` ` Little is known about the short- and long - term genetic effects , '' said a U.S. bioethicist . China takes a step toward allowing an IVF procedure involving DNA from 3 people . It is intended to prevent mitochondrial DNA being passed on from mother to child . `` It would be an ironic tragedy if this procedure were rushed from bench to bedside , only to harm the very children it was meant to help . Children are ` ` powerhouse '' part of the body ; defects can cause serious health issues .
` ` Little is known about the short- and long - term genetic effects , '' said a U.S. bioethicist . China takes a step toward allowing an IVF procedure involving DNA from 3 people . It is intended to prevent mitochondrial DNA being passed on from mother to child . Children are ` ` powerhouse '' part of the body ; defects can cause serious health issues .