British scientists are seeking permission to implant embryos with genetic material from three parents
Leading research organizations and patient groups have asked the British government to amend legislation to allow scientists to implant embryos with genetic material from three different parents in women.
“The procedure has so far been tested only in the laboratory and mainly on animal embryos. But if it turns out to be safe and successful, it could prevent birth genetic defects in the hundreds of babies born each year. These include blindness, organ failure, muscle disorders, learning disabilities, and diabetes. Many babies die as a result of genetic defects, which are caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA in the mother's egg,”notes author Sarah Bosley.
Scientists have developed two different technologies, each of which involves mixing the DNA of the parents with a small amount of DNA from the mitochondria of the donor egg.
However, this will not constitute "in vitro fertilization from three parents," says Professor Robin Lovell-Budge, one of the authors of the document sent to the government. “This is a very, very small amount of DNA. It has no characteristics other than a normally functioning mitochondria."
Dr. Evan Harris, a former parliamentarian with a direct interest in embryonic research, likened it to "replacing a laptop battery without affecting the information on the hard drive."