China baby experiments on gene-editing halted

Nov 30, 2018

China baby experiments on gene-editing halted China state agencies and health ministries have put a halt to the gene-editing experiments undertaken on twin babies which raised worldwide concerns and opposition from both scientists and state agencies.

Researcher He Jiankui had claimed to have altered the DNA of the twins to try to make them resistant to infection with the AIDS virus. Mainstream scientists condemned the experiment, and universities and government groups are currently investigating.

Although the science holds promise for helping people already born and studies testing that are underway, a statement issued on Thursday by the 14-member conference leaders said it was irresponsible to try it on eggs, sperm or embryos except in lab research because not enough is known yet about its risks or safety.

Source : The Hindu