Two firms aiming to create ‘designer babies’ through gene-editing have failed within months of launch, highlighting the challenges in this controversial field.

Manhattan Genomics and Bootstrap Bio both cited financial troubles and internal disputes. Manhattan Genomics shut down after just four months following a co-founder conflict over shared branding; Bootstrap Bio ceased operations, with its chief science officer facing charges for attempted sex trafficking.

The companies aimed to edit human embryos to prevent serious diseases, but the technology remains unproven and highly controversial. Experts warn of potential unintended edits and the slippery slope towards using gene editing for enhancements rather than health purposes.

Despite setbacks, biotech entrepreneurs remain optimistic about the future of this field. ‘We ran out of money,’ Bootstrap Bio’s CEO Chase Denecke told WIRED, adding that his company still exists but is not actively operating.

The failure of these ventures raises questions about the regulatory landscape and public trust in genetic modification technologies. With Preventive emerging with significant funding, some wonder if this field will see a resurgence or continue to face challenges.