CRISPR technology has rapidly advanced in recent years, with new tools and clinical breakthroughs. Highlight the recent developments in CRISPR-based gene editing technology applications. Discuss the opportunities and ethical challenges these advancements present for healthcare and society. (Answer in 250 words)

CRISPR is a gene editing technology enabling alteration, removal or addition of genes at a particular location of genome CRISPR (1) It is used to locate any particular location on DNA strands (2) Used alongside CAS-9 protein acting as molecular scissors to cleave DNA (3) DNA can then be added at given location (4) Uses short palindromic repeats to locate genes

(Recent Developments) (1) Use in embryos to prevent disease causing genes to be inherited (2) Altering physical characteristics of babies via embryonic editing (3) Cloning of animals & recently yak cloned by uiaa (4) RNA editing technology = Non permanent results, uses pDAR enzymes (5) Pharmacogenomics => Developing medicines based on one's genes (personalised medicine) (6) Used for whole genome sequencing of populations Eg Indigen by CSIR

Opportunities (1) Development of personalized high quality medicine (2) Early detection & prevention of genetic disorder (3) Developing GM crops with high yields (15-20% higher) (Ethical challenges) (1) Doctor arrested in China for creating designer babies (2) Promotes eugenics => elimination of disabilities as inferior (3) GM seeds => lack of access among poor farmers (4) High costs leading to exclusion Ensuring ethical & responsible development of CRISPR tech is crucial to secure our future