Scientists seek permission to genetically modify embryos

UK scientists are seeking permission to genetically modify human embryos.

Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute in London want to use a controversial new genetic technique to carry out research into infertility.

The US refuses to fund research involving the gene editing of embryos.

The government's fertility watchdog, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), said it had received the application, which would be considered in due course.

The aim of the research, led by Dr Kathy Niakan, is to understand the genes human embryos need to develop successfully.

The institute said the work would be for research purposes and would not have a clinical application, however the knowledge gained could help improve in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments.

Dr Niakan said: "Importantly, in line with HFEA regulations, any donated embryos would be used for research purposes only.

"These embryos would be donated by informed consent and surplus to IVF treatment."

Scientists say the new technique of genome editing means that work can be done in a more precise way than before.

However, there have been calls for a moratorium on such research.

The announcement earlier this year that Chinese scientists had genetically manipulated human IVF embryos for research purposes using the technique called Crispr/Cas9 sparked controversy.

The US later imposed a moratorium on federally-funded research using the technique.