Application of CRISPR-Cas9 Technology Awareness and Ethical Considerations Among Biomedical Scientists in Enugu State

CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology has transformed biomedical research and holds transformative potential for treating genetic diseases. However, awareness of its applications, limitations, and ethical dimensions among practising biomedical scientists in Nigeria has not been formally assessed. This study evaluated CRISPR-Cas9 technology awareness and ethical perceptions among biomedical scientists in research institutions and tertiary hospitals in Enugu State, South East Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 150 biomedical scientists across five institutions. The questionnaire assessed awareness of CRISPR principles, research applications, therapeutic potential, and ethical concerns including germline editing, off-target effects, equity of access, and regulatory oversight. Awareness of the basic molecular mechanism of CRISPR was moderately high, largely acquired through scientific literature and continuing education, rather than formal post-graduate training. Therapeutic applications in haemoglobinopathies attracted the strongest approval rating. Germline editing for non-therapeutic enhancement purposes was viewed unfavourably by the majority. Absence of adequate Nigerian regulatory guidance was identified as a barrier to responsible CRISPR research adoption. These findings contribute to the ethical policy discourse on CRISPR applications in Nigeria and recommend development of a national genome editing governance framework. Keywords: CRISPR-Cas9, genome editing, biomedical scientists, ethical perceptions, Enugu State