Human genetic modification refers to the use of engineering techniques to manipulate the human genome. Techniques used for modifying genres are often referred to as 'gene editing' and can be applied in two ways. That is, somatic and germ line genetic modification. Somatic genetic modification encompasses adding, cutting or changing the genes of an existing person in order to alleviate a medical condition. On the other hand, germline genetic modification involves changing the genes in human sperm, eggs or early embryo. Germline genetic modification is also referred to as gene editing or inheritable genetic modification. The alteration would appear in every cell of the person who developed from a genetically modified sperm, egg, or embryo and in subsequent generation. For ethical, safety, and social reaons, there is a general agreement among policy makers, ethicists, scientists and the general public that modification of humans through genetic engineering should not go beyond somatic genetic modification to germline editing because its consequences are unknown and can be dangerous to human because it is inheritable and thus can affect the entire generation!

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