Date of Award

8-14-2024

Document Type

Restricted Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Clinton Billhorn

Abstract

Background: This literature review will explore CRISPR technology's ethical and practical considerations in medicine, focusing on its historical development, current applications, and governance. It will examine key factors such as safety, regulation, consent, and societal values, as well as practical challenges like off-target effects and delivery methods. Real-world examples and case studies will highlight obstacles in medical use, and the review will emphasize the importance of regulation for the responsible and ethical application of CRISPR.

Purpose: As genetic editing technology progresses, what measures can researchers take to ensure that ethical concerns are thoroughly evaluated, acknowledged, and regulated to guarantee patient safety during the implementation of CRISPR, thereby minimizing obstacles in healthcare delivery? How do the ethical and practical considerations surrounding CRISPR technology influence its appropriate and inappropriate applications in medicine, and what are the key factors determining its utilization?

Methods: A thorough literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, and PubMed with search terms including germline editing, CRISPR informed consent, CRISPR regulatory oversight, germline editing medical applications, gene therapy, gene therapy ethics, biomedical research, and bioethics. The review included studies published in 2018 or later.

Conclusions: In conclusion, the literature review highlights the multiple implications of CRISPR technology in medicine and emphasizes the need for ethical, practical, and regulatory monitoring to guide its appropriate implementation. CRISPR's potential in addressing genetic disorders, infectious diseases, and cancer is evident, yet ethical considerations surrounding safety, consent, equity, and regulatory oversight remain predominant. The historical context of CRISPR's development, along with real-world challenges in delivery methods, off-target effects, and regulatory hurdles, highlights the complexity of translating CRISPR research into clinical practice. Moving forward, future research should prioritize addressing these challenges through provider/researcher collaboration and ongoing ethical evaluation to ensure that the benefits of CRISPR technology are utilized responsibly and equitably for the advancement of healthcare.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2024.Bashir.F

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