News > Using CRISPR is too dangerous, can cause unintended changes in the DNA finds study

Using CRISPR is too dangerous, can cause unintended changes in the DNA finds study

A lab experiment aimed at fixing defective DNA in human embryos shows what can go wrong with this type of gene editing. The editing caused unintended changes, such as loss of an entire chromosome or big chunks of it.

The tool lets scientists cut DNA in a precise spot and has profound potential — it’s already used to raise better crops and livestock, holds promise for treating diseases and earned its discoverers a Nobel Prize earlier this month.