Major names in the development of CRISPR gene editing are calling for a global ban on all editing that causes hereditary changes by altering sperm or egg cells. In an open letter, the scientists argued that a moratorium period of at least five years is essential to allow for international consultation on the various issues, scientific and ethical, that arise from the treatment. The letter was signed by more than 100 leading scientists, including Nobel Prize winners Francis Crick and James Watson, as well as other luminaries such as Sir John Gurdon, who won the 2009 Lasker Award for Basic
Major names in the development of CRISPR gene editing are calling for a global ban on all editing that causes hereditary changes by altering sperm or egg cells. In an open letter, the scientists argued that a moratorium period of at least five years is essential to allow for international consultation on the various issues, scientific and ethical, that arise from the treatment. They suggested the establishment of an international framework for the technology's use, as well as underlining the necessity for wider public consensus.