They are investigating the Chinese scientist who says that he has modified baby's DNA

The Chinese scientist who described how he used CRISPR for modify the genes of human embryos he is the subject of an investigation by the authorities of the university where he is employed and by a medical ethics board.

Jiankui He said Sunday that he had managed to genetically edit binoculars. The scientist posted a video on YouTube about his feat. He added that the binoculars "Lulu and Nana" were born healthy after the genetic modification of their embryos, so that they are more resistant to HIV. The research was first detailed by MIT's Technology Review magazine.

Media reports prompted authorities at the Shenzhen University of Science and Technology in China, whose employee he is on leave without pay, to release a statement on Monday saying that the L & # 39; institution is "deeply dismayed" and tries to establish a communication with He to clarify the scope of his study. The university has condemned his work and said that he "seriously violates the academic ethics and code of conduct". The statement indicates that the university "was not aware of the project and its nature". The university called on "international experts" to form an independent committee to investigate the issue.

I did not respond to a request for comment.

A report from the MIT Technology Review said the Shenzhen City Medical Ethics Council would also investigate his work. The former medical director of the hospital where he performed his tests said that he did not remember giving him permission to perform clinical tests.

"Experiences like these put this field of study at risk." Science is subject to a social license: scientists work within the boundaries defined by the concerns of the community at large, "said Darren Saunders, a professor at the University of New South Wales' School of Medicine. these limits put the land in danger and go back for decades. "

The study sparked skepticism around the world. Renowned researchers of CRISPR gene editing technology, such as Feng Zhang, are concerned about the lack of transparency in He's lab. At the time of writing this article, his work has not been published or independently reviewed by experts in the field. His claims have not been corroborated yet.

Now, other ethical and moral issues arise. Some consider it's an irresponsible and potentially illegal job because it may not have all the required permits.

"Whether or not the results can be sustained after the review, we as a society need to think deeply and quickly, when and where we are willing to take risks with respect to new treatment methods. especially those that may affect future generations, "said Yalda Jamshidi, a professor of human genetics at St. George's University of London.

The second international summit on the human genome edition is scheduled to open on November 27 in Hong Kong. I am supposed to make an appearance at the event.