Bioethics.edited

docx

School

The University of Newcastle *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

PHYSICAL C

Subject

Chemistry

Date

Nov 24, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by BrigadierMusic12519

CRISPR-Cas9 from a Bioethics Perspective Your Name Class Number: Class Title in Full Month Day, Year

1 Technological advances in the medical field have improved patient outcomes and healthcare quality. Typically, an ethical code of conduct checks how specific medical procedures should be performed, and these regulations have to ensure that respect for the human body, animals, and the environment is present during medical operations. Nonetheless, some technological advances have gone to the extent that ethical questioning arises regarding how they are operated, and the possible effects on the human body are viewed differently from a human ethical conduct perspective or religious perspective. One of the most controversial debates of recent times surrounds the concept of genetic engineering and CRISPR-Cas9, which have substantial implications on the molecular genetics of an individual, with those opposing the technology claiming that scientists are trying to play the role of God in these procedures. Intricately, these techniques allow scientists to alter the genetic makeup of an organism, including humans, and this subject has attracted a lot of heat and debate in the general public and the scientific world. In light of these issues, I believe that using genetic engineering for health purposes, such as the treatment of diseases, is a viable option and should be done concerning God and humanity. The Bioethics Issue Molecular biology is crucial to determining an individual’s future and outcomes from a health and social perspective. The recent advance in technology has allowed scientists to access molecular information, alter the specific information in the genetic makeup of individuals, and insert information about what they feel rightly suits the individual. The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR-Cas9) is one of the genetic engineering technologies that allows scientists to alter genetic makeup in humans. In detail, CRISPR-Cas9 is adopted from the immune system of bacteria, which stores information on some viral

2 information that has attacked the bacteria in the past. Some scientists feel that this should be the right way to go, considering genetic engineering can potentially mean that the incidence of disease in individuals is relatively low and could significantly improve the health outcomes in these individuals. The CRISPR-Cas9 is implemented through two steps; first, the CRISPR part has a guide RNA designed to a specific DNA target sequence. CRISPR guides the Cas9 enzyme to a specific location in the genetic makeup that scientists want to modify. After getting to the site, the Cas9 enzyme, which acts like a molecular scissor, cuts the gene makeup in the specific location. This mechanism was borrowed from a bacterial immune system where once the bacterium survives a viral infection, it stores information in the form of CRISPR and develops a suitable defense mechanism to protect itself in the future in case a similar attack happens again. Intricately, the CRISPR-Cas9 technology is applied in the medical field to treat different human disorders. Scientists can alter the genomes to improve the immune system of individuals, resulting in a low incidence rate of disease and sticking by the initial biblical command that man is expected to reproduce and fill the Earth, according to the book of (Genesis 1: 28 NIV) 1 . Diseases like cancer can be addressed through CRISPR-Cas9, reducing the incidence rate of the disease 2 . Additionally, CRISPR-Cas9 has allowed scientists to intricately study the functions of genes and allow them to modify human characteristics to allow them to reflect a set preference. Moreover, the application of CRISPR-Cas9 in medicine holds a promising future for treating genetic diseases and could effectively reduce the incidence rates for these diseases. 1 Genesis Chapter 1 2 Wang, Si-Wei, Chao Gao, Yi-Min Zheng, Li Yi, Jia-Cheng Lu, Xiao-Yong Huang, Jia-Bin Cai, Peng-Fei Zhang, Yue-Hong Cui, and Ai-Wu Ke. "Current applications and future perspective of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in cancer." Molecular cancer 21, no. 1 (2022): 1-27.

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

3 My Position Medical advances have been effective in controlling the incidence rates of diseases and maintaining a stable human population. From the book of genetics, humans were created in the image and likeness of God, and we try to replicate God's deeds in every role we play in the world today, in taking care of humanity and the environment since man was in charge of everything in the world. Therefore, I believe that the CRISPR-Cas9 procedure should be allowed to develop to its following stages and be implemented in the medical field to curb diseases that arise from genetic and environmental factors. This can be achieved by implementing a set of rules that scientists should abide by globally, and those going beyond these rules should face the consequences of their actions. Therefore, CRISPR-Cas9 could be good news in the medical field, considering the increase in genetic disorders and little scientific breakthrough thus far to manage these infections. Nonetheless, stewardship and responsibility are essential when implementing these techniques in a medical context and require consensus from everyone involved. 3 . From the Bible, humans were entrusted with developing and filling the Earth; hence, developing technologies that help preserve human life cannot be seen as going against God's will for his people on Earth. Therefore, by assuming stewardship and responsibility, the scientists involved should educate the masses on the importance of technology in maintaining the human population and the environment rather than forcing it down people's throats. Take, for instance, the story of Galileo. When he started studying the solar system, he was met with significant opposition, with most religious leaders believing it was blasphemous. 3 Nie, Jing‐Bao. "Human Genome Editing and a Global Socio‐bioethics Approach." Hastings Center Report 50, no. 6 (2020): 44 –45.

