Three Groundbreaking Biotechnologies Set to Shape 2026, According to MIT Technology Review
By Jessica Hamzelou | January 16, 2026
As the world hurtles deeper into an age of rapid technological advancement, the field of biotechnology continues to push boundaries that were once thought impossible. Each year, MIT Technology Review curates a list of breakthrough technologies that have the potential to reshape industries and everyday life. In its 2026 edition, the spotlight shines brightly on three transformative biotech innovations: personalized gene editing, genetic resurrection, and embryonic trait scoring. These cutting-edge technologies promise to revolutionize medicine, conservation, and reproductive choices, though not without sparking important ethical debates.
Personalized Gene Editing: A New Era of Tailored Treatments
One of the most inspiring stories to emerge recently is that of KJ Muldoon, born in August 2024 with a rare genetic disorder causing toxic ammonia accumulation in his bloodstream—a condition that could have led to fatal neurological disorders. Initially, his survival hinged on a possible liver transplant, but an experimental “base editing” gene therapy changed his trajectory dramatically.
This personalized gene-editing treatment zeroed in on correcting the specific genetic errors responsible for his condition. Following just three doses, KJ showed remarkable improvement, taking his first steps by December and celebrating his first Christmas at home. The success of this case has sparked new hope for many infants suffering from similar genetic disorders.
The researchers behind KJ’s treatment are now preparing for clinical trials targeting a broader range of mutations and hope to secure regulatory approval based on these smaller-scale trials. With initial treatments costing around $1 million, gaining regulatory favor could make these life-saving therapies more accessible in the near future.
Supporting this momentum, UC Berkeley’s gene-editing expert Fyodor Urnov co-founded Aurora Therapeutics, a company focused on developing gene-editing drugs for other genetic conditions like phenylketonuria (PKU). Their innovative approach aims to create a foundational drug adaptable to individual needs without renewing clinical trials — a concept U.S. regulators are cautiously optimistic about, given their recent discussions of approval pathways for bespoke therapies.
Genetic Resurrection: Bringing Ancient Species Back to Life
Colossal Biosciences has been making headlines for its bold attempts to "de-extinct" species long vanished from the Earth, such as woolly mammoths and dodos. The company achieved a notable milestone in March 2025 with the creation of so-called “woolly mice” — rodents exhibiting physical traits reminiscent of woolly mammoths, such as thick fur and curly whiskers.
In a stunning follow-up, Colossal announced in April 2025 the birth of three “dire wolves,” genetically engineered by introducing roughly 20 specific ancient genetic modifications into the DNA of modern gray wolves based on genetic analyses of fossilized remains.
Though debates continue about whether these creatures can truly be labeled as their prehistoric counterparts, the genetic technologies used — including advanced ancient DNA extraction and cloning — unlock fascinating possibilities. Beyond the allure of resurrecting extinct species, these scientific methods hold significant promise for wildlife conservation, enabling efforts to preserve endangered species through genetic intervention.
Embryo Scoring: The Controversy of Designing Babies
In the realm of reproductive technology, achievements in embryo scoring have taken a contentious leap forward. Traditionally, in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratories assess embryos based on their potential to develop successfully before implantation—a practice generally accepted among medical communities.
However, technological progress now allows genetic screening of embryos not only for the presence of serious diseases but for traits such as height, eye color, and cognitive ability indicators. Some companies, like Nucleus, have begun marketing these capabilities to prospective parents aiming to select embryos with customized characteristics — a move that has ignited heated ethical debates.
Critics argue that complex traits like intelligence are influenced by an interplay of innumerable genetic and environmental factors and that science currently lacks comprehensive understanding to guarantee outcomes. The debate extends to concerns over reviving eugenics-like practices and the moral dilemmas tied to the notion of “designing” babies.
Despite these challenges, the burgeoning embryo scoring industry illustrates a provocative frontier where genetic insights meet consumer choice, raising profound questions about the future of human reproduction.
Looking Ahead
The three technologies highlighted by MIT Technology Review illustrate the dual promise and complexity of the biotech revolution unfolding in 2026. From healing genetic diseases with precision editing, to breathing life into species lost to history, and venturing into ethically charged reproductive innovations, these breakthroughs exemplify how science continually reshapes the boundaries of possibility.
As these technologies evolve, society will need to navigate not only the scientific challenges but also the ethical and regulatory landscapes they transform. Watching how policy, public opinion, and innovation intersect will be crucial in shaping a biotech future that benefits humanity responsibly.
This article originally appeared in The Checkup, MIT Technology Review’s weekly biotech newsletter. To get future insights and updates delivered to your inbox every Thursday, sign up here.
About MIT Technology Review
Founded in 1899 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, MIT Technology Review is a world-renowned independent media company delivering analysis and reports on emerging technologies and their impact on society, business, and culture.
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