It is theoretically possible to create humans without pain perception through genetic modification, but it currently faces multiple challenges in science, ethics, and practical application. The following are the key steps and considerations： --- ### **1. Scientific feasibility** ####**Genes that target pain perception** - **SCN9A gene**: Encodes the sodium ion channel Nav1.7, functional deletion mutations can lead to congenital insensitivity to pain (CIP). Destroying this gene through gene editing (such as CRISPR-Cas9) may eliminate pain. -**Other related genes**: Such as NTRK1 (which affects nerve growth factor receptors) or OPRM1 (opiate receptors), regulating these genes may partially regulate pain. ####**Technical means** -**Embryo gene editing**: Genes are modified at the fertilized egg stage, but ethical disputes are involved (such as ”designing babies"). -**Somatic cell gene therapy**: Target sensory neurons in adults through tools such as viral vectors, but delivery efficiency and safety issues need to be resolved. ####**Challenge** -**Off-target effects**: Gene editing may accidentally change other physiological functions. -**Multiple functions of pain**: Pain perception is a necessary early warning system for survival, and complete elimination may cause serious injury (such as undetected trauma or disease). --- ### **2. Ethical and social issues** -**Medical necessity**: It may be reasonable only for a very small number of patients (such as those with severe chronic pain and ineffective treatment), but the risk-benefit ratio needs to be strictly evaluated. -**Non-therapeutic uses**: If used in the military or to enhance human capabilities, it may cause ethical disputes and risks of abuse. -**Informed consent**: Embryo editing involves the rights of future individuals. At present, the international consensus generally prohibits the clinical application of genitourinary gene editing. --- ### **3. Alternative** -**Reversible analgesic techniques**: Such as optogenetics or chemogenetics control neuronal activity and provide temporary pain blocking. -**Drug development**: Special analgesics targeting Nav1.7 (such as selective inhibitors in clinical trials) may be safer. --- ### **4. Implementation path (assuming ethics allow)** 1. **Basic research**: Verify the effect and long-term effects of gene editing in animal models (such as mice). 2. **In vitro experiment**: Use human stem cells to differentiate neurons to test safety. 3. **Clinical trials**: Strictly regulated trials for specific patient groups (such as pain from advanced cancer). 4. **Long-term monitoring**: Assess the effects on nervous system development, wound healing, and psychology. --- ###**Conclusion** Although it is technically possible to eliminate pain through gene editing, a more feasible direction at this stage is to develop adjustable, non-permanent analgesic methods. Any attempt must pass strict scientific review and ethical assessment to ensure that the risks are controllable and the uses are reasonable. The cautious attitude of the international community towards reproductive gene editing (such as the Declaration of Helsinki and the WHO guidelines) also needs to be followed.