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, which features technologies that gained prominence in the past year, identifies those expected to generate substantial advancements in the coming years. Among the highlighted biotechnologies are advancements in gene editing, specifically base editing in newborns, the resurrection of ancient genes, and expanded embryo screening for a wider range of traits.

One of the featured technologies involves base editing, a precise form of gene editing, used to treat a newborn with a rare genetic disorder. In August 2024, KJ Muldoon was born with a condition that caused a buildup of toxic ammonia in his blood, posing a risk of fatal complications and neurological damage. Traditional treatments, such as liver transplants, were considered, but Muldoon received an experimental gene therapy involving personalized base editing to correct the specific genetic mutation responsible for his condition. This case represents a significant step forward in the application of gene editing to treat genetic diseases in newborns, potentially offering a new avenue for treating previously incurable conditions.

Another breakthrough technology highlighted is the resurrection of genes from ancient species. Scientists are exploring ways to revive and study genes from extinct organisms, providing insights into evolutionary biology and potentially uncovering novel biological functions. This research could lead to the development of new biomaterials, pharmaceuticals, or other applications based on the unique properties of these ancient genes. While the field is still in its early stages, the potential implications for biotechnology and medicine are significant.

The list also includes a controversial technology that offers parents the opportunity to screen embryos for a wider range of characteristics, including traits like height and intelligence. This technology, while potentially offering parents greater control over the genetic makeup of their children, raises ethical concerns about the potential for genetic discrimination and the definition of desirable traits. The use of embryo screening for non-medical traits is a subject of ongoing debate, with concerns raised by bioethicists and advocacy groups.

According to MIT Technology Review, these three technologies represent key areas of innovation in biotechnology that are expected to shape the industry in the coming years. While each technology presents its own set of challenges and ethical considerations, they also offer the potential to address significant medical needs and advance our understanding of biology. The development and implementation of these technologies will require careful consideration of their potential impacts on society and the ethical frameworks that guide their use.