Review of Hybrids & chimeras

Hybrids & chimera coverpage

Background

Researchers around the world have been using stem cells from human embryos in research to develop their understanding of a number of different diseases. Many scientists believe that embryonic stem cells could potentially lead to new therapies.

In November 2006, the HFEA received applications from two different research teams for a licence to derive stem cells from human embryos. However, in order to overcome the shortage of egg donors, instead of using human eggs the researchers proposed using animal eggs, from which they had removed almost all the animal genetic material (DNA). These embryos would be a kind of hybrid, known as a cytoplasmic hybrid embryo.

Recognising the complex and sensitive issue of creating human-animal embryos (also known as ‘human admixed embryos’) for research, the HFEA decided that a full public consultation should be held on the ethical and social implications of creating such entities.

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Consultation process

In 2007 the HFEA designed a public consultation to provide a forum for the public to engage in an informed debate on the ethical and social implications of creating human/animal embryos in research.

The consultation, which ran for three months from April to July 2007, explored public opinion on the broad range of hybrid and chimera research.

The consultation was structured in two distinct parts:

1.  A consultation document and public dialogue work, designed to gain an insight into the views of members of the public; and
2.  A scientific consultation and literature review, intended to build a picture of the scientific context to the consultation.

The responses to the consultation highlighted that public opinion was finely divided with people generally opposed to cytoplasmic hybrid research unless it was tightly regulated and was likely to lead to scientific or medical advancements.

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Consultation outcome

The Authority at its September 2007 meeting considered the detailed findings of the consultation and agreed a policy for the licensing of cytoplasmic hybrid research.

The Authority made the following conclusions:

  • that cytoplasmic hybrid embryo research fell within the HFEA’s remit
  • the creation of cytoplasmic hybrid embryo would be prohibited except under a licence granted by the Authority
  • there was no fundamental reason in principle to prevent cytoplasmic hybrid research
  • a decision would be an ‘in principle’ decision and that each application would be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Research Licence Committee
  • it would be wrong to make a decision on broader hybrid and chimera research without an adequate evidence base
  • the HFEA should continue to monitor the potential for wider research and any emerging evidence through its 'horizon scanning' programme.

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Further information

The amendments to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 have established provisions for clarifying the scope of legitimate embryo research activities, including regulation of ‘human admixed embryos’ (embryos combining both human and animal material).

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Supporting documents

House of Commons Science and Technology Committee report of its inquiry into hybrid and chimera research: Science and technology - Parliament UK website

Press releases:

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Page last updated: 12 January 2012

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