No modification of the human germ line – BIO Deutschland releases updated guidelines for ethics and legislation

Press release

Biotechnology is undergoing rapid and far-reaching advances, not least because revolutionary techniques have opened up a whole new realm of possibilities. In order to take account of such significant changes and dynamic developments, the biotechnology industry association BIO Deutschland has released updated guidelines for ethics and legislation. The tools of biotechnology are not only scientifically spectacular; they also play a fundamental role economically. The association therefore believes there should be a broad and responsible discussion about the consequences of biotechnology applications. BIO Deutschland is against any germ-line modifications in humans.

Peter Heinrich, Chairman of the Board of BIO Deutschland, says: “We should not by any means use gene editing techniques indiscriminately, but neither should we refrain from using such technology in a responsible way on grounds related to conviction ethics. However, we are categorically opposed to any intervention in the human germ line.”