Module 3 / Lesson 9.4.1
The Ability to Use Technology to Design Infectious Disease
Modern biotechnology has given humans an unprecedented ability to alter life forms at the genetic level. The gene‐editing technology CRISPR‑Cas9 now enables scientists to modify DNA with precision. While this opens doors for groundbreaking treatments, it also presents serious ethical and security risks, particularly the potential for engineered pathogens. Understanding this dual-use nature of biotechnology is central to assessing the future of pandemics.
Learning:
- Read the both sections on CRISPR and Risks of engineered pathogens given below.
- Watch the corresponding videos to know about CRISPR and risk of misusing it.
Reflection: As you read and watch, think about which safeguards; scientific self-regulation, government oversight, or public engagement, do you believe is most critical to preventing the misuse of technologies like CRISPR to create engineered pathogens?
1- CRISPR Definition
- Definition: CRISPR enables targeted editing of genomes by cutting and replacing specific DNA sequences. (CRISPR, Gene Editing)
- Mechanism: An RNA guide directs the Cas9 enzyme to a DNA sequence; the targeted section is cut and can be replaced or removed.
- Difference from Natural Evolution: Natural mutations accumulate slowly and randomly. CRISPR allows multiple, coordinated edits in one step.
Watch the video below to deepen your understanding of CRISPR’s capabilities and the risks of engineered pathogens.
2. Risks of Engineered Pathogens
The same tools used to cure disease can also be misused to engineer novel pathogens. The concept of “dual-use research of concern” (DURC) refers to work that is beneficial but could be transformed into a threat (World Health Organization). Engineered pathogens might bypass natural constraints – for example, combining high transmissibility with delayed detection or targeting specific hosts.
Watch the video below to deepen your understanding of CRISPR’s capabilities and the risks of engineered pathogens.