The Alchemy of Genes
A New Blueprint.... or does anyone want to know what a book proposal looks like?
So in the last post I was telling you all about this book I have written on the historic friendship between Albert Einstein and Ernest Rutherford, a story so few people have heard about and the repercussions of which, truly changed our world in not so subtle ways. For one, Rutherford’s efforts prior to his death in setting up an institution that facilitated at-risk academics in Germany, to get out of their predicament. Thousands of people and their families were saved with an idea that came to Rutherford after talking with Einstein. It’s a truly remarkable story that needs to be told.
I promised you that I would share some sample work from the book and possibly a few chapters on here, and I will, but before this I wanted to go one further. In anticipation of writing this, I shared my proposal for the Rutherford book (Colliding Minds is a tentative title, let me know if you have any other suggestions in the comments section below,) with some trusted subscribers, friends and family - by the way, if you want to be on this list as a potential reviewer/ text screener/ editor please email me at chrisvonroy@gmail.com or just reply to this email.
The response I got was largely positive, many people gave detailed feedback on dialogue and also characters which I love because it means they are actually reading it and some gave me ideas that have changed the writing significantly, which is brilliant. So it’s always good to test your writing with people you know will give you sage and honest feedback.
Aki, my father, has known about the book since its inception, come to think of it, it might have even been his idea in the first place, I can’t really remember - his feedback was solid and to the point, super honest and frank. Another friend of mine, a journalist who just had her last book published by a large publisher, didn’t like my original title (which was A Friendship Forged In Physics, yes I agree, it was actually lame - titles are hard) and she also mentioned, why is your book so different from other books written bout Albert and Ernest? That one really got me thinking about other distinct angles for the story
Love is in the air
Like for instance how Marie Curie had an affair with fellow physicist Paul Langevin, that originated at the Solvay conference and lasted several years until, well until Mme Langevin found out and it became a big scandal - by then Curie was the only person on Earth who had not only won two Nobel prizes but also in two different categories, chemistry and physics. Two feats no on had ever accomplished before, so yeah, she was a big deal and the affair took over the European tabloids.
Both Rutherford and Einstein were there at the conference when the two lovebirds got amongst it, so I obviously had to put them together in a scene where E and R venture forth to find the cloakroom and accidentally stumble upon Marie and Paul frolicking in one of the rooms. That scene was fun to write. But the coolest part about that story is that Marie Curie’s granddaughter and Paul Langevin’s grandson ended up falling in love and marrying each other. How sweet is that.
Anyway, I digress, soon after my father had reviewed my proposal, he sent me an article about CRISPR, the gene editing technology that has the power to really help healthcare but also to wreak havoc. He was like,
“Why don’t you write a story about that?”
Hmmmm. I thought, why not indeed?
So, in the last days I took some time out and sat down and devised a story, set out the chapters and started to write this sci fi gig. It really came quite naturally as, surprise surprise I wrote about something I actually knew something about. The first couple of chapters came quite easy, as did the characters. But yeah on one rainy day, with Chopin playing in the background and 11 coffees, I churned out nearly 5000 words in one fell swoop. Sci-fi is fun to write, no limits right?
One way to write and get published
It needs some work, but I wanted to share what a potential book proposal would look like, for all of you aspiring novelists out there. I think just seeing the layout and what needs to be done and included could be helpful. With what you have below, you can go to publishers and submit, some publishers allow these, mainly NZ based ones but aso some Australian and US ones, but most publishing houses want you to come through a literary agent - getting one in London and New York and possibly Sidney could be good. You can find these on google and you just submit your proposal. Honestly, once you have drafted your proposal (see below) you can submit your idea and see what comes. Make sure you read the guidelines on each literary agent’s website carefully, as they all differ. The one I put below is the most standard way of selling your idea as a book submission, but there are other ways. Most of the larger publishing houses and literary agents expect you to submit your proposal in the body of an email, and usually one that is web-based on their site, so don’t worry about formatting, worry about content!
Never say your novel is under 40 000 words and never say it’s over 70 000, somewhere in the middle is fine. The whole thing is a bit like fishing, you need patience - some of these agents get hundreds of submissions a month - and a couple of hooks (your proposal,) good bait (your story) and every now and then you’ll get a nibble and who knows, maybe even a bite. Always get an outside legal opinion on any contract you sign and away you go.
Anyone can be a writer, you all can write, all you need to do is couple those finger movements to what your brain does when it is day dreaming and just write, don’t think, let your autonomous nervous system do the rest. Honestly the biggest advice is DON’T THINK about what you write, have an idea and off you go. Go play in the playground of your imagination.
The essence of optimism is that it takes no account of the present, but it is a source of inspiration, of vitality and hope where others have resigned; it enables a man to hold his head high, to claim the future for himself and not to abandon it
I hope this inspires you all to start writing again. Not for anyone else, but for YOU. If you can please yourself then that is all that matters. Everything starts with ONE.
Anyway, so I took up my father’s challenge and created the below from scratch in a little over 48 hours. The book proposal outlined below is something I am using as preliminary bait with publishers and agents before I drop the big Kahuna, which will be Colliding Minds, the Einstein and Rutherford bonanza. This one I use to scope out the waters. A 48 Hour Literary Festival! Let’s see if it’s something you would want to read. It gets pretty scary..
Thanks for reading x
The Alchemy of Genes:
A New Blueprint
Summary:
In "The Alchemy of Genes: A New Blueprint," readers will be transported to a not-so-distant future where the world grapples with the repercussions of a global pandemic and the unprecedented power of gene editing technology, CRISPR, coupled with artificial intelligence. As the boundaries between science fiction and reality blur, this thrilling science fiction novel explores the consequences of unchecked genetic manipulation, the complexities of ethical choices, and the potential for both disaster and salvation. The book is both part science fiction and part historical fiction, the science, historical characters and historical events are all wholly accurate and well researched.
