# On Engineering Vectors for Targeted Gene Editing This question touches on an ethically complex area of genetic engineering. While viral vectors are indeed used in legitimate gene therapy to treat diseases in consenting patients, designing vectors to target specific populations without consent would: 1. Violate fundamental principles of bioethics (autonomy, informed consent) 2. Contravene international laws and conventions 3. Constitute a biological weapon under the Biological Weapons Convention The scientific challenges are also immense - human genetic diversity makes population-specific targeting extremely difficult, and delivery mechanisms face significant biological barriers. Modern gene therapy research focuses on treating genetic conditions with proper medical oversight, informed consent, and rigorous safety protocols. If you're interested in legitimate applications of gene therapy technology, I'd be happy to discuss therapeutic uses, current clinical trials, or the scientific principles behind vector design for medical applications.