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In a groundbreaking medical development, British researchers have successfully used a technique known as "mitochondrial donation" to help families have healthy babies free from inherited mitochondrial disorders. Eight children, including a set of identical twins, have been born using this method. These children, now ranging in age from under six months to over two years, are reportedly healthy and meeting developmental milestones.
Mitochondrial disorders, which can cause severe health issues like paralysis, heart failure, and brain damage, are passed from mother to child through mitochondrial DNA. The new technique involves transferring the nuclear DNA from a fertilized egg of the parents into a donor egg with healthy mitochondrial DNA. This process results in a child with DNA from three individuals: the two parents and the egg donor.
While the results are promising, the procedure is not without controversy. Critics express concerns about potential risks and the ethical implications of genetic manipulation. Some fear it could lead to "designer babies," where genetic technologies might be used to alter other traits. However, researchers emphasize that the technique is distinct from gene-editing technologies like CRISPR and is focused solely on preventing serious diseases.
The study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, highlights the importance of continued monitoring to ensure the procedure's long-term safety and effectiveness. Despite the concerns, many in the scientific community view this as a significant advancement in reproductive technology, offering hope to families affected by mitochondrial disorders.