Top biologists debate ban on gene-editing

Washington biology summit to consider ban on controversial technology

Delegates at a crucial scientific summit this week are expected to debate a ban on the use of the controversial technique of gene-editing. Hundreds of the world's leading biologists will gather in Washington to discuss the procedure, in which genes are removed from or added to human embryos.

Some researchers say gene-editing of humans could have unpredictable effects on future generations and is ethically unacceptable. They also warn that the technology could be used to create lineages of "enhanced" humans and want all work in the area halted until its implications are fully assessed.