La investigación genética, sus posibilidades y riesgos, analizados por expertos a nivel nacional.

Updated: November 18, 2024

Observatorio Bioética


Summary

The video delves into the realm of bioethics and genetic research, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas and implications in genetics, epigenetics, and gene editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9. Experts discuss the interplay between genetic makeup and environmental factors, showcasing the complexity of genetic alterations and the importance of ethical considerations in research and application. The video addresses the challenges of heritable genome editing, the ethical implications of genetic modifications, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to navigate the evolving landscape of genetic technology responsibly.


Introduction and Acknowledgements

The speaker expresses gratitude to Julio Tudela for organizing the bioethics congress on genetic research. He acknowledges the work of the observatory and pays tribute to Don Justo Aznar. The speaker highlights the importance of ethical dilemmas in genetics and commends the topic chosen for the congress.

Youth Perception on Existence and Genetics

The speaker discusses the rejection of the idea of existence among young people and the lack of awareness about their genetic nature. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the gift of life and genetic makeup, noting a growing trend of indifference and rejection among university students towards genetic gifts.

Ethical Considerations and Utilitarianism

The speaker delves into the ethical implications of genetic alterations and the utilitarian perspective that justifies means over ends. He stresses the importance of addressing the consequences of a utilitarian view in a university setting and the need to discuss these issues openly.

Speakers' Gratitude and Overview

Acknowledgment of the speakers for the enlightening discussions at the congress and gratitude to the attendees. The speaker highlights the diversity of participants and the engagement of online viewers. A brief overview of the content and structure of the congress is provided.

Keynote Speaker Introduction

Introduction of Dr. Luis Franco, an expert in biochemistry and molecular biology, as the keynote speaker. The speaker highlights Dr. Franco's background, expertise in epigenetics, and contributions to bioethics. Dr. Franco's role in discussing the ethical implications of genetic research is emphasized.

Genetics and Epigenetics Overview

Dr. Luis Franco provides an overview of genetics and epigenetics, explaining the difference between genetic mutations and epigenetic changes. He discusses the role of epigenetics in gene expression and the influence of environmental factors on epigenetic modifications.

DNA Structure in Sperm

Spermatozoa DNA has unique density and organization due to protamines instead of histones. Genes in open structure regions are susceptible to epigenetic changes from factors like smoking, drug addiction, and poor nutrition.

Epigenetic Changes from Dietary Influence

A high-fat diet in fathers can impact offspring epigenetics, affecting mitochondrial function despite paternal mitochondria not entering the egg during fertilization.

Environmental Influence on Epigenetics

Environmental pollution can alter epigenetic factors in individuals living in contaminated areas, emphasizing the need for environmental conservation and ethical considerations.

Importance of Nutrition on Epigenetics

Nutrition plays a significant role in epigenetic modifications, highlighting the impact of proper nutrition to prevent epigenetic alterations and potential health issues.

Developmental Epigenetic Modifications

Epigenetic changes during embryonic development involve cyclic methylation patterns, with variations in methylation levels affecting gene expression and tissue differentiation.

Genetic Syndromes and Epigenetic Influences

Genetic disorders like Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome can be influenced by epigenetic changes, showcasing the interplay between genetics and environmental factors.

Innovations in Genetic Therapy

Genetic therapy advancements, particularly CRISPR-Cas9 technology, offer potential in correcting genetic diseases through gene editing and modification techniques.

Technology for Therapeutic Genome Editing

Discusses the use of technology for editing genes for therapeutic purposes in medical applications to correct DNA involved in specific diseases and pathologies, focusing on monogenic diseases and the introduction of elements into cells using vectors.

Utilization of Vectors for Gene Editing

Explains the use of vectors as vehicles to introduce genetic elements into cells for genome editing, detailing the complexities of using viral vectors and alternative lipid or biopolymer particles.

Application of Gene Editing Technology

Describes the process of modifying cells in the laboratory to genetically edit them using vectors and targeting specific DNA sequences, with a focus on the first successful autotransplantation experiments in animals and humans.

Therapeutic Applications of CRISPR-Cas9

Highlights the current use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in clinical trials for therapeutic genome editing, with a significant number of ongoing clinical trials focusing on cancer and monogenic diseases.

