Danger Zone One

The following is an article excerpt from The Scientific Edge, a quarterly journal that covers science, technology, and medical innovations. [Article originally published two years ago.]

HUMANITY 2.0:
FASTER, STRONGER, BETTER
By Bianca Sirie

International genetics corporation, Medicon Genetics, has announced that it will soon be accepting patients for Class 3 gene-based augmentation. The procedures will include a wide-range of modifications, which comes amid controversy and prolonged legal disputes, limiting Medicon Genetics latest business venture exclusively to Marabia, where Class 3 gene therapy is unregulated.

But what exactly can human gene editing achieve and how can Class 3 gene treatments prove beneficial?

FASTER

All of us have the ACTN3 gene, sometimes called the “speed gene,” which encodes a protein responsible for the fast-twitching of muscle fibers—thereby enabling muscular contractions and, in turn, allowing us to run. Modifications to the RR genotype could give a person greater sprinting predisposition and allow the individual to be better suited for power-oriented sports. Editing the XX genotype could even allow for higher endurance in long-distance running, along with improved oxygen efficiency.

Physical speed is far from the only benefit of genetic modification. “Healing genes” such MG53, VEGF, HIF-1 would regulate tissue repair, reduce scarring, and facilitate cell membrane recovery. Targeting these genes can enable enhanced healing for chronic skin wounds, bone injuries, and spinal cord damage.

STRONGER

The NCOR1 gene plays a critical role in metabolic regulation, hematopoietic stem cell function, and neuronal development, while the MTSN gene is essential for muscle growth. Tweaking both of these genes would have the potential to increase muscle mass, double or triple an individual’s strength, and reduce body fat without negative health effects.

LRP5 has been called the “unbreakable bone” gene, which produces a protein that regulates bone density and strength. Editing this gene can lead to increased bone mineral density, resulting in stronger and thicker bones with enhanced resistance to fractures.

BETTER

Alterations to the SCN9A gene can cause channelopathy-associated insensitivity to physical pain. This could effectively block the transmission of pain signals to the brain—either dulling or, in extreme cases, removing them altogether.

The DEC2 and ADRB1 genes can also be modified, allowing a person to require less sleep. By editing how proteins and hormones are produced, the body would modulate wakefulness and re-regulate the circadian rhythm. With only a few hours of sleep, an individual could still be productive, functional, and healthy, with no adverse side-effects.

Other gene-based modifications can regulate anxiety and stress-response (NR3C1), enhance hearing (GJB2), and improve eyesight (RPE65).

Medicon Genetics has claimed that these are among the many gene therapies currently offered at their facility in Marabia. Many countries currently prohibit Class 3 gene modification, but Medicon has expressed interest in exploring the possibility of opening more facilities around the globe, including in Taiseng and Galvagrad. Last month, Medicon CEO Kiefer Vestin publicly stated that he believes it is only a matter of time before Class 3 genetic enhancements become widely accepted and that he will continue to advocate for changes to international law.

Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Salaiix.