CRISPR and gene drives

Researchers: Emma Frow, Deborah Scott and Rob Smith

Since we started studying synthetic biology, some of the most significant advances in genome engineering have come from outside the relatively small community of self-described 'synthetic biologists'. A case in point: CRISPR gene editing technology. CRISPR has burst onto the scene in the past 5 years and is opening up new possibilities for genome design and editing. For example, technologies like gene drives, first proposed in the 1960s, are seeing proof-of-concept demonstrations in laboratories thanks to CRISPR. In this work we explore the challenges for governance raised by the widespread adoption of CRISPR across a variety of academic, medical, and agricultural domains. With partners in the US, we are also working to foster early, interdisciplinary discussions around the governance of gene drive technologies.

Academic publications

Delborne, J., Kuzma, J., Gould, F., Frow, E., Leitschuh, C. & Sudweeks, J. (2018) Mapping research and governance needs for gene drives. Journal of Responsible Innovation 5(Supp.1): 4-12.

Kuzma, J., Gould, F., Brown, J., Collins, J., Delborne, J., Frow, E., Esvelt, K., Guston, D., Oye, K. & Stauffer, S. (2018) A roadmap for gene drives: Using institutional analysis and development to frame research needs and governance in a systems context. Journal of Responsible Innovation 5(Supp.1): 13-39.

Reports

Smith, R.D.J and Samuel, G. (2018) Who’s talking about non-human Genome Editing? Mapping public discussion in the U.K. London: Sciencewise.

Blog posts and commentaries

Terrill, M. ASU researcher suggests broader public debate on gene modification. ASU Now, 21 November 2017.

Talks and presentations

Frow, E. (2016) ‘Ethical considerations for gene drive technology,’ invited presentation to ASU’s Institutional Biosafety Committee, Arizona State University.

Frow, E. (2016) ‘Governing CRISPR and genome editing’, invited presentation to PAC-12 Environmental Health & Safety Directors’ meeting, Arizona State University.

Frow, E. (2015) ‘Reframing the debate around CRISPR and genome editing,’ New Tools for Science Policy, Washington DC.

Frow, E. (2015) ‘CRISPR in context’, CSHL Summer School on Synthetic Biology, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.