Healthy babies born in Britain after scientists used DNA from three people to avoid genetic disease
Context:
Eight healthy babies have been born in Britain using an experimental technique that involves DNA from three people, aiming to prevent the transmission of rare genetic diseases from mothers to children. This innovative method uses healthy mitochondria from a donor egg, combined with the genetic material from the mother's egg and father's sperm, to create an embryo free of mitochondrial diseases. Despite the potential benefits, this procedure is only approved in a few countries, like the U.K. and Australia, and faces regulatory restrictions in others such as the U.S. The technique requires careful monitoring, as one baby was reported to have slightly elevated levels of abnormal mitochondria, though not enough to cause disease. While critics express concerns about the long-term impacts, advocates highlight the hope it brings to families affected by these devastating conditions.
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The groundbreaking technique involves transferring genetic material from a mother's egg or embryo into a donor egg or embryo with healthy mitochondria, effectively creating an embryo with DNA from three individuals to prevent mitochondrial diseases.
Mitochondrial DNA mutations can cause severe, often fatal, conditions in children, yet the new method allows for the identification and prevention of these mutations during in vitro fertilization.
Legal and regulatory frameworks, such as a law change in the U.K. in 2016, are necessary to authorize the use of this method, which remains prohibited in countries like the U.S. due to concerns over heritable genetic modifications.
The research, conducted by experts at Newcastle University and Monash University, resulted in eight babies born free of mitochondrial diseases, with ongoing monitoring required to ensure their continued health.
Dr. Zev Williams and Dr. Andy Greenfield emphasize the scientific innovation and potential of the method to empower couples with new reproductive options, although its application is limited to specific cases where other genetic testing methods fail.
There is controversy surrounding the long-term effects of this technique, as critics worry about unforeseen consequences for future generations, while proponents see it as a critical option for families devastated by mitochondrial diseases.
Liz Curtis, inspired by personal tragedy, advocates for awareness and research through the Lily Foundation, underscoring the importance of this scientific advancement for families without other options.