The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) is holding a public consultation on ‘hybrid’ and ‘chimera’ embryo research rather than outlawing it altogether.

Researchers had feared a ban following a recommendation to this effect in the government’s recent White Paper reviewing the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act.

‘Step change’

The HFEA admitted that this type of research involves issues that are not ‘black or white’. Chief Executive Angela McNab said: ‘The issues around hybrid and chimera research are unique and different from mainstream human embryo research.’ She conceded that there is no clear agreement within the scientific community about the need for and benefits of the research, and that it would represent ‘a significant step change in UK science’.

The research in question – for which two groups of scientists at UK universities have applied for a licence – involves placing genetic material from the nuclei of human cells within the ‘shells’ of animal eggs, from which nearly but not all animal genetic material has been removed, in order to grow an embryo. The resulting embryo would contain less than one per cent animal DNA and would produce an abundant and reliable supply of stem cells, which can develop into any kind of human tissue, for medical research. Its supporters anticipate the process circumventing the shortage of human eggs, which is currently a limiting factor in the production of stem cell lines for research.

Reactions

The Royal Society and the scientists in question welcomed the HFEA’s announcement. Professor Sir Martin Rees, President of the Royal Society, said: ‘It is unfortunate that this judgement has been delayed. However the decision to consult widely … is a sensible one. It is now vital that the consultation takes account of our current understanding of the science and the potential future benefits.’

Aisling Burnand, Chief Executive of the BioIndustry Association (BIA), said: ‘The BIA is pleased that the HFEA’s announcement does not support the proposed ban in the government White Paper on research using hybrid embryos.

‘There is widespread scientific and public support for this ground-breaking medical research ... Preventing [it] would … completely undermine the government’s support for stem cell research and its commitment to establishing the UK as a world-leading location for innovative scientific research.’

However, the campaign group GeneWatch UK is cautious. ‘Claims of future miracle cures are being used to sell this type of research to an uneasy public,’ Helen Wallace of GeneWatch commented. ‘There are real doubts about the scientific relevance of chimeras for studying human diseases. The value of developing therapeutic cloning techniques using animal eggs is also questionable, since vast numbers of human eggs would still be needed should successful treatments ever be developed.’

The HFEA’s public debate and consultation is underway now and will be completed around autumn this year. To take part, see their website.

Vanessa Spedding is the Shorts Editor.