Imagine being able to fix a spelling mistake in the code of life. That’s what scientists can do using a powerful tool called **CRISPR**. CRISPR (pronounced 'crisper') is a new method of gene editing—changing parts of a living organism’s DNA. DNA is the set of instructions that tells every cell how to grow, function, and behave. If there’s a problem in the DNA, it can lead to diseases or inherited conditions.
CRISPR works like a pair of molecular scissors. Scientists can program it to find a specific piece of DNA and cut it. Once the DNA is cut, the cell can fix the break—sometimes by removing, replacing, or adding new pieces of genetic information. This process can correct harmful mutations, such as the ones that cause some forms of cancer, blindness, or sickle cell anemia.
The idea behind CRISPR came from a surprising place: bacteria. Scientists discovered that bacteria use CRISPR to remember and fight off viruses. This natural defense system gave researchers a model for editing genes in plants, animals, and even humans.
CRISPR is already being used to improve crops, create disease-resistant animals, and treat some medical conditions. In 2020, scientists successfully treated two patients with genetic diseases using CRISPR—a breakthrough in medicine.
However, gene editing also raises big questions. Should scientists be allowed to change human DNA that could be passed on to future generations? Could people use CRISPR to create 'designer babies' with chosen traits? What are the risks if a mistake is made in the editing process?
While CRISPR holds great promise, most experts agree that it must be used with caution. Scientists and ethicists are working together to make rules for how gene editing should be used. As the technology grows, society will need to balance innovation with responsibility.
Q1: What is the central idea of the passage?
Q2: What is DNA described as in the passage?
Q3: What does CRISPR do to DNA?
Q4: What does the word 'mutation' most likely mean in paragraph 2?
Q5: Why does the author mention 'designer babies'?
Q6: Which statement best describes the author’s tone in the final paragraph?
Printable Comprehension Practice
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Q1: What is the central idea of the passage?
✅ Correct Answer: B
💡 Reasoning: The passage focuses on what CRISPR is, how it works, and the possibilities and concerns it brings.
Q2: What is DNA described as in the passage?
✅ Correct Answer: B
💡 Reasoning: The passage explains that DNA contains the instructions for how a cell grows and behaves.
Q3: What does CRISPR do to DNA?
✅ Correct Answer: C
💡 Reasoning: CRISPR is compared to molecular scissors that cut DNA at precise locations to allow changes.
Q4: What does the word 'mutation' most likely mean in paragraph 2?
✅ Correct Answer: C
💡 Reasoning: The passage explains that mutations can lead to diseases like cancer or anemia, meaning they are changes in DNA.
Q5: Why does the author mention 'designer babies'?
✅ Correct Answer: B
💡 Reasoning: The passage brings up the concern that gene editing could be used for non-medical, unethical purposes.
Q6: Which statement best describes the author’s tone in the final paragraph?
✅ Correct Answer: C
💡 Reasoning: The author acknowledges CRISPR’s benefits but stresses the need for ethical rules and responsible use.