A controversial treatment to create babies with three parents could arrive on the NHS as early as next spring.
British women could receive mitochondrial replacement therapy next year after an independent panel of experts approved it – but recommended “cautious adoption”.
UK fertility regulator the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority is now almost certain to give the final go-ahead for the treatment.
It is hoped up to 25 women a year would be treated with NHS funding.
Babies born though MRT would have three genetic parents with DNA from their mother, their father and a third person who donates eggs.
Scientists at the University of Newcastle say they already have women lined up for the treatment and just need to apply for a licence to start procedures.
The aim is to replace abnormal genes which can lead to fatal conditions affecting organs, muscles, vision, growth and mental ability.
Last year the UK became the first country in the world to legalise mitochondrial replacement after MPs and peers voted in favour.
