Can We Cure Genetic Disorders Without Playing God?

Can scientists cure Down syndrome? And just because we can alter human DNA, does that mean we should? Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P., welcomes Fr. Nicanor Pier Giorgio Austriaco, O.P., a Dominican priest and molecular biologist, to explore the remarkable possibilities—and serious ethical questions—surrounding genetic engineering. With a Ph.D. in molecular biology from MIT and years of experience in scientific research, Fr. Nicanor brings a unique perspective to the intersection of Catholic theology and modern biotechnology. Together, they discuss recent research using CRISPR gene-editing technology to target the extra chromosome associated with Down syndrome, what these laboratory findings actually mean, and whether a cure is scientifically realistic. The conversation dives into the deeper, aiming to answer fundamentally important questions about human dignity. What does it mean to heal someone without diminishing their dignity? Where should we draw the line between treating disease and designing future generations? And how can Christians embrace the mystery of suffering while still pursuing medical advances? Tune in for a fascinating conversation about the promise of scientific discovery, the dignity of every human person, and the hope we find in Christ. Have further questions? Drop them in the comments.   Join Fr. Gregory and Fr. Joseph-Anthony in Pittsburgh, PA on Nov. 21st for a Day of Recollection! Learn more and register here: https://godsplaining.org/thy-will-be-done-a-day-of-recollection-in-pittsburgh-pa/   Send your questions for the friars to: [email protected] Subscribe to our channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Godsplaining   Support the Podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/godsplaining Shop merch: https://godsplaining.org/store/   Shop Books Written by the Friars Justice: Judge Rightly, Give Freely: https://amzn.to/4r1rc2l O Sacred Banquet: Exploring the Eucharistic Mystery with Saint Thomas Aquinas: https://amzn.to/4xJz1MF Witness: https://amzn.to/4hgfmOC Training the Tongue: https://amzn.to/4hilfLa Your Eucharistic Identity: https://www.jdoqocy.com/click-101879094-17193693 St. Dominic's Way of Life: https://amzn.to/4ijPWkm Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly: https://amzn.to/4zZjH04   Connect on Social Media Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/ Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/ Follow us on X: https://x.com/godsplaining   To learn more about the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.opeast.org To support the Province of St. Joseph visit: www.dominicanfriars.org