Embryo Editing Meets Reality: Manhattan Genomics Shuts Down
The controversial embryo-editing startup Manhattan Genomics appears to have collapsed less than six months after its launch due to co-founder conflict.
Gene editing is a scientific technique that allows researchers to alter an organism’s DNA by adding, removing, or modifying specific genetic sequences. Using tools like CRISPR-Cas9, scientists can target and edit genes with high precision to correct mutations, enhance traits, or study gene functions. The technology has wide applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology, including treating genetic diseases, improving crop resilience, and engineering new biological systems.
The controversial embryo-editing startup Manhattan Genomics appears to have collapsed less than six months after its launch due to co-founder conflict.
For a few months this year, Cathy Tie and Dr. He Jiankui were biotech’s most controversial couple. Now, both are pursuing new gene-editing ventures on opposite sides of the world.
They call him China’s Frankenstein, which would make her the Bride of Frankenstein. Only she’s not allowed in China, and he’s not allowed to leave it.