In a bold move, Chinese scientist He Jiankui is attempting to reenter the controversial field of gene editing after serving a three-year prison sentence for creating the world’s first gene-edited babies in 2018. His earlier work, which aimed to modify embryos to protect against HIV, sparked global outrage and led to strict regulations on germline editing in many countries, including China.
Since his release in 2022, He has shifted his focus towards a gene therapy for boys suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He claims that a pharmaceutical company is now supporting his research, although he has not publicly shared any results. He has established a new independent laboratory in Beijing and has begun discussing the potential for human embryo editing once again, this time to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
He’s ambitions come at a time when germline editing is prohibited in most nations. While he has made headlines for his past actions, his future plans remain uncertain. He documents his activities on social media and describes himself in grandiose terms, including “Chinese Darwin” and “China’s Frankenstein.” In a recent interview, He expressed confidence in his past work, stating, “I’m lucky that Lulu, Nana, and the third girl were healthy; they’re normal,” referring to the gene-edited children born in 2018.
Research and Funding Plans
He’s current research focuses on introducing the APP-A673T mutation, which has been shown to prevent Alzheimer’s in Icelandic populations, into future generations. As of now, He is not working with embryos but is conducting experiments on human cell lines. He plans to transition to embryo editing once he secures additional funding.
He reports that his lab has raised 50 million yuan (approximately $7 million) through donations and early investments, with no government grants involved. He aims to raise an additional $10 million to further his Alzheimer’s research, which he hopes will lead to clinical trials within the next two years.
Despite the legal challenges he faces due to his criminal history, He has expressed a desire to conduct research legally outside of China. He has mentioned South Africa, which recently adjusted its regulations regarding germline editing, as a potential new base for his research.
Future Aspirations and Ethical Concerns
While He acknowledges the ethical implications surrounding gene editing, he distinguishes between disease prevention and enhancement. He has publicly condemned efforts to enhance human intelligence through genetic modification, labeling such initiatives as akin to “Nazi eugenic experiments.” He insists that his work is solely aimed at preventing diseases like Alzheimer’s and HIV.
As he advances his research, He faces scrutiny not only from regulatory bodies but also from the global scientific community, which remains cautious about the implications of his work. He has indicated that he intends to be open and transparent about his research, aiming to foster public trust and minimize potential conflicts with authorities.
Reflecting on his journey, He stated, “The most important thing is to make sure the patient is happy. Make sure that it improves their health or happiness.” As He Jiankui navigates the complex landscape of gene editing, his future endeavors will likely continue to provoke debate and scrutiny among scientists, ethicists, and the public alike.
