28.06.13
Mitochondrial replacement to prevent serious disease
IVF-based techniques to prevent mitochondrial disease could be introduced, making the UK the first country in the world to give people the option of treatment.
The disease can lead to heart and liver disease, respiratory problems and even infant death. Mitochondrial disease is passed from mother to baby, but can be prevented using mitochondrial replacement techniques.
A public consultation showed overall support for the introduction of treatment, which would involve transferring the nuclear genetic material from another’s egg or embryo into a donor egg or embryo which has had its nuclear DNA removed.
Draft regulations will be issued for consultation later this year.
Chief medical officer Professor Dame Sally Davies said: “Mitochondrial disease, including heart disease, liver disease, loss of muscle co-ordination and other serious conditions like muscular dystrophy, can have a devastating impact on the people who inherit it. People who have it live with debilitating illness, and women who are affected face passing it on to their children.
“Scientists have developed ground-breaking new procedures which could stop these diseases being passed on, bringing hope to many families seeking to prevent their future children inheriting them. It’s only right that we look to introduce this life-saving treatment as soon as we can.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]