The dawn of the designer baby

In this episode, features writer Jenny Kleeman recounts her experience attending the extravagant 30th birthday party of Cathy Tai, nicknamed the 'biotech Barbie', in New York City. Tai, a self-proclaimed serial entrepreneur, is on a mission to use gene editing to create healthier babies by altering human embryos. While she promotes the potential of these revolutionary technologies to eliminate genetic diseases like sickle cell anemia, there are profound ethical dilemmas surrounding gene editing, which could lead to designer babies and unknown long-term consequences.

Kleeman shares Tai's backstory, her early achievements in science, and how she gained prominence through unconventional means, such as dropping out of university to pursue funding from billionaire Peter Thiel. The episode delves into Tai's previous ventures, including attempts to genetically modify animals before focusing on humans. It contrasts her approach with that of her estranged husband, He Jiankui, who controversially produced the world's first genetically edited babies.

The technology of gene editing, particularly the tool CRISPR, is discussed, presenting both its potential benefits and risks. Kathy Tai argues for its acceptance, promoting it as a means to prevent suffering. However, doubts arise regarding its implications, regulatory challenges, and the slippery slope toward enhancement rather than mere prevention of disease. The conversation raises critical questions about where the line should be drawn in genetic engineering and who decides these ethical standards.