The Ethical Implications of Gene Editing: A Comprehensive IELTS Reading Practice

The IELTS Reading section tests your ability to understand and interpret academic texts. Given the rapid advancements in science, topics related to “Ethical implications of gene editing” have become increasingly prevalent. This makes it a prime candidate for inclusion in the IELTS Reading test. By studying this topic, not only do you improve your chances of encountering a familiar subject, but you also enhance your reading skills for other academic and scientific topics.

Reading Passage: Ethical Implications of Gene Editing

Passage

Gene editing, particularly through techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, has revolutionized the field of genetics, offering unprecedented opportunities for disease treatment and prevention. However, with these potentials come significant ethical concerns. One of the primary dilemmas involves the distinction between therapeutic and enhancement applications. Therapeutic gene editing aims to correct genetic defects and eliminate diseases, while enhancement gene editing seeks to improve normal human traits, such as intelligence or physical abilities.

Critics argue that enhancement gene editing could exacerbate social inequalities, as only the affluent might afford such procedures. Moreover, there is the risk of unforeseen consequences. For example, altering genes could have unpredictable effects on human physiology and could be passed down to future generations, leading to potential long-term impacts on human genetic diversity.

Another major concern is the ethical implication of germline editing, which involves changing the DNA in human sperm, eggs, or embryos. These changes are heritable, raising questions about consent since future generations cannot agree to these modifications. Additionally, there is the issue of “playing God” – the moral appropriateness of humans altering fundamental aspects of biology.

The argument in favor of gene editing highlights its potential to eradicate genetic diseases, thereby improving the quality of life for many. Proponents assert that with stringent regulations and ethical guidelines, the benefits can be maximized while minimizing risks. Furthermore, public engagement and transparent discussions are crucial to navigating these ethical waters.

In conclusion, while the potential of gene editing is vast, it is imperative to consider the ethical implications thoroughly. As technology advances, the debate will likely continue, reflecting broader societal values and priorities.

Questions

1. Multiple Choice

1. What is one of the main concerns about enhancement gene editing?
   A. It is more expensive than therapeutic gene editing.
   B. It could lead to unpredictable health outcomes.
   C. It may exacerbate social inequalities.
   D. It requires modifying all existing genetic codes.

2. What is germline editing?
   A. Modifying adult human genes to treat diseases.
   B. Altering genes in human embryos, which are heritable.
   C. Editing genes in living patients with genetic disorders.
   D. Enhancing normal human traits for future benefit.

2. True/False/Not Given

1. Gene editing can both correct genetic defects and improve normal human traits.
2. Critics believe that enhancement gene editing will equally benefit everyone.
3. Germline editing involves changing the DNA in human somatic cells.

3. Matching Information

Match the statements (A-D) with the correct part of the text (1-4):
A. Raises questions about consent.
B. Public engagement is crucial.
C. Addresses the potential for unforeseen consequences.
D. Aims to eradicate genetic diseases.

4. Sentence Completion

1. Gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9 has the potential to __.
2. Enhancing normal human traits could lead to __.
3. Ethical guidelines and stringent regulations are necessary to navigate __.

Answers and Explanations

1. Multiple Choice Answers

   1. C (It may exacerbate social inequalities) – The passage mentions this as a concern.
   2. B (Altering genes in human embryos, which are heritable) – This is the definition given for germline editing.

2. True/False/Not Given Answers

   1. True – The passage explicitly states this dual capability.
   2. False – Critics argue it will mainly benefit the affluent.
   3. False – Germline editing involves changing genes in human sperm, eggs, or embryos, not somatic cells.

3. Matching Information Answers

   • A: 3
   • B: 4
   • C: 2
   • D: 5

4. Sentence Completion Answers

   1. correct genetic defects and eliminate diseases.
   2. exacerbate social inequalities.
   3. the ethical implications of gene editing.

Common Pitfalls and Tips

1. Common Mistakes:

   • Misinterpreting the difference between therapeutic and enhancement gene editing.
   • Confusing germline editing with somatic cell editing.

2. Tips for Avoiding Mistakes:

   • Pay careful attention to key terms and their definitions.
   • Practice identifying the main idea and supporting details within a paragraph.

Vocabulary

1. Therapeutic (adj.) /θɛrəˈpjuːtɪk/ – related to the healing of disease.
2. Heritable (adj.) /ˈhɛrɪtəbəl/ – capable of being passed down from one generation to the next.
3. Exacerbate (v.) /ɪɡˈzæsərˌbeɪt/ – to make a problem, situation, or negative feeling worse.
4. Physiology (n.) /ˌfɪziˈɒlədʒi/ – the branch of biology dealing with normal functions of living organisms and their parts.

Grammar Points

Present Perfect Continuous Tense

Used to express actions that started in the past and are still continuing.
Structure: Subject + have/has + been + present participle (verb+ing)
Example: “Scientists have been researching gene editing for over a decade.”

Modal Verbs for Possibility and Necessity

Possibility: could, might, may
Necessity: must, should
Example: “Gene editing could reduce genetic diseases, but stringent regulations must be enforced to ensure safety.”

Final Advice

For achieving a high score in the IELTS Reading section:

• Familiarize yourself with various academic topics and formats.
• Practice skimming and scanning techniques to quickly find information.
• Enhance your vocabulary and grammar understanding through regular reading and exercises.

For further reading practice and tips, check out our related articles on:

• What Are The Ethical Implications of Using Genetic Engineering?
• How to Answer “What Are Your Views on Genetic Engineering” Questions?
• Recent Scientific Breakthroughs

Gene Editing Ethics

By understanding and practicing such topics, you can improve your reading proficiency and tackle the IELTS Reading section more effectively.