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Genetically Edited Babies' Creator Receives Prison Sentence, Remains Active

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

He Jiankui, the Chinese scientist who led the creation of the world’s first genetically edited babies, received a three-year prison sentence for deceiving medical authorities.
Despite his past, he remains active in China's biotechnology sector, living in a government-backed research hub near Beijing.
He claims there is growing demand for researchers willing to push boundaries.
Experts say rising tensions with the West prompt China to view him as a potential asset.

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Story summary

He Jiankui, the Chinese scientist who led the creation of the world’s first genetically edited babies, received a three-year prison sentence for deceiving medical authorities.
Despite his past, he remains active in China's biotechnology sector, living in a government-backed research hub near Beijing.
He claims there is growing demand for researchers willing to push boundaries.
Experts say rising tensions with the West prompt China to view him as a potential asset.