Startup Origin Genomics Aims to Prove Safety of Gene-Editing Embryos for Healthy Babies Amid Ethical Concerns
Origin Genomics, a New York City-based startup led by CEO Cathy Tie, is working to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of gene-editing human embryos to prevent inherited genetic diseases. The company extracts stem cells from donated embryos, which come from couples whose families are affected by life-threatening genetic disorders. Origin's scientists then test experimental gene editors to correct genetic defects, aiming to prevent future generations from inheriting these conditions. This research is being conducted despite current U.S. law prohibiting the use of gene-edited embryos to create babies due to ethical and safety concerns. Tie argues that the potential to help hundreds of millions suffering from diseases like Huntington's, cystic fibrosis, and hereditary cancers outweighs the risks, especially with advancements in more precise gene-editing techniques like prime editing and base editing. Another U.S. startup, Preventive in San Francisco, is also engaged in similar work.
