What’s new: The Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) has explicitly prohibited all clinical research into editing the DNA of human reproductive cells in an ethical guideline published this week.
“Currently, any clinical research involving germline genome editing is irresponsible and not allowed,” the document said, noting that alterations to such cells would be inheritable and therefore first require further analysis to understand any risks and potential benefits. Germline genome editing refers to altering the DNA of germ cells, fertilized eggs or embryos.
Also, researchers conducting permitted forms of human genome editing research are required to justify the necessity of using human samples, ensure lawful sourcing and safely dispose of leftover samples, according to the guideline.
Clinical research can only be considered when the technology’s benefits, risks and alternatives are weighed, safety and effectiveness issues are addressed, and there is broad social consensus as well as strict supervision in place, according to the guideline.
The background: The document was issued Monday by the medical ethics subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Ethics Commission, which was established in 2019, one year after the controversial story of Chinese scientist He Jiankui’s gene editing experiments came to light.
He edited the DNA of a pair of twin girls in an attempt to bestow them immunity to HIV. Subsequently, he was sentenced to three years in prison for illegal medical practices and was banned for life from working with reproductive technology.
In April 2023, MOST released a draft of the trial measures for Ethical Review of Science and Technology, seeking to further strengthen oversight of ethical reviews in the science and tech realm.
Contact reporter Kelly Wang (jingzhewang@caixin.com) and editor Joshua Dummer (joshuadummer@caixin.com)
