Global Conversation Singapore

Hear from internationally recognised geneticist, Professor Philip W Ingham (Nanyang Technological University and the University of Exeter) who will explain how genome editing works, how it is already being applied both therapeutically and in biomedical research and whether or not limitations on its use are desirable.

“Although the genetic basis of human diseases has been recognised for the best part of 100 years, it is only in the past two decades that genomic science has laid bare the full extent to which variations in DNA sequence impact human health. This new knowledge not only allows us to identify those at risk of serious illness and to unravel the biochemical basis of disease; it also offers a provocative prospect of how such diseases might be eliminated by “correcting” the causative mutations. The aspiration to use genetic engineering to cure diseases has been alive since the 1970s, with countless studies aimed at finding ways of repairing or circumventing the defective genes that underlie these devastating diseases. Until recently, however, the techniques available were relatively complex, lacking in precision and prone to unintended consequences. All this has changed in recent years with the advent of methods that allow the precise targeting and replacement of specific DNA sequences, the most recent version of which is known as CRISPR/Cas9.  For the first time, CRISPR/Cas9 brings accurate genome modification within reach of virtually any biomedical researcher, sparking a vigorous debate about the ethics of genome modification and the need for restrictions on its application.”

Professor Russell L Gruen (Nanyang Technological University) will go on to highlight in his presentation entitled “Are there any limits to what medical technology can achieve?”, the advances of modern biotechnologies and neurotechnology, how these impact on improvements in health indicators, and the promise these have on longevity through genetic reprogramming and replacement parts for almost every organ system.

“Once it was only the stuff of science fiction, but now biotechnologies seem to have the potential not just to better human health, but also to change the course of human existence. Of course, the possible ramifications of advances in neurotechnology and artificial intelligence could be even more significant, if they are to make the intellect something able to be created as well as something that creates. The consequences of a much debated ‘technological singularity,’ at which point machines could learn and improve at increasing speed, with humans unable to keep pace, would be explosive and unpredictable. With the strides of modern neuroscience, such a situation deserves serious consideration. Many questions arise about these developments, and in speculating about the exhilarating and disturbing scenarios that might eventuate if a singularity were to occur. One fundamental question is about whether there is anything special about the human condition that could not be repaired or reproduced through technology.”

Following the presentation, there will be an opportunity to ask questions directly to an expert panel during a Q&A session. There will be plenty of time to network during a cocktail reception.

How to book your place

To book your place at this event, please complete the following online booking form. You are welcome to bring a guest. This event is free to attend and refreshments will be provided.

For more information about the Global Conversation series, please see the Global Conversation webpage and follow Twitter @UoEGlobalConvo for more details. If you have any questions, please contact alumni@exeter.ac.uk.