Gene Editing in Cancer Treatment

Discusses the application of gene editing technologies like KTE in cancer treatment, emphasizing the enhancement of the immune system to target and combat tumor cells specifically, complementing traditional cancer treatments.

Safety and Ethical Concerns in Gene Editing

Addresses safety and ethical considerations in gene editing, including the risks associated with genomic editing, concerns about the impact on human genetic heritage, and the importance of ethical boundaries in research and application of gene editing technologies.

Genomics Evolution

Discussing the favorable aspects of evolution and genetic changes in species. Exploring comparative genomics to understand commonalities with ancestors and other species.

Genomic Function

Exploring the functionality of non-coding DNA and genetic elements, emphasizing the potential reasons behind seemingly non-functional DNA segments.

Research and Collaboration

Introducing Dr. Nuria Monserrat, highlighting her achievements in stem cells, bioengineering, and participation in international research collaborations.

Stem Cells and Bioengineering

Delving into the use of pluripotent stem cells and bioengineering techniques to understand tissue formation, disease processes, and ethical considerations.

Applications of Stem Cells

Exploring the application of stem cells in modeling diseases, drug testing, and regenerative medicine, particularly focusing on kidney and heart organoids.

Genetic Manipulation Techniques

Discussing genetic manipulation tools like CRISPR for modifying genomes, generating dysfunctional proteins, and studying gene functions in organoids.

Organoid Applications

Exploring the diverse applications of organoids in disease modeling, drug testing, and personalized medicine, showcasing examples in kidney and heart organoids.

Considerations for Research

Discussion about the considerations involved in conducting research, including societal impact, benefits, ethical and legal considerations related to informed consent, donor understanding, data preservation, and secondary use of data.

Challenges in Organoid Modeling

Exploration of the challenges in using organoid models, including ethical and legal questions regarding intelligence in the models and concerns about pain perception, highlighting the importance of considering these factors in laboratory research and medical applications like precision medicine and drug testing.

Equity in Research Platforms

Discussion on the need for research platforms to promote equity, accessibility, and affordability for researchers at a national level, emphasizing the importance of involving stakeholders such as researchers, donors, patients, and the collaborative effort in addressing ethical and legal challenges in research.

Ethical and Legal Implications of Experimental Models

Overview of the ethical and legal implications of experimental models derived from human samples, focusing on the forthcoming publication of a document addressing these implications, inviting feedback and comments to foster open dialogue.

Applications of CRISPR Technology

Exploration of clinical applications of CRISPR technology, emphasizing three examples: HIV virus treatment, genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia, and the use of CRISPR in precision medicine with a focus on understanding molecular mechanisms and spatial transcriptomics.

Recaídas y necesidad de tratamientos listos

Se menciona que las recaídas en pacientes de alto riesgo son agresivas y que es crucial contar con tratamientos listos para usar, como terapias car halogénicas, para evitar problemas de rechazo y reconocimiento de células extrañas.

Avances en tecnologías de edición génica

Se discute la evolución de las tecnologías de edición génica, desde CRISPR hasta PrimeEditing, que permiten realizar modificaciones genéticas más precisas y específicas, incluso regulando la epigenética y ofreciendo nuevas posibilidades terapéuticas.

Desafíos y limitaciones de las terapias novedosas

Se aborda la importancia de superar desafíos tecnológicos y bioéticos en terapias innovadoras como la edición génica, incluyendo la eficiencia, la seguridad y las implicaciones éticas de su uso, especialmente en aplicaciones más allá de lo terapéutico.

Costos de las terapias y desafíos futuros

Se explora el alto costo de las terapias genéticas y se plantean posibles estrategias para abaratar los procedimientos, como el uso de sistemas no virales y el desarrollo académico. Se destaca la necesidad de colaboración interdisciplinaria para progresar en el campo.

Edición genética y posibles efectos secundarios

Se analiza la posibilidad de efectos no deseados como cambios en otras regiones del genoma o reordenamientos genéticos al realizar ediciones genéticas. Se subraya la importancia de continuar investigando y abordando estos desafíos.

