A Crack In Creation: A Nobel Prize Winner's Insight into the Future of Genetic Engineering

by Jennifer A. Doudna

But plenty of other genetic enhancements do result from simple mutations that could be re-created with CRISPR. For example, mutations in the EPOR gene, which responds to the hormone erythropoietin (the famous doping drug used by Lance Armstrong and countless other athletes), confer exceptional levels of endurance; mutations in a gene called LRP5 endow individuals with extra-strong bones; mutations in the MSTN gene (the same myostatin gene that’s been edited to create supermuscular pigs and dogs) are known to result in leaner muscles and greater muscle mass; mutations in a gene called ABCC11 are associated with lower levels of armpit odor production (and, oddly, the type of earwax an individual produces); and mutations in a gene called DEC2 are associated with a lower requirement of daily sleep.