Gene editing is a new technique that enables scientists to make precise changes to DNA to correct inherited diseases, but it is controversial as it raises the possibility of making permanent changes to a person's genetic makeup that will be passed down to their offspring.
Leading expert Dr Joy Zhang from Kent University has warned that new regulations in China to regulate gene editing in humans may not be enough to prevent regulatory negligence and that they may not apply to the private sector.
The regulations were updated following an outcry five years ago when a Chinese scientist claimed to have created the world's first gene-edited babies. The new laws set requirements for ethical approval, supervision and inspection, but Dr Zhang expressed concern that they fail to cover private ventures outside of conventional scientific institutes.
