Category Archives: Bioethics

Insurance and Genetic Testing in the United States

February 22nd, 2010 | Posted in Bioethics, Consumer Genetics

Genetic testing for predisposition to complex genetic traits and late-onset diseases may one day be used in the determination of life insurance premiums. This brings up new questions about the protection of privacy, moral hazards, and the role the free market plays in the life insurance industry.

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Tagged in: complex genetic diseases, Genetic Testing, life insurance | 1 Comment

Genetic Identity Theft: Will You Need to Protect Your Genome?

January 18th, 2010 | Posted in Bioethics, Genetic Engineering

DNA sequencing, cellular reprogramming, developmental biology and stem cells will one day allow for genetic identity theft to be an actionable offense. This form of identity theft, with the potential to produce some twisted results, may not even be preventable.

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Tagged in: Data Protection, DNA, Genes, Genetic Engineering, Personal Genetics | 2 Comments

Genetic Engineering: Reanimate the Dead and Bring Fantasy to Life

October 5th, 2009 | Posted in Bioethics, Genetic Engineering

Genetic engineering will enable us not only to bring back lost pets, but in the future, extinct species, and even fantasy creatures may be born out of cloning.

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Tagged in: Cloning, Genetic Engineering, Jurassic Park, Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer | 5 Comments

Gattaca: Why fears about Genetically Superior Babies are Unfounded

September 24th, 2009 | Posted in Bioethics, Consumer Genetics

In the movie “Gattaca”, selection of genetically superior babies led to the creation of a genetic class system. However, limitations in reproductive endocrinology prevent this situation from arising in reality.