Why gene editing is still humanity’s most powerful tool | Walter Isaacson

Forget AI. Gene editing is still our most powerful—and dangerous—technology.

In a world where the once far-off concept of gene editing has become a medical reality, journalist and author Walter Isaacson's latest book chronicles the discovery of this groundbreaking technology. Jennifer Doudna was a young scientist captivated by RNA's potential, while her contemporaries focused on DNA and the human genome project. In her research, Doudna discovered how to repurpose CRISPR, a system used by bacteria to fight viruses, to edit the genetic code — a discovery that could change the future of the entire human species.

The perils of gene editing technology loom large as scientists grapple with its ethical implications. Jennifer Doudna herself has had nightmares about the potential misuse of CRISPR, fearing its capacity to aid eugenics. Isaacson urges a focus on using CRISPR to address pressing medical needs like sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and Huntington's disease, while avoiding a dystopian future where the wealthy can buy better genes for their children.

Patients like Victoria Gray, who was successfully treated with CRISPR for sickle cell disease in 2022, are already benefiting from the technology. For Isaacson, the story of Jennifer Doudna and CRISPR is a testament to the awe-inspiring potential of human innovation when approached with curiosity and caution.

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[avonsternen]

Any kind of technology is a double-edged sword. Risks depend not only on scientific understanding, precision and perspective, but upon moral development and wisdom. :)

[hwway]

We need genetic diversity to ensure the health and resilience of the species. That’s done best by not editing in copies of the same sets of genes.

[ReynaSingh]

It’s humanity’s most powerful and controversial tool

[d_e_a_n]

We are building more powerful tools. And mixing these powerful like AI will create amazing advances and then we all die.

[Ayudado]

Is there a way to listen to the full version of the songs that are used in the intro and outro of the video? They are very, very good. They remind me of some tracks from a videogame or movie I can't recall right now. Anyway, I would love to get at least to know the name of the author, he is great. Thanks!

[darbs]

The conversation opened by this man is so very important

[June-]

100% China or someone is making designer kids, and also weaponizing it unfortunately.

[snorremortenkjeldsen]

Big question: should we enhance humanity by increasing IQ? And if the West doesn’t, then countries like China most certainly will, which will result in a brain-race

[kcnl]

I think we are fucking around with the wrong stuff.

[deanito]

Do yourself a favour and read Walter Isaacson’s books! He writes amazing biographies.

[deepmind]

NOT 10 times more powerful than AI but AI might make it 10 times more powerful

[ReverendMuncle]

finally someone explains CRISPR in a way I can understand

Thank you!

[projectw.a.a.p.f.t.a.d]

When will the be mainstream atleast the cancer etc, curing aspects around this tech.

[Alann]

#originoflife, #genomeeditingtools, origin of life

[serenityssolace]

2:52-3:01
Like for example mass mRNA vaccinations due to Covid