4 Nevertheless, the scientific advances have completely absolved him from all the criticism he initially received. Similarly, CRISPR-Cas9 is only in the early stages, and there is much misinformation regarding the treatment procedure. Hence, mass sensitization is crucial in helping individuals see why the technique is necessary in addressing the conditions people face today. Different Perspectives on the Debate The CRISPR-Cas9 technology has been a source of debate in the scientific, religious, and political world. People have different views of the debate based on their beliefs, the facts presented, and the primal human need to do good and maintain moral ground on the issue. In light of these different individuals' present opposing debates, The Scientific Perspective The scientific perspective agrees with the notion that CRISPR-Cas9 could be an integral technology in the treatment of different diseases and in ensuring that the human population is maintained. 4 . The book of Genesis calls for stewardship after God created man and put him in charge of all creation; hence, man must responsibly utilize God-given resources. Hence, scientists feel that through research and their biological knowledge, they can develop technology that would help preserve human life and improve the quality of life that humans live. Therefore, most scientists believe diligently applying this technology would allow them to fulfill God's will in caring for humanity and other organisms on Earth through effective technology. Moreover, health care is guided by healing, compassion, innovation, and creativity, concepts discussed in the Bible and other religious notions globally. The Bible emphasizes kindness, compassion for the sick, and the pursuit of healing, as seen through some of Jesus 4 Goharrizi, Mohammad Ali Sheikh Beig, Saeed Ghodsi, and Mohammad Reza Memarjafari. "Implications of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing methods in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases." Current Problems in Cardiology (2023): 101603.

5 Christ's actions when interacting with people on Earth. Therefore, scientists believe that if CRISPR-Cas9 is used in therapy, it aligns with their ethical call for compassion for the sick, a concept also reflected in the Bible. Moreover, human creativity is a gift they got from God, and exercising this by developing timely intervention measures for different diseases effectively creates a better future for humanity in their interactions. Improving Quality of Life Improving quality of life supports CRISPR-Cas9 technology, allowing for the right medical interventions to improve quality of life. 5 . Enhancing the quality of life through scientific advancements aligns harmoniously with biblical principles that advocate for the well-being and flourishing of individuals and communities. According to (Psalms 147: 3 NIV) God heals the brokenhearted and binds their wounds. In this context, the revolutionary CRISPR-Cas9 technology emerges as a promising tool for potential therapeutic interventions, reflecting a commitment to the biblical value of promoting human well-being. The Bible underscores the importance of caring for individuals and fostering the flourishing of communities, and CRISPR- Cas9, with its precision and targeted gene-editing capabilities, holds the potential to contribute significantly to this noble endeavor. By addressing genetic disorders and mitigating disease burdens, CRISPR-Cas9 aligns with the biblical ethos of promoting a life of health and vitality. Embracing this technology, guided by ethical considerations, can be viewed as a manifestation of responsible stewardship, utilizing advancements to enhance the well-being of individuals and fulfill the biblical principles of promoting a flourishing and healthy life. The Ethical Debate 5 Brokowski, Carolyn, and Mazhar Adli. "CRISPR ethics: moral considerations for applications of a powerful tool." Journal of Molecular Biology 431, no. 1 (2019): 88-101.

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

6 One of the primary opponents of the CRISPR-Cas9 technology has been those who have questioned the ethical implications of the technology on human life and their interaction with the environment. 6 . The Bible considers Human life sacred, and respect for human life is paramount. Hence, those who oppose CRISPR-Cas9 technology claim it does not respect human life. Logically, life is quite sacred to be interfered with at the molecular level, and humans should grow up to reflect the fundamental properties they were destined to reflect during conception and creation. Intricately, those who believe that CRISPR-Cas9 breaches ethical concerns in the medical field contend that the uncertainty surrounding the technology means that the technology could be a fatal end for the victims who alter their genes on the back of the technology. It would be a disrespect for life if the individuals lose their lives after undergoing such a procedure. Moreover, according to (James 3:9 NIV) it is understood that humans are created in God's image and likeness and might have been purposefully created to reflect some flaws in their genetic makeup. Therefore, it is beyond human understanding and disrespectful to try to alter some of the genetic makeup of individuals. In an ethical, it is not respectful to other people’s beliefs. Health and medicine are guided by ethical principles such as respect for human life and understanding the fundamental importance of life in the way it is. Therefore, any genetic manipulation should be carefully approached with an understanding that some people would feel offended by some of the practices if they are implemented in healthcare. Justice and Fairness Justice and fairness, core biblical principles highlighted in the Bible, become crucial considerations in gene editing discourse. Most debaters contending this issue feel that the world would be unfair considering the new technological advances and the implementation of CRISPR- 6 Gostimskaya, Irina. "CRISPR–Cas9: A History of Its Discovery and Ethical Considerations of Its Use in Genome Editing." Biochemistry (Moscow) 87, no. 8 (2022): 777–788.

