Human Gene Editing: Revisiting Canadian Policy
This paper was co-authored by PaSAGE team member Rosario Isasi.
Gene editing research is a big area of research right now. The authors of this paper looked at Canadian policy to see if sufficiently addresses new advances in the gene editing field.
The authors argue that current Canadian policy appropriately addresses somatic cell gene editing. Somatic gene editing is the type that only affects the person receiving treatment. Any changes made will not be passed down to future generations. Germline gene editing, however, makes changes to gametes. Gametes are human eggs, sperm, and early-stage embryos. Any changes made in these cells will be passed down to future generations.
The authors also argue that Canadian laws do not sufficiently address germline gene editing. The authors make four points about germline gene editing. First, it should not be outright banned; society and science may find value in research done on human embryos or gametes. Second, editing germ cells outside of clinical research should be allowed. Third, this research should not be regulated by establishing criminal bans on the research. Finally, in-depth discussion about new technologies should occur.