[T]his is where genetics and scientific hubris is leading us: toward a horrifying future where anyone can print a creature based on unique DNA. Startup digital DNA company, Cambrian, will digitize your dream and ‘print’ the DNA you requested so that anyone with the funds can edit existing DNA or produce a ‘creature’ from scratch. At least that’s the marketing gimmick.
Is this really possible? Truthfully, geneticists are on the verge of getting there. The new CRISPR system of gene editing provides a robust means to insert new genetic information with relative precision (I say relative, because many researchers fear that ‘mistakes’ will likely occur from time to time, which means the new ‘gene/s’ may insert into the wrong position, possibly destroying a functional gene). Digital DNA design is certainly possible, and it’s become an industry standard. However, 3-D printers provide a new frontier that have the potential to lead to hu-bot creations that echo scifi thriller plots.
Honestly, the future is terrifying, because mankind really does have the potential to achieve almost anything. What is it that God said in Genesis?
And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. (Gen. 11:6) [emphasis added]
Mankind’s foolishness mixed with a God-given uniqueness that makes us mini-creators is dangerous. God intervened at the tower of Babel, and I pray He intervenes before science achieves Molecular Babylon. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
Read about the new startup via Controversial DNA startup wants to let customers create creatures – SFGate.
