Sat Jul 19 05:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:

**Headline: UK Babies Born with DNA from Three Parents: A Step Too Far in Designer Babies?**

**Summary:**

The UK has seen the birth of eight babies using mitochondrial replacement therapy, a procedure that incorporates a small amount of DNA from a third person to prevent serious genetic diseases. This raises ethical questions about the use of science for medical intervention versus the pursuit of “designer babies.” While mitochondrial replacement offers hope for preventing debilitating diseases, other attempts to manipulate genes for cosmetic or non-medical reasons are controversial, raising the question of whether we should pursue such endeavors simply because we can.

**Article:**

London – Eight babies in the United Kingdom have been born with a unique genetic makeup, possessing DNA from three individuals: a father and two mothers. This groundbreaking procedure, known as mitochondrial replacement therapy, aims to prevent the transmission of mitochondrial diseases, rare but severe conditions passed down through the mother’s DNA. The second mother contributes a minuscule 0.1% of the baby’s genetic material, solely to ensure healthy mitochondrial function.

This development has ignited a debate about the ethical boundaries of genetic manipulation. While the procedure is intended to prevent serious illnesses, it has raised concerns about the potential for “designer babies,” where genetic engineering is used to select for desirable traits.

The article contrasted mitochondrial replacement with other instances of genetic selection, such as sperm banks that allow parents to choose donors based on characteristics like height and eye color. It also mentioned the controversial case of Chinese scientist He Jiankui, who was jailed for editing genes in an attempt to create designer babies.

The author emphasizes the distinction between using science for therapeutic purposes and using it to fulfill desires for “perfect” children. “Using science to help sick babies? Amazing,” the author writes. “Using it just to try and create the ‘perfect’ kid? Not so smart.”

The author concludes by suggesting that while scientific advancements offer incredible possibilities, society must carefully consider the ethical implications of manipulating the human genome, ensuring that the focus remains on health and well-being rather than superficial enhancements.

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