Science
Biotech startup tests gene editing in donated human embryos
Origin Genomics aims to demonstrate the safety of embryo gene editing to prevent genetic diseases, NPR reports.
The short version
- New York startup Origin Genomics is extracting stem cells from donated human embryos to test molecular gene editors aimed at correcting inherited diseases.[NPR]
- The research seeks to demonstrate safety for preventing conditions like Huntington's disease, cystic fibrosis, and hereditary cancers.[NPR]
- Creating babies from gene-edited embryos remains illegal under U.S. law, and most scientists view the application as premature or potentially unsafe.[NPR]
- The startup ultimately hopes to gather sufficient safety data to persuade regulators to consider lifting existing bans.[NPR]
Key facts
- Origin Genomics extracts stem cells from donated human embryos to test experimental molecular gene editors.[NPR]
- Using gene-edited embryos to initiate a pregnancy and produce children is illegal under current U.S. law.[NPR]
- The company also tests artificial-intelligence-designed gene editors on pluripotent stem cells and fibroblasts.[NPR]
What remains uncertain
- Most scientists consider using genetically altered embryos to create babies premature, and it remains uncertain whether the process can ever be made fully safe.[NPR]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.