Ethical Issues in Molecular Genetics

Journal Entry

Reflect on the ethical, social,

political, economic, environmental and legal

issues of DNA research and associated

technologies, on both local and global scales.

Stem Cells

“The primary ethical issue at the heart ofdebates over hES research revolves

around the moral status of the embryo.”Stem Cell Network, Canada

Is an embryo a person, or a collection ofcells?

Stem Cell Research

Stem Cell Research

• Therapies derived from stem cell research will benefit all countries.

• Poorer countries may not be able to implement these therapies.

• It is a global responsibility to ensure the benefits reach as many people as possible.Stem Cell Network, Canada

Human Cloning

• Variety of reasons for human cloning:– Reproductive - to create a child (infertility).– Therapeutic - to treat degenerative diseases

• Many feel it is morally wrong.

Health Canada

Human Cloning

• No one can create a human clone.• Human clone - embryo with a diploid set

of chromosomes obtained from any human, fetus or embryo, living or dead

• Essentially bans reproductive and therapeutic cloning

Assisted Human Reproduction Act, AHR Canada

Gene Patenting

Gene Patenting

• Myriad Genetics owns patent on BRCA genes.– Only this company can test these genes or

develop new tests.

• $3000/test and no second opinion.Public Patent Foundation

DNA Fingerprinting

In 2007, a judge in the UK argued that the entire UK population and every visitor to

Britain should be put in the national DNA database.

Health Canada Regulations on GMOs

• Voluntary positive ("does contain") and voluntary negative ("does not contain") labeling is permitted.

• Claims must be factual and not misleading or deceptive.

DNA and Privacy

• Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA):– Prohibits discrimination on the basis of

genetic information with respect to health insurance and employment.

Debate

• Should genetic information be used by insurance companies?

• 5 perspectives– Prime Minister– Doctors– Scientists– The People– Insurance Companies