Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority to eye genetically modified embryo plan in UK

Scientists could be given permission to genetically modify human embryos for the first time in the UK when controversial proposals go before the fertility regulator today.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) is to consider an application from the Francis Crick Institute in London to alter genes in a bid to reduce miscarriages and infertility.

Dr Kathy Niakan, who is leading the research, said: “This is important because miscarriages and infertility are extremely common but not very well understood.