Question

The following refers to a recent development in technology. “It makes it possible to easily alter DNA sequences and modify Gene function. It can therefore correct genetic defects and improve crops, but with associated ethical problems.” Which of the following is the recent development referred to above ?

• A. DNA Bar-coding
• B. CRISPR
• C. P53
• D. Terminator

Answer 1

Answer:

B. CRISPR

CRISPR-Cas9 technology.

• CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary gene-editing tool that has made it possible to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function.
• When expanded CRISPR-Cas9 stands for 'Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats - CRISPR associated protein 9'
• The development of the technique earned Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020
• It has significant potential for correcting genetic defects and improving crops through precise genetic modifications.
• It can be used in the creation of new medicines, agricultural products, and genetically modified organisms, or as a means of controlling pathogens and pests.
• It also has possibilities in the treatment of inherited genetic diseases as well as diseases arising from somatic mutations such as cancer.
• However, it has also raised ethical concerns and dilemmas due to its powerful capabilities and potential consequences. 
• One major concern is the potential for unintended genetic changes, known as off-target effects, which could have unforeseen consequences.
• There are also ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of CRISPR for human germline editing, as it could lead to "designer babies" with specific genetic traits.
• The release of genetically modified organisms into the environment raises concerns about their long-term ecological impact.