The passage discusses the discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technique, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2020. The technique allows scientists to edit the genetic code of living organisms with unprecedented precision and ease. The passage explains the basics of genetics and how CRISPR-Cas9 works, using an analogy of a zipper with four letters (G, A, T, and C) that can be edited using a pair of molecular scissors.
The passage also delves into the history of the discovery, mentioning the two women who shared the Nobel Prize, Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna, and their stories of how they began working on the technique. It also touches on the potential risks and benefits of the technology, including the possibility of creating genetically engineered humans and the ethical implications that come with it.
The passage concludes by highlighting the significance of the CRISPR-Cas9 discovery, suggesting that it may mark the end of humanity as we know it. It also mentions that the technology is now widely available and can be purchased online, raising concerns about its potential misuse.
Overall, the passage provides a comprehensive overview of the CRISPR-Cas9 technique, its discovery, and its implications for humanity.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The year 2020 is considered significant due to a Nobel Prize awarded for a discovery in the field of chemistry.
2. Two women, one American and one French, were awarded the Nobel Prize together for the first time.
3. The discovery was made only eight years ago and is considered a rapid development in the scientific world.
4. The discovery is related to the "crispr" muscle nine technique.
5. Crispr is a genetic tool that allows for the editing of DNA.
6. The human genetic code consists of four letters: A, C, G, and T.
7. The genetic code is like a zipper with 6 billion "teeth" arranged in a spiral.
8. Each tooth on the zipper has a pair of letters, with A matching T and G matching C.
9. The crispr technique allows for the precise editing of the genetic code.
10. The technique works by using a molecule called RNA to find a specific sequence of DNA and then cut it.
11. The cut DNA can then be replaced with a new sequence.
12. The crispr technique has the potential to treat genetic diseases.
13. The technique can also be used to design "super humans" with enhanced physical and mental abilities.
14. The use of crispr technology on human embryos is highly regulated due to concerns about safety and ethics.
15. The technology has become widely available, with kits available for purchase online.
16. The discovery of crispr was made in 2012.
17. The Nobel Prize was awarded to the discoverers of crispr in October 2020.
18. The discoverers of crispr were Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier.
19. The crispr technique has the potential to revolutionize the field of genetics and medicine.
20. The use of crispr technology raises questions about the ethics of genetic engineering and the potential risks and benefits of such technology.