Gene doping is the new frontier in sports doping. Athletes have already approached scientists researching muscle and blood diseases using genetic manipulation, seeking new methods to improve their abilities. Chinese doctors are providing current Olympic athletes with new gene doping methods.
Gene doping uses the same technology and techniques being researched for gene therapy. The process involves inserting a modified gene into a human with the hopes of permanently altering that person's DNA. This process is dangerous and potentially lethal. Gene therapy trials have led to multiple reported deaths:
While gene therapy has been promised as a way to cure disease, gene doping may be a way for athletes to improve their performance abilities.
Currently, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited gene doping in 2003, making it illegal for Olympic athletes to use gene doping. The US Congress passed the Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 2006 (Public law 109-469), which makes it illegal for amateur athletes in the US to use gene doping.
None of the US professional sports organizations have adopted a ban on gene doping. This endangers the lives of professional athletes, creates an uneven playing field, and sets a poor example for young athletes. US professional sports organizations must prohibit gene doping to protect the health of athletes and maintain the integrity of competition.
