Summary
Sperm from a donor with a genetic mutation linked to a high cancer risk was used to conceive nearly 200 children across Europe. Some children have already developed cancer, and families have been informed about the risks. The European Sperm Bank has stopped using the donor's sperm after discovering the issue.
Key Facts
- A sperm donor with a cancer-causing gene mutation helped conceive at least 197 children in Europe.
- The donor was initially screened and found healthy, but a DNA mutation known as Li Fraumeni syndrome was not detected.
- Up to 20% of the donor's sperm had the mutation, which greatly increases the risk of cancer.
- Some children have been diagnosed with cancer, and some have died.
- The European Sperm Bank sold the sperm, and they have since blocked the donor.
- The mutation damages the TP53 gene, which helps prevent cells from becoming cancerous.
- Doctors warned about the cancer risk at a genetics conference after seeing affected children.
- Families with children conceived using the sperm have been notified and advised to screen their children.