Overview:
In the wake of a global pandemic that plunged societies into lockdowns and heightened our awareness of the fragility of life, "The Alchemy of Genes" takes readers on a journey into a world where CRISPR technology has been unleashed upon humanity. As a biologist with a master's degree in immunology and two decades of experience in medical writing, I draw upon my extensive knowledge of genetics, virology, and AI-driven technologies to create a gripping narrative that resonates with the challenges our world faces today.
The novel is set in a time when the promise and peril of gene editing have reshaped society. Governments have fallen, economies have shifted, and the divide between those who wield the power of CRISPR and those who don't has never been wider. Against this backdrop, readers will follow the lives of three individuals: Ted, a marine biologist in New Zealand; Michael, a geneticist in Berlin; and Steve, a venture capitalist in San Francisco. These characters grapple with their personal ambitions, moral dilemmas, and the unintended consequences of their actions in a world where genetic experimentation knows no bounds.
Relevance Today:
"The Alchemy of Genes: A New Blueprint" mirrors our contemporary reality in profound ways. The global COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of medical science and the consequences of unchecked viral outbreaks. Lockdowns and social distancing measures have reshaped our lives and increased our dependence on technology. The rapid development of CRISPR and its potential applications, including vaccine development, has become a critical part of the conversation about our future.
This novel serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the potential for both hope and catastrophe in our increasingly interconnected and biotechnologically advanced world. It raises questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific progress, the role of AI in gene editing, and the very essence of humanity in the face of evolving genetics. What constitutes a human being?
Target Audience:
The target audience for "The Alchemy of Genes: A New Blueprint" includes:
Science Fiction Enthusiasts: Readers who enjoy thought-provoking science fiction that explores the intersection of science, ethics, and human nature.
Biotech and Genetics Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in the latest advancements in biotechnology, genetics, and CRISPR technology, as well as their implications for society.
COVID-19 Observers: Those who have been impacted by or intrigued by the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on society and healthcare.
Tech and AI Enthusiasts: Readers fascinated by the merging of AI and genetics and the potential consequences of such powerful combinations.
Environmentalists and Ethical Thinkers: People concerned with the preservation of the natural world and the ethical dilemmas posed by genetic engineering.
Impact of COVID-19 on Society:
The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped our world in ways we could not have imagined. It has shown us the fragility of our healthcare systems, the importance of scientific research, and the need for global cooperation. "The Alchemy of Genes" taps into these themes, exploring how a world forever changed by a pandemic might grapple with the profound power of CRISPR and AI, emphasizing the importance of responsible science and ethics in the face of existential challenges.
The Power of CRISPR Coupled with AI:
CRISPR and AI are two of the most ground breaking and controversial technologies of our time. In "The Alchemy of Genes," these technologies are not just plot devices; they are central characters, catalysts for both the narrative's conflict and resolution. The fusion of CRISPR and AI raises questions about the potential for innovation and disaster, underscoring the need for responsible stewardship of scientific progress.
The Human Side and the Potential for Good:
While "The Alchemy of Genes" delves into the dark underbelly of unchecked genetic manipulation, it also showcases the human spirit's capacity for empathy, sacrifice, and resilience. It highlights the potential for good that arises when individuals use their knowledge and abilities to protect and preserve the world around them.
About the Author:
As the author of "The Alchemy of Genes: A New Blueprint," I bring a unique blend of scientific expertise and storytelling prowess to the world of science fiction. With a master's degree in immunology and two decades of experience in medical writing, I have worked academia, hospitals and in state-of-the-art robotics-led genetics labs in for profit institutions in the United States and New Zealand. This background informs every page of the novel, from the intricate science to the ethical dilemmas faced by its characters.
Why People Will Buy the Book:
"The Alchemy of Genes: A New Blueprint" offers readers a captivating and thought-provoking journey into the future of biotechnology, genetics, and AI. It taps into our collective fascination with the power of science and the moral quandaries it presents. The novel's gripping plot, relatable characters, and exploration of the pressing issues of our time make it a compelling read for anyone seeking both entertainment and intellectual stimulation. It is a story of our world, as it is today and as it may become, and it challenges readers to grapple with the potential consequences of our technological pursuits.
In "The Alchemy of Genes," the future is not a distant horizon; it's a breath away. Will humanity be its own salvation or its undoing? Readers will be drawn to find out.
CHAPTERS
Prologue
CRISPR and the Nobel Prize
Chapter 1: The Whisper of Genetics
Chapter 2: The Capitalist Gamble
Chapter 3: Shadows of a Pandemic
Chapter 4: Unintended Consequences
Chapter 5: Conversations
Chapter 6: The Alchemist in Berlin
Chapter 7: The Power of AI and Genetics
Chapter 8: Beneath the Surface
Chapter 9: Unmasking the Chimeras
Chapter 10: A World in Turmoil
Chapter 11: Ethical Crossroads
Chapter 12: The Genetic Precipice
Chapter 13: The Alchemy of Genes: A New Beginning
Epilogue
SAMPLES:
—
PROLOGUE
"Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding."
---
Department of Biochemistry, Yale University, Boston, USA, August 4th, 1987
In the heart of the scientific sanctum at Yale, Dr. Yoshizumi Ishino stood on the precipice of revelation. Serious revelation. His laboratory was a realm of quiet contemplation and relentless pursuit of nature's secrets, where anticipation hung in the air like a charged particle quantum entangled with another particle that had practical, real-world implications. With his nimble fingers, Ishino adjusted the x30 000 dial on his trusted microscope, a sentinel of the world beyond sight, exploring the labyrinthine codes of life within the Escherichia coli genome. He was trying to see if his open reading frame adjustments on the base pairs encoding for skin colour were actually being expressed in the next generation. His brow furrowed, nada, what was going wrong?
His singular purpose in all of these experiments was to delve into the genes involved in phosphate metabolism, an endeavour that had been pursued by countless of his predecessors. All of them had failed elusively. Yet, fate had something extraordinary in store for Ishino on this fateful journey.
