Chinese Scientist Imprisoned for Genetic Modification of Babies Proposes Alzheimer’s Prevention Idea

He Jiankui, the Chinese scientist who sparked global outrage in 2018 by announcing the birth of the first genetically modified babies, now has a new proposal claiming it will prevent Alzheimer’s. Jiankui announced in 2018 that he had edited the genes of embryos to make them resistant to the HIV virus; a revelation that shocked the world and led to his imprisonment for conducting this work secretly and using technology 'irresponsibly.' He was released in 2022 and established a laboratory. Last week, Jiankui stated on his Twitter account that in his new research on Alzheimer’s, he would not use any human embryos and would first test his method on mice. It is unclear how these experiments will proceed as they require government permits and ethical approvals, and Jiankui is currently under a lifetime ban from engaging in reproductive technology. He has proposed introducing a genetic mutation into the embryos' genes to slow the formation of a brain plaque that is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s. Although gene-editing technologies are beneficial for improving genetic disorders and rare diseases, they require strict oversight, and most countries, including China, have banned gene editing in human embryos due to potential unintended consequences for future generations. So far, hundreds of billions of dollars have been spent by researchers worldwide to treat Alzheimer’s, but no definitive cure has been discovered yet. Jiankui’s intention to genetically modify humans to prevent Alzheimer’s has once again astonished and concerned scientists. Some argue that even if his claims are meant to create a stir, caution is warranted as it may mislead patients and their families and undermine global research efforts in this area. In an email to CNN, Jiankui emphasized that this is a preclinical study and that no embryos will be used for pregnancy. He also stated that his research will be transparent, and all test results will be published on his Twitter. There is little information about the fate of the three children born using his genetic modification method, but Jiankui has said in recent interviews that they are living 'normal' lives. This article was compiled using various sources, including Time and CNN.