Genetically modified embryo tests prompting concerns over designer babies

HUMAN embryos will be genetically modified in Britain for the first time — despite fears it will pave the way for designer babies.

HUMAN embryos will be genetically modified in Britain for the first time — despite fears it will pave the way for designer babies.

It makes the UK only the second country after China to allow the controversial research.

Scientists from the Francis Crick Institute in London want to edit the DNA of up to 120 embryos to study which genes drive early human development.

They say their research will help reduce miscarriages and boost fertility treatment. The tests will be carried out on embryos discarded by UK fertility clinics with couples’ consent.

The go-ahead was given yesterday by fertility watchdog the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the first experiments could start next month.

Lead researcher Dr Kathy Niakan will deactivate specific genes and see whether it impacts development.

Around half of fertilised eggs do not develop properly and experts believe faulty DNA may play a role.

The research could also lead to new forms of contraception by making drugs that block fertility genes.

Experts say the DNA editing technique could allow scientists to swap genes to create babies free of disease — or with a certain hair colour.

“This brings designer babies a step closer. It is far too soon. The research is still controversial enough that most of the world does not allow it,” a Comment on Reproductive Ethics spokesman said.

Under the three-year licence, the embryos cannot legally be studied for more than two weeks or implanted to achieve a pregnancy.

“Increasing our understanding of how the early human embryo develops will add to the knowledge needed for strategies to assist infertile couples and reduce miscarriage,” Professor Bruce Whitelaw, of Edinburgh University said.

“The spare embryos used in this work will have been donated for research,” added Alastair Kent, director of Genetic Alliance UK.

“Many of the women who make this donation make it with the hope of allowing others to benefit.”