Designer-baby revolution ‘less than two years away’

The “ethically sound” creation of so-called designer babies could begin within two years and spark a revolution in genetic modification, according to new research.

Kevin Smith, from Abertay University in Dundee, has published analysis that found the risks of gene editing are now low enough to warrant its use with human embryos.

He argues that a morally justifiable attempt could be less than two years away.

And he predicts such research could kick-start a revolution in producing genetically-modified (GM) people.

Dr Smith said: “The human germline is by no means perfect, with evolution having furnished us with rather minimal protection from diseases that tend to strike in our later years, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia.

“GM techniques offer the prospect of protecting future people against these and other common disorders.

“This has previously been achieved to an extent in GM experiments on animals.

“If several common disorders could be avoided or delayed by genetically modifying humans, the average disease-free lifespan could then be substantially extended.”

The academic said research in this area would offer hope to parents at risk of transmitting serious genetic disease to their future children.

However, he also warned that an ethical approach must be at the heart of any advances if public trust is to be won.

Dr Kevin Smith’s analysis showed the risks were lower