GMO humans about to become reality… beware the emergence of unforeseen consequences

When scientists started genetically modifying plants, some observers worried that it would just be a matter of time before they tried the same thing on humans… and it looks like that nightmare scenario is finally about to become reality. Regulators have given plans to trial DNA splicing therapy their stamp of approval, allowing humans to be genetically modified in a move that has many wondering just how far scientists will take the technology.

The therapy is being used to address the blood disorder beta thalassemia, which reduces a person’s hemoglobin production. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen to cells, and when it’s lacking, a person can experience anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath, slow growth and bone deformities.

The blood disorder is inherited, and patients typically require a lifetime of blood transfusions. This places them at risk of complications like organ damage, blood-borne infections and iron overload. The disorder affects 100,000 people around the world.