CRISPR

Feng Zhang

ORIGIN

• Region on some bacterial DNA
• Part of immune system in these bacteria cells
• 2 components: cellular scalpel and a guide RNA

FUNCTION

• Scientist create their own CRISPR
• Can change, delete, and replace any gene from any organism

ADVANTAGES

• Correct genetic disorders
• Aids study of more complex diseases
• Improves agricultural resistance to pests & other problems
• Cheaper and easiers to use than other kinds of biotechonolgy (Zinc Finger, TALEs)

DISADVANTAGES

• Possible dystopian world (manfuctured humans)
• Genetic discrimation
• Disrupt ecosystems
• Efficiency
• Do not know impact on humans

IS IT ETHICAL?

• Should we be able to control genetic sequences?
• Who can decided whether people are allowed to change their genetic makeup?
• Is there any way for this biotechnology to fall into the wrong hands? What would then happen?