria. It is estimated that 475,000 people died from the disease in the year 2017 (Janssens n.p). However, the idea has been met with a lot of uncertainties.

The approach of completely wiping mosquitoes off the face of the earth has been met by a lot of criticism. This is because people are uncertain of what will happen in a world without mosquitoes. Nature should not be messed up with. Mosquitoes are a part of an ecosystem and form part of a food chain. There are some organisms that feed on mosquitoes. When mosquitoes are eliminated, there is a possibility that the organisms that depend on mosquitoes for food will die too. Equally, mosquitoes depend on other organisms for food and nutrients. They help check their population. When mosquitoes are eliminated, the organisms will increase in population. These two scenarios cause an imbalance in nature. We are never sure of what nature will do in order to be balanced.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as much as CRISPR is an important technology, its use should be monitored. Laws should be enacted to control how it is used. Its use should also be limited to qualified personnel to avoid its misuse. If misused, it can lead to detrimental occurrences. It gives humans the immense power to play around with nature. Nature is unforgiving; if we interfere with it, we will suffer the consequences.

Works Cited

Janssens, Cecile. "Forget about designer babies-gene editing won't work on complex traits like intelligence." Gale Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection, Gale, 2019. Gale In Context: Opposing Viewpoints, https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/LLLHBC062287101/OVIC?u=plan_csm&sid=OVIC&xid=2836ad40. Accessed 8 Dec. 2019. Originally published as "Forget about designer babies-gene editing won't work on complex traits like intelligence," The Conversation, 3 Dec. 2015.