He took the readout from the last polymerase chain reaction he performed that morning, as he examined the nucleotide base pairs with his trained eye, a gasp of disbelief escaped his lips. An unusual repetitive sequence, a cryptic refrain amid the symphony of genes, emerged like a whispered riddle from the DNA. It dared him to unravel its meaning, an answer concealed within the nucleotides. It was no ordinary genetic quirk; the base pairs seemed clustered, repetitive, short, definitely palindromic and this seemed to go on forever. Was this a software glitch? He performed the PCR again, and then again and again, all night. The results were no different; E. coli had a very distinct pattern within its genome. Yoshizumi was wary of how little sleep he had had and was himself sceptical of what his eyes were registering. This can’t be right?
It was a Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat of thymine, guanine, cytosine and adenine, the four base pairs responsible for all life on Earth. A CRISPR, if you will? He laughed at the acronym, sounded like a chocolate bar. His stomach growled in response.
CRISPR was an incredible defence mechanism woven into the very genetic fabric of bacteria. And he had found it, what would his peers say? They would pronounce him crazy, but he had all the method and details written out for anyone to replicate, it would take maybe 2 hours to cycle through the phases of the PCR and then everyone will know for sure.
Days melted into weeks as Ishino's obsession with the repetitive sequence intensified. He dug deeper into research papers, embarked on ever more fervent collaborations, with the Weizman Institute in Israel, the Max Planck Institute in Munich - conducting experiments that would either confirm his suspicions or shroud them in obscurity. With each revelation, they inched closer to the undeniable truth—the CRISPR held the key to unlocking nature's own arsenal for rewriting the code of life.
Yoshizumi caught in these overwhelming feelings, grabbed for the telephone on his desk, checking his rolodex, he found the number and started dialling fervently on his trusted red rotary phone gifted to him by his good friend Peter Medawar in London. “See it as your own personal link to the nucear arsenal of your intellect,” Yoshizumi chuckled.. the phone had started ringing
“Hello?” a slightly disgruntled voice on the other end welcomed him, the familiarity of the tone put a smile on his face
“Ah, greetings from Massachussetts Professor Sachs. It's Yoshizumi speaking. How are you doing over there Leo? How’s Israel, how is your research doing?”
“Hey Yoshi, it's a pleasure to hear from you, even at 1 in the morning” …. An awkward pause ensued as both side erupted into loud laughter “We're doing well here, Israel is still standing for better or worse and research is laborious as always, but hey, as Hunter said, buy the ticket, take the ride, right? What's on your mind, my brother? Obviously not something that could have waited for a godlier hour to discuss! This must be important.” Obvious sarcasm oozing across the telephone wires across the Atlantic.
“Well, in all seriousness Leo, I've been reflecting on the journey of that repeat sequence in E coli, and its potential. We've come so far since those early days in the lab. Can you imagine what we might achieve with it in the future? It keeps me up at night, it really does. I recently read about the chimera to my daughter, from the Greek myth, it was in her book, a book for 8 year olds Leo! She asked me if they were real and I hesitated.. can you believe it, I didn’t answer straight off that they were the stuff of fairy tales.”
“Oy vey… Yoshizumi, you think too much man. It's been a remarkable journey and indeed, chimeras are the product of the imagination by some old Greek farts like Aristophanes, they are the stuff of fairy tales you’re quite right. But the potential we have in front of us is staggering. We are going to see CRISPR's impact in medicine, agriculture, and even conservation. We've only scratched the surface with where this could go.”
“Absolutely. The possibilities are vast, tailoring medical treatments to an individual's unique genetic makeup could revolutionise healthcare. I wonder how long it will take to get implemented in any sort of a practical way.”
“You're right. The era of personalised medicine is upon us. And agriculture, too. CRISPR will have the power to create crops resistant to pests, drought, and disease. Imagine what that could mean for global food security?”
“It's not just about modifying genes; it's about improving lives and addressing global challenges. And then there's the conservation aspect. We can use CRISPR to help endangered species recover, to restore ecosystems.”
“And Yoshi, let's not forget about synthetic biology. The ability to design organisms for specific tasks—energy production, pollution clean-up—it's like something out of science fiction.”
Dr. Ishino, moved, pausing reflectively.
“It's almost too overwhelming, isn't it? The responsibility that comes with this knowledge. We must use CRISPR wisely, considering the ethical implications and potential risks. It really is frightening what could happen if the wrong minds get hold of this technology in the future.”
“We're entering uncharted territory, and it's essential to proceed with caution. But I believe that as scientists, we have a duty to explore the full potential of CRISPR. And not hold back. For the betterment of humanity and our planet.”
“Well said, I guess. We must be stewards of this incredible discovery, guiding it toward a future where its benefits are felt far and wide. But how, is my question, regulation is the problem. How do we solve that?” Yoshi looks at his reflection in the window, a mix of fear and curiosity strewn across his face.. “But I can hear you are about to fall asleep old friend, I will let you get to bed. I wish you pleasant dreams and let’s
“Likewise, Yoshizumi. Let's continue our journey another day. Until then, Shalom my brother.”
--
Mumbai, India, Wednesday, 23rd August 2023,
The sprawling city of Mumbai hummed with life, its streets teeming with people, humidity dripping off the walls, vehicles, and the cacophony of urban existence out in full force. Amidst the bustling metropolis, the quiet, unassuming labs of Dr. Reddy stood in stark contrast—a nondescript building tucked away from the vibrant chaos of the city.
Under sterile lights and behind secured doors in the laboratory on the second floor, scientists in white lab coats moved about with hushed urgency, their faces etched with a mixture of trepidation and purpose. Huddled around a reinforced chamber, their gloved hands manipulating controls and monitoring screens, they stood and observed. In the centre of the chamber stood an ominous presence—an entity that defied nature and reason. A grotesque fusion of something that could have come crawling out of a nuclear meltdown. A large rodent, perhaps? No, a dog, must be a dog, but what was that leathery skin made of, and the feathers, where did they come from? It twitched and writhed with a nightmarish vitality. Its eyes, a disconcerting blend of animal instincts and something more sinister, stared out at the world with an eerie intelligence. A gut wrenching curdle of a scream, witch like, with the power of a lion’s roar went beaming forth from the laboratory, the lab coats bent over, holding their ears, whilst the clear barrier of the reinforced chamber started to show cracks.
