What are the goals for human genetic engineering?

Answer 1

First and foremost, there is currently no known research anywhere in the world with the purpose of growing genetically engineered humans. There are discussions about the benefits of such technology, as this would allow us to eradicate genetically inherited diseases such as cystic fibrosis and haemophilia. Genetically engineered human embryos could be used for research to understand how and why defects occur during development of a baby in the womb.

Theoretically, it could allow modifying most biological traits of the human body. Some people consider this an advantage, but across the world it is most commonly considered unacceptable and/or undesirable.

Genetically engineered human cells (as opposed to entire humans) are already in use to treat severe genetic blood diseases. For this purpose, haemopoietic stem cells are taken from the patient's bone marrow. They are then genetically modified to correct the mutations that cause the blood disease. Finally, the patient's bone marrow is eradicated and the treated haemopoietic stem cells are injected. These stem cells then restore the bone marrow to a healthy state. Similar technologies are being developed to cure other organ-specific genetic defects.