In the news

Three subgroups of the Human Genetics Commission, the main advisory body to the UK Government on issues to do with genetics, have recently published minutes of meetings held earlier in the year. The Business Committee affirmed the HGC's strong interest in the plans for the UK Population Biomedical Collection, and its wish to be closely involved in the discussions. While the Commission in general is likely to be concerned mainly with the ethical issues surrounding the proposed study, the Horizon Scanning subgroup noted that many scientific aspects also need scrutiny, and that it would contribute to the discussion in this area. The Horizon Scanning subgroup is also preparing a briefing paper for the HGC on the current scientific status of testing and screening technologies, as a contribution to an information-gathering session on "FISH and Chips" planned for the HGC's plenary meeting in June.

The Genetic Testing subgroup has been continuing work on finalising the HGC's contribution to the report arising from the joint consultation with the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority on preimplantation genetic diagnosis. The subgroup discussed the issue of aneuploidy screening (testing for chromosomal abnormalites). Members agreed that there should be equivalence in this respect between PGD and prenatal genetic diagnosis (PND), where aneuploidy screening to detect serious chromosomal abnormalities is a routine part of the service. However, the subgroup thought it was important that PGD should not be seen as a way of selecting for particular desired characteristics. In the area of prenatal genetic testing and screening, the HGC intends to work increasingly closely with the National Screening Committee, to ensure consistency of approach. Two issues of immediate concern, discussed by the subgroup, are the introduction of a national antenatal and neonatal screening programme for haemoglobinopathies (pledged in the NHS Plan), and the publication of advice on prenatal genetic diagnosis.