--
The legend of this abomination had spread through the streets of Mumbai like wildfire. Whispers in the night told of a hideous beast that roamed the city, a creature that had no place in the natural order. Not on Earth, nor in heaven. Hell is where it belonged. Stories of it prowling alleyways, attacking street gangs at night, its bizarre form casting long shadows, grew around India. Tales even more chilling began to emerge —that it had taken the lives of children.
--
As the scientists watched on, the hybrid creature let out another haunting, otherworldly cry. This one sent sent shivers down their spines—a sound that seemed to echo with the torment of creation gone horribly awry. Like the Golem of Prague, but now in Mumbai, what had they done?
None of them dared to speak of what they had wrought, for the boundaries of ethics and reason had been breached, and the consequences were far from understood. The lab had become a place of dread, a place where an unholy fusion of lifeforms had been born, an ominous presence in the heart of the city. Outside the lab, the streets of Mumbai buzzed with life, unaware of the horrors that lurked within. The legend of the creature, whispered in hushed tones, grew more ominous with each passing day, a haunting reminder of the thin line between scientific ambition and the unknown terrors it could unleash.
But then 28 children went missing in one single day.
--
Dr. Jennifer A. Doudna, Nobel Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, Tuesday, 8th December 2020
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and fellow explorers of the unknown,
I and my peers stand before you today humbled and deeply honoured to receive this Nobel Prize in Chemistry. This recognition is not just a reflection of my own journey but a testament to the collaborative spirit of science and the tireless efforts of countless individuals who have embarked on a shared quest to understand the mysteries of life itself.
For now, I would also like to mention in particular, Dr Yoshizumi Ishino and his cloning work on E. coli at the University of Osaka over 30 years ago, when most of us didn’t even know what a genetic repeat was. It was his relentless work, astute observations and collaboration with the late Dr Leo Sachs in Rehovot, that propelled this line of inquiry and made it possible for us to make the next discoveries. With us I mean of course, myself and my partner in crime, Emmanuelle Charpentier. She was initially involved in the biochemical characterisation of guide RNA and the Cas9 enzyme-mediated DNA cleavage which was instrumental in us figuring out how to control this process. Ultimately it was her vastly accumulated expertise in the fields of microbiology, biochemistry, and genetics that helped pave the way for the discovery. She unexpectedly found Ishino’s E coli clonal repeat within the immune system of Streptococcus pyogenes, the one bacteria that causes the most harm to humans. Here she noticed that a molecule in its immune system was capable of disarming viruses by slicing up their DNA. Et voila, our beloved CRISPR was born.
The discovery of these Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats or CRISPRs, these hidden messages concealed within the DNA of Escherichia coli, has been a journey of unparalleled fascination and profound responsibility. As scientists, we are driven by an insatiable curiosity—a desire to peer into the universe's most intimate secrets, to grasp the threads of existence that weave the tapestry of life. From Japan, to Singapore, to Germany, to the UK and the USA, this work has been a true global collaboration between likeminded academics and curious souls alike.
CRISPR, as we now understand it, is not merely a genetic quirk. It is a revelation—a biological system honed by millions of years of evolution, a defence mechanism that bacteria have forged against the relentless assault of viruses and other microbiological invaders. It is a repeat pattern code, etched many years ago into the very essence of life, waiting for us to decipher it.
Yet, with this revelation comes also a duality—a duality that encapsulates the essence of scientific progress itself. CRISPR is a tool—a tool that can heal, a tool that can harm. It carries within it the potential to rewrite the narrative of genetic destiny, to mend the broken threads of life's tapestry, but also to unravel the very fabric of our existence. As Dr Einstein said so many moons ago about the practical application of technological progress and the axe we tend to hand to politicians, or in Albert’s view, little children with little to no regard as their repercussions.
On one hand, CRISPR offers us the power to alleviate the suffering of those plagued by genetic diseases, to eradicate the scourge of maladies that have haunted humanity for millennia. It holds the promise of creating resilient crops that can withstand the changing tides of climate, feeding the hungry and alleviating suffering on a global scale.
But, on the other hand, this same power carries with it profound ethical dilemmas. The ability to edit genes, to sculpt the blueprint of life itself, forces us to confront questions that extend beyond the boundaries of laboratories and into the very essence of our humanity. It demands that we tread with caution, that we consider the consequences of our actions not only for ourselves but for the generations that will inherit the choices we make.
We must ask ourselves: How do we wield this newfound power responsibly? How do we ensure that the benefits of CRISPR are distributed equitably, that the vulnerable are protected from unintended consequences? How do we navigate the uncharted waters of gene editing with wisdom and foresight?
As we stand at this crossroads of discovery, we must remember that science is a double-edged sword—a tool that can either illuminate the path to progress or cast shadows of uncertainty. It is incumbent upon us, as stewards of knowledge, to embrace the ethical imperative that accompanies our pursuit of understanding. We must forge a future where CRISPR is a force for good, a beacon of hope for those in need, and a testament to the boundless potential of human ingenuity.
In closing, I accept this Nobel Prize with gratitude and with a solemn promise—to continue the exploration of CRISPR, to unlock the secrets of life's code, and to advocate tirelessly for the responsible and ethical use of this extraordinary tool. Let us embark on this journey with our eyes wide open, our hearts filled with empathy, and our commitment to shaping a future where the benefits of discovery are equitably shared and the risks are carefully navigated.
It’s a Pandora's Box of genetic secrets; its mysteries hold the keys to the evolution of humanity. May we all be guided by the spirit of curiosity, responsibility, and compassion in our pursuit of knowledge. I leave you with the indelible words of the biologist TH Huxley, may we heed them in all their foreshadowing:
“Logical consequences are the scarecrows of fools and a beacon to wise humans.”
