The Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority (HFEA) has given its consent for the new experimental research that involves the genetic modification of human embryos not intended for reproduction. In fact, British law allows similar active studies on embryos, as long as they are not implanted.
Il Francis Crick Institute London will then conduct the first experiments aimed at a better understanding of the early developmental stages of the embryo itself. Furthermore, the results should make a significant contribution in rendering the physiological causes behind spontaneous abortions are becoming increasingly clear, still a very incomplete topic for modern science.
Out of 100 fertilized eggs, only 13 reach the third month
The doctor Kathy Niakan, HFEA researcher, explained that to understand why out of 100 fertilized eggs only less than half reach the 'blastocyst' stage (with 200-300 cells) and as soon as 13 reach the third month of pregnancy, the experiments will be carried out relying on the "Crispr", a sort of" copy and paste "of the DNA to" switch off "the genes that compose it one at a time and thus understand, after each single observation, which ones are decisive in the development process.
The initial stages of the experiment are expected to begin next summer, with the treatment and study of 20-30 embryos.
ETHICAL ISSUE
Such practices, unsurprisingly, have given rise to insidious ethical debates. According to Professor Boncinelli, geneticist, this type of "basic" research does not in any way concern the possibility of generating GMO children. "Studying to try to understand something is never wrong - reports IlGiornale.com - That then one day science will lead us towards the creation of genetically modified children, we cannot rule it out".
David King, director of the Human Genetics Alert:
'This research will actually allow scientists to refine the techniques needed to create genetically engineered babies. It is therefore only the first step towards a future eugentics market»
SOURCE: ANSA.com / ilGiornale
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