It was inevitable that sci-fi would take on genetic enhancement, but I somehow missed Blake Crouch's brilliant 2022 dystopian novel Upgrade. He's one of my favorite authors, the brains behind Wayward Pines and five other novels, as well as 2024's Dark Matter on Apple TV+.
Because I'm working on the zillionth edition of my human genetics textbook, I'm ultra-sensitive to accuracy, and Upgrade doesn't disappoint. The tale's compelling view of what could be is far more detailed, and entertaining, than the gloom of GATTACA.
A Gene Drive with Unforeseen Consequences
I admit I've never thought much about genetic enhancement; my books and articles have always been about preventing or combating disease. But the invention of CRISPR gene editing in 2012, its ease and versatility, quickly changed what was possible.
To continue reading, go to DNA Science, where this post first appeared.