CRISPR-Cas9 in Gene Therapy: Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications

Abstract

CRISPR-Cas9 has revolutionized the field of gene therapy, offering unprecedented precision and efficiency in genome editing. While its potential for treating genetic diseases holds promise, the technology also raises significant ethical, legal, and social concerns. This paper provides an overview of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, explores its applications in gene therapy, and examines the ethical, legal, and social implications associated with its use. Key issues discussed include consent and autonomy, equity and access, safety and off-target effects, germline editing, and broader societal impacts. Drawing on existing literature and case studies, this paper aims to stimulate further discussion and inform policy decisions surrounding the responsible implementation of CRISPR-Cas9 in gene therapy.