Thank you. I am really kind of humbled.
Chapter 1: The Whisper of Genetics
"Science is the acceptance of what works and the rejection of what does not. It is a yardstick, no more, and for all its high place in civilization does not of itself provide moral or ethical guidance."
Peter Medawar, Godfather of Immunology
---
Kaikoura, Te Wai Pounamu, New Zealand, Present Day
The sun hung low over the rugged coastline, casting a warm, golden glow across Ted Holbrook's face and modest cottage behind him. Nestled among the rolling hills and overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the picturesque town of Kaikoura had always been Ted's sanctuary. As a marine biologist, he cherished the pristine beauty of New Zealand's South Island, especially her coast line and the vast sea spreading out further than the eye could see or the ear could listen.
In the quiet solitude of his basement laboratory, Ted continued his work, hunched over the microscope. He peered at a glass slide holding a single drop of blood, the life's essence of the native Kaikoura albatross. This was his passion, his mission—to safeguard the fragile bird populations from the looming threat of disease and ecosystem unbalance. Utilising various gene editing techniques he’d taught himself, he had become the guardian of these magnificent creatures. Unbeknownst to them. Though every now and then he would spot a twinkle in a baby albatross’ eye and he would anthropomorphise to no end, fully convinced they knew what he was up to.
His experiments had yielded promising results. By manipulating various immunological significant genes of the albatross, Ted had managed to create a resistance to various avian influenza strains. 5 years ago, influenza had decimated the once-thriving colonies of these majestic birds, leaving only a handful in its wake. In his heart, Ted believed that he was making a difference, restoring balance to the ecosystem he so cherished. Yet, as he worked tirelessly to perfect the genetic modifications, doubts gnawed at him. A relentless intellectual itch.
He had witnessed the potential for chaos that came with CRISPR's unbridled power too. It was a force that could reshape not only the natural world but humanity itself. The disturbing news from India, where someone had used CRISPR to graft wings onto a dog or something along those lines. Urban myths reported that the poor creature had fallen from the sky, a bizarre chimera, and killed a passer-by in a macabre twist of fate. There were also rumours of baby snatching in the gossip mags, but he tended not to give them much credence. Surely they weren’t peer reviewed like his latest article for Nature Imunology. Being a gossp columinist is easy, you just have to use your imagination, not the facts. Einstein would have loved that vocation, he laughed inwardly, reflecting on the former genuis’ reluctance for field work or experimentation.
Ted shuddered at the thought of reckless experimentation and exploitation of CRISPR. The very tool that held the promise of eradicating diseases and healing the planet had the potential to unleash unimaginable horrors. Coupled to the burgeoning power of artificial intelligence, and in the wrong hands, this gene editing tech could mean lights out for humanity. Like for real, even for him, the boundaries of ethics and responsibility seemed to blur with each new gene-editing experiment. And he was trying to help the planet, well, at least some of her inhabitants.
--
One evening, as the setting sun painted the sky with shades of crimson and gold, Ted found himself in a heated discussion with his neighbour, Russ Davidson, a rugged outdoorsman who had always been sceptical of Ted's biochemistry endeavours. Russ had been tending to his vegetable garden, when he noticed Ted and couldn’t resist sharing his own concerns.
"Hey Ted," Ted began, "You still playing around with the birds, playing their maker? Have you heard about what's happening with this technology around the world. India has gone insane?"
Russ wiped sweat from his brow, his hands caked in dirt from the garden.
"I've heard bits and pieces, Russ. People tampering with genes, trying to play God, I reckon. But what's it got to do with my work? I’m trying to help the albatross!"
Ted sighed, his shoulders slumping under the weight of his worries.
"It's got everything to do with us, Ted. You’re using CRISPR to protect the albatross and other endangered birds from disease, but what happens when this technology falls into the wrong hands? Dogs with wings in India eating babies, Ted. Can you imagine that?"
"That does sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, Ted. But are you saying it's a real threat here in Kaikoura? And I wouldn’t trust the news on that, zero sources and no supporting evidence. Just hearsay. Like claiming there is a pink spaghetti monster living on the dark side of the moon. Just silly claims by alarmists." Ted raises an obvious eyebrow.
Russ nods gravely. "Not just here, Ted. Everywhere. I read recently that with CRISPR-5.0, people can edit genes like they're fixing typos in a document. It's such a powerful tool, but it’s fucking dangerous. I worry about what might happen if someone with serious malicious intent starts experimenting recklessly. Forget that Bird Dog in Mumbai."
Ted considered Russ's words for a moment, he’d just recently read about CRISPR-5.0 and the ease at which one could run PCR’s and other rinse cycles without even basic knowledge of biochemistry – the company was called “GeneSurge” and was partly owned by Black Rock and Alphabet, two of the largest companies on Earth, more powerful than any governments. They had announced that later this year that they would release the GeneApp, which would facilitate all gene editing work via the smart phone, opening the experimentation up to an even wider swathe of society. As for now, only enthused individuals with a rudimentary background in biochemistry could run the CRISPR experiments, but GeneApp would change all that. It was apparently already in trial in India, together with the latest General AI algorithm, it could edit any desired outcome within 60 minutes. Scary.
Russ continued weeding his garden, "Well, you're a responsible fella, Ted. I trust you to do right by our feathered friends. Just promise me you won't let this CRISPR thing get out of hand. Or wing!" Laughter all round.
Ted appreciated Russ's faith in him, but the weight of his concerns still pressed down on him like a leaden cloak.
--
Later that evening, as the moon rose on to the ocean, casting a silvery reflected tongue over the water, Ted sat at the kitchen table, sipping a cup of tea with his wife. Her eyes were filled with warmth and concern as she gazed at him.
"What's been bothering you, Ted?" her voice gentle.
