Human genes in other organisms

Purpose

This first major project for the Council was an exploration of the cultural, ethical and spiritual dimensions of the use of human genes in other organisms. This issue was looked at because it was raised with the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification, and as part of some applications to the Environmental Risk Management Authority.

Examples

Human genes are used in other organisms for various reasons. This technology enables some health treatments; for example, human genes transferred to bacteria enable the production of human insulin for the management of diabetes. The technology is used also to increase scientific understandings; for example, human genes have been transferred to cows to see if human proteins may be produced in their milk, for the purposes of increasing scientific knowledge.The use of the technology has raised cultural, ethical and spiritual concerns.

Activity

This project had three phases.

Phase 1: 'Identifying the issues'

The Council published articles covering different perspectives on the topic from a range of people and groups already involved with this and related topics. The Council also ran focus groups with people who have not previously thought about the topic, to identify their concerns.

• Reflections on the Use of Human Genes in Other Organisms: Ethical, Spritual and Cultural Dimensions
