Gene modification to improve mental health

In the future, Epigenes is interested in pursuing research into the modifications of genes for people with severe psychological conditions, such as PTSD and drug addiction. While efforts towards gene editing are years away, this article from The Guardian discusses the possibilities.

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/feb/26/does-gene-editing-hold-the-key-to-improving-mental-health

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So how could the modification of genes be beneficial?

Modifying genes holds immense potential for various beneficial applications across multiple fields:

1. Medical Treatments: Gene therapy can be used to treat genetic disorders by replacing or repairing defective genes. This approach holds promise for conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, muscular dystrophy, and certain types of cancer.
2. Preventative Medicine: Gene editing techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to correct genetic mutations associated with inherited diseases. By editing out disease-causing mutations before birth or early in life, it may be possible to prevent the onset of certain genetic disorders altogether.
3. Drug Development: Understanding how genes function can lead to the development of more targeted and effective medications. Personalised medicine, which tailors treatments to an individual's genetic makeup, can reduce adverse reactions and improve treatment outcomes.
4. Agriculture: Genetic modification of crops can enhance their resistance to pests and diseases, increase yields, and improve nutritional content. This can contribute to food security, especially in regions prone to agricultural challenges.
5. Conservation: Gene editing techniques can aid in conservation efforts by helping to restore populations of endangered species or mitigate the impact of invasive species.
6. Bioremediation: Genetically engineered microorganisms can be used to clean up environmental pollutants, such as oil spills or toxic chemicals, by breaking them down into harmless substances.
7. Livestock Improvement: Genetic modification can be used to enhance traits in livestock, such as disease resistance, meat quality, and milk production, thereby improving animal welfare and agricultural efficiency.

While gene modification offers significant potential benefits, it also raises ethical, social, and safety considerations. Careful regulation and oversight are essential to ensure that gene editing technologies are used responsibly and ethically, with proper consideration for potential risks and unintended consequences.

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The ethical & legal dilemmas.

• We now have the ability to alter genes yet we don't yet know what the consequences would be for those future generations. Since they are unborn, they don't have the capacity to consent.
• There are concerns that CRISPR might be used to change or enhance human beings.
• Any use of CRISPR is likely to be very expensive. This raises concerns that only wealthy people or organisations might be able to use this technology. That could create more inequality.’