Gene Editing and Reproductive Medicine: The Ethics of CRISPR in Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Riya Parth Shukal

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i03.47872

Gene Editing and Reproductive Medicine: The Ethics of CRISPR in Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Author(s)	Ms. Riya Parth Shukal
Country	India
Abstract	CRISPR-Cas9 technology holds significant promise for reproductive medicine, offering the potential to prevent or treat genetic disorders. However, its application raises profound ethical concerns, particularly regarding germline editing—modifications made to human eggs, sperm, or embryos that are heritable. Key issues include safety risks such as off-target effects and mosaicism, where not all cells carry the intended genetic changes, leading to unpredictable outcomes. Obtaining informed consent is challenging, as the individuals affected by the genetic modifications are future generations who cannot consent themselves. The high cost of gene editing technologies may limit access to wealthier individuals or countries, exacerbating existing health disparities and potentially leading to a societal divide between those with access to genetic enhancements and those without. Debates continue over whether embryos should be treated as individuals with inherent rights or as biological material for scientific use, especially concerning non-therapeutic genetic modifications. The absence of clear international guidelines creates a patchwork of regulations, with some countries adopting more permissive approaches and others imposing stricter controls, complicating global discussions and applications of gene editing technologies. While CRISPR technology holds immense potential for advancing reproductive medicine, its application must be approached with caution. Balancing scientific innovation with ethical responsibility is essential to ensure that gene editing benefits society equitably and safely. Ongoing dialogue, regulation, and oversight will be key to navigating the complex ethical landscape of gene editing in reproductive medicine.
Keywords	CRISPR-Cas9, Germline editing, Gene editing, Reproductive medicine, Ethical considerations, Informed consent, Equity and access, Safety risks, Designer babies, Regulation and oversight
Field	Biology > Genetics / Molecular
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 3, May-June 2025
Published On	2025-06-13
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i03.47872
Short DOI	https://doi.org/g9qp8r

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Gene Editing and Reproductive Medicine: The Ethics of CRISPR in Obstetrics and Gynaecology

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