Journal of Clinical Research & Bioethics

Genetic Engineering Ethics in Human Disease Treatment

Laura Mitchell^* Department of Genetics and Bioethics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
^*Correspondence: Laura Mitchell, Department of Genetics and Bioethics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom, Email:

Received: 01-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. JCRB-25-28969; Editor assigned: 03-Jan-2025, Pre QC No. JCRB-25-28969 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-Jan-2025, QC No. JCRB-25-28969; Revised: 24-Jan-2025, Manuscript No. JCRB-25-28969 (R); Published: 31-Jan-2025, DOI: 10.35248/2155-9627.25.16.513

Description

Genetic engineering has emerged as one of the most promising and controversial frontiers in modern medicine, especially in the treatment of human diseases. The ability to modify an individual’s genetic makeup holds tremendous potential for curing hereditary disorders, preventing illnesses and improving quality of life. However, alongside these possibilities come profound ethical questions that challenge existing norms about human identity, equity, consent and the potential for unintended consequences. Addressing these ethical issues is essential to guide responsible innovation and ensure that genetic engineering benefits society without compromising fundamental values.

A primary ethical consideration in genetic engineering for disease treatment is the issue of safety and risk. Altering the genome carries inherent uncertainties, including off-target effects, unintended mutations and long-term health consequences that may not be immediately apparent. These risks raise serious concerns, especially when interventions are made on embryos or germline cells, as changes could be passed down to future generations. The ethical dilemma revolves around whether the potential benefits outweigh the unknown harms and who should bear the burden of these risks. Stringent oversight, rigorous testing and transparency are necessary to protect individuals and society from premature or reckless applications.

Informed consent is another critical ethical challenge. For somatic genetic therapies targeting adults, obtaining informed consent is straightforward, though still demanding clear communication about potential risks and benefits. However, germline editing involves embryos or future individuals who cannot consent, raising questions about autonomy and rights. Deciding on genetic modifications that affect unborn generations touches on intergenerational justice and the moral responsibility of present-day decision-makers. The question remains: can consent be ethically waived or assumed in the name of potential medical advancements and if so, under what safeguards?

Equity and justice also loom large in the ethics of genetic engineering. Advanced genetic treatments are likely to be expensive and initially accessible only to wealthy individuals or countries, exacerbating existing health disparities. This could lead to a “genetic divide,” where privileged groups benefit from enhancements and disease prevention, while marginalized populations remain excluded. Ensuring fair access to these technologies is critical to avoid deepening social inequalities. Moreover, there is concern that genetic engineering could be misused to promote non-therapeutic enhancements, such as selecting for physical traits or intelligence, raising fears of eugenics and social discrimination.

The potential for genetic engineering to alter human identity and diversity introduces philosophical and ethical complexities. Human genetic variation is a natural and valuable part of biodiversity, contributing to resilience and adaptability. Efforts to “correct” or eliminate perceived undesirable traits may inadvertently reduce this diversity, leading to unforeseen consequences for individuals and populations. Additionally, defining which traits are considered “diseases” or “defects” is subjective and culturally influenced, risking stigmatization and loss of acceptance for people living with disabilities or genetic conditions.

Regulatory and governance frameworks must grapple with balancing innovation and precaution. The global nature of genetic research necessitates international cooperation to establish ethical standards and prevent “genetic tourism” where individuals seek unregulated treatments in countries with lax oversight. Policies should promote responsible research, protect human rights and ensure public engagement and transparency. Encouraging multidisciplinary dialogue among scientists, ethicists, policymakers and the public can foster ethical consensus and guide the development of equitable and safe genetic engineering applications.