Scientists based at The University of Manchester have conducted an ethical analysis of the medical use of artificial human DNA. The medical use of synthetic DNA challenges traditional associations between genes and identity.
The study explores how this emerging technology impacts identity, privacy and reproduction, each raising key questions for society.
Synthetic DNA
Artificial human DNA, or synthetic DNA is created by assembling the chemical components of genes in a controlled process. Synthetic DNA can be designed and synthesized from naturally occurring nucleotides to be inserted into living cells for various biological applications. The technique could revolutionise medicine and biology; however, the creation and subsequent use also presents medical ethical challenges.
As to how synthetic DNA can benefit society, DNA synthesis could ease some of the supply problems we currently have with natural drugs, including those used in the treatment of malaria, cancer, and HIV. Moreover, synthetic biology could go beyond the limits of natural chemistry to create new or modified molecular components in the design of new proteins.
Ethical code
Scientists have previously synthesised bacterial genomes and portions of human chromosomes; future advancements could make it possible to generate entire human genomes in a laboratory. Only small genomes such as those of bacteria and yeast have been synthesized so far, but the creation of full human genomes in the lab is plausible.
How can an ethical code be developed?
Synthetic biology is not without its risks. Like nearly all technologies, it can be used for good or for ill, and those ills can be intentional or accidental.
The new study highlights key concerns about privacy, identity and genetic relationships. For instance, if human DNA can be artificially replicated, who owns or controls it? Could it be used without consent?
The research also explores how this technology might redefine biological parenthood and reproduction, challenging traditional understandings of genetics and inheritance.
Beyond medicine and science, the research has real-world implications for everyday people. If synthetic DNA is widely adopted, this may lead to groundbreaking medical treatments and innovations, such as designing genes to combat hereditary diseases.
Key questions
However, adoption also raises concerns about genetic privacy, ownership, and potential misuse. For example: Could individuals’ genetic information be recreated without their permission? How might this affect legal rights or personal identity?
The researchers emphasise the need for governments, policymakers and scientists to collaborate on ethical guidelines to ensure responsible development and use of artificial DNA.
Clearly, there is a need for reflection on the ethical implications of these developing technologies before they are on us.
The research appears in the Journal of Medical Ethics, succinctly titled “The ethics of synthetic DNA”.
