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12:45
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
CAIRE –
More than 100 scientists, mainly in China, have described the modification of human genes as "senseless and immoral". This comes after a geneticist announced that he had modified the genes of two binoculars to reach the first genetically modified babies.
In an open internet letter, according to Reuters, scientists have stated that the use of Crysis-K9 technology to alter human embryo genes is risky and unwarranted and undermines the reputation and development of the biomedical community in China.
In online videos, geneticist He Jianwei defended what he claimed to have done, claiming that he had made genetic modifications to the two twins born this month to protect them from the HIV virus.
"The bioethical examination of this so-called scientific research is solely nominative," said the scientists in their speech, published on the Chinese website "Piper". Direct experiences on humans can only be described as alienating.
There may still be a glimmer of hope to close it before it's too late, "said some 120 scholars in a Chinese-language letter.
Yang Qin Gang, a professor at Fudan University, told Reuters that he had signed the letter because the genetic modification was "very dangerous."
He did not respond to Reuters' request for comment. He is expected to deliver a speech on changing the human genome at a summit held Wednesday at the University of Hong Kong.
The South University of Science and Technology, where he is an adjunct professor, said that she was not aware of the research project and that she had been on leave without pay since February.
The National Health Commission of China said Monday that she was "very worried" and ordered county health officials "to investigate immediately and clarify the situation".
Crisper-Cass 9 technology allows scientists to cut and copy DNA dramatically, thereby increasing hopes for genetic reform to prevent disease.
There are, however, ethical and security concerns with this technology.
Professor Heih Jiankui said he had changed the DNA of two girls born weeks earlier to protect them from AIDS, according to the BBC.
The Chinese scholar, quoted by the Associated Press as a photographer, has not confirmed the authenticity of these claims and most countries around the world prohibit genetic modification.
Genetic modification can help prevent genetic diseases by modifying or disrupting the genes responsible for the disease in the fetus.
The Chinese researcher added that his work was aimed at ensuring that children are not exposed to the disease and not at conceiving children with certain characteristics such as eye color or high IQ.
"I know my work will be controversial, but I think families need this technology and I'm ready to take the blame," he said.
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