Will gene editing lead to super kids?

FEARS have been raised that the gene-editing breakthrough unveiled in the US could lead to designer babies.

That is because the nuclear DNA at the heart of a cell, which these scientists tweaked, also determines personal characteristics.

This raises the prospect of genetically engineered “superheroes” who are made to be more athletic or extra intelligent at the request of their parents.

Scientists say designer babies are a step closer following the breakthrough. However, the researchers have edited only a single gene so far, using a technique which has still to be proved to work in babies, rather than just embryos.

Traits such as intelligence and strength are determined by multiple genes, meaning superhero children are not likely to happen soon.

But experts say this idea is now no longer science fiction and some laboratories might feel pressure in future to try to tweak children’s eye colour and height. – Daily Mail