Is there any difference between gene therapy, transgenic organisms, and gene enhancement/genome editing? With example, explain the ethical concerns in each of these approaches? When can genome editing be considered ethical?

Gene Therapy Defined

Gene therapy treats genetic diseases by correcting defective genes in somatic cells without heritable changes, using viral or non-viral vectors. The first successful case was in 1990 treating ADA deficiency. It focuses on therapeutic correction rather than enhancement.

Genome Editing and Gene Enhancement

Genome editing, exemplified by DRR Dhan 100 rice developed in India, allows precise DNA changes without necessarily introducing foreign DNA. It can target somatic or germline cells, enabling heritable changes and potential enhancement beyond therapy, distinguishing it from traditional transgenics.

Genome Editing and Ethics

Genome editing raises ethical issues like potential eugenics if applied to humans, exacerbation of social inequality through unequal access, and unknown long-term effects on genetic diversity. The possibility of “designer babies” challenges concepts of human identity and consent.

Common Ethical Themes

All approaches risk “playing God,” reduction of natural genetic diversity, genetic discrimination in insurance and employment, and worsening social inequities. These concerns are particularly sensitive in agrarian and health contexts like Andhra Pradesh.

Therapeutic Use and Safety

Ethical genome editing requires clear therapeutic goals, robust evidence of safety, and minimal off-target effects to prevent harm.