Genetic modification on babies by ooplasmic transfer

In the year of 2001, a group of scientists had conducted an experimental research on overcoming infertility problems. 30 babies were involved in this experiment. Out of 30 babies, 15 were the product of genetically altered germ line. These babies were born to be healthy and normal. Two one year old children were tested with mitochondrial fingerprinting. From the test, tiny quantity of additional genes was found which were not inherited from both parents. The additional gene came from a healthy donor.

By having the additional genes, the children’s germ line is altered and would be passed on to their future generation. These children were born using a method called ooplasmic transfer in which some of the mitochondria from the donor’s egg cell is taken and injected into the egg of the mother with infertility problems. The eggs are then fertilized in-vitro. The infertile mothers were believed to be suffering mitochondria defects. The mitochondria donated by the donors could function properly hence it can help to increase the chances of embryonic development. Mitochondria are commonly passed down from one generation to the next through maternal line. New born babies from ooplasmic transfer contained genes from both parents as well as the donor.

There were many ethical issues arisen due this experimental research. Regardless of these issues, this experiment was proven to be successful and it would be able to contribute to the society in the near future to help reduce infertility problems.

References
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/1312708.stm