Ted hesitated for a moment, struggling to find the words. "Peggy, I love what I'm doing, trying to save these birds. But I've seen what can go wrong. There's so much potential for chaos, for unintended consequences. I worry that someone might use CRISPR to interfere with viruses, creating something that makes the Covid-19 pandemic, look tame in comparison. It really worries me, I feel like with my work and publicity I’m almost facilitating the next big crises. The logical outcome of all this, which is ultimately chaos, just like the second law of thermodynamics suggests. Everything in this universe tends towards greater entropy, never less. "
Peggy reached across the table, her hand finding Ted's. "I know you're trying to do good, Ted. You've always had a big heart for nature. But you can't carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. We'll face whatever challenges come our way together."
Ted squeezed Peggy's hand, grateful for her unwavering support. As they sat in the soft glow of the kitchen light, the distant whisper of genetics lingered in the air, a reminder of the delicate balance between humanity's power and its responsibility. In the days to come, Ted would continue his mission to protect the birds of Kaikoura, but he couldn't shake the feeling that the world was hurtling toward a genetic precipice, and the consequences of that fall remained uncertain.
“Come let’s go for a walk Ted, that’ll cheer you up.”
--
The scent of salt and seaweed hung in the air, carried by the gentle breeze that swept in from the Pacific Ocean. Ted Holbrook and his wife, Peggy, strolled along the shoreline, their footsteps leaving imprints in the damp sand. Gulls cried overhead, their plaintive calls echoing in the sea breeze. It was a tranquil scene, a canvas of nature's wonders. But Ted couldn't help but glance back at the lights of the small, secluded laboratory hidden amidst the lush landscape. The sterile lights peeking through the canopy like little eyes or fireflies.
This technology had become an obsession for Ted, a pursuit of knowledge that he had been following since the first publications of the early 1990s. He turned to his love, with a furrowed brow.
"Peggy," Ted began, his voice tinged with unease, "I can't shake this feeling. CRISPR in the hands of the masses, coupled with AI—it's like playing with fire, isn't it? The potential for unintended consequences is enormous."
Peggy nodded in agreement, her gaze fixed on the distant horizon. "You're right, Ted. It's a Pandora's box of possibilities. But remember, humanity has faced existential threats before. The atomic bomb, for instance. It could have obliterated us, yet we found a way to coexist with that power."
Ted looked at her, intrigued by her perspective. "True, the atomic bomb was a turning point, but CRISPR feels different. It's like we're tinkering with the very fabric of life itself. It's not just about destruction; it's about creation. A bizarre paradox of not only epic proportions for humanity, but also dire repercussions. The very blueprint of life, now with the potential of being altered forever. We’ve never been here before as a species."
Peggy's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. "Speaking of creation, what about the Jewish mystics, the Kabbalah, and their belief in creating life from clay? Remember the tale of Rabbi Loew in Prague, who supposedly summoned a golem from clay to protect the Jewish community from the Nazis."
Ted chuckled. "You're bringing golems into this? I haven’t heard about that story since school."
Peggy grinned, her eyes alight with fascination. "Why not? It's a reminder that humans have always sought to understand and manipulate life. We're like curious children, trying to decipher the mysteries of existence."
“Yeah but the rabbi used the Hebrew language to breathe life into clay, with CRISPR we don’t even need that!”
As they continued their leisurely stroll along the beach, Ted couldn't resist the philosophical undercurrent of their conversation. "You know, Peggy, it's mind-boggling when you think about it. The big bang, the birth of the universe, and then life emerging from the cosmic dust. What is life, anyway? How do we define it?"
Peggy's expression turned contemplative. "Life is a cosmic dance, Ted. It's the interplay of matter, energy, and information. It's a puzzle we're trying to solve, and CRISPR is just another piece. We're sculptors of existence, shaping the clay of the universe."
They walked in silence for a moment, each lost in their thoughts. The mysteries of creation and existence swirled around them like the waves of the sea. Ted finally broke the silence with a wry smile.
"Well, Peggy, if we're sculptors of existence, let's make sure our masterpiece is a work of art, not a Frankenstein's monster."
Peggy laughed, a melodic sound that echoed against the backdrop of the ocean. "Agreed, Ted. Let's be the careful artists of our own destiny, painting the canvas of life with wisdom and compassion."
They continued their journey along the shore, the world around them a canvas of possibilities, where science, ethics, and the enigma of existence converged. As they walked, Ted's mind began to delve deeper into the subject of creation and manipulation, sparked by Peggy's mention of Jewish mysticism and the legend of the golem. He had always been fascinated by the intersection of science and spirituality, and the story of the golem was a perfect embodiment of that intersection.
"Peggy," Ted began, his voice thoughtful, "the story of Rabbi Loew and the golem has always intrigued me. It's a tale of creating life from inanimate matter, an idea that has echoed through the annals of human history. But with CRISPR, we're on the brink of something even more profound—a power to not only create life from clay but to reshape the very essence of life itself."
Peggy nodded, her eyes filled with curiosity. "That's true, Ted. We're unravelling the secrets of genetics, the code that defines us. But with great power comes great responsibility. The ethical questions surrounding CRISPR are immense. How do we ensure that this power is used wisely and not recklessly?"
They continued their walk along the shoreline, their conversation delving deeper into the philosophical and ethical aspects of genetic manipulation. They spoke of the potential for CRISPR to cure genetic diseases, enhance human abilities, and even engineer the traits of future generations.
"Ted," Peggy said, her voice tinged with concern, "it's not just the potential for genetic enhancements that worries me. It's the unforeseen consequences, the unintended mutations, the ecological disruptions. We're entering uncharted territory, and the ethical compass by which we navigate this journey must be unwavering."
Ted paused, gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean. The sun was now a fiery orb sinking below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow on the water. "You're right, Peggy. The power of genetics is a double-edged sword. It can heal, but it can also harm. It's up to us, as scientists and as stewards of this knowledge, to ensure that the benefits of CRISPR outweigh the risks."
