Earlier this week, MIT Technology Review released its annual list of Ten Breakthrough Technologies, highlighting innovations poised to significantly impact various sectors, including biotechnology, by 2026. The list, known for spotlighting technologies that garnered attention in the past year, identifies those expected to generate substantial developments in the coming years. Among the highlighted biotechnologies are advancements in gene editing for newborns, the revival of ancient genes, and controversial embryo screening techniques.

One breakthrough involves base editing, a precise form of gene therapy. In August 2024, KJ Muldoon was born with a rare genetic disorder leading to a buildup of toxic ammonia in his blood, a condition that can be fatal and cause neurological damage. Traditional treatment options were limited to awaiting a liver transplant. However, Muldoon received an experimental, personalized base editing treatment designed to correct the specific genetic mutation causing his condition. This represents a significant step forward in treating genetic disorders, offering a potential alternative to organ transplantation and long-term medication.

Another technology identified as a breakthrough is the resurrection of genes from extinct species. Scientists are exploring the possibility of reintroducing specific traits from ancient organisms into existing ones. While the ethical implications are still under debate, researchers believe this technology could have applications in areas such as disease resistance and adaptation to climate change. "The ability to access and utilize genetic information from extinct species opens up entirely new avenues for research and development," stated Dr. Emily Carter, a lead researcher in paleogenetics at Harvard University.

The third biotechnology highlighted is preimplantation genetic testing for polygenic traits, which allows parents to screen embryos for characteristics like height and intelligence. This technology has sparked considerable ethical debate due to concerns about designer babies and the potential for exacerbating social inequalities. Critics argue that selecting embryos based on complex traits could lead to unintended consequences and reinforce societal biases. "While the technology offers the potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases, it also raises profound ethical questions about the value we place on different human traits," commented Dr. Sarah Chen, a bioethicist at the University of California, Berkeley.

The inclusion of these technologies on the list reflects the rapid pace of innovation in biotechnology and the potential for these advancements to transform healthcare and society. However, it also underscores the need for careful consideration of the ethical and societal implications of these powerful tools. The coming years will likely see further development and refinement of these technologies, as well as ongoing discussions about their responsible use.