CRISPR BioTechnology

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CRISPR BIOTECHNOLOGY

Neh, Sean, Thisanth, Midhushan, Phillip

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Introduction & How it Works

Disadvantages

CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced

Disadvantages of using CRISPR include:

Short Palindromic Repeats) is a powerful

Off-target effects: Might accidentally cut unintended

DNA.

gene-editing tool that allows scientists to

Ethical issues: Designer babies, modifying embryos.

alter DNA sequences with precision.

Long-term effects unknown: Edits might affect future

generations.

How it works:

Accessibility: May widen inequality if only wealthy

1. Scientists design a guide RNA to

groups access it.

match a target DNA sequence.

Ecological risks: Releasing edited species could disrupt

2. The enzyme Cas9 cuts the DNA at

ecosystems.

the chosen spot.

3. DNA is either deleted, replaced, or

repaired.

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Social/Ethical Consideraton

Ethical debate: Should humans

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Purpose & Application

actually alter the human germline?

Some religious/cultural groups may

Medicine: Correcting genetic

oppose modifying natural life.

disorders (e.g. sickle cell anaemia,

Could using CRISPR alter or increase

cystic fibrosis).

global inequality?

Agriculture: Creating disease-resistant

Altering even one organism, not only

crops, improving yield.

humans, can affect the species of the

Type a supporting statement here

organisms, causing drastic change in

the environment negatively.

Must consider regulations for each

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country as well. Some countries may

Advantages

ban editing embryos while some

countries may allow this for research.

Advantages include:

Highly precise - targets specific DNA

sequences.

Efficient and cheaper than older

technologies.

Potential to cure genetic diseases.

Could reduce reliance on pesticides

by making pest-resistant plants.