Chinese scientists have confirmed that they created the world's first genetically modified human embryos.
However, the experiment, carried out in secret, outraged the scientific community. The work would be illegal in the U.K. because changes to an embryos DNA would be passed down the generations with unknown effects.Gene-function researcher Junjiu Huang from Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, used "non-viable" embryos, which cannot be used in a live birth, from local fertility clinics.
The team tried to edit the gene responsible for a potentially fatal blood disorder, using a gene-editing technique known as “CRISPR.”
The technique has already been successfully used on cows, pigs and monkeys.
But the experiment on human embryos was only partially successful - of the 86 embryos injected, only a fraction contained the replacement genetic material.
In some of the embryos, the gene editing caused unintended mutations in other genes.
Junjiu said: "If you want to do it in normal embryos, you need to be close to 100 pecent. "That’s why we stopped. We still think it’s too immature."
The aim of gene editing is to eradicate genetic diseases before a baby is born.
But opponents believe it may cross an ethical line.
David King, director of the U.K.'s Human Genetics Alert,said: "This news emphasizes the need for an immediate global ban on the creation of genetically modified designer babies.
"It is critical that we avoid a eugenic future in which the rich can buy themselves a baby with built-in genetic advantages.
"If China does not want to get the reputation of being the Wild West of the new eugenics, it must join the many countries including the U.K. which would ban such research.
"Western governments must finally put pressure on China to change its policies in this area if it wants to be a respectable part of the international community.”
By Ruchi Singh
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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