Researchers in Portland, Oregon, U.S. have just attempted to create genetically modified embryos. Led by Shoukhrat Mitalipov from Oregon Health and Science University, this involved changing the DNA of a large number of one-cell embryos with the gene-editing technique CRISPR.
Until now, American scientists have experienced a combination of awe, envy and some worry from scientists in other parts of the world who were first to explore this controversial practice.
However, it is believed that Mitalipov has broken new ground both in the number of embryos experimented upon and by demonstrating that it's possible to safely and efficiently correct defective genes that cause inherited diseases.
So far, this is in its testing phase. None of the embryos were allowed to develop for more than a few days and there had never been any intention of implanting them into a womb. Nevertheless, what was once deemed as science fiction may soon become a reality: the experiments are a milestone on what may prove to be an inevitable journey toward the birth of the first genetically modified human.
By altering the DNA code of human embryos, the objective of this experiment is to show that genes that cause inherited diseases, can be corrected and eradicated. This process is termed as 'germline engineering' because any genetically modified child would then pass the changes on to subsequent generations via their own germ cells - the egg and sperm.
Those opposing the project believe that the germline experiments could open the floodgates to a new world of 'designer babies' engineered with genetic enhancements. This prospect is of course, bitterly opposed by religious organizations, as well as civil society groups and biotech companies. Furthermore, the U.S. Intelligence community last year called this project a potential weapon of mass destruction.
You Won't Believe What the Human Body Does in One Minute
How much do you think it is capable of doing in a single minute? Watch this video and you'll have your answer!
Whoa! I Can't Believe Technology Has Gone So Far...
From vending machines that dispense cars to mind-reading sleep devices, these complex inventions will blow any tech-enthusiast away!
Why Do Cats Like Catnip?
Are they really getting "high," or is there scientific logic behind cats' love of catnip?
Was There a Time a Day Lasted 10 Hours?
Eons ago, before the dinosaurs ever evolved, there was primordial life on Earth. What did it look like?
9 Inspirational Female Scientists You Should Know About
History is full of women who made significant contributions to science. Let’s meet the most influential ones.
What is E-ink and What Does it Have to Do With Cars?
See for yourself! The new electric vehicle from BMW can change color with a push of a button.
Did You Know That Batteries and Magnets Can Make Magic?
Here are some cool magic tricks you can try at home using only a few magnets, batteries and other household items. Watch carefully as the magician puts together a completely self-reliant motor
Doctors Make History With First Whole Eye Transplant
Surgeons in New York have performed the world’s first transplant of an entire human eye!
Science Proves: These 10 Bible Stories Probably Did Happen
The Bible describes many seemingly supernatural cases, but today, science can show that they might have indeed happened.
Welcome to the Fastest Maze-Solving Competition Ever Made...
Welcome to Micromouse, a competition for the quick of eyes and the quick of minds. This is the oldest robotics race.
You Won't Believe That These Things Exist in Japan...
If there's one place on this planet that well and truly at the forefront of modern technology, it has got to be Japan, as these inventions prove...
Ponder Life's Big Questions with a Truly Brilliant Mind
Dr. Michio Kaku is known around the world for his brain power and ability to explain complex concepts with effortless ease. Here are his thoughts.
Visual Illusions: What Color Are These Strawberries?
Tricking our brain into believing that something is one color or shape than another thing is surprisingly easy, but can we explain why?
New Robots: This Robot Uses Both Wheels AND Legs
This robot can get just about anywhere in little time because it uses both wheels and legs to get over most hurdles.
Behind the Scenes of the Human-Like Atlas Robot
In this video, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the development of the incredible Atlas robot.
These Optical Illusions Will Shock Your Mind!
Optical illusions create miscommunication between our eyes and brain making, us see things that are not really there or not see things that are right in front of us. See for yourself.
Is it REALLY the Coffee that Wakes Us Up in the Morning?
A recent study has revealed that the coffee you drink may just be a placebo...
What on Earth Is a Black Hole? This Video Explains All...
What on Earth are black holes, how do they affect us, and should we be at all worried about their existence? Find out here.
How Your Eye Came to Be the Color It Is...
