An American scientist under investigation for his links with so-called genetic works of Chinese twins

Rice University has opened an investigation into one of its professors after reports that it would be linked to a so-called genetic montage in China that resulted in the birth of two babies with altered DNA were revealed.

They announced Monday the investigation following reports that Dr. Michael Deem, professor of biochemical and genetic engineering, was allegedly involved in a case of genetic verification on human embryos to alter a gene of to make them resistant to the virus. HIV.

The university said it had "no knowledge of this work" and that, to the best of its knowledge, the work had not been done in the United States, where genetic modification of human embryos is illegal.

"Regardless of where it was conducted, this work described in the press releases violates the guidelines of scientific conduct and is inconsistent with the ethical standards of the scientific community and Rice University," said the statement. In a statement. "We have started a thorough investigation into Dr. Deem's participation in this research."

Deem said he was in China when participants accepted the genetic montage and understood that they understood the risks, according to the Associated Press. Deem added that comparing gene editing to a vaccine "could be a way to describe it for a layperson," according to the AP.

The controversy surrounds the claims of Chinese professor He Jiankui that he has been successful in altering the DNA of binoculars laboratory embryos, including modifying a gene to prevent HIV infection.

The research has not yet been independently confirmed, nor has it been published in a peer-reviewed journal, which is a standard protocol for such medical developments.

He Jiankui's work is currently being investigated by his own school, the South China University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen, according to the Associated Press.

Dr. Deem did not immediately return ABC News's request for comment.