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Wiley L, Cheek M, LaFar E, Ma X, Sekowski J, Tanguturi N, Iltis A. The Ethics of Human Embryo Editing via CRISPR-Cas9 Technology: A Systematic Review of Ethical Arguments, Reasons, and Concerns. HEC Forum 2024:10.1007/s10730-024-09538-1. [PMID: 39302534 DOI: 10.1007/s10730-024-09538-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
The possibility of editing the genomes of human embryos has generated significant discussion and interest as a matter of science and ethics. While it holds significant promise to prevent or treat disease, research on and potential clinical applications of human embryo editing also raise ethical, regulatory, and safety concerns. This systematic review included 223 publications to identify the ethical arguments, reasons, and concerns that have been offered for and against the editing of human embryos using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. We identified six major themes: risk/harm; potential benefit; oversight; informed consent; justice, equity, and other social considerations; and eugenics. We explore these themes and provide an overview and analysis of the critical points in the current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Wiley
- Wake Forest University Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Winston-Salem, USA
| | - Mattison Cheek
- Wake Forest University Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Winston-Salem, USA
| | - Emily LaFar
- Wake Forest University Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Winston-Salem, USA
| | - Xiaolu Ma
- Department of Communication Studies, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Justin Sekowski
- Wake Forest University Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Winston-Salem, USA
| | - Nikki Tanguturi
- Wake Forest University Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Winston-Salem, USA
| | - Ana Iltis
- Department of Philosophy, Wake Forest University Center for Bioethics, Health and Society, Winston-Salem, USA.
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2
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Miteu GD. Ethics in scientific research: a lens into its importance, history, and future. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2395-2398. [PMID: 38694399 PMCID: PMC11060189 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Goshen D. Miteu
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
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3
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Vasquez CA, Evanoff M, Ranzau BL, Gu S, Deters E, Komor AC. Curing "GFP-itis" in Bacteria with Base Editors: Development of a Genome Editing Science Program Implemented with High School Biology Students. CRISPR J 2023. [PMID: 37083425 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2023.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The flexibility and precision of CRISPR-Cas9 and related technologies have made these genome editing tools increasingly popular in agriculture, medicine, and basic science research for the past decade. Genome editing will continue to be relevant and utilized across diverse scientific fields in the future. Given this, students should be introduced to genome editing technologies and encouraged to consider their ethical implications early on in precollege biology curricula. Furthermore, instruction on this topic presents an opportunity to create partnerships between researchers and educators at the K-12 levels that can strengthen student engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. To this end, we present a 3-day student-centered learning program to introduce high school students to genome editing technologies through a hands-on base editing experiment in Escherichia coli, accompanied by a relevant background lecture and facilitated ethics discussion. This unique partnership aims to educate students and provides a framework for research institutions to implement genome editing outreach programs at local high schools. We have included all requisite materials, including lecture slides, worksheets, experimental protocols, and suggestions on active learning strategies for others to reproduce our program with their local communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Vasquez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Mallory Evanoff
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Brodie L Ranzau
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sifeng Gu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Emma Deters
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Alexis C Komor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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4
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Rout L, Khilar PP, Rout B. Does YouTube Promote Research Ethics and Conduct? A Content Analysis of YouTube Videos and Analysis of Sentiments Through Viewers Comments. Account Res 2023:1-20. [PMID: 36942435 DOI: 10.1080/08989621.2023.2192404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
More commonly today, research ethics and misconduct are ideas that are frequently violated. The availability of information sources and the dissemination of awareness among researchers can help to reduce this kind of violation. This study highlights how YouTube can be used to promote discussions of research misconduct and ethics. The study looked into how many videos there are on research ethics and misconduct, which colleges actively provide such videos, and how satisfied viewers are with the available videos by analyzing comments. Various software tools, including Webometric Analyst, R-studio, and Microsoft Excel, were applied for data collection and analysis. On 01-24-2023, 515 videos and 6984 comments were retrieved using the correct search queries that is "Research ethics" OR "Research misconduct" OR "Research conduct" OR "Scientific integrity" OR "Research integrity" OR "Scientific misconduct". Results indicate that 2020 was the most significant year, since the most videos (241) were posted in this year. The channels titled "PPIRCPSC, ABRIZAH A, and ALHOORI H" upload 10, 9, and 8 videos respectively, placing them in the first, second, and third positions. By analyzing viewer comments, it was determined that the majority of comments were favorable, indicating that viewers are generally pleased with the available videos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Rout
- Department of Library and Information Science, Fakir Mohan University
| | | | - Bijayalaxmi Rout
- Department of Library and Information Science, Fakir Mohan University
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5
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Vasquez CA, Evanoff M, Ranzau BL, Gu S, Deters E, Komor AC. Curing "GFP-itis" in Bacteria with Base Editors: Development of a Genome Editing Science Program Implemented with High School Biology Students. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.06.527367. [PMID: 36798336 PMCID: PMC9934571 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.06.527367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The flexibility and precision of CRISPR-Cas9 and related technologies have made these genome editing tools increasingly popular in agriculture, medicine, and basic science research over the past decade. Genome editing will continue to be relevant and utilized across diverse scientific fields in the future. Given this, students should be introduced to genome editing technologies and encouraged to consider their ethical implications early on in pre-college biology curricula. Furthermore, instruction on this topic presents an opportunity to create partnerships between researchers and educators at the K-12 levels that can strengthen student engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). To this end, we present a three-day student-centered learning program to introduce high school students to genome editing technologies through a hands-on base editing experiment in E. coli , accompanied by a relevant background lecture and facilitated ethics discussion. This unique partnership aims to educate students and provides a framework for research institutions to implement genome editing outreach programs at local high schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A. Vasquez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Mallory Evanoff
