These activities often fall outside the legal boundaries established for genetically engineered crops and may fall within an area of gray legality.
Gandall and his friends used a gene-synthesis company to order and incorporate into their DNA a copy of the gene that regulates autophagy. Their aim was to treat their rare, inherited condition: spinal muscular atrophy.
Why Biohacking?
Biohackers have emerged due to internet, genetic engineering and self-experimentation: these self-taught scientists are known as biohackers. Utilizing genomic science at an amateur level from their kitchens or garage, biohackers use DIY DNA modification in hopes of curing diseases that doctors, hospitals and pharmaceutical companies cannot. By manipulating our genes’ code of life they wrest control back from nature itself and are making strides forward with evolutionary process.
CRISPR-Cas9 technology has become one of the go-to methods of DNA manipulation. This system consists of an enzyme capable of cutting DNA and an RNA sequence that directs this cutting activity; by altering either or both components, biohackers can control which parts of their genes are affected resulting in personalized therapies to treat disease, increase intelligence or prolong lifespan.
Genetic biohacking may provide many potential advantages; however, its proponents have faced criticisms. Some experts argue that self-experimentation in changing germline cells is dangerous and risky; meanwhile others feel biohackers act similarly to traditional researchers by exploring ideas or projects not normally found within university labs; thus providing valuable knowledge that may benefit all branches of science.
Other experts highlight the need for tighter regulation of DIY biology. Laws created to address synthetic biology were established long before genome editing became a household hobby; and whether national regulations can adequately protect us against risks associated with DIY biohacking — particularly when it comes to changing human genes — remains unknown.
Biohacker Liviu Babitz takes biohacking to new extremes by implanting an electronic chip into his chest which sends out signals when facing north, so that he can sense its direction via his compass needle.
Biohacking experiments can be highly hazardous. For instance, editing DNA to treat serious conditions like Lupus could pose severe side effects; and altering that of their children could have unintended repercussions for future generations. As a result, researchers must work collaboratively with biohacking communities in creating an ethical regulatory environment to address safety concerns and foster participation responsibly and ethically in this new frontier of biological tinkering.
How Biohacking Works
Genetic biohackers are increasingly turning to CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genetic modification of bacteria, plants and human cells. Working from home laboratories or garages and with equipment purchased online, genetic biohackers utilize CRISPR-Cas9’s cutting enzyme and an RNA sequence that indicates where to cut DNA for this much easier approach than traditional genetic engineering that involves splicing and synthesizing DNA sequences.
Genetic biohackers are performing experiments in order to alleviate disease or enhance function. One group of biohackers successfully reverse-engineered Glybera, a gene therapy treatment used for fatty liver disease by replacing defective genes. They identified its correct sequence before using a kit to create replacement DNA strands before injecting this new genetic construct into their patients.
Though these experiments have proven highly successful, there remain serious worries that unregulated gene editing could have serious repercussions. The risk is particularly elevated for those attempting to modify germline cells that pass from one generation to the next; some researchers fear these experiments could even create biological weapons used by terrorists or malicious actors for creating viruses and diseases.
Biohackers tend to support self-experimentation. Furthermore, many consider traditional scientific institutions too cautious and bureaucratic; thus limiting innovation and the ability of individuals to heal themselves.
Though some scientists and lawmakers may support these arguments, many do not share them; genetic biohacking should remain completely unregulated to mitigate any public health risks caused by experimentation; including environmental contamination caused by improper disposal of genetic reagents as well as untested or approved interventions that have yet to be tested for effectiveness.
Genetic biohackers are also disregarding safety rules designed to protect non-biohackers. Many do not wear gloves or sterilize their labs, potentially exposing themselves and others to pathogens in the environment and increasing risk. With more genetic biohackers entering this field, governments may need to implement regulations for this activity.
What is Biohacking?
Some scientists are going too far when it comes to experimenting with human bodies, known as biohackers. These individuals track health data on themselves or perform gene editing experiments. Josiah Zayner of Josiah Zayner Biohacker met by Victoria Derbyshire program is just such a biohacker; using DIY methods he hopes to find cures for genetic diseases such as cancer or rare conditions like spinal muscular atrophy with hopes of making this world better through biohacking.
Genetic biohacking encompasses everything from changing diets and implanting electronic devices that improve body functions, bring people closer together, or add sensory experiences. It may also involve taking nootropics – chemical drugs which claim to improve brain function – such as Corina of Berlin who uses medium chain triglycerides (MCT) oil for better sleep and to manage her stress, which the police officers on her street find funny!
Some biohackers take an adventurous approach, like Liviu Babitz who is trying to develop new human senses. He implanted a compass chip into his chest that will vibrate whenever he faces north, similar to how some animals can naturally sense direction. Furthermore, Liviu hopes to inject CRISPR DNA into his cells in order to alter cell lengths for different experiences of the world.
Self-experimentation may not be subject to the same regulation as traditional medical research, but there are still some guidelines governing it. Experiments involving germline cells must abide by stringent ethical standards which must only be breached with extreme care and consideration. Biohackers cannot use their right of autonomy and informed consent as an excuse for bypassing an ethics review process which exists to safeguard participants against unwanted side effects of their experiments.
Due to this trend, some scientists are concerned that genetic biohacking is moving too far beyond responsible scientific practice and into more unethical behavior. Some researchers have been accused of pirated scientific advancements too costly for most individuals to afford; biohackers claim their freedom of experimentation allows them to circumvent standard research practices regulations.
What are the Benefits of Biohacking?
CRISPR and similar genome-editing technologies have unleashed communities of so-called “biohackers,” do-it-yourself enthusiasts for molecular genetics who conduct their own experiments outside traditional laboratory settings. Conventional wisdom holds that biohacking falls outside regulation and legal enforcement; however, public and private regulatory bodies already possess many tools necessary for overseeing such activities and placing ethical restrictions on individuals engaging in self-experimentation.
Though biohacker’s noble intention of democratizing science may be beneficial, some argue it also comes with risks to both individuals and society as a whole. From health risks posed by poorly controlled gene editing to unintended consequences arising from novel organisms or accidental contamination with dangerous pathogens – not to mention how their desire to enhance one’s biological functioning may exacerbate existing inequalities by providing wealthy access to miracle cures or designer babies while those without means are left out in the cold.
Biohacking experiments may include anything from tracking diet and sleep with wearable technology to pumping one’s own blood into veins in an effort to slow aging (both of which are currently part of scientific research landscape). Biohacking represents one form of life optimization; other practices that have long been practiced include meditation, fasting, Vipassana practiced for centuries by Buddhist monks, selective breeding among others.
Example of biohacks include FTO and MC4R genes which regulate metabolism as being linked with obesity; knowing your genetic susceptibility can help guide healthier dietary choices. Ice baths or cold water therapy may be used to stimulate autophagy; an innate process which reduces toxins and dead cells to promote brain health and cognitive enhancement.
As with any form of life enhancement, responsible and forward-thinking regulation is key for harnessing the benefits of genetic biohacking while mitigating any risks to public health. Biohacking represents an exciting new frontier that combines technology, biology and human aspiration – finding a balance between innovation and regulation will determine how biohacking affects humanity in the long run.
