IVF and the prevention of mitochondrial DNA disease: the moral issues

Medicine has faced many controversial milestones, none more so than those involving reproduction. The UK Government must now decide whether we can use IVF technology to reduce the risk of transmission of mitochondrial DNA abnormalities. Will they accept it or reject it?...[Read More]

The demise of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority

The UK's new government plans to divide the responsibilities of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) between different existing organisations to reduce the cost and burden of regulation. This would see the end of the HFEA as we know it...[Read More]

The HFEA shouldn't fix mistakes, just make sure they're fixed

The HFEA is 'not fit for purpose' - so says Professor Toft who investigated the Authority closely following a previous laboratory error. The HFEA should not be surprised if, having established itself as the protector of patients and laboratory standards, it is challenged when an error occurs. Realistically though, zero risk...[Read More]

Artificial Gametes: The What, Why and How of creating sperm and eggs in the laboratory

There was a lively audience at this public meeting held at the Centre for Life in Newcastle on 12 February, an evening debate organised by Progress Educational Trust. This is perhaps not surprising given the recent media speculation and the current political debate about the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill...[Read More]