Center for Genetics and Society : Inheritable Genetic Modification

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About Inheritable Genetic Modification

The Basic Science

Frequently Asked Questions

Arguments Pro & Con

Inheritable genetic modification (IGM, also called germline engineering) means changing the genes passed on to future generations. The genetic changes would be made in eggs, sperm or early embryos; modified genes would appear not only in the person who developed from that gamete or embryo, but also in all succeeding generations. IGM has not been tried in humans. It would be by far the most consequential type of genetic modification as it would open the door to irreversibly altering the human species.

Proposals for inheritable genetic modification in humans combine techniques involving in vitro fertilization (IVF), gene transfer, embryonic stem cells and research cloning.

US group questions human embryo research, calls for rules[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]Deutsche Presse-AgenturMay 14th, 2008The Center for Genetics and Society calls for national bioethics standards and regulations after scientists produced a genetically-engineered embryo.

U.S. Researchers Create Genetically Modified Human EmbryoGenetic CrossroadsMay 14th, 2008A U.S. research group has created what appears to be the world's first genetically modified human embryo, crossing an ethical boundary that until now has been observed by scientists around the world.

Media Coverage of Genetically Modified Embryosby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMay 13th, 2008Here is a roundup of some of the media coverage from the weekend's revelation that scientists have created a genetically modified human embryo.

Engineering by Scientists on Embryo Stirs Criticism[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Andrew Pollack, New York TimesMay 13th, 2008Researchers in New York have created what is believed to be the first genetically engineered human embryo, which critics immediately branded as a step toward “designer babies.”

Genetically modified human embryo stirs criticism[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Malcolm Ritter, Associated PressMay 12th, 2008News that scientists have for the first time genetically altered a human embryo is drawing fire from some watchdog groups that say it's a step toward creating "designer babies."

Public interest group criticizes creation of first genetically modified human embryo Center for Genetics and Society calls for effective regulationMay 12th, 2008A small group of researchers decided on its own to overstep a key ethical boundary that has been observed around the world, with no discussion by the public, the media, or policy makers.

Scientist team creates first GM human embryoby Sarah-Kate Templeton, The Times (UK)May 11th, 2008Scientists from Cornell University in New York have created what is believed to be the first genetically modified (GM) human embryo.

CGS debates libertarian bioethicist Ronald Greenby Osagie Obasogie, Biopolitical TimesApril 14th, 2008Countering advocacy of a designer-baby future in the Washington Post and on Talk of the Nation.

Immortality breakthrough! Read all about it!by Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesApril 14th, 2008A transhumanist shares the secrets of "longevity escape velocity."

Brave New World Warby Jamie Metzl, DemocracyMarch 21st, 2008Genetic engineering will soon turn science fiction to fact. Here's why we need a new global treaty to control it.

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