Embryonic research has been taken to the next level.
Scientists in the UK have been given the okay by fertility regulators to genetically modify human embryos. The announcement makes the UK the first region that has been approved to actually begin to alter DNA in embryos.
Scientists conducting the research say the whole point of the program is to get a deeper understanding of the first moments of human life. While they’re now able to conduct research on donated, isolated embryos, it will remain illegal to implant any DNA-altered embryo into a woman.
Opponents of the research say this opens the door for the future of creating genetically modified babies. They argue that just like genetically modified food, humans who were “test tube babies” would be born with serious defects, in addition to potentially causing harm to the mother.
Supporters of the research claim that through research, any theories of ill-consequences or negative effects can be tested through this extensive research. They also add that last year, Chinese scientists revealed their gene manipulation successfully removed a gene that causes blood disorders.
Still, many have their doubts, with fears our future population will include these “designer babies.”