Interacciones y colaboraciones en investigación

Se resalta la importancia de la colaboración interdisciplinaria en la investigación científica, mencionando la necesidad de sinergias entre diversos campos como la clínica, la biología computacional y la industria para avanzar en terapias innovadoras.

Opiniones sobre ética y aplicaciones de terapias genéticas

Se plantean cuestiones éticas en torno al uso de terapias genéticas, especialmente en la modificación de células germinales, y se discute el equilibrio entre la seguridad, la eficacia y las implicaciones éticas en la implementación de estas tecnologías.

Desarrollo y evolución de herramientas genéticas

Se discute el desarrollo de herramientas genéticas más eficientes y rápidas, como los sistemas CRISPR y PrimeEditing, y se menciona la importancia de las herramientas informáticas para predecir efectos secundarios y mejorar la precisión en la edición genética.

Impact of Technology in Medicine

Discusses the potential impact of technology in medicine, specifically in the field of infertility treatment and the importance of retaining fundamental knowledge in scientific and medical fields amidst technological advancements.

Importance of Fundamental Knowledge

Emphasizes the necessity of fundamental knowledge in pathology and genetics to ensure that technological advancements do not hinder the ability to ask fundamental questions in fields like cellular biology.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Highlights the significance of interdisciplinary teams and maintaining a balance between conceptual questions and practical applications in research to avoid losing focus on fundamental questions.

Ethical Considerations in Technology

Addresses ethical concerns related to the introduction of new technologies, particularly in genetic editing, and the importance of continuous dialogue between research and ethics.

Rights of Future Generations in Genetic Editing

Explores the ethical implications and considerations surrounding heritable genome editing, focusing on the rights and responsibilities towards future generations in the context of technological advancements in genetic manipulation.

Preocupaciones sobre la edición genética en células embrionarias humanas

Discusses the concerns and implications of genetic editing in human embryonic cells, highlighting the potential to correct genetic defects associated with diseases in future generations. It also mentions the ethical concerns and unresolved issues related to modifying the germline.

Dificultades de hacer un seguimiento a largo plazo

Addresses the challenges of long-term monitoring of genetic experiments, mentioning practical and ethical obstacles associated with genetic modification in the germline. It emphasizes the lack of current methods to analyze and understand the outcomes for decades or generations.

Desarrollo de mecanismos sociales y políticos

Emphasizes the importance of developing effective social and political mechanisms for comprehensive debates on human germline alteration. It aims to understand and balance individual, familial, social, and species rights.

Observaciones finales y organizaciones internacionales de bioética

Concludes with final remarks on the concerns of intergovernmental organizations regarding the risks of hereditary gene editing technology. It highlights the lack of universal debate on regulating this technology and the potential consequences of its widespread use.

Bioethics and Revolutions

Discussing the use of principles in bioethics and the need for robust principles to face challenges and revolutions.

Implications of Uncertainty in Law

Exploring the role of uncertainty and the need for legal adaptation in the face of technological advancements and bioethical considerations.

Role of Judges and Ethics in Law

Highlighting the importance of judicial preparedness, interdisciplinary ethics, and the evolving role of judges in addressing legal complexities.

Consecuencias e Intentar Razonables

Discussion on the consequences of genetic editing and the reasonable approaches to deal with them.

Factores de Riesgo y Avances Tecnológicos

Exploration of the risks and advancements in genetic editing technology, drawing parallels with past advancements like in vitro fertilization.

Riesgos de Control Poblacional

Concerns about the potential misuse of genetic editing for population control and the socioeconomic implications of such technologies.

Costos y Accesibilidad a la Tecnología

Discussion on the high costs and accessibility issues related to genetic editing technologies and the potential division it may create in society.

Impacto en la Salud y Sociedad

Speculation on how genetic editing could impact health outcomes and social stratification, raising concerns about creating genetic elitism.

Uso de Tecnología para Mejorar Salud

Discussion on using genetic editing to enhance health outcomes, potential societal divisions, and the affordability of such technologies.

Aspectos Éticos y Control de Modificaciones

Debate on ethical considerations, implications of genetic modifications, and the challenges of regulating genetic editing technologies.

Preferencia por incrementar la velocidad

The speaker discusses the preference for increasing speed when facing risks and uncertainties, highlighting the importance of taking decisions to potentially save lives even in uncertain scenarios.

