Preventing an Era of 'New Eugenics': An Argument for Federal Funding and Regulation of Gene Editing Research in Human Embryos

33 Pages Posted: 7 Jan 2019

See all articles by Michael Dohn

Michael Dohn

Belmont University College of Law

Date Written: December 29, 2018

Abstract

The last decade has seen tremendous advances in gene editing technology. In 2011, genome editing was hailed as the Method of the Year by Nature Methods, and the newest tool in the gene editing tool belt, the CRISPR/Cas9 system, was named the 2015 Breakthrough of the Year by Science. When used to edit the DNA of a human embryo, this technology has the potential to eradicate many deadly genetic diseases; however, opponents of its use in human embryos argue that it will create an era of “new eugenics” and that “designer babies” will foster greater social inequality. Currently there are few statutory limitations in the U.S. regarding gene editing research in human embryos. However, a prohibition on the use of federal dollars for research involving human embryos serves as a de facto ban on the practice. This places the U.S. at a distinct disadvantage relative to other countries that support gene editing research in human embryos with government funding, albeit with few regulations addressing associated ethical concerns. This article argues in favor of federal funding for, and the increased regulation of, gene editing research involving human embryos. This article also provides several regulatory guidelines to ensure that safety and ethical concerns are adequately addressed. Only by funding, supporting, and regulating this research will the U.S. be able to play an influential role in the use of gene editing technology, thus precluding an era of “new eugenics” while simultaneously producing both social and economic benefits within its borders.

Keywords: gene editing, CRISPR, human embryos

Suggested Citation

Dohn, Michael, Preventing an Era of 'New Eugenics': An Argument for Federal Funding and Regulation of Gene Editing Research in Human Embryos (December 29, 2018). Richmond Journal of Law and Technology, Vol. XXV, No. 2, 2018, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3309259

Michael Dohn (Contact Author)

Belmont University College of Law ( email )

1900 Belmont Boulevard
Nashville, TN 37212
United States

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