UK scientists granted permission to genetically modify human embryos

Scientists have been granted permission to genetically modify human embryos Credit: PA

The UK's fertility research regulator has approved an application by a laboratory for permission to genetically modify human embryos.

The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) approved an application from the Francis Crick Institute in London on Monday.

The move is the first time scientists in the UK have been given permission to genetically modify human embryos.

But they will not be able to implant the embryos into women for treatment.

A statement from HFEA said:

Dr Niakan's team want to study embryos as part of their research into what happens in the first seven days after fertilisation and as they investigate miscarriage.

Dr Niakan has said that in the future the research could lead to "tweaking" embryos used in IVF to maximise chances of survival.

Many scientists see the approval as a step forward for genetics research Credit: PA

HFEA approval means the new work could begin in the next few months.

The regulator's move has been welcomed by many.

Dr Sarah Chan at the University of Edinburgh called the approval an "encouraging step" that "demonstrates that good science and effective ethical oversight can go hand-in-hand".

Professor Peter Braude, Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King’s College London, said he was "delighted" to hear of the approval and would await the results of Dr Niakan's research "with interest".

"Gene editing tools will allow fresh insights into the basic genetic mechanisms that control cell allocation in the early embryo," he said.

"These mechanisms are crucial in ensuring healthy normal development and implantation, and when they go wrong might result in failure to implant or miscarriage."