China orders inquiry into 'world's first gene-edited babies'

As experts cast doubt on supposed breakthrough, China's National Health Commission orders an 'immediate investigation'

A Chinese scientist's claim that he has created the world's first genetically edited babies has prompted global outcry and an investigation by Chinese health authorities.

In a video posted on Sunday, university professor He Jiankui announced the birth of twin girls whose DNA had been edited to prevent HIV infection. He said the twins' DNA was modified using CRISPR-Cas9, a technique that allows scientists to remove and replace a strand with pinpoint precision.