Article

Gene Editing for Good

How CRISPR Could Transform Global Development

Bill Gates

Foreign Affairs, 2018

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CRISPR gene-editing technology has taken the scientific world by storm. Using this technology, which allows scientists to insert, modify or delete genes in an organism, is not a risk-free endeavor. Yet according to Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates, failing to take advantage of gene editing’s great potential to help the world’s poorest people would be a “tragedy.” Writing in Foreign Affairs, Gates makes a case for using CRISPR and other gene-editing techniques on a global scale to promote food security and fight disease.

Take-Aways

Gene editing, which allows scientists to alter an organism’s DNA in a highly targeted way, could help eradicate some of the world’s most long-standing health and development problems.
Gene editing can increase crop yields in developing countries by creating highly productive, drought- and pest-resistant crop varieties.
As 75% of the world’s poorest people base their livelihood on small-scale farming, a boost in agricultural production would enhance the lives of millions.

About the Author

Bill Gates is co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the founder of Microsoft.

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