With the implementation of a law that was approved earlier this year, Britain seems poised to become the first country in the world that allows the creation of children using the DNA of two genetic mothers and a father. Using a complex form of IVF, the procedure involves modifying the embryo's mitochondria, the tiny "engine rooms" that power cells in the human body, according to The Daily Mail.
Originally developed at Newcastle University, the technique involves swapping a mother-to-be's diseased mitochondria with that of a healthy one from an egg cell donated by another woman. Doing so reduces the chances of the baby inheriting genetic conditions passed down from its mother.
The University further states that the technique has the chance to help around 2,500 families a year.
Despite those numbers, the fact that the baby will technically have the DNA of three people has raised massive ethical concerns among conservative groups, reports Christian Today.
Critics argue that the procedure crosses an ethical line, even dubbing it as man "playing God." Others are concerned about the safety issues involved in the procedure.
With the law fully passed, clinics across the country can start applying for a license to carry out the procedure. The first attempt is expected to be made by the end of this year.
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