UK Parliament Press Note: Human Germline Genome Editing

POST, the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology, has released a new research briefing on human germline genome editing. Changes made to DNA in human eggs, sperm or embryos (germline cells) can be passed on to future generations. The methods used to make such changes are referred to as human germline genome editing (hGGE). In this latest briefing from POST, we go over techniques currently available for hGGE, their safety, and potential applications. We also outline current regulation and governance of hGGEand examine issues raised by any potential future uses of hGGE.

Read the full report (4 pages).

Key points include: 

·         hGGE involves making edits to DNA in egg, sperm or embryo cells. 

·         It has the potential to prevent serious heritable disorders but there are safety and ethical concerns over its possible use. 

·         There has been a reported use of hGGE resulting in the births of twin girls in China. 

·         In the UK, genome editing of human germline cells in research is regulated by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. It has issued a licence for a project involving such research. 

·         UK law prohibits the use of hGGE as part of IVF treatment in women. 

·         As science advances, gaps in regulation may become apparent.

The report outlines: 

·         The safety of current techniques and their potential applications, such as in preventing heritable disorders. 

·         The current international and UK regulation. 

·         The considerations of using these techniques, including ethical concerns and potential impacts on future generations.