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Genetic Modification of Embryos

The genetic modification of embryos is a conversation that has continued to evolve with assisted reproductive technology (ART) but it’s often misconstrued as preimplantation genetic testing).

While both involve genetic screening and analysis of embryos, they serve different purposes and carry distinct ethical, medical and emotional implications.

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In this article, we’ll explore the distinctions between genetic modification of embryos and PGT the ethical considerations surrounding their use.

What Are Genetically Modified Embryos?

Genome editing, or the process of genetic modification of human embryos, allows DNA to be added, removed or modified.

Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) has become the most common type of embryo genetic modification because it is faster, cheaper and more accurate than other techniques.

 CRISPR can adjust almost any gene in an organism and these changes can prevent genetic defects, enhance selected traits and even get rid of diseases.

In the U.S. federal law about the genetic medication of embryos prohibits the use of federal funds for research on human germline gene therapy.

This 2022 survey from Pew Research looked at trends in the U.S. surrounding opinions on genetically modified embryos and found that just 30% of U.S. adults said that the use of genetically engineered embryos to greatly reduce a baby’s risk of developing serious diseases or conditions would be a good idea for society.

Another question in the survey found a pretty even split (49%-48%) of U.S. adults who say they would definitely or probably would not want gene editing to greatly reduce their baby’s risk of developing serious diseases or conditions.

But 73% of U.S. adults say most people would feel pressure to get genetically modified human embryos for their baby.

Is Genetic Modification in Embryos the Same As PGT?

No, genetic engineering of embryos is not the same as PGT.

PGT isn’t adding, removing or modifying the DNA of the embryos. Genetic modification in human embryos takes what PGT does a step further.

Depending on the type of PGT performed, PGT identifies chromosomal abnormalities of embryos or monogenic disorders in embryos by removing cells from embryos and looking at the cells to asses their genetic makeup.

PGT helps your fertility specialist choose the best, high-quality embryos vs. the modification of an embryo.

The pros of PGT include:

  • Improved embryo selection

  • Gender selection (if you want)

  • Stopping genetic transmission of unknown abnormalities

  • Increased chances of a successful pregnancy

  • Quicker time to pregnancy

    Is Gene Editing in Embryos Safe?

    With scientists discovering that cells in embryos are often unable to repair the damage to their DNA, gene editing has unknown consequences. Out of 18 countries and the European Union, eight prohibit the practice and five have limited research with no clear regulations.

    Are There Ethical Issues with Genetic Engineering on Human Embryos?

    Yes, there are a number of potential ethical issues with the genetic engineering of human embryos.

    From creating ‘designer babies’ to access and inequality, these are valid concerns as there are potential unknown effects of this still evolving field of ART.  

    But PGT avoids such ethical issues, here’s how:

    Process

    The genetic modification of embryos uses techniques like CRISPR to add, remove or modify the DNA where as PGT does not alter the DNA at all.

    Instead, PGT analyses the DNA to give a clearer picture of the makeup of the embryo to determine its quality and development.

    Purpose

    Genetic engineering in human embryos is done with the intent of changing the genetic code for a specific purpose, which affects all cells in an organism and passed on to your children. The possible consequences of that are unknown.

    PGT is done to identify chromosomal abnormalities or monogenic disorders that could be passed on to your children.

    Impact on Embryos

    Genetic modification of embryos has a direct impact on the embryos as it alters their DNA.

    PGT identifies abnormalities, but once these abnormalities are identified, it impacts the selection of the embryo, not the makeup of the embryo itself.

    Fill out our online contact form if you need a fertility clinic that can help you PGT of your embryos. We can connect you to reputable clinics close to you. 

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