When considering human efforts to settle on another planet, much attention is given to travel times, food, and radiation risks. The harsh environment of deep space poses significant challenges, prompting some experts to suggest genome editing as a way to ensure humans can tolerate these severe conditions as they venture further to settle on another planet.
In January, I had the opportunity to attend a much-anticipated debate between astronomer royal Lord Martin Rees and Mars exploration advocate Dr. Robert Zubrin. The event, hosted by the British Interplanetary Society, tackled the topic of whether Mars exploration should be human or robotic, and whether genome editing is necessary for humans to settle on another planet.
In their recent book The End of Astronauts, Lord Rees and co-author Donald Goldsmith advocate for the exploration of the solar system using robotic spacecraft and vehicles, arguing this approach avoids the expense and risks associated with sending humans. Dr. Zubrin, on the other hand, supports human exploration. However, both agree on the potential of gene editing technology to help humans overcome the immense challenges of settling on another planet.
Our genome encompasses all the DNA present in our cells. Since 2011, genome editing has become easier and more accurate. The molecular tool Crispr-Cas9, now accessible even in high school labs, has been used on the International Space Station. More advanced techniques like base and prime editing allow for precise changes in the genome of any living organism. These advancements could be crucial as we aim to settle on another planet.
The potential applications of gene editing for settling on another planet are vast. One of the most significant hazards astronauts will face in deep space is increased radiation, which can disrupt bodily processes and elevate the long-term risk of cancer.
Through genome editing, we could potentially insert genes from plants and bacteria into humans to help them clean up radiation, similar to how some organisms handle radioactive waste. Although it sounds like science fiction, esteemed thinkers like Lord Rees believe this could be crucial for our advancement as we settle on another planet.
Identifying and inserting genes that slow aging and counter cellular breakdown could also prove beneficial. Additionally, we could engineer crops to resist radiation, ensuring that crews can grow their own food as they settle on another planet. Personalized medicine, tailored to an astronaut’s genetic makeup, could further enhance their resilience.
Imagine a future where the human genome is so well understood that it becomes malleable under personalized medicine. This would be a significant advantage for those looking to settle on another planet.
Genes for Extremes to settle on another planet
Tardigrades, microscopic animals often called “water bears,” can endure extreme temperatures, pressures, radiation, and even the vacuum of space. Geneticists are keen to understand their genomes. A paper published in Nature sought to uncover the key genes and proteins that give tardigrades their extraordinary stress tolerance. If we could incorporate some of these genes into crops, could we make them resilient to high radiation levels and environmental stress? This would be highly beneficial as we settle on another planet.
Even more intriguing is whether inserting tardigrade genes into our genome could make humans more resilient to space’s harsh conditions. Scientists have already demonstrated that human cells in the lab developed increased tolerance to X-ray radiation after incorporating tardigrade genes. Such advancements could be pivotal for those aiming to settle on another planet.
Transferring genes from tardigrades is just one speculative example of how we might engineer humans and crops to be more suited to space travel. These innovations could significantly impact our ability to settle on another planet.
Much more research is needed before we reach this stage. Historically, governments have imposed strict regulations on genome editing and gene transfer technologies. Countries like Germany and Canada are particularly cautious, though restrictions are easing in other regions. However, for those determined to settle on another planet, these technologies will be essential.
In November 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui announced the creation of the first gene-edited babies, introducing a gene conferring resistance to HIV infection. Although he was jailed, he has since been released and permitted to resume research. This incident highlights the controversial nature of gene editing, yet it also underscores its potential for those looking to settle on another planet.
In the new space race, some countries may push the boundaries of genome editing further than others. The scientific and economic benefits for the pioneers could be enormous, particularly for those seeking to settle on another planet.
If Rees and other futurists are correct, this field could significantly advance our efforts to settle on another planet. However, societal consensus will be necessary.
Opposition is likely due to deep-seated fears of permanently altering the human species. As base and prime editing technologies advance, they are outpacing the public conversation. Nevertheless, for those with the vision to settle on another planet, these advancements cannot be ignored.
One country may take the leap while others hesitate. Only then will we discover the true viability of these ideas. Until that time, we can only speculate with curiosity and perhaps excitement, as we contemplate the future possibilities of genome editing and our potential to settle on another planet.
