Embryos scientists back move
Oct 9 2007 by John von Radowitz, The Journal
A RADICAL Government re-think on the law governing hybrid embryos will allow scientists to carry out virtually any work they like – if it is approved by regulators.
The move – which has been welcomed by scientists in Newcastle – opens the door to experiments involving every known kind of human-animal hybrid.
These could include both “cytoplasmic” embryos, which are 99.9% human, and “true hybrids” carrying both human and animal genes.
In addition, “chimeras” made of a mosaic-like mix of cells from different species, and “human transgenic embryos” – human embryos modified with animal DNA – will also be allowed under licence.
Dr Lyle Armstrong, from the Institute of Human Genetics at Newcastle University, said: “It is very encouraging to hear that the Government recommends that the HFEA will be responsible for regulating the creation of hybrid embryos for research purposes since they have the experience and knowledge to make informed decisions and consider the research objectively.
“The recommendation that the creation of other types of hybrid embryos be allowed subject to suitable regulation is of benefit to many scientists and the Government’s response suggests that they recognise the potential of this type of research.”
Provision has also been made for the regulation of hybrid embryo research to incorporate any unforeseen developments that might arise in the future.
Ministers have moved a long way from original White Paper proposals for an outright ban on all human-animal embryos, prompting outrage from scientists.
The new measures are contained in a revised version of the Human Tissue and Embryology Bill which will be included in the Queen’s Speech next month.
They were set out yesterday as part of the Government’s response to a Parliamentary committee’s verdict on the Bill.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and Human Tissue Authority (HTA) will now remain separate entities. They were to have been fused together to create a new Regulatory Authority for Tissue and Embryos (RATE).
Lord Rees, president of the Royal Society, said: “The science community should look on this outcome as a success; the true potential of this valuable research has shone through. We look forward to seeing the contents of the final Bill.”
For more articles on hybrid embryo research, see:
Scientists in bid to create hybrid cells
