POSITION PAPER: ON GENOME EDITING (GE)

The practice of genome editing, also known as gene editing, is rising in

popularity in modern society. In this position paper, I'll outline my arguments
for supporting genome editing (GE) technology.

Technical Context
A set of technological technologies known as genome editing allows for precise and
targeted alterations to be made in the DNA of an organism, plant, or animal (including
human). The CRISPR-enzyme system is the most widely used of the various GE
systems that have been created over the past two decades (e.g. CRISPR-CAS9,
CRISPR-CPF1). The most popular method is CRISPR-enzyme, which was first
identified in 2014 as a naturally occurring mechanism in bacteria to protect
themselves against viruses. Its advantages include simplicity, low cost, and excellent
efficiency.

The two components that make up the Recombinant enzyme's are a genomic GPS
system that locates the precise sequence in the genome and an endonuclease, often
known as a DNA scissor, that cuts the DNA. The cell's internal/native repair
mechanisms will attempt to patch up the DNA break when it happens, however this
process causes mutations at the DNA spot. Similar to how DNA is repaired after
exposure to UV rays from the sun or any other mutagenic factor that can cause DNA
breaks in cells.

Over the last six years, the plant, animal, and medical research communities have
successfully employed the CRISPR-enzyme approach in a wide range of species,
demonstrating its potential to address genetic disorders such as muscle dystrophy and
blindness, as well as crop performance concerns such as disease resistance and
product shelf-life.