BU Student Faculty Forum: Human Genome Editing: Promise or Peril?

It was not long ago that scientists cracked the genetic code, opening the door that allowed us to read the genetic code that is the basis of life. As we transition from the era of reading the genome to manipulating the genome, it becomes more important for all of us to understand the basics of this science, and their implications. Join us to discuss the science behind this revolution, possibilities for the future, and the ethical and legal issues the field of genomics now raises. We will explore the scientific breakthroughs that have brought us here, the implications of applying this technology to the research and medical realms, and what limitations we should consider when empowered with tools that allow scientists sci-fi like abilities. We will begin with brief presentations by a panel of Boston University experts: Shoumita Dasgupta, Associate Professor of Medicine, Biomedical Genetics Section Gustavo Mostoslavsky, Associate Professor of Medicine and Microbiology Russell Powell, Assistant Professor of Philosophy Wilson W. Wong, Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering We will have plenty of time for questions and discussion.