Press release

Wellcome responds to latest scientific review on mitochondrial donation

The report from the fourth HFEA independent scientific review panel on mitochondrial donation was published today.

Commenting on the review, Dr Beth Thompson, Wellcome's Senior Policy Advisor, said: “This latest scientific review finds that recent research adds further evidence of the safety and efficacy of mitochondrial replacement, a technique with the potential to transform the lives of couples affected by mitochondrial disease.

"The next stage will be for the UK’s robust regulatory system to make a decision as to whether this technique is safe enough to move into the clinic, and be made available to affected families.

"We’re delighted that, following the legislative change Wellcome has helped to drive, we are now closer than ever to this technique being an option for families.”