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The Gene Editing Revolution with Dr Jennifer Doudna

On 21 May 2024, the Sydney Opera House was the stage for an enlightening and thought-provoking event, “The Gene Editing Revolution with Jennifer Doudna.” This event, co-presented by the Big Questions Institute, Sydney Writers’ Festival, and the University of New South Wales, brought together an audience eager to delve into the groundbreaking world of gene editing.

Dr Doudna, a pioneering biochemist and Nobel Prize winner, led the discussion. She shared the monumental implications of her most provocative discovery to date: CRISPR, a deceptively simple yet startlingly powerful method to rewrite the very blueprints of life. This revolutionary technology promises unparalleled control over DNA, balancing on the edge between amazing potential and great danger.

CRISPR emerged not as a quiet ripple in the scientific community but as a tidal wave of concern, akin to the trepidation that shadowed the advent of the atomic bomb. In 2015, Doudna issued a moratorium on using CRISPR for human embryonic edits that could be passed on to future generations. Despite its potential to cure intractable diseases and solve issues like famine, CRISPR brings with it the perilous possibility of irreversible genetic ripple effects and contentious ethical debates over heritable changes in humans. During the event, Doudna recounted her journey and the challenges she faced. Her words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting not only the scientific breakthroughs but also the personal perseverance behind her success.

The event at the Sydney Opera House was more than just a talk; it was a profound exploration of the ethical, scientific, and societal implications of gene editing. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of the potential and risks associated with CRISPR, inspired by Doudna’s vision and dedication to responsible scientific progress.