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Concerns Raised Over China’s Gene-Editing Practices: Biotech CEO Claims Embryo Modification
In a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Rogan expressed astonishment upon learning from biotech entrepreneur Ben Lamm about alleged gene-editing activities in China, including claims of scientists “engineering babies.” Lamm, the co-founder of Colossal Biosciences, known for its efforts to revive the dire wolf, detailed assertions that researchers in China have been manipulating the genes of human embryos with the aim of conferring HIV resistance and potentially enhancing intelligence.
Claims of Genetic Manipulation for HIV Resistance and Intelligence
During “The Joe Rogan Experience” podcast, Lamm stated, “They actually were engineering babies, editing their embryos to confer a resistance to HIV – now still to this day.” He further claimed that the CEO of BGI (Beijing Genomics Institute), purportedly funded by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), openly acknowledges exploring genes related to human intelligence. “They are looking at what makes humans more intelligent, they don’t shy away from this, this is not some conspiracy… this is something that is very real,” Lamm asserted.
China’s Stance on Gene Editing and Past Controversies
While China officially outlawed genetic modification of human embryos in 2003, the revelation in 2018 by Chinese scientist Dr. He Jiankui sparked global controversy. Dr. He disclosed the creation of the first gene-edited babies, resulting in the birth of three infants reportedly resistant to HIV. This announcement led to widespread ethical condemnation, and Dr. He was subsequently imprisoned in 2019 for three years.
Debate Surrounds Intelligence Gene Editing
Rogan questioned Lamm about purported efforts in China to edit genes for creating “intelligent kids.” Lamm acknowledged that theories suggesting China is pursuing intelligence gene editing are “under debate.” He referenced speculations that China gathered DNA through widespread COVID-19 testing to analyze it for genes associated with intelligence.
BGI’s Data Collection and Intelligence Gene Research Allegations
Lamm elaborated on his claims, suggesting that BGI Group, formerly Beijing Genomics Institute, purportedly leveraged Covid testing initiatives to collect genetic data globally. The intent, according to Lamm, was to analyze this data for intelligence-linked genes, potentially for the development of intellectually superior children. He stated, “During COVID they’re like ‘We’ll do all the COVID testing for you free. No worries, just send us your data. You just want to help the world right? We’ll work with the World Health Organization.'” He further added, “They are openly saying we are sequencing as much as we can of the world population, looking for genes for intelligence and we will act on that… That is not a hidden thing.”
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Background on Dr. He Jiankui’s Gene-Editing Experiment
Between 2016 and 2018, Dr. Jiankui reportedly modified embryos from eight couples where the fathers were HIV-positive. Utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology, he altered specific DNA segments within the embryos to prevent HIV transmission to offspring.
Legal Repercussions for Gene Editing and Release of Dr. He
Following his public announcement, Dr. Jiankui faced arrest and trial in China in 2019 for “illegally carrying out human embryo gene-editing intended for reproduction.” Authorities found him guilty of “illegal medical practices” and imposed a three-year prison sentence. He was released from custody in 2023.
Rogan’s Skepticism and Lamm’s Acknowledgment of Uncertainty
Rogan expressed skepticism, stating, “The scary thing was that they didn’t just do that. They also edited something that would allow the child to have much higher intelligence.” However, Lamm conceded that the claim of intelligence gene editing was “under debate,” acknowledging differing opinions on its actuality.
Ethical Considerations and Global Regulations on Gene Editing
Gene editing for reproductive purposes, involving modifications to sperm, eggs, or early embryos, aims to prevent genetic disease transmission or potentially enhance genetic traits. However, this technology raises substantial ethical dilemmas, particularly concerning the possibility of “designer babies” with pre-selected characteristics.
Safety Concerns and Regulatory Landscape
Gene editing remains a contentious field due to safety concerns, including a lack of comprehensive long-term data on potential risks like unforeseen side effects and mosaicism. Currently, reproductive gene editing is effectively prohibited in the United States and most of Europe, reflecting widespread caution and ongoing ethical debates surrounding this powerful technology.