7 Cas9 techniques. The Bible's teachings underscore the importance of justice, fairness, and the equitable treatment of all individuals. Ethical concerns arising from the prospect of creating designer babies prompt critical questions about justice and fairness in the application of gene editing technologies. A cautious approach, rooted in ethical considerations, strives to guarantee that the advantages and risks associated with gene editing are distributed justly. This extends to ensuring equitable access to such transformative technologies, reflecting the biblical emphasis on justice and fairness in the ethical deliberations surrounding genetic interventions. The ethical framework acknowledges the significance of fair distribution and accessibility, aligning with biblical teachings' fundamental principles of justice and fairness. Therefore, scientists should be more careful not to exceed ethical limits and, in the process, oppress the minority. Responsibility to Future generations The Bible is cautious about how individuals preserve their future generations and traces the blessings from generation to generation. The biblical principle in (Psalms 78: 4 NIV) of responsibility to future generations holds particular significance in the context of gene editing, and most opponents of the CRISPR-Cas9 procedure believe that different privileges granted by God should not be subject to human decision-making. The Bible underscores the importance of considering the consequences of one's actions on descendants and emphasizes a sense of responsibility toward future generations. Concerns regarding the potential long-term effects of gene editing, specifically CRISPR-Cas9, resonate with this biblical principle, especially regarding how individuals interact with the community. The ethical contemplation surrounding gene editing reflects a recognition of the enduring impact that present actions can have on the well-being and legacy of those who come after. This alignment with biblical teachings underscores the ethical imperative to approach gene editing with a profound sense of

8 responsibility, ensuring that decisions made in the present are mindful of their implications for the welfare and inheritance of future generations. Conclusion Retrospectively, the intersection of technological advances and bioethics, particularly in genetic engineering and CRISPR-Cas9, presents a complex landscape. While acknowledging the pivotal role of technological progress in improving healthcare outcomes, the ethical considerations surrounding genetic manipulation evoke substantial debate. From a scientific standpoint, CRISPR-Cas9 promises to address genetic disorders and enhance human well-being, aligning with principles of stewardship and healing in biblical teachings. However, ethical opponents express concerns about potential dangers, questioning the sanctity of life and the ethical boundaries of genetic interventions. The ongoing debate encompasses diverse perspectives, including the imperative of justice and fairness in the distribution and accessibility of genetic technologies. A cautious approach seeks to ensure equitable benefits and prevent potential oppression of minority groups. Therefore, in light of these observations, I believe CRISPR-Cas9 should be implemented in the medical spectrum to improve treatment options for individuals with genetic disorders. This should be done with consideration of strict ethical guidelines to help in adherence to the law. Bibliography Brokowski, Carolyn, and Mazhar Adli. "CRISPR ethics: moral considerations for applications of a powerful tool." Journal of Molecular Biology 431, no. 1 (2019): 88-101.

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

9 Goharrizi, Mohammad Ali Sheikh Beig, Saeed Ghodsi, and Mohammad Reza Memarjafari. "Implications of CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing methods in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases." Current Problems in Cardiology (2023): 101603. Gostimskaya, Irina. "CRISPR–Cas9: A History of Its Discovery and Ethical Considerations of Its Use in Genome Editing." Biochemistry (Moscow) 87, no. 8 (2022): 777–788. Nie, Jing‐Bao. "Human Genome Editing and a Global Socio‐bioethics Approach." Hastings Center Report 50, no. 6 (2020): 44–45. Wang, Si-Wei, Chao Gao, Yi-Min Zheng, Li Yi, Jia-Cheng Lu, Xiao-Yong Huang, Jia-Bin Cai, Peng-Fei Zhang, Yue-Hong Cui, and Ai-Wu Ke. "Current applications and future perspective of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in cancer." Molecular cancer 21, no. 1 (2022): 1–27.