Café Inquiry (Grand Rapids) - Gene Editing in Humans

Since the development of CRISPR technology, gene editing has become widely used in agriculture, biomedical research, and biotechnology. Several gene editing-based treatments for human diseases have been developed in recent years. These treatments are currently done only on somatic cells (cells not involved in human reproduction), and the changes only affect the person who is treated. But in plants and non-human animals, gene editing has been done on germ cells (involved in reproduction), leading to modifications that are passed on to future generations. Following on these successes, people are starting to explore the possibilities of gene editing human germ cells. But there are concerns about possible pitfalls. Join us at the next Café Inquiry as we discuss the potential uses of germ cell gene editing in humans and the ethical considerations and wider implications of this type of procedure. Links to background materials will be posted here a few days before the meeting. See you there!

Café Inquiry starts with a short introduction of the day’s topic, followed by casual discussion.

This event is free and open to the public. Donations appreciated, but not expected.

Attendees are able to future propose topics which would align with Michigan Humanist’s purpose: from atheism, agnosticism, humanism, secularism, and freethinking to broader subjects in science and humanities, such as religion, philosophy, social issues, politics, evolution, morality, ethics, and psychology.

To access the choir room enter the building via the Fountain Street entrance. Take the elevator or stairs to the second floor, and follow the Michigan Humanist signs. Or ask directions from someone. The choir room is located on the left at the south end of the west hallway.

Parking information – Street parking, if you can find it, is free on Sunday. The nearby GRCC Parking structure is free until 3 PM on Sunday, although this is not advertised. You will need to take a ticket to enter the structure but the exit gate will be open if you leave before 3 PM. Parking is also available free for up to 2 hours in the Public Library lot for patrons. You will need to have your ticket validated in the library. If walking for any distance is a problem for you, please contact us and we’ll see what can be arranged.

Café Inquiry (Grand Rapids) meets each month IN PERSON on the second Sunday and ONLINE on the fourth Sunday.
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Michigan Humanists values the participation of all guests — requests for reasonable accommodation may be made by contacting the event host at least three days prior to the event.

Michigan Humanists expects all guests to engage in respectful discussion. Please visit the Michigan Humanist Culture and Expectations page for more information. Speak to the event host or contact info@michiganhumanists.org if you feel these expectations are being violated.

Events are made possible by your financial support. Michigan Humanists is a 501(c)3 non-profit. All donations are tax-deductible as provided by law. Donations to Michigan Humanists can be made at https://www.michiganhumanists.org/donate/