U.K. Might Need New Approaches To Regulate Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, Commentary Says

Main Category: Fertility
Also Included In: Genetics;  Pregnancy / Obstetrics
Article Date: 14 Aug 2006 - 18:00 PDT

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There is a need for new approaches to regulating preimplantation genetic diagnosis in the United Kingdom, Peter Braude, head of the department of women's health at King's College in London, writes in a New England Journal of Medicine commentary published in the Aug. 10 edition of the journal, the AP/Philadelphia Inquirer reports (Cheng, AP/Philadelphia Inquirer, 8/10). Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is used during in vitro fertilization to allow physicians to test the embryo for chromosomal abnormalities and to determine its gender (Kaiser Daily Women's Health Policy Report, 8/8). The British Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority in May said embryos in the U.K. can be screened for genes that are linked to breast, colon and ovarian cancers. The authority also said each request still must be considered by the licensing committee before proceeding. According to the AP/Inquirer, the decision was a "departure" from the authority's previous policies because having a susceptibility to certain cancers does not mean that the embryo, if implanted and birthed, definitely will develop the disease. In addition, cancer can be preventable and treatable if it develops. Embryos in the U.K. currently can be screened for conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington's disease, both of which are certain to develop if the genes are present, according to the AP/Inquirer (AP/Philadelphia Inquirer, 8/10). The NEJM commentary responds to the authority's decision and also examines the ethics of testing for a susceptibility for diseases. Braude writes that current British regulations have "served" the country well and "have provided a good model for regulation" of assisted reproductive technology. However, the act, in regard to this "rapidly changing field" needs to be modified to "deal with inconsistencies highlighted" by the authority's debate on preimplantation genetic diagnosis and susceptibility to disease, Braude concludes (Braude, NEJM, 8/10).

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