Ethics

Biology: Cambridge International A Level, topic 19.2.5

Genetic screening & gene therapy have a variety of ethical considerations.

A variety of genetic tests can be conducted during pregnancy.
In IVF, embryos are screened for genetic diseases prior to uterine implantation.
Towards the end of the first trimester, a sample of embryonic tissue is taken from a woman's placenta. The DNA is analysed.
This is known as chorionic villus sampling. It tests for genetic disorders and chromosomal abnormalities.
Amniocentesis involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid and running genetic tests on it. It tends to occur early in the second trimester.

There are many social and ethical debates that surround such tests:
There is a risk of damage to the embryo or foetus when collecting samples.
Test results may lead to the termination of the pregnancy (abortion).
Raising a child with genetic disorders can be costly and impact the mental health of the parents.
Genetic engineering embryos could lead to the production of 'designer babies'.

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