It's all in the genes

Which science fiction film anticipates gene editing in a dystopian society where humans are genetically engineered?

snip = cut

embryo = an animal developing in its mother's womb

enhanced = improved

UK scientists have been authorised by the government to genetically modify human embryos for research.

What they can't do though is implant modified embryos into women.

Think of gene editing as a molecular sat nav.

It scans the DNA searching for the error. Then it uses molecular scissors to snip through both strands, which switches off the faulty gene.

It scans the DNA searching for the error. Then it uses molecular scissors to snip through both strands, which switches off the faulty gene.

Faulty by the way, means something that isn't working properly – like the faulty brakes on my bike.

For patients with blood, immune, muscle or skin disorders it offers the possibility that their faulty cells could be removed, or changed in the lab, and then put back.

But is there a catch? And that means a problem or drawback

the people who are very wealthy and the people who are very poor ⇒ The stark contrast between the haves and have-nots has always existed but in a recession the injustices become more painful.

we don't need it, there are other ways to have healthy children, and it would open the door – possibly – to a world of genetic haves and have nots.

She says it may open the door – or make it possible – a situation where embryos are genetically enhanced – or improved – to be more intelligent or physically stronger, for example.