Chinese gene embryo-producing anti-HIV virus

Chinese scientists use CRISPR / Cas9 gene editing tools to create anti-HIV embryos.

According to Science Alert, when the ethical debate about human embryo gene changes is still taking place, Chinese scientists successfully conducted a second trial in history.

The research team at Guangzhou Medical University, China, conducted the test according to a strict procedure. They collected 213 fertilized eggs but did not have the potential to develop into complete people. Eggs are donated by 87 patients at the obstetric hospital for research purposes.

Early stage embryos are modified by scientists.(Photo: Yorgos Nikas / SPL).

The scientists used the CRISPR / Cas9 gene editing tool to insert a natural mutation to the embryonic genome, making the embryo resistant to HIV. The results of the study are published in the April 8 issue of Nature.

"Some people with HIV-resistant CCR5Δ32 natural mutations . This mutation changes CCR5 protein in a way that prevents HIV virus from entering T-cells to infect , " Ewen Callaway explained in Nature.

Of the 26 embryos that have been genetically modified, only 4 have successfully modified. The remaining embryos show unexpected signs of mutation. The researchers destroyed all embryos three days later.

CRISPR gene editing technology has many prospects in the future, helping scientists locate bad DNA fragments and replacing them if necessary. But the accuracy of this method so far still makes many people suspect.

The team also points out the benefits and dangers of human embryo modification at the genetic level. This technology is used to combat disease, creating "pre-designed babies" with good traits as expected, but can also cause unwanted side effects that people don't know.

Genetic modification is currently allowed by the UK, but must be strictly followed. In the US, this technology is illegal.