Backing for hybrid embryo research
Science Correspondent
February 25th, 2007
Scientists should be allowed to create human-animal hybrid embryos in the search
for treatments for nervous system disorders, a Government advisory body said
yesterday.
The Human Genetics Commission will give its unanimous backing to the research in
a public consultation to be carried out later this year by the Human
Fertilisation and Embryology Authority.
British scientists have applied for licences to create hybrid embryos that would
be around 99.9 per cent human and 0.1 per cent animal to produce embryonic stem
cells – the body's building blocks that can grow into all other types of cells.
They want to use stem cells to understand and develop therapies for diseases
such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cystic fibrosis, motor neurone disease and
Huntington's. The hybrid embryos would be destroyed within 14 days when no
bigger than a pinhead.
Sir John Sulston, the HGC deputy chairman, said: "It seems to me extremely clear
that we already have a very satisfactory agreement with the rule which allows
experiments up to 14 days. The research which is now being proposed is no
different."
© Copyright of Telegraph Media Group Limited 2007.
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