Gene editing technology is undoubtedly beneficial for humanity. However, since it deals with living organisms, how it is used is even more important. In 2018, a Chinese scientist named He Jiankui shocked the world by announcing the birth of designer babies created through gene editing. He utilized gene editing tools to modify the genes of embryos to have resistance to AIDS, specifically between an infected husband and a healthy wife. The couple, who were undergoing infertility treatment, had the CCR5 gene, which is related to immunity, removed from the embryos before implantation, resulting in the birth of twin girls. The CCR5 gene is known to be a receptor for the HIV virus, which causes immune deficiency. Since HIV infiltrates immune cells through CCR5, removing this gene could potentially provide immunity against HIV. In 2015, scientists from 20 countries gathered for the first International Summit on Human Gene Editing, where they discussed gene editing technology.

A statement was issued stating that human embryos should not be altered for the purpose of pregnancy. However, at the second international summit on human gene editing in 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui publicly announced that he had created twins through gene editing. Chinese authorities sentenced He Jiankui to three years in prison for forging ethical review documents and recruiting eight couples, as well as for conducting embryo gene editing and reproductive medical activities without a medical license. A practical ethicist from Oxford University expressed concerns that gene editing on embryos could lead to unexpected mutations and, as the child grows, could cause unforeseen issues such as cancer. In terms of somatic cell editing, many countries, including ours, have allowed it. The fact is, ethically and in terms of self-determination, it is about my decision. It’s my body; I will change it. I won't harm others.

It's not something that is given, but it could be. Editing embryonic cells means, for instance, when performing in vitro fertilization, modifying the egg cell and then implanting it, allowing the child to be born from there. In the case of editing embryonic cells, the decision about the editing is not made by the child, but by the parents. They might think, I wish my child would be like this, which could differ in terms of personal autonomy. Additionally, it seems that socially, it is not easy to accept this. Currently, it is unclear who will use gene editing technology, who will be allowed to use it, and who will manage this technology. As we stand on the brink of a biorevolution brought about by gene editing, we must carefully predict what will unfold and prepare for it. However, one thing is certain: when it comes to humans, we cannot predict only positive futures. There are concerns that the human species might become too simplified.

Life is important, and diversity is crucial. For example, we have created races based on what we consider to be good traits, but then a virus like COVID-20 could emerge later. In that case, those people would be vulnerable. This means humanity could face extinction. Therefore, diversity is essential for living organisms.

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