Why do we have different-colored eyes, and what does it mean?
Sleep Inventions: 16 Gadgets to Help You Doze Off
If you frequently struggle with sleep, then trying these amazing new sleep innovations could help change your life.
6 Fascinating Stories of Accidental Medical Discoveries
From penicillin to pacemakers, here are the medical breakthroughs that were discovered by accident.
Researchers Claim This Ingredient Can Cure Depression!
A preliminary study has suggested that magic mushrooms may be able to soothe the symptoms of depression. Read here to find out more.
10 Unanswered Mysteries You've Always Wondered About!
You might not have thought about the most curious cases of the bizarre things that we encounter every day.
The World's Most Dangerous Blood Type
Today we will discuss the most dangerous blood type to have, the one you cannot get an infusion for. Let's delve right in and learn about this rare blood type.
10 Incredible Animal-Inspired Robots
Let's meet some incredibly realistic robotic animals.
Here Are the 16 Oldest Household Objects in the World
If you think ancient life is remote, these pre-historic household items will make you think again. Just look at how old they are!
These Are the Miracles That Happen in Our Bodies Every Day
There is a lot that happens inside our bodies every single day. Did you know any of these facts?
I Never Knew These Stunning Facts About Our Universe
If you thought you understood the universe, you'll be completely floored by this insane facts.
Chocolate Exposed! Here's What It Does to Your Brain!
Just what is it that makes chocolate so irresistible to so many people around the world? Find all of the answers in the article.
7 Overlooked Scientists Who Should Be Household Names
Meet seven scientists who never got the credit they deserved.
Are Underwater Turbines the Answer to Our Energy Question?
One of the most promising technologies in the renewable energy market is the ocean. Learn all about it.
Introducing the Astronauts That Were Just Launched Into Space
The two astronauts — veteran NASA fliers Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley are honored to have been on this flight. Let's get to know them!
Revolutionize Your Green Space: 12 Cool Garden Gadgets
Take your garden to the next level with the amazingly cool inventions and gadgets.
This Is Why You Should Choose Paper Towels Over Air Dryers
Jet air dryers seem to provide a rapid solution to drying our hands in public restrooms, but they're actually havens for bacteria. Take a look.
13 Incredible ROOF INNOVATIONS For Your House
Keep the roof of your house safe with these incredibly useful inventions.
Six Inventions Da-Vinci Made Ahead of Their Time
He created and envisioned many inventions that were sometimes even centuries ahead of their time. Was there ever a genius as great as Da-Vinci?
Could This Popular Ingredient Be a Cause of Cancer?
The chemical triclosan began to appear in a multitude of products in the early 1970s. This ingredient, found in a multitude of products has been linked to cancer.
These 11 Brain Facts Are Enough to Boggle Your Mind
When you consider the sheer complexity of the human brain, it's difficult to wrap your head around it. Learn these 11 fascinating facts about the human brain.
3 Surefire Ways to Always Identify Pseudoscience
Find out how you can identify pseudoscience, and learn how it differs from actual science.
NASA's Plan to Colonize the Moon by 2026
NASA has a Moon colonization plan that involves utilizing 3D printers to construct an entire space station by 2026. Here's what it will look like.
Take an Incredible Tour of Our Colossal Milky Way Galaxy
Fly Through the Milky Way Galaxy!
25 Feats of Engineering that Leave Everyone Amazed
The amount of planning and sheer brain power it took to design and execute these structures, proving once again that there are true geniuses out there.
These Photos Show How Dependent We are On Smartphones
Technology has taken over and these funny (but true) photos help to drive this fact home.
How to Make Cleansing Hydrogen Water from an Old Battery
Let's embark on this scientific journey to unlock the potential of water and discover the practical uses of hydrogen and oxygen in everyday life.
The McGurk Effect - Don't Believe Your Eyes!
What we hear can be affected by what we see...
The First Robot Ever Made Was Created 250 Years Ago...
This automaton is pure genius, especially when you consider it was built 250 years ago...
The Oldest Medicines That Have Stood the Test of Time
Learn about some fascinating old medicine and general healing practices that have survived for thousands of years.