As part of the meetings of Excellence VLC/Campus, organized by the Rey Jaime I Awards Foundation, Igenomix hosted an institutional meeting between Dr. Werner Arber, Nobel Laureate in Medicine 1978 and Prof. Carlos Simon, scientific director of Igenomix and Rey Jaime I award winner in 2011 in the category of Medical Research.
Both experts also discussed the systems used for genetic modification; the risks and ethical considerations of applying these technologies to humans and the off-target effects that may result.
Werner Arber: “If one goes into the germline, one should distinguish between microorganisms, plants, animals and human beings. On this last point, ethical considerations are key”
Carlos Simon: “At Igenomix we investigate in order to improve the health of people. It’s not about babies on demand, this issue is not trivial, we are talking about correcting diseases that cause suffering and death”.