from Nature: CRISPR gene-editing tested in a person for the first time.

http://www.nature.com/news/crispr-gene-editing-tested-in-a-person-for-the-first-time-1.20988

Policy forum paper in Science on germline gene editing: "Editing policy to fit the genome?"

Back in late January, Rosari Isasi et al. published a policy forum paper in Science that discussed the issues surrounding genome editing policies around the world.  Key points discussed include the differences between "permissive" and "restrictive" viewpoints, whether restrictions on clinical applications also apply to research - and how vague legislative language sometimes makes this distinction unclear - and, how thresholds for acceptability have been applied in related contexts.

Nice maps are given that indicate the general level of regulation around the world for this issue and for related topics such as preimplantation diagnosis.    

Science. 2016 Jan 22;351(6271):337-9.  Isasi et al. GENETIC TECHNOLOGY REGULATION. Editing policy to fit the genome?

UK approves gene editing of human embryos for in vitro research purposes. (NOT for implantation/procreation).

The HFEA has approved an application from UK reserachers to perform specific gene editing experiments in human embryos for research purposes.  The embryos will not be cultured beyond the blastocyst stage (a small ball of ~250 cells).  The purpose of this research is to examine the development of cells that form the placenta and other tissues that support embryo growth.  This sort of research may lead to better understanding of why some miscarriages occur.

Reports from various news outlets:

BBC News

The Guardian

Washington Post