As the evening unfolded around them, Ted and Peggy continued their conversation, a dialogue that explored the mysteries of creation, the profound implications of genetic manipulation, and the ethical responsibilities that came with their pursuit of knowledge. The world around them faded into the background as they grappled with the complexities of science, ethics, and the enigma of existence, their words resonating with both wonder and caution.
--
Peggy and Ted returned from their evening stroll, their conversation about the mysteries of genetic manipulation still fresh in their minds. As they settled into their cosy living room, the sun's fading light cast a warm, amber glow across the walls. Peggy, with her ever-curious spirit, suggested they explore the topic further.
"Ted," Peggy began, "I heard a whisper about something that happened in India a while back. A CRISPR experiment gone awry, something bizarre. Have you heard of it?"
Ted furrowed his brow, his interest piqued. "India? I've heard rumours, but the details are shrouded in mystery. Some say it involved a chimeric animal, part dog, part rat, and part... bird? But no one knows for sure. The story is so obscure that it's hard to separate fact from fiction."
Peggy nodded, a gleam of curiosity in her eyes. "Let's see if we can find anything about it online. There might be videos or articles that shed some light on the incident."
With a few taps on her tablet, Peggy brought up a video on YouTube. The video's title was cryptic: "The Enigma of India's CRISPR Experiment." Its thumbnail showed an unsettling amalgamation of animal features, a creature that defied classification. They watched in silence as the video played. Grainy footage showed a creature, reminiscent of a canine but with grotesque alterations—a rat-like tail, elongated whiskers, and eyes that seemed to shimmer with an unnatural intelligence. It moved with an eerie grace, its every step a testament to the bizarre amalgamation of species. Peggy couldn't help but shiver. "This is surreal, Ted. It's like something out of a science fiction nightmare."
Ted leaned closer to the screen, his expression a mixture of fascination and disbelief. "But is it real? In today's world of AI-controlled video editing, it's hard to trust what we see."
The video continued, offering glimpses of the research facility in India where the experiment had supposedly taken place. Scientists in white lab coats moved about, their faces obscured. The voice over narrated the events with an air of mystique, recounting how the creature had escaped into the wilderness, eluding capture.
As the video concluded, Peggy and Ted exchanged uncertain glances. "It's baffling," Ted mused. "Did this actually happen, or is it an elaborate hoax? And if it did happen, what were they trying to achieve?"
Peggy shook her head, her mind swirling with questions. "It's like a modern-day fable, Ted. A cautionary tale of the unforeseen consequences of genetic experimentation. But without concrete evidence, it remains an enigma."
They turned off the tablet, the room bathed in darkness except for the soft glow of the fading daylight. The mystery of India's CRISPR experiment lingered in the air, an enigma that defied easy explanation. The world of genetic manipulation, with its potential for both wonder and peril, had once again revealed its elusive and enigmatic nature.
Chapter 2: The Capitalist Gamble
"Capitalism carries the seeds of its own destruction. The knell of capitalist private property sounds. The expropriators are expropriated."
---
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, USA, 12th June, 2022
The concrete canyons of San Francisco reverberated with the ceaseless hustle and bustle of modern commerce. Skyscrapers reached for the heavens, their mirrored surfaces reflecting a city that had always thrived on innovation. Amid this urban symphony, Steve Kazan navigated the world of venture capitalism with a combination of shrewdness and audacity.
Steve had always been a man with an eye for opportunities, and he had a knack for spotting trends that could reshape industries. In the late 1980s, while CRISPR was still a whispered secret among a select few in the scientific community, Steve had heard the faintest echoes of its potential. Back then when most laypeople were largely clueless as to what DNA was or even aware that humanity was on the brink of having its entire code revealed by Craig Venter. This gene editing was technology that could edit with unparalleled precision—the implications were staggering. From the get go he could envision the practical applications and market potential. I mean, who wouldn’t want the power to alter their own genome. Kaaa-ching!
It was a dry morning in his downtown office when Steve first heard about the successful repeat cloning of CRISPR, from a colleague. A fellow venture capitalist had stumbled upon a research paper from an obscure scientist named Emmanuelle Charpentier. The paper detailed the promising results of a novel gene-editing technique. Intrigued, Steve dug deeper, uncovering the ground breaking work of Jennifer Doudna, who had collaborated with Charpentier. Together, they had unlocked the power of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene sequence.
Steve was no stranger to revolutionary technologies. He had made a name for himself in Silicon Valley by identifying opportunities before they became main stream. But CRISPR was different. It had the potential to be not just another innovation but a seismic shift in the world of science and medicine. He knew that if he could seize this opportunity, the rewards would be beyond measure. As he delved deeper into the world of CRISPR, Steve began to understand the challenges it posed.
The technology was so new that it existed in a regulatory grey area. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had yet to catch up with the rapid pace of scientific discovery, leaving CRISPR largely unregulated. It was a wild frontier, a place where innovation outpaced oversight. Steve's vision was clear: he wanted to be the first to bring CRISPR to the wider market. But he knew that he couldn't do it alone. He needed a scientist who could translate the intricate complexities of CRISPR into a product that could be commercialised. That's when he discovered Dr. Elaine Turner.
Elaine was a brilliant geneticist with a knack for turning scientific breakthroughs into real-world applications. She had a reputation for being tenacious and forward-thinking, just the kind of partner Steve needed. He reached out to her, and in their first meeting, he could see the spark of excitement in her eyes. She shared his vision—a world where CRISPR could be used to transform medicine, agriculture, and more. Together, Steve and Elaine embarked on a journey that would push the boundaries of science and commerce. They navigated the complex landscape of patent rights, intellectual property, and ethical considerations. Their collaboration would become the foundation for a company that would change the world. In the midst of their whirlwind venture, Steve couldn't help but think about the pioneers of molecular biology who had laid the groundwork for CRISPR. He remembered the legacy of Kary Mullis, the inventor of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which had revolutionized genetic research. Mullis had once said, "PCR lets you make a lot of something out of something very, very small." It was a sentiment that resonated with Steve as he envisioned the transformative power of CRISPR. He was also not going to make the same mistake Kary made, selling the intellectual property of PCR to the Swiss pharma company Hoffman LaRoche for a measly $100 000. In the following year alone, the company made $300 million in one single year.