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Brodie L. Ranzau
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sifeng Gu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Emma Deters
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Alexis C. Komor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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6
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Trump B, Cummings C, Klasa K, Galaitsi S, Linkov I. Governing biotechnology to provide safety and security and address ethical, legal, and social implications. Front Genet 2023; 13:1052371. [PMID: 36712887 PMCID: PMC9873990 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1052371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of biotechnology has produced a wide variety of materials and products which are rapidly entering the commercial marketplace. While many developments promise revolutionary benefits, some of them pose uncertain or largely untested risks and may spur debate, consternation, and outrage from individuals and groups who may be affected by their development and use. In this paper we show that the success of any advanced genetic development and usage requires that the creators establish technical soundness, ensure safety and security, and transparently represent the product's ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI). We further identify how failures to address ELSI can manifest as significant roadblocks to product acceptance and adoption and advocate for use of the "safety-by-design" governance philosophy. This approach requires addressing risk and ELSI needs early and often in the technology development process to support innovation while providing security and safety for workers, the public, and the broader environment. This paper identifies and evaluates major ELSI challenges and perspectives to suggest a methodology for implementing safety-by-design in a manner consistent with local institutions and politics. We anticipate the need for safety-by-design approach to grow and permeate biotechnology governance structures as the field expands in scientific and technological complexity, increases in public attention and prominence, and further impacts human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Trump
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States
| | - Christopher Cummings
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States,Genetic Engineering and Society, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States,Gene Edited Foods Project, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States,*Correspondence: Christopher Cummings,
| | - Kasia Klasa
- Department of Healthcare Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stephanie Galaitsi
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States
| | - Igor Linkov
- Engineering Research and Development Center, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS, United States,Department of Engineering and Public Policy, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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Salimi-Jeda A, Esghaei M, Hossein Keyvani, Bokharaei-Salim F, Teimoori A, Abdoli A. Inhibition of HIV-1 replication using the CRISPR/cas9-no NLS system as a prophylactic strategy. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10483. [PMID: 36158108 PMCID: PMC9489754 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, it is estimated that 43 million people are living with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), and there are more than 600,000 acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related deaths in 2020. The only way to increase the life expectancy of these patients right now is to use combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) for the lifetime. Due to the integration of the HIV-1 DNA in lymphocytes, the replication of the virus can only be reduced by using antiretroviral drugs. If the drug is stopped, the virus will replicate and reduce the number of lymphocytes. In recent years, the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated endonuclease Cas9-mediated genome editing system has been considered, preventing HIV-1 replication by causing DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) or disrupting the integrated virus replication by targeting the provirus. In this study, we utilized the CRISPR/Cas9 without the nuclear localization signal sequence (w/o NLS) system to inhibit the VSV-G-pseudotyped HIV-1 replication by targeting the HIV-1 DNA as a prophylactic method. To this end, we designed a multiplex gRNA (guide RNA) cassette to target the pol, env, and nef/long terminal repeat (nef/LTR) regions of the HIV-1 genome and then cloned it in plasmid expressing no-NLS-Cas9 protein as an all-in-one CRISPR/Cas9 vector. Using HIV-1 pseudovirus transduction into HEK-293T cell lines, our results showed that the CRISPR/Cas9-no NLS system disrupts the pseudotyped HIV-1 DNA and significantly (P-value < 0.0001) decreases the p24 antigen shedding and viral RNA load in cell culture supernatants harvested 48h after virus transduction. Although these results revealed the potential of the CRISPR/Cas9-no NLS nuclease system as a prophylactic strategy against HIV-1 infections, due to inefficient impairments of HIV-1 DNA, further studies are required to enhance its effectiveness and application in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Salimi-Jeda
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Esghaei
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Keyvani
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farah Bokharaei-Salim
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Teimoori
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Asghar Abdoli
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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8
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Governance of Heritable Human Gene Editing World-Wide and Beyond. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116739. [PMID: 35682323 PMCID: PMC9180052 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
To date, the controversy surrounding the unknown risks and consequences of heritable genome editing has grown, with such work raising biosafety and ethical concerns for future generations. However, the current guideline of global governance is limited. In the context of the new framework for the governance of human genome editing developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) committee, this paper presents further analysis by highlighting predicaments of governance on germline engineering that merit the most attention: (1) building a scientific culture informed by a broader set of values and considerations in the internal scientific community at large, such as codes of ethics, and education, in addition to awareness-raising measures; and (2) reflecting on and institutionalizing policies in grassroots practice according to local conditions in external governance, such as the experimentalist governance, which is a multi-layered model of governance that establishes an open-ended framework from the top and offers stakeholders the freedom of discussion. The key to achieving these goals is more democratic deliberation between the public and the inclusive engagement of the global scientific community, which has been extensively used in the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC). On a global scale, we believe that practicing heritable human genome editing in accordance with the WHO and BTWC appears to be a good choice.
