Animal-human hybrid cloning deferred

January 11, 2007 | Source: NewScientist.com news service

Controversial proposals to make embryos by merging human and animal material remain on hold following a decision on Thursday by the UK regulator of embryo research.

The researchers want to use cow or rabbit eggs as a short cut to making cloned embryos which could yield human embryonic stem cells. These are vital for research into major illnesses.
Opponents of embryo research say the creation of embryos from animal and human cells is unethical, and should not be allowed.