The Code Breaker

Isaacson presents gene editing as a scientific breakthrough whose possibilities require public judgment as well as laboratory skill.

Doudna’s path begins with wanting to understand how life works, not with a finished commercial plan.

CRISPR grew from research into a natural defense system, which researchers adapted into a tool.

Collaboration and competition both shaped the race; the discovery was not one person’s isolated achievement.

Changes that could pass to future generations raise different questions from treating one patient.

Isaacson follows debate over acceptable uses; possible treatments are not promises of cures.