Recent news and analysis on Genetics & Genomics

Genetics and genomics news covering DNA sequencing, gene editing, CRISPR, hereditary disease research, and population genomics.

• "Are we getting to the point where it's safe to gene-edit babies?"

  This commentary argues that despite recent advances in CRISPR base editing showing safer results in human embryos, it is still not safe enough to allow gene-editing babies. The author contends that while base editing reduces unintended mutations, it must work perfectly in every cell of an embryo, a standard not yet achieved.

• Turi King: "Opinion: Does genetic testing truly tell us who we really are?"

  Geneticist Turi King argues that direct-to-consumer DNA testing offers limited insights into identity, as DNA inheritance is complex and many ancestors leave no genetic trace. She cautions against conflating genetic ancestry with personal identity, noting that tests cannot provide the certainty many seek.