Advances in gene-editing technology are making the concept of “designer babies” increasingly possible. There is ongoing debate among scientists and policymakers about how this innovative technology should be used and regulated.

Designer babies refer to babies whose genetic traits are selected and modified before birth using technologies such as CRISPR gene editing. Scientists study this technology mainly to prevent serious inherited diseases like cystic fibrosis and certain heart conditions. Research in gene editing has expanded rapidly in recent years, particularly in laboratories in the United States, China, and Europe.

In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui announced that he had edited the genes of twin embryos to make them resistant to HIV, which sparked global controversy and criticism from the scientific community. Many experts argued that the experiment was conducted without sufficient ethical approval and posed unknown risks to the children.

Today, international organizations and governments are discussing regulations on gene editing. Most scientists support using gene editing for medical purposes, such as preventing genetic diseases, but oppose using it to enhance traits like intelligence, height, or appearance.

As genetic technology continues to develop, governments and scientists must decide how to regulate its use. Experts emphasize that clear ethical guidelines will be necessary to ensure that this groundbreaking scientific progress does not create new social inequalities or ethical concerns.

정소람 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

<저작권자 © 강남포스트, 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지>