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Ji J, Robbins M, Featherstone JD, Calabrese C, Barnett GA. Comparison of public discussions of gene editing on social media between the United States and China. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267406. [PMID: 35500011 PMCID: PMC9060334 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The world’s first gene-edited babies event has stirred controversy on social media over the use of gene editing technology. Understanding public discussions about this controversy will provide important insights about opinions of science and facilitate informed policy decisions. This study compares public discussion topics about gene editing on Twitter and Weibo, as wel asthe evolution of these topics over four months. Latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) was used to generate topics for 11,244 Weibo posts and 57,525 tweets from September 25, 2018, to January 25, 2019. Results showed a difference between the topics on Twitter versus Weibo: there were more nuanced discussions on Twitter, and the discussed topics between platforms focused on different areas. Temporal analysis showed that most discussions took place around gene-edited events. Based on our findings, suggestions were provided for policymakers and science communication practitioners to develop more effective communication strategies toward audiences in China and the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Ji
- Department of Science and Technology Communication, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Matthew Robbins
- Department of Communication, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Jieyu Ding Featherstone
- Department of Communication, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Christopher Calabrese
- Department of Communication, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - George A. Barnett
- Department of Communication, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
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Dubé K, Kanazawa J, Patel H, Louella M, Sylla L, Sheehy J, Dee L, Taylor J, Adair J, Anthony-Gonda K, Dropulić B, Sauceda JA, Peluso MJ, Deeks SG, Simoni J. Ethical and practical considerations for cell and gene therapy toward an HIV cure: findings from a qualitative in-depth interview study in the United States. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:39. [PMID: 35397551 PMCID: PMC8994300 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00780-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV cure research involving cell and gene therapy has intensified in recent years. There is a growing need to identify ethical standards and safeguards to ensure cell and gene therapy (CGT) HIV cure research remains valued and acceptable to as many stakeholders as possible as it advances on a global scale. METHODS To elicit preliminary ethical and practical considerations to guide CGT HIV cure research, we implemented a qualitative, in-depth interview study with three key stakeholder groups in the United States: (1) biomedical HIV cure researchers, (2) bioethicists, and (3) community stakeholders. Interviews permitted evaluation of informants' perspectives on how CGT HIV cure research should ethically occur, and were transcribed verbatim. We applied conventional content analysis focused on inductive reasoning to analyze the rich qualitative data and derive key ethical and practical considerations related to CGT towards an HIV cure. RESULTS We interviewed 13 biomedical researchers, 5 community members, and 1 bioethicist. Informants generated considerations related to: perceived benefits of CGT towards an HIV cure, perceived risks, considerations necessary to ensure an acceptable benefit/risk balance, CGT strategies considered unacceptable, additional ethical considerations, and considerations for first-in-human CGT HIV cure trials. Informants also proposed important safeguards to developing CGT approaches towards an HIV cure, such as the importance of mitigating off-target effects, mitigating risks associated with long-term duration of CGT interventions, and mitigating risks of immune overreactions. CONCLUSION Our study identified preliminary considerations for CGT-based HIV cure across three key stakeholder groups. Respondents identified an ideal cure strategy as one which would durably control HIV infection, protect the individual from re-acquisition, and eliminate transmission to others. Known and unknown risks should be anticipated and perceived as learning opportunities to preserve and honor the altruism of participants. Preclinical studies should support these considerations and be transparently reviewed by regulatory experts and peers prior to first-in-human studies. To protect the public trust in CGT HIV cure research, ethical and practical considerations should be periodically revisited and updated as the science continues to evolve. Additional ethics studies are required to expand stakeholder participation to include traditionally marginalized groups and clinical care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Dubé
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 4108 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
- UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, 4108 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27516 USA
| | - John Kanazawa
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 4108 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
| | - Hursch Patel
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, 4108 McGavran-Greenberg Hall, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
| | - Michael Louella
- defeatHIV Collaboratory, 1100 Fairview Avenue North, E5-110, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
| | - Laurie Sylla
- defeatHIV Collaboratory, 1100 Fairview Avenue North, E5-110, Seattle, WA 98109 USA
| | - Jeff Sheehy
- Independent Consultant, 1999 Harrison Street, Suite 1650, Oakland, CA 94612 USA
| | - Lynda Dee
- AIDS Action Baltimore, 14 East Eager Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 USA
- Delaney AIDS Research Enterprise (DARE) Community Advisory Board (CAB), 995 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
| | - Jeff Taylor
- Delaney AIDS Research Enterprise (DARE) Community Advisory Board (CAB), 995 Potrero Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
- HIV + Aging Research Project – Palm Springs (HARP-PS), 1775 East Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 110-349, Palm Springs, CA 92264 USA
| | - Jen Adair
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue N, Seattle, WA USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, 825 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Kim Anthony-Gonda
- Caring Cross, 708 Quince Orchard Road, Suite 250D, Gaithersburg, MD USA
| | - Boro Dropulić
- Caring Cross, 708 Quince Orchard Road, Suite 250D, Gaithersburg, MD USA
| | - John A. Sauceda
- Department of Medicine, Division of Prevention Science, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies (CAPS), University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), 550 16th Street, 3rd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158 USA
| | - Michael J. Peluso
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco General Hospital, Ward 84, Building 80, San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
| | - Steven G. Deeks
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases, and Global Medicine, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco General Hospital, Ward 84, Building 80, San Francisco, CA 94110 USA
| | - Jane Simoni
- Departments of Psychology and Global Health, University of Washington, 3909 Stevens Way CE, Box 351525, Seattle, WA USA
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11
