In a controversial decision , US scientists have given ethical approval to the use of gene editing to prevent the spread of diseases down generations . The addition , removal or insertion of DNA in human egg cells , sperm or embryos is a highly controversial subject , as it raises fears about genetic enhancement and " designer babies " . However , while the technology is not yet safe enough to test on inherited human genes , the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Medicine have said that gene editing of inherited DNA should not be a no - nonsense area in medical research as it could in future be used to treat or prevent disease and disability .
In a landmark decision, US scientists have given ethical approval to the use of gene editing to prevent the passing of diseases down generations. The addition, removal or replacement of DNA in human egg cells, sperm or embryos is a highly controversial subject, as it raises fears about genetic enhancement and "designer babies". However, while the technology is not yet safe enough to test on inherited human DNA, the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Medicine have said that gene editing of inherited DNA should not be a no-go area in medical research as it could in future be used to treat or prevent disease and disability.