Dificultad en manejar escenarios de incertidumbre

The challenges of handling scenarios of uncertainty and the speaker's perspective on choosing to face risks rather than remaining unsure of potential outcomes.

Desafíos en el control de la edición genética y tecnología digital

Discussion on the challenges in controlling genetic editing and digital technology, emphasizing the loss of control over genetic modifications and the difficulty in monitoring technological advancements.

Impacto de la tecnología en la sociedad

Insights on the societal impact of technology, including concerns about data-driven decision-making and the influence of utilitarianism in prioritizing data over moral reflection.

Riesgos de la biotecnología y aceleración científica

Addressing the risks associated with biotechnology, rapid scientific advancements, and the need for regulatory measures to ensure the safety and ethical use of emerging technologies.

Desafíos éticos en la ciencia y medicina

Exploration of ethical challenges in science and medicine, focusing on the intersection of market interests, scientific validity, and the role of experts in decision-making processes.

Papel de China en la regulación tecnológica

Discussion on the role of China in shaping technological regulations and decisions, highlighting the potential influence of China's technological advancements on global norms.

Optimismo exagerado en la ciencia

Critique of exaggerated optimism in science and technology, emphasizing the need for cautious approaches and acknowledging limitations and ethical considerations in scientific advancements.

Importancia de la reflexión moral y la regulación

Importance of moral reflection and regulatory frameworks in guiding technological developments, with a focus on the need for ethical considerations and oversight in scientific advancements.

Experiencias en comités de bioética y reflexiones finales

Reflections on experiences in bioethics committees, highlighting the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, expert selection based on integrity, and the impact of experts' influence on public decisions.

Método de Deliberación y Papel de los Expertos

Discusión sobre la necesidad de un método de deliberación para la toma de decisiones y el papel de los expertos en ofrecer elementos para la toma de decisiones políticas basadas en ideas sociológicas, económicas, jurídicas, éticas y científicas.

Comités en la Toma de Decisiones

Análisis sobre la importancia de los comités en la toma de decisiones políticas, destacando la necesidad de mecanismos imparciales para designar a expertos, y el impacto positivo de estrategias bien implementadas, como en el caso de Portugal.

Reflexiones Finales y Agradecimientos

El ponente agradece la participación y reflexiones del público, resaltando la importancia de la epigenética, las terapias génicas, la incertidumbre en la ciencia, y la humildad del científico. Aborda también la regulación bioética y la preocupación por la vulnerabilidad humana.


FAQ

Q: What is nuclear fusion?

A: Nuclear fusion is the process by which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a single heavier one while releasing massive amounts of energy.

Q: What is epigenetics?

A: Epigenetics is the study of changes in gene expression or cellular phenotype caused by mechanisms other than changes in the underlying DNA sequence.

Q: How do epigenetic changes influence gene expression?

A: Epigenetic changes can turn genes on or off, affecting how the genetic information is used by cells.

Q: What can impact epigenetic changes in individuals?

A: Factors like smoking, drug addiction, poor nutrition, environmental pollution, and high-fat diets can impact epigenetic changes.

Q: What are the implications of epigenetics in disease and health?

A: Epigenetic changes can play a role in the development of diseases, including genetic disorders like Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and can also influence health outcomes.

Q: What is CRISPR-Cas9 technology?

A: CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary gene-editing technology that allows precise modification of DNA, offering potential in correcting genetic diseases through gene editing and modification techniques.

Q: How do vectors play a role in genetic editing?

A: Vectors serve as vehicles to introduce genetic elements into cells for genome editing, assisting in targeting specific DNA sequences for modification.

Q: What are organoids?

A: Organoids are miniature, simplified versions of organs grown in vitro from stem cells, allowing researchers to study organ development, disease modeling, and drug testing.

Q: What are some ethical considerations in gene editing technologies?

A: Ethical considerations include concerns about safety, impacts on human genetic heritage, the balance between security and efficacy, and the ethical boundaries of using gene editing technologies.

Q: How can gene editing technologies like CRISPR impact precision medicine?

A: Gene editing technologies like CRISPR can enable precision medicine by targeting specific genes associated with diseases, enhancing treatment efficacy and personalized medicine approaches.

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