Gene Editing Successful in Trial Experiment

081005” by Tamaki Sono licensed under CC BY 2.0

Source: CBS News

Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have successfully completed a controversial procedure for the first time in the US.

The practice of editing genes in human embryos has been viewed by many as a potential positive improvement to the lives of future children and their families.

If adopted for frequent use, the altering of genes would prevent inherited diseases from being passed through multiple generations.

Critics of gene editing argue the practice will cause parents to choose the physical traits of their children rather than eliminate any potential diseases.

“This was purely laboratory- based work that is incredibly valuable for helping us understand how one might make these germline changes in a way that is precise and safe,” said R. Alta Charo, a bioethicist at University of Wisconsin- Madison.

Read full story at: CBS News

Children & Families, Health, News
Children & Families, Health, News