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Ni C, Wan Z, Yan C, Liu Y, Clayton EW, Malin B, Yin Z. The Public Perception of the #GeneEditedBabies Event Across Multiple Social Media Platforms: Observational Study. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e31687. [PMID: 35275077 PMCID: PMC8957000 DOI: 10.2196/31687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In November 2018, a Chinese researcher reported that his team had applied clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats or associated protein 9 to delete the gene C-C chemokine receptor type 5 from embryos and claimed that the 2 newborns would have lifetime immunity from HIV infection, an event referred to as #GeneEditedBabies on social media platforms. Although this event stirred a worldwide debate on ethical and legal issues regarding clinical trials with embryonic gene sequences, the focus has mainly been on academics and professionals. However, how the public, especially stratified by geographic region and culture, reacted to these issues is not yet well-understood. Objective The aim of this study is to examine web-based posts about the #GeneEditedBabies event and characterize and compare the public’s stance across social media platforms with different user bases. Methods We used a set of relevant keywords to search for web-based posts in 4 worldwide or regional mainstream social media platforms: Sina Weibo (China), Twitter, Reddit, and YouTube. We applied structural topic modeling to analyze the main discussed topics and their temporal trends. On the basis of the topics we found, we designed an annotation codebook to label 2000 randomly sampled posts from each platform on whether a supporting, opposing, or neutral stance toward this event was expressed and what the major considerations of those posts were if a stance was described. The annotated data were used to compare stances and the language used across the 4 web-based platforms. Results We collected >220,000 posts published by approximately 130,000 users regarding the #GeneEditedBabies event. Our results indicated that users discussed a wide range of topics, some of which had clear temporal trends. Our results further showed that although almost all experts opposed this event, many web-based posts supported this event. In particular, Twitter exhibited the largest number of posts in opposition (701/816, 85.9%), followed by Sina Weibo (968/1140, 84.91%), Reddit (550/898, 61.2%), and YouTube (567/1078, 52.6%). The primary opposing reason was rooted in ethical concerns, whereas the primary supporting reason was based on the expectation that such technology could prevent the occurrence of diseases in the future. Posts from these 4 platforms had different language uses and patterns when they expressed stances on the #GeneEditedBabies event. Conclusions This research provides evidence that posts on web-based platforms can offer insights into the public’s stance on gene editing techniques. However, these stances vary across web-based platforms and often differ from those raised by academics and policy makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congning Ni
- Department of Computer Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Zhiyu Wan
- Department of Computer Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Center for Genetic Privacy & Identity in Community Settings, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Chao Yan
- Department of Computer Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Yongtai Liu
- Department of Computer Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Ellen Wright Clayton
- Center for Genetic Privacy & Identity in Community Settings, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,School of Law, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Bradley Malin
- Department of Computer Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Center for Genetic Privacy & Identity in Community Settings, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Zhijun Yin
- Department of Computer Science, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States.,Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.,Center for Genetic Privacy & Identity in Community Settings, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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12
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Wang Y, Qiu T, Liang S, Toumi M. An overview of cell and gene therapy development in China. Hum Gene Ther 2021; 33:14-24. [PMID: 34235966 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2021.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
China, the first country worldwide to approve a gene therapy in 2003, almost lost the advantage for a head start in cell and gene therapy (CGT) development due to a lack of clear and strict regulatory frameworks. The rapid advancements of CGTs' development worldwide as well as their therapeutic potential have triggered the government to conduct a spate of regulatory reforms in order to promote normative development of CGTs in China. Encouraged by policy support, the remarkable progress for CGTs in China has been observed over the past few years, thereby catapulting China back into the forefront of CGTs worldwide. This manuscript aims to provide an overview of regulatory reforms, the current development landscape of CGTs, as well as key contributors and challenges for CGT development in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Wang
- Aix-Marseille Universite, 128791, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille, France, 13385;
| | - Tingting Qiu
- Aix-Marseille Universite, 128791, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille, France, 13385;
| | - Shuyao Liang
- Aix-Marseille Universite, 128791, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille, France, 13284;
| | - Mondher Toumi
- Aix-Marseille Universite, 128791, Public Health Department, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille, France, 13385;
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13
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Isa NM. Human Germline Gene Editing from Maslahah Perspective: The Case of the World's First Gene Edited Babies. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2021; 18:349-355. [PMID: 33761046 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-021-10101-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes maslahah, a fundamental concept in Islam and its application in deliberating permissibility of human germline gene editing from an Islamic perspective. This paper refers to He Jiankui's research that led to the birth of the world's first gene edited babies, who were edited to be protected from HIV. The objective, procedure, and output of the research were assessed against the conditions of maslahah. It can be concluded that the experiment did not meet the conditions; it is inconsistent with the objectives of shariah (maqasid al-shariah) and some fundamental Islamic teachings that it did not preserve greater benefit, hence it could be considered impermissible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Munirah Isa
- Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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14
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Alonso M, Savulescu J. He Jiankui´s gene-editing experiment and the non-identity problem. BIOETHICS 2021; 35:563-573. [PMID: 33951203 PMCID: PMC8524470 DOI: 10.1111/bioe.12878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Genetic engineering has been a topic of discussion for over 50 years, but it is only recently that gene editing has become a reality. CRISPR biotechnologies have made gene editing much safer, precise and feasible. We have witnessed the first cases of human germline genetic modification resulting in live births, conducted by He Jiankui. In this paper, we will analyse He Jiankui's case in relation to one of the most difficult problems in procreative ethics (or the ethics of future generations): the non-identity problem. We believe that this analysis will help us to understand the ethics involved in gene editing and hopefully allow for a better, more philosophically grounded legislation on CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Alonso
