The manipulation of DNA replication and the adoption of advanced gene-editing technologies illustrate a remarkable convergence of scientific innovation and ethical considerations.

The findings have important implications for treating cancer. In addition, glitches in DNA replication lead to other genetic diseases, including birth defects, autism and neurological impairments.

Junk DNA isn't just relevant for rare diseases, either: this past February a paper in Nature linked a region of junk DNA on the ninth chromosome to heart disease risk.