Abstract

Genetic engineering is a rapidly evolving field of research with potentially powerful therapeutic applications. The technology CRISPR-Cas9 not only has improved the accuracy and overall feasibility of genome editing but also has increased access to users by lowering cost and increasing usability and speed. However, recent applications of genetic engineering technology have raised ethical concerns in the scientific community. An investigator in China announced the birth of twins whose genome had been edited as embryos to increase resistance to HIV. These germline genetic modifications were illicit because they both posed potential risks to the children and future progeny and used in vitro fertilization. In addition, a team of US and Spanish researchers travelled to China to perform human–animal chimera research. In light of these events, health care institutions should consider what steps can be taken to prevent or slow rogue science.