Disruptive Synergy: Melding of Human Genetics and Clinical Assisted Reproduction

Abstract

Summary The melding of human genetics with clinical assisted reproduction, now all but self-evident, gave flight to diagnostic and therapeutic approaches previously deemed infeasible. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis, mitochondrial replacement techniques, and remedial germline editing are particularly noteworthy. Here we explore the relevant disruption brought forth by coalescence of these mutually enabling disciplines with the regulatory and legal implications thereof.

Gene Editing: How Can You Ask “Whether” If You Don't Know “How”?

“…Whether these frameworks would be effective at severely restricting or stopping altogether unethical use of gene editing remains to be seen; there are some reasons in favor of such an approach, given the success of analogous regulatory regimes and ethical frameworks in areas such as stem cell biology. 26 Given that a blanket moratorium has already proven to be ineffective, it is time to pursue alternatives. Translation of gene editing into the clinic should not proceed under any circumstances unless there is extensive, inclusive, and transparent public discussion about whether it is permissible and desirable.…”

“…Whether these frameworks would be effective at severely restricting or stopping altogether unethical use of gene editing remains to be seen; there are some reasons in favor of such an approach, given the success of analogous regulatory regimes and ethical frameworks in areas such as stem cell biology 26 . Given that a blanket moratorium has already proven to be ineffective, it is time to pursue alternatives.…”

How genetics human ART style is making dreams come true: the stairway to eugenics

“…Voices of reason have made more than marginal comment on the more contemporaneous melding of clinical disciplines and technology. Consider that what started as PGD for detection of monogenic disorders in affected individuals evolved into all of the PGTs as we know them today, in parallel with the advent and introduction of gene editing, and spindle transfer/ mitochondrial replacement strategies, together bolstering in essence the "curative" wonders made possible by ARTs [3]. What "counterfactual" scientific contributions or investigational behaviors may be enabling a plausible eugenics movement today?…”