Biotech Challenges

Genome modification by genetic engineering has evolved with the discovery of CRISPR in 2012, distinguishing between first-generation and second-generation biotechnologies. NGTs have applications in plants, animals, and human health, but regulations vary. The book questions GMOs, genome editing products, and their place in societies, providing geostrategic and regulatory benchmarks to better understand current issues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 157 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Genetic engineering has seen a significant technological breakthrough with the discovery of CRISPR in 2012, leading to a distinction between first-generation biotechnologies developed in the 20th century and current second-generation biotechnologies, known as NGT or New Genomic Techniques, including genome editing. This breakthrough has opened up new possibilities for modifying genomes in plants, animals, and human health.

One of the key questions that arise is how these genomic modifications compare to those that occur spontaneously in nature. While genetic engineering has the potential to introduce new traits and improve crop yields, it also raises concerns about the potential risks and unintended consequences of altering the genetic makeup of organisms.

In terms of applications, genome editing techniques have been used in various fields, such as plants, animals, and human health. For example, they have been used to develop genetically modified crops that are resistant to pests and diseases, improve nutritional content, and increase yield. Genome editing has also been used in animal breeding to create animals with improved traits, such as increased muscle mass or disease resistance.

In the field of human health, genome editing has the potential to treat genetic disorders such as sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and Huntington's disease. It can also be used to modify genes associated with traits such as height, weight, and intelligence. However, there are ethical and regulatory considerations that need to be addressed before genome editing can be used in humans.

Geostrategic and regulatory considerations are also important in the context of genome editing. As the technology becomes more accessible and widespread, countries may seek to develop their own capabilities in this area, leading to potential competition and tensions. At the same time, there are concerns about the potential for misuse of genome editing technology, such as creating genetically modified organisms that could pose a threat to biodiversity or human health.

To address these concerns, there are regulations in place that govern the use of genome editing technology. These regulations vary depending on the country and the specific application of the technology. For example, the United States has implemented a regulatory framework known as the Coordinated Framework for Regulation of Biotechnology (CFRB), which oversees the development and use of genetically modified organisms.

In conclusion, the evolution of genome modification by genetic engineering has brought about significant technological advancements and opened up new possibilities for improving crop yields, animal traits, and human health. However, it also raises important ethical and regulatory considerations that need to be addressed to ensure the safe and responsible use of this technology. As genome editing continues to develop, it will be important to monitor its progress and ensure that it is used in a way that benefits society as a whole.

Weight: 474g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031382369
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023