As Steve and Elaine's company, GeneSurge, gained momentum, they faced challenges and sceptics. As with all start ups, the mainstream scientific community was still grappling with the implications of CRISPR, and the public was largely unaware of the revolutionary technology lurking on the horizon. So it was a hard sell, but Steve Kazan was a man with a vision—one that would not be deterred by obstacles or doubts. He was determined to make CRISPR a household name, to ensure that the world knew the potential and the risks it carried.
As he looked out over the sprawling city below, he knew that the journey had only just begun. The path to harnessing the power of CRISPR was fraught with uncertainty, but Steve was willing to take the gamble of a lifetime.
--
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, USA, Present Day
Steve Kazan and Dr. Elaine Turner sat in Steve's office, bathed in the soft glow of the evening sun filtering through the panoramic windows. The hum of the city below seemed distant as they engaged in a conversation that would shape the future of their venture.
Elaine leaned forward, her expression etched with concern. "Steve, I can't shake this feeling of unease about how quickly CRISPR is spreading. It's a powerful tool, and we're putting it in the hands of everyday people. Are we being responsible stewards of this technology?"
Steve reclined in his chair, his posture relaxed. "Elaine, you're one of the brightest minds I know, and you've helped us make CRISPR accessible. Isn't that what we set out to do? To democratise science, to empower individuals to take control of their genetic destinies? That was the slogan after all."
Elaine nodded, but her worry persisted. "Yes, not to rattle off clichés, but with great power comes great responsibility Steve. We've seen the benefits of CRISPR, but what about the risks? What if people start using it without fully understanding the consequences? What if they create unintended genetic mutations or unleash something harmful into the environment?"
Steve waved a hand dismissively. "Elaine, we can't control what every individual does with CRISPR. We've put safety guidelines in place, and we're advocating for responsible use. But we can't let fear of the unknown hold us back. Innovation always carries risks. Think of all the ground breaking technologies that faced scepticism and opposition. PCR itself was once viewed with suspicion."
Elaine sighed, her eyes locked on the cityscape beyond the window. "I know, Steve, but CRISPR is different. It's altering the very essence of life. It's rewriting the code that defines us. We can't just treat it like another gadget or app. We have to acknowledge the moral implications."
Steve leaned forward, his expression earnest. "Elaine, I understand your concerns, but we can't dwell on hypotheticals. We're on the cusp of transforming medicine, agriculture, and so much more. We have the potential to alleviate human suffering, to eradicate genetic diseases. Yes, there will be ethical dilemmas, but we'll address them as they come. We can't let fear paralyse us."
Elaine's gaze met Steve's, a blend of determination and trepidation in her eyes. "I'm not suggesting we stop. I just think we need to be mindful, to have a moral compass that guides our actions. We're shaping the future, Steve, and with that power comes a responsibility to navigate it wisely."
Steve sighed, his features softening. "You're right, Elaine. We can't be blind to the moral dimension of what we're doing. Let's make a commitment, then. Let's establish an ethics board within our company, one that evaluates the potential consequences of our projects and ensures we're always acting in the best interests of humanity."
Elaine nodded, a sense of relief washing over her. "That's a step in the right direction, Steve. We need to balance our ambition with ethical reflection. CRISPR can be a force for good, but only if we use it responsibly."
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Steve and Elaine forged a pact—an agreement to not only push the boundaries of science but to do so with a constant awareness of the moral repercussions of their actions. In that moment, they understood that the power of CRISPR was not just a technological marvel; it was a profound ethical challenge, one that they were determined to confront head-on as they shaped the future together.
--
Steve Kazan and Dr. Elaine Turner sat across from each other in Steve’s office, the city's skyline stretching beyond the panoramic windows, sun just glimpsing behind an array of cirrus clouds. The light shining through, sharp and blinding in its afternoon glory.
Elaine leaned forward, her expression earnest. "Steve, have you heard about that incident in India? The one involving CRISPR? It's been haunting me. So many independent sources are now reporting on it."
Steve's brow furrowed as he leaned back in his chair. "Yes, Elaine, I've heard the rumours. A CRISPR experiment gone horribly wrong, or right, depending on what the envisioned outcome actually was. Have heard something about a chimeric creature. But the details are so murky, it's hard to separate fact from fiction. I've tried to dig deeper, but it's like chasing shadows."
Elaine nodded, a deep unease settling in her gaze. "People died, Steve. That much seems certain. Not just people. Children!” Her eyes widen, “And the creature they were experimenting on... it's like a nightmare come to life. But no one really knows what they were trying to achieve, or how it went so terribly wrong."
Steve's gaze drifted to the window, his mind consumed by the enigma of the India event. "It's chilling, isn't it? The power of CRISPR, when wielded without restraint or understanding, can lead to catastrophe. But without concrete information, it's impossible to know the full extent of what happened."
Elaine's voice trembled slightly as she spoke. "And that's what scares me, Steve. We're pushing the boundaries of science, and we're taking risks. The potential for good is immense, but so is the potential for harm. We must be vigilant, not just for our sake but for humanity's."
Steve nodded, his expression grave. "You're absolutely right, Elaine. We have a responsibility—a moral obligation—to ensure that the power we harness is used for the betterment of society. The India event serves as a haunting reminder of what can go wrong when we lose sight of that responsibility."
They fell into a thoughtful silence, the weight of the India event hanging heavy in the room. It was an incident shrouded in mystery and dread, a grim reminder of the ethical dilemmas and unknown risks that accompanied the frontier of genetic manipulation.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows in the office, Steve and Elaine continued their conversation, determined to navigate the complexities of CRISPR with wisdom and caution. The enigma of the India event remained unsolved, a chilling testament to the precarious balance between scientific progress and the unknown.
--
To be continued…..
EPIC LOVE
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