📋 Group Discussion (GD) Analysis Guide: Is it Ethical to Use CRISPR Technology to Modify Human DNA?

🌐 Introduction

• Opening Context: CRISPR-Cas9 technology has revolutionized genetic engineering, offering precise DNA modification to address complex challenges in medicine and biotechnology. However, the ethical dimensions of human DNA editing remain a global debate.
• Topic Background: CRISPR technology allows genetic modifications with unprecedented precision. The birth of the first gene-edited babies in 2018 sparked global discussions on the ethical boundaries of such innovations.

📊 Quick Facts & Key Statistics

• First CRISPR Babies (2018): Chinese scientist He Jiankui engineered twins Lulu and Nana to resist HIV, leading to global condemnation and his imprisonment for ethical violations.
• Genetic Disease Prevalence: Approximately 7.9 million children are born annually with serious genetic defects, underlining CRISPR’s potential in medical advancements.
• Market Growth: The global CRISPR market reached USD 3.78 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.89%, hitting USD 9.34 billion by 2029.
• Regulatory Landscape: While some countries impose strict guidelines or moratoriums on germline editing, others are developing frameworks to oversee therapeutic applications.

👥 Stakeholders and Their Roles

• Scientists and Researchers: Innovating and testing applications while addressing ethical concerns.
• Governments and Regulators: Crafting laws to ensure CRISPR’s responsible use.
• Healthcare Providers: Exploring CRISPR’s role in treating genetic diseases.
• Ethics Committees and NGOs: Advocating for equity, safety, and moral considerations.

✅ Achievements and Challenges

• Achievements:
• Eradicating Diseases: Promising trials in addressing Huntington’s disease and HIV resistance.
• Agricultural Innovation: Enhanced crop yields and pest resistance.
• Therapeutic Success: Effective treatments for blood disorders like beta-thalassemia.
• Challenges:
• Ethical Dilemmas: Risk of misuse for non-therapeutic purposes, like designer babies.
• Off-Target Effects: Potential unintended genetic modifications.
• Regulatory and Social Gaps: Varied approaches to regulation across countries.

🌍 Global Comparisons

• USA: Regulatory stringency limits germline editing but promotes therapeutic research.
• China: Rapid advancements but criticized for ethical lapses.

📖 Case Studies

• He Jiankui Experiment: Raised awareness of the urgent need for global regulations.

🔍 Effective Discussion Approaches

• Opening Approaches:
• “With 7.9 million children born annually with genetic defects, CRISPR’s promise to eliminate such conditions is undeniable.”
• “Does curing genetic diseases justify experimenting on human embryos?”
• Counter-Argument Handling:
• Acknowledge misuse concerns but emphasize regulation and oversight as safeguards.

🛠️ Strategic Analysis of Strengths & Weaknesses

• Strengths: Precision in gene editing, medical breakthroughs, agricultural innovations.
• Weaknesses: Ethical risks, potential off-target effects, high costs.
• Opportunities: Eradicating genetic diseases, advancing personalized medicine.
• Threats: Unequal access, potential misuse, unknown long-term consequences.

💬 Structured Arguments for Discussion

• Supporting Stance: “CRISPR has the potential to eliminate genetic diseases, improving the quality of life for millions.”
• Opposing Stance: “The risk of misuse, such as creating ‘designer babies,’ could exacerbate societal inequities.”
• Balanced Perspective: “While CRISPR’s benefits are undeniable, robust ethical guidelines are crucial for its responsible application.”

📚 Connecting with B-School Applications

• Real-World Applications: Insights into healthcare policy, biotech entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership.
• Sample Questions:
• “What are the implications of CRISPR for global healthcare access?”
• “How would you balance innovation with ethical considerations?”
• Insights for Students:
• Explore CRISPR’s role in biotech startups and sustainable healthcare models.
• Investigate ethical frameworks governing disruptive technologies.