- Department of PhilosophyFaculty of Liberal ArtsAdolfo Ibáñez UniversityVina Del MarChile
| | - Julian Savulescu
- Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical EthicsOxford UniversityOxfordUnited Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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15
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Students' attitudes towards somatic genome editing versus genome editing of the germline using an example of familial leukemia. J Community Genet 2021; 12:397-406. [PMID: 33963968 PMCID: PMC8241980 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-021-00528-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the discussion on possibilities and pitfalls of genome editing is ever present, limited qualitative data on the attitudes of students, who will come into contact with this technology within a social and professional context, is available. The attitude of 97 medical students and 103 students of other subjects from Hannover and Oldenburg, Germany, was analyzed in winter 2017/18. For this purpose, two dilemmas on somatic and germline genome editing concerning familial leukemia were developed. After reading the dilemmas, the students filled out a paper-and-pencil test with five open questions. The qualitative evaluation of the answers was carried by a deductive-inductive procedure of content analysis. There was a high approval for the use of somatic genome editing. When it came to germline genome editing, concerns were raised regarding enhancement, interventions in nature, and loss of uniqueness. The students recognized that somatic genome editing and germline genome editing prove different ethical challenges and need to be judged separately. Many students expressed not feeling fully informed. The results of this project show the importance of educating the public about the possibilities, limitations, and risks of somatic and germline genome editing. We recommend that this should already be addressed in schools in order to optimally prepare students and adults for participation in public discourse. Especially for patients affected by genetic diseases, it is of great importance that the treating physicians and geneticists are sufficiently informed about the method of genome editing to ensure good counseling.
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16
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Swazo NK. "Un-Promethean" science and the future of humanity: Heidegger's warning. HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE LIFE SCIENCES 2021; 43:33. [PMID: 33666741 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-021-00380-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The twentieth-century German philosopher Martin Heidegger distinguished "meditative" (besinnlich) and "calculative" (rechnende) modes of thinking as a way of highlighting the problematique of modern technology and the limits of modern science. In doing so he also was prescient to recognize, in 1955, that the most significant danger to the future of humanity are developments in molecular biology and biotechnology, in contrast to the post-World War global threat of thermonuclear weapons. These insights are engaged here in view of recent discussion of the need for international regulation of heritable human genome editing and the announcement in 2018 of the birth of the world's first gene-edited babies in China. Heidegger's call for meditative thinking requires modern medicine and the life sciences to appropriate the phenomenological conception of the human "way to be" (Seinsweise) such that it is not restricted to the "present-at-hand" (vorhanden) physiology and pathology of the human body (Körper).
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman K Swazo
- Department of History and Philosophy, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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17
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Abstract
CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat) is one of the hallmark of biological tools, contemplated as a valid and hopeful alternatives to genome editing. Advancements in CRISPR-based technologies have empowered scientists with an editing kit that allows them to employ their knowledge for deleting, replacing and lately "Gene Surgery", and provides unique control over genes in broad range of species, and presumably in humans. These fast-growing technologies have high strength and flexibility and are becoming an adaptable tool with implementations that are altering organism's genome and easily used for chromatin manipulation. In addition to the popularity of CRISPR in genome engineering and modern biology, this major tool authorizes breakthrough discoveries and methodological advancements in science. As scientists are developing new types of experiments, some of the applications are raising questions about what CRISPR can enable. The results of evidence-based research strongly suggest that CRISPR is becoming a practical tool for genome-engineering and to create genetically modified eukaryotes, which is needed to establish guidelines on new regulatory concerns for scientific communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhabiz Golkar
- Division of Academic Affairs, Voorhees College, Denmark, SC, USA.
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18
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of efficient strategies has always been one of the great perspectives for biotechnologists. During the last decade, genome editing of different organisms has been a fast advancing field and therefore has received a lot of attention from various researchers comprehensively reviewing latest achievements and offering opinions on future directions. This review presents a brief history, basic principles, advantages and disadvantages, as well as various aspects of each genome editing technology including the modes, applications, and challenges that face delivery of gene editing components. MAIN BODY Genetic modification techniques cover a wide range of studies, including the generation of transgenic animals, functional analysis of genes, model development for diseases, or drug development. The delivery of certain proteins such as monoclonal antibodies, enzymes, and growth hormones has been suffering from several obstacles because of their large size. These difficulties encouraged scientists to explore alternative approaches, leading to the progress in gene editing. The distinguished efforts and enormous experimentation have now been able to introduce methodologies that can change the genetic constitution of the living cell. The genome editing strategies have evolved during the last three decades, and nowadays, four types of "programmable" nucleases are available in this field: meganucleases, zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) (CRISPR/Cas-9) system. Each group has its own characteristics necessary for researchers to select the most suitable method for gene editing tool for a range of applications. Genome engineering/editing technology will revolutionize the creation of precisely manipulated genomes of cells or organisms in order to modify a specific characteristic. Of the potential applications are those in human health and agriculture. Introducing constructs into target cells or organisms is the key step in genome engineering. CONCLUSIONS Despite the success already achieved, the genome editing techniques are still suffering certain difficulties. Challenges must be overcome before the full potential of genome editing can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad M Khalil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.
