Scientists to ‘edit’ genes of human embryos

Fertility chiefs have been accused of putting science before ethical principles after giving the go-ahead for scientists to edit the genes of human embryos.

The move by the Human Fertility and Embryology Authority (HFEA), which regulates fertility scientists, means the UK is the first country in the western world to allow such research.

Scientists led by Kathy Niakan, at the Francis Crick Institute in London have been granted a licence to “cut and paste” the DNA of donated embryos as part of an investigation into mis-carriage.

The work is controversial because it involves altering “germline” DNA, which is inherited.

All the embryos used must be destroyed after two weeks and it will be illegal to implant them into a womb.

Critics say the HFEA has ignored warnings, acted too hastily, and set scientists on the start of a slippery slope towards creating genetically modified “designer babies”.

Members of the scientific establishment lined up to congratulate the HFEA on its decision.

Technically, the application still has to be approved by the local Research Ethics Committee, made up of scientists, health professionals, and lay-members, but this is no more than a rubber-stamping procedure.