First time in the world, a group of Chinese scientists conducted an experiment that modify human embryos using gene editing technology.

The method used by the scientists is possible for correcting genetic errors in mature cells that does not affect the patient’s reproductive DNA.The technique has been used to modify bone marrow cells in order to increase resistance to HIV.

However, applying this powerful technique to embryonic cells, rather than mature cells raisesapprehensions.Unforeseeable consequences could appear in the future generation.

As reported, the experiment did not confine itself to the abnormal gene, but changed normal parts of the DNA.Germ line interventioncould permanently alter human DNA.

Francis Collins, Director of the National Institutes of Health, statedclearly that germ line manipulation has been regarded almost universally as a line that should not be crossed.

Scientists, bioethicists and the international communityopposed and rejected the study and claimed that this type of genetic modification crossed an impermissible ethical line.

From the Christian perspective, this germ line manipulation regard the child as a product that can be improved upon rather than a gift from God.

This new line of researchdeliberately sacrifices the lives of some to potentially improve someone else’s life.While the new eugenic attitude of today quietly uses prenatal genetic tests to eliminate genetic diseases through abortion.

Presently, some called for the cessation of this new experiment that includes the researchers and ethicists that destroy embryos.There is indeed a need for transparent public discussions regarding this very sensitive matter.

The relief of suffering is a good and appropriate goal for medicine and biotechnology research, but the moral cost cannot be justified no matter how noble the goal.

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Tidbits:

ITF, International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN), International Maritime Health Association (IMHA) and the Seafarers Hospital Society (SHS) jointly launched a new survey on the main health concerns affecting women who work on board ships – who still make up only 1-2 percent of the global seafarer workforce.

Nearly half of all respondents reported that joint/back pain and stress/depression/anxiety were the two biggest health challenges they faced. Sexual harassment was also reported as a problem, especially among younger women.

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If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything. (By Edgar Allan J. Tac-an)