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19
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of efficient strategies has always been one of the great perspectives for biotechnologists. During the last decade, genome editing of different organisms has been a fast advancing field and therefore has received a lot of attention from various researchers comprehensively reviewing latest achievements and offering opinions on future directions. This review presents a brief history, basic principles, advantages and disadvantages, as well as various aspects of each genome editing technology including the modes, applications, and challenges that face delivery of gene editing components. MAIN BODY Genetic modification techniques cover a wide range of studies, including the generation of transgenic animals, functional analysis of genes, model development for diseases, or drug development. The delivery of certain proteins such as monoclonal antibodies, enzymes, and growth hormones has been suffering from several obstacles because of their large size. These difficulties encouraged scientists to explore alternative approaches, leading to the progress in gene editing. The distinguished efforts and enormous experimentation have now been able to introduce methodologies that can change the genetic constitution of the living cell. The genome editing strategies have evolved during the last three decades, and nowadays, four types of "programmable" nucleases are available in this field: meganucleases, zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) (CRISPR/Cas-9) system. Each group has its own characteristics necessary for researchers to select the most suitable method for gene editing tool for a range of applications. Genome engineering/editing technology will revolutionize the creation of precisely manipulated genomes of cells or organisms in order to modify a specific characteristic. Of the potential applications are those in human health and agriculture. Introducing constructs into target cells or organisms is the key step in genome engineering. CONCLUSIONS Despite the success already achieved, the genome editing techniques are still suffering certain difficulties. Challenges must be overcome before the full potential of genome editing can be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad M Khalil
- Department of Biological Sciences, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.
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20
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Zhou J, Liu D. Development proposals of Human Research Protection Program. Nurs Ethics 2020; 28:554-562. [PMID: 33063597 DOI: 10.1177/0969733020952114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND China's ethics committees alone are unable to meet the growing need for human participant protection. Several scandals in recent years indicate weaknesses in the protection of human participants in China. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study is to summarize the status and problems of human research protection program in China and to explore its establishment proposals at national and hospital levels. RESEARCH DESIGN To conduct literature retrieval, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Document Database, and English databases Web of Science and PubMed were searched; laws, guidelines, and regulations were also searched on web by Google and Chinese search engine Baidu. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS No data were collected from human participants, and ethical review was not required. FINDINGS There are problems for China's Human Research Protection Program, such as weak relevant legal systems, insufficient administrative supervision, and incompetent ethics committee capacities. To fully protect human participants, China should promote the development of Human Research Protection Program, which can formulate ethics-related laws, improve regulations for the protection of the safety and rights of human participants, strengthen supervision, and enforce compensation for human participants. Owing to the frequency with which human participants are recruited in hospitals in China, hospitals can utilize existing ethics committees and establish data and safety monitoring committees, quality control, fund and contract management, and conflict of interest management offices. DISCUSSION As a growing program, it remains necessary to learn from the experience of developed countries with high ethics standards and reformulate them to fit China's conditions to explore potential future development. The program will also be an experience for other developing countries. CONCLUSION Human Research Protection Program can strengthen communication and coordination among various hospital departments to effectively protect the rights and welfare of human participants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dan Liu
- 12525Army Medical University, China
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21
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Baylis F, Darnovsky M, Hasson K, Krahn TM. Human Germline and Heritable Genome Editing: The Global Policy Landscape. CRISPR J 2020; 3:365-377. [DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2020.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Françoise Baylis
- Department of Philosophy and Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Marcy Darnovsky
- Center for Genetics and Society, Berkeley, California, USA; and Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Katie Hasson
- Center for Genetics and Society, Berkeley, California, USA; and Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Timothy M. Krahn
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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22
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Liu J, Sun Z, Zou Y, Li W, He F, Huang X, Lin C, Cai Q, Wisniewski M, Wu X. Pre- and postharvest measures used to control decay and mycotoxigenic fungi in potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) during storage. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:415-428. [PMID: 32924541 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1818688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), a worldwide, staple food crop, is susceptible to postharvest rots caused by a variety of fungal pathogens, including Fusarium spp., Alternaria spp., Phytophthora infestans, Helminthosporium solani, Rhizoctonia solani, and Colletotrichum coccodes. Rots resulting from infections by these pathogens cause a significant reduction in potato quality and marketable yield. Importantly, some of these decay fungi also produce mycotoxins that represent a potential risk to human health. In the present review, an overview and discussion are provided on the epidemiology and pathogenesis of decay fungi, especially Fusarium spp., that include recent data derived from genomic and phylogenetic analyses. The biosynthesis and functional role of fungitoxic metabolites such as trichothecene mycotoxins and fusaric acid, produced in rotted potatoes are also reviewed. Advances in pre- and postharvest measures for rot management, especially eco-friendly methods including physical control, biological control, the use of natural compounds, and other agricultural management practices are also reviewed. Lastly, novel approaches to control potato dry rot such as the use of mycoviruses and CRISPR technology are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Economic Plant Biotechnology, College of Landscape Architecture and Life Science/Institute of Special Plants, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Yongchuan, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhiqiang Sun
- Yantai Lvyun Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Yuping Zou
- Yantai Lvyun Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Wenhua Li
- Yantai Lvyun Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Fangyun He
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Economic Plant Biotechnology, College of Landscape Architecture and Life Science/Institute of Special Plants, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Yongchuan, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoya Huang
- Yantai Lvyun Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Chenglin Lin
- Yantai Lvyun Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Qingnian Cai
- College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Michael Wisniewski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Xuehong Wu
- College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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23
