Jiankui, the Chinese scientist infamous for creating the world’s first gene-edited babies, is attempting a controversial comeback.
After serving a three-year prison sentence for his unauthorized experiments, He is now focusing on a new project aimed at preventing Alzheimer’s disease through gene editing.
He Jiankui shocked the world in 2018 when he announced the birth of twin girls whose embryos he had genetically modified using CRISPR technology to make them resistant to HIV.
The secret experiment immediately drew condemnation from scientists, ethicists, and governments worldwide for its ethical breaches and potential risks to future generations.
Subsequently, Chinese authorities fined him and sentenced him to three years in prison. The global scientific community ostracized him. Now, released from prison in 2022, he is determined to reclaim his place in the field of genetic research.
According to a recent article by The Wall Street Journal, he is operating from his home in a gated compound in Beijing, where he outlined his latest plans.
Barred from international travel due to China’s refusal to renew his passport, He intends to send two Chinese colleagues to the United States to conduct preliminary research on mice and monkeys for his Alzheimer’s project.
His long-term goal is to initiate human trials, potentially in South Africa, a location he believes might permit such controversial work. The article notes that gene-editing embryos for implantation remains unapproved globally, with experts continuing to highlight the unknown consequences for future generations.
The Hindustan Times echoed this narrative, reporting that He stands resolute in defending his past methods despite the backlash.
The publication emphasized his ambition to tackle Alzheimer’s—a disease affecting millions worldwide—through gene editing, a pursuit he claims could cement his legacy.
“He Jiankui stands by a controversial research approach that landed him in prison as he aims to tackle Alzheimer’s disease,” the article stated, underscoring the polarizing nature of his mission.
Sentiment on X reflects a mix of intrigue and skepticism. One user, posting on March 22, 2025, noted He’s bold claim that he will be remembered as “China’s Charles Darwin” for eliminating natural selection through genetic engineering.
Another post from the same day referenced his rejection of the “Chinese Frankenstein” label, highlighting his return to the lab after the gene-editing scandal. These posts, while not conclusive evidence, illustrate the ongoing public fascination and unease with He’s endeavors.
He’s reemergence has reignited debates over the boundaries of genetic research.
While his stated goal of preventing Alzheimer’s is laudable, the scientific community remains wary. Gene-editing embryos carries profound ethical implications, including the risk of unintended mutations and the moral question of “designer babies.”
No country currently permits such practices for reproductive purposes, and He’s previous actions demonstrated a willingness to bypass regulations—a trait that continues to alarm observers.
Despite his ostracism, He appears undeterred. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, he is leveraging China’s scientific infrastructure and exploring international collaborations to advance his work.
However, his inability to travel and the global condemnation of his methods may limit his progress. South Africa, identified as a potential site for human trials, has not yet commented on whether it would allow such experiments, leaving He’s plans speculative for now.
