British researchers are now allowed to genetically modify human embryos

British researchers given a go-ahead.
(Image credit: iStock)

In a landmark decision Monday, British researchers will be the first worldwide to edit human embryos for genetic research, The Guardian reports.

The Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority is allowing Kathy Niakan, a London stem cell researcher, to genetically modify embryos using CRISPR and study them for up to 14 days. The embryos, which come as donations from couples who had some leftover after undergoing in vitro fertilization, cannot be implanted in women.

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Julie Kliegman

Julie Kliegman is a freelance writer based in New York. Her work has appeared in BuzzFeed, Vox, Mental Floss, Paste, the Tampa Bay Times and PolitiFact. Her cats can do somersaults.