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Zhang D, Hussain A, Manghwar H, Xie K, Xie S, Zhao S, Larkin RM, Qing P, Jin S, Ding F. Genome editing with the CRISPR-Cas system: an art, ethics and global regulatory perspective. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2020; 18:1651-1669. [PMID: 32271968 PMCID: PMC7336378 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.13383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Over the last three decades, the development of new genome editing techniques, such as ODM, TALENs, ZFNs and the CRISPR-Cas system, has led to significant progress in the field of plant and animal breeding. The CRISPR-Cas system is the most versatile genome editing tool discovered in the history of molecular biology because it can be used to alter diverse genomes (e.g. genomes from both plants and animals) including human genomes with unprecedented ease, accuracy and high efficiency. The recent development and scope of CRISPR-Cas system have raised new regulatory challenges around the world due to moral, ethical, safety and technical concerns associated with its applications in pre-clinical and clinical research, biomedicine and agriculture. Here, we review the art, applications and potential risks of CRISPR-Cas system in genome editing. We also highlight the patent and ethical issues of this technology along with regulatory frameworks established by various nations to regulate CRISPR-Cas-modified organisms/products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debin Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic ImprovementHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
- College of Public AdministrationHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Amjad Hussain
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic ImprovementHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Hakim Manghwar
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic ImprovementHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Kabin Xie
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic ImprovementHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Shengsong Xie
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and ReproductionMinistry of EducationWuhanChina
| | - Shuhong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and ReproductionMinistry of EducationWuhanChina
| | - Robert M. Larkin
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant BiologyMinistry of EducationCollege of Horticulture and Forestry SciencesHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Ping Qing
- College of Public AdministrationHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Shuangxia Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic ImprovementHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Fang Ding
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Plant PathologyCollege of Plant Sciences and TechnologyHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
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24
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Nie JB, Xie G, Chen H, Cong Y. Conflict of Interest in Scientific Research in China: A Socio-ethical Analysis of He Jiankui's Human Genome-editing Experiment. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2020; 17:191-201. [PMID: 32588181 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-020-09978-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Extensive conflicts of interest (COI) at both individual and institutional levels are identifiable in scientific research and healthcare in China, as in many other parts of the world. A prominent new case from China is He Jiankui's experiment that produced the world's first gene-edited babies and that raises numerous ethical, political, socio-cultural, and transnational questions. Serious financial and other COI were involved in He's genetic adventure. Using He's infamous experiment as a case study, this paper explores the wider issue of financial and other COI in scientific research and healthcare in China, especially institutional conflict of interest (ICOI) and policy-related COI. Taking a socio-ethical perspective, it examines China's state policies and its massive efforts to transform and commercialize scientific research, the lack of policies and oversight mechanisms for regulating COI, as well as major ethical issues arising from COI including the undermining of public trust. Some practical suggestions are offered for institutional reform and institutional development so that COI, particularly ICOI, can be avoided or more effectively managed in scientific research in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Bao Nie
- Bioethics Centre, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Box 56, Dunedin, PO, New Zealand.
| | - Guangkuan Xie
- School of Health Humanities, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China
| | - Hua Chen
- College of Marxism, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 Shatai Road South, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yali Cong
- School of Health Humanities, Peking University, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, P. R. China
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25
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Wu W, Wang Y, Tang Z, Gao Y, Huo Y. Regulatory oversight of cell therapy in China: Government's efforts in patient access and therapeutic innovation. Pharmacol Res 2020; 158:104889. [PMID: 32428666 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, remarkable progress has been made in the fundamental research and on clinical development of cell therapy. Although China has launched a series of regulations to establish a proper regulatory framework that facilitates the development of cell therapy products, the regulatory framework has not been able to meet the country's regulatory requirements. This article introduced the development of regulation and current regulatory pathways for cell therapy in China and identified the main challenges in clinical studies. China has recently tightened its policy on cell therapy clinical studies after medical chaos occurred in the area of cell therapy over the past few years. Currently the regulatory jurisdiction between NMPA and NHC are not very clear, especially for clinical somatic cell research, further efforts are necessary to establish a legislative system with a clear and functional regulatory framework for cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijia Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Sino-Danish Regulatory Science Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Sino-Danish Regulatory Science Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijia Tang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Sino-Danish Regulatory Science Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan Huo
- National Institution of Food and Drug Control, National Medical Products Administration, Beijing, China.
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26
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Campbell MLH, McNamee MJ. Ethics, Genetic Technologies and Equine Sports: The Prospect of Regulation of a Modified Therapeutic Use Exemption Policy. SPORT ETHICS AND PHILOSOPHY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/17511321.2020.1737204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. L. H Campbell
- Department of Production and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, South Mymms, UK
| | - M. J. McNamee
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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27
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Bilir E, Vatanoğlu Lutz EE, Özgönül ML. Ethical and scientific issues of gene-edited twin by clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats Cas9 technology. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2020; 21:138-139. [PMID: 31927815 PMCID: PMC7294836 DOI: 10.4274/jtgga.galenos.2019.2019.0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Esra Bilir
- Koç University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Mustafa Levent Özgönül
- Department of Medical History and Ethics, Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
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28
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Peering into the future: long-run economic and social consequences of automation; with an epilogue on COVID-19. AUTOMATION AND ITS MACROECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES 2020. [PMCID: PMC7325847 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-818028-0.00008-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This final chapter reviews and considers speculations on economic and social development in the context of further automation and progress in artificial intelligence (AI). First, it discusses two possible extreme sets of economic consequences: one being a dystopian scenario with high inequality and deprivation among large swaths of society and the other being “The Happy Leisure Society,” in which most people benefit from the new technologies. We move on to elaborate on the potential effects of automation and AI on living arrangements and the design of cities. Finally, we discuss the possibility of human augmentation to stay competitive with robots in the age of automation and where these trends could possibly lead. This chapter aims mainly to create awareness of these possibilities and to stimulate corresponding discussion—not to sketch a future we think will unfold.
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29
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COLLER BARRYS. THE GORDON WILSON LECTURE: THE ETHICS OF HUMAN GENOME EDITING. TRANSACTIONS OF THE AMERICAN CLINICAL AND CLIMATOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 2020; 131:99-118. [PMID: 32675851 PMCID: PMC7358513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Human genome editing has undergone major technological advances, raising the possibility of treating or preventing many illnesses. Somatic (nonheritable) genome editing, both in vitro and in vivo, is already being employed under a robust regulatory and ethical framework developed for human gene therapy. In contrast, the prospect of germline (heritable) genome editing is much more contentious, and there is currently no consensus on the proper path forward. The 2017 National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and National Academy of Medicine (NAM) report proposed a series of requirements designed to minimize ethical objections while allowing couples to accept the risks of genome editing in order to have a biologically related child without passing on a known genetic disorder. It is vital to prevent gene editing from resulting in unintended negative consequences for individuals with genetic variants. The utilization of genome editing to enhance human function is highly contentious; it may be better to focus on whether an edit creates an "unfair advantage" rather than an enhancement.
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30
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Moscoso CG, Potz KR, Tan S, Jacobson PA, Berger KM, Steer CJ. Precision medicine, agriculture, and genome editing: science and ethics. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2019; 1465:59-75. [PMID: 31721233 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The era of precision medicine has generated advances in various fields of science and medicine with the potential for a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery that will ultimately lead to an individualized approach to medicine. Such timely topics were explored in 2018 at a workshop held at the Third International Conference on One Medicine One Science (iCOMOS), in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A broad range of scientists and regulatory experts provided detailed insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with precision medicine and gene editing. There was a general consensus that advances in studying the genomic traits driving differential pharmacogenomics will undoubtedly enhance individualized treatments for a wide variety of diseases. Ethical considerations, societal implications, approaches for prioritizing safe and secure use of treatment modalities, and the advent of high-throughput computing and analysis of large, complex datasets were discussed. Large biobanks, such as the All of Us Research Program and the Veterans Affairs Million Veterans Program, can aid studies of various conditions in massive cohorts of patients. As the applications of precision medicine continue to mature, the full potential and promise of these individualized approaches will continue to yield important advances in transplant medicine, oncology, public health, agriculture, pharmacology, and bioinformatics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos G Moscoso
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Kelly R Potz
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Shaoyuan Tan
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, Minnesota
| | - Pamala A Jacobson
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | | | - Clifford J Steer
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota.,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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New Gene Editing Research Hopes to Eliminate Genetically Related Male Infertility. Am J Med Genet A 2019; 179:2325-2326. [PMID: 31709747 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Gaspar R, Rohde P, Giger J. Unconventional settings and uses of human enhancement technologies: A non‐systematic review of public and experts' views on self‐enhancement and DIY biology/biohacking risks. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/hbe2.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Gaspar
- Universidade Católica PortuguesaFaculdade de Ciências Humanas, Catolica Research Centre for Psychological, Family and Social Wellbeing (CRC‐W) Lisbon Portugal
| | - Paul Rohde
- Universidade Católica PortuguesaFaculdade de Ciências Humanas, Centre for Research in Communication and Culture (CECC) Lisbon Portugal
| | - Jean‐Christophe Giger
- University of Algarve Faro Portugal
- Centre for Research in Psychology – CIP‐UAL Lisbon Portugal
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The Potential Use of the CRISPR-Cas System for HIV-1 Gene Therapy. Int J Genomics 2019; 2019:8458263. [PMID: 31531340 PMCID: PMC6721108 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8458263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The HIV-1 virus (human immunodeficiency virus) affects 36.9 million people worldwide, with approximately 900000 deaths in 2017. The virus carrier can develop severe immunodeficiency since CD4+ T lymphocytes are the main target, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Despite advances in pharmacological treatment, it is still difficult to eliminate latent reservoirs, becoming one of the main obstacles for viral eradication. The CRISPR- (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat-) Cas system is a genome-editing method which uses a guide RNA, a complementary sequence to the interested site, recruiting a nuclease that can break the viral or the host cell genetic material. From this double-stranded break, cellular repair mechanisms are activated being able to generate deletions, insertions, or substitutions, in order to inactivate specific gene loci, leading to loss of function. The objective of this minireview is to synthesize the current knowledge on the application of CRISPR-Cas-based gene therapy for HIV-1. The strategies encompass all steps of the viral infection cycle, from inhibition of cell invasion, through viral replication and integration inhibition, to excision of the latent provirus. Off-target effects and ethical implications were also discussed to evaluate the safety of the approach and viability of its application in humans, respectively. Although preclinical and clinical tests are still needed, the recent results establish an exciting possibility of applying this technology for prophylaxis and treatment of HIV-1.
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