UK Researchers Get Permission To Genetically Modify Human Embryos

In September 2015, word surfaced that researchers in the UK had requested permission to genetically modify human embryos, a controversial subject that has stirred both legitimate and conspiratorial concerns alike. This request — and subsequent permission — follows news from last year claiming Chinese scientists had performed gene editing on human embryos. Critics fear this will lead to so-called "designer babies."

Permission has been granted to researchers who will perform their work at the Francis Crick Institute in London, with the goal being to gain a deeper understanding about human embryos and development. As was stated when the request was made, these embryos will not be implanted (something explicitly illegal).

Tests will be performed within the first week of egg fertilization, during which time the egg transforms into a blastocyst. The role of genes during this earliest stage of human formation is largely a mystery to scientists, one that gene editing may help shed light on.

Dr. Kathy Niakan, the project's lead, previously said on the topic: "We would really like to understand the genes needed for a human embryo to develop successfully into a healthy baby. The reason why it is so important is because miscarriages and infertility are extremely common, but they're not very well understood."

SOURCE: BBC