January 22, 1999

Prospect of Fetal-Gene Therapy Stimulates High Hopes and Deep Fears

By DAVID L. WHEELER

Treatments might someday prevent life-threating genetic disorders, but critics at NIH meeting warn of ethical pitfalls

Proposals to attempt gene therapy on fetuses are drawing the attention of those who fear that scientists may tamper with the genetic future of the human race.

A few scientists want to try gene therapy on fetuses diagnosed with life-threatening diseases that are difficult to treat after birth. Any permanent

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