What if science could guarantee your child would never inherit a devastating genetic disease? Scientists have developed Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT) as a groundbreaking advance in assisted reproduction, allowing couples to prevent passing on mitochondrial disorders. The United Kingdom led the way as the first country to legalise MRT, sparking debate about protecting children's rights while advancing medical science.

MRT brings hope—but it also raises urgent ethical questions. Do we have the right to alter the genetic makeup of future generations? How should we understand the dignity, autonomy and genetic integrity of unborn children? Who speaks on behalf of the child whose DNA we propose to modify? 

This research addresses these questions through legal analysis, exploring whether current laws and frameworks adequately protect unborn children. The findings reveal serious gaps in regulation that demand attention as scientific advancements continue to outpace legal frameworks.

Farnas Yeasmin Nizom

Read the article here: Nizom | Assessing unborn children’s rights in the context of mitochondrial research therapy: a legal analysis | Fields: journal of Huddersfield student research

Student research FIELDS Unborn Children’s Rights Mitochondrial Research Therapy Law and Medical Technologies Assisted Reproductive Technologies Right to Life