WHO to begin working on gene editing research registry
World Health Organization (WHO) experts have called for a central registry on human genome editing research, among a committee consensus that it would be irresponsible for any scientist to conduct gene-editing studies in people
On Tuesday, March 19, a WHO advisory committee said it had agreed to work towards a strong international governance framework in this area, after its first two-day meeting.
The committee was established following reports that a Chinese scientist had successfully created ‘edited’ twins, in December last year.
At the time, LSIPR reported that scientists were urging policymakers to implement a regulatory framework governing the use of CRISPR technology in humans.
Earlier this week, the committee asked WHO to immediately begin working to build the registry, which it said was needed to create an open and transparent database of ongoing work.
Soumya Swamanathan, WHO chief scientist, said: “The committee will develop essential tools and guidance for all those working on this new technology to ensure maximum benefit and minimal risk to human health.”
Over the next two years, the committee will consult with stakeholders and provide recommendations for a comprehensive governance framework.
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director general, added: “Gene editing holds incredible promise for health, but it also poses some risks, both ethically and medically. This committee is a perfect example of WHO’s leadership, by bringing together some of the world’s leading experts to provide guidance on this complex issue.”