What does the Future hold?

• We can use cloning techniques as
  replacement reproduction
  (We are first generation to experience the
  possibility of human asexual reproduction).
• The same cloning techniques can be used
  to provide genetically identical body parts
  for transplant treatment for
  individuals with failing organs.

Assisted Conception / Reproduction

• IVF wonderfully helps many childless couples
  to start a family.
  • Yet there are wasted embryos;
  • some new processes mix DNA from more
    than two adults;
  • the sub conscious attitudes of professionals
    may lead to selection on criteria other
    than just a healthy baby.
• Why is an individual’s right to reproduce
  so important, especially in the face of
  increasing world populations?

Prenatal Selection - Who makes the choices?

• We can predict the consequences of
  certain combinations of genes
• • and decide not to allow those to occur
  • either by not implanting embryos if IVF
    treatment is in hand
  • or aborting foetuses early.

Biological Weapons
- how dangerous really?

• Biological Warfare:
  Is genetic technology is being used
  to create the next generation of superbugs.

Diagnosis - Who tests whom for what?

• Who has the right to know the results of a test?
• Some might wish they didn't know test results.
• When children are tested who should know?
• What if insurance companies and
  employers want tests done?
• Does it destroy your confidence in the future?
• Does it make you behave sick before
  you are actually ill?
• Suppose a leaky database yields information
  to an insurance company, which then cancels
  your health insurance with your own
  workplace, and so your employer discovers
  you are "sick". Will you find yourself out
  of a job or retired on health grounds
  before you've been asked?

Therapy
- Are there really wonder cures
in the making?

• Change the genes of a pre-implantation egg
  so that the genetic changes are permanently
  passed on through he generations.
• Treat the deleterious clinical effects of certain
  genetic variations, using somatic genetic
  manipulation (affecting on the individual).
• Soon we may be able to add or remove 
  gene combinations with germline therapy
  on adults (affecting future generations).

It is against the Law?

• What should be allowed?
• Are there limits, things we should never do?

GM Foods
- what are they and are they safe?

• Agriculture:
  and the whole ethos of genetically modified
  crops, and the potential consequences.
• Animal Husbandry:
  can modified animals can be safer food,
  are there dangers when flocks are identical?

Forensic DNA - Who has the right to know?

• Identification of individuals by their DNA
  is now so far advanced that the problems
  are about privacy rights, and a
  whole range of issues around
  storage of information.