A Code of Ethics for Gene Drive Research

George J. Annas, Chase L. Beisel, Kendell Clement, Andrea Crisanti, Stacy Francis, Marco Galardini, Roberto Galizi, Julian Grünewald, Greta Immobile, Ahmad S. Khalil, Ruth Müller, Vikram Pattanayak, Karl Petri, Ligi Paul, Luca Pinello, Alekos Simoni, Chrysanthi Taxiarchi, J. Keith Joung

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

26 Scopus citations

Abstract

Gene drives hold promise for use in controlling insect vectors of diseases, agricultural pests, and for conservation of ecosystems against invasive species. At the same time, this technology comes with potential risks that include unknown downstream effects on entire ecosystems as well as the accidental or nefarious spread of organisms that carry the gene drive machinery. A code of ethics can be a useful tool for all parties involved in the development and regulation of gene drives and can be used to help ensure that a balanced analysis of risks, benefits, and values is taken into consideration in the interest of society and humanity. We have developed a code of ethics for gene drive research with the hope that this code will encourage the development of an international framework that includes ethical guidance of gene drive research and is incorporated into scientific practice by gaining broad agreement and adherence.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)19-24
Number of pages6
JournalCRISPR Journal
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2021
Externally publishedYes

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