For the first time ever, American scientists have successfully edited the DNA of a human embryo in the attempt to correct genes that cause inherited diseases, a report says. <\/p>\n
Researchers from Oregon Health and Science University in Portland managed to modify numerous one-cell embryos using a controversial technique called CRISPR, according to MIT Technology Review. <\/p>\n
Sources told the school magazine that the team, led by US-based biologist Shoukhrat Mitalipov, was able to safely inject gene-editing chemicals into human eggs near the moment of fertilization. <\/p>\n
While the embryos were not allowed to be developed for more than a few days, the researchers ultimately proved that they could be efficiently edited in the attempt to correct genetic disorders. <\/p>\n
Up until now, China was the only known country to carry out the practice. But they only managed to make their desired DNA changes on a small number of cells, creating an effect known as mosaicism. <\/p>\n
Experts describe this as a condition in which cells within the same person have a different genetic code or makeup. <\/p>\n
Mitalipovs team, however, was able to prevent this from happening. <\/p>\n
They significantly reduced mosaicism, explained one researcher, who chose to remain anonymous. <\/p>\n
The milestone means scientists in the US are officially one step closer to engineering the first genetically modified human beings on earth. <\/p>\n
It is proof of principle that it can work, the researcher said. I dont think its the start of clinical trials yet, but it does take it further than anyone has before. <\/p>\n
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\nScientists genetically modify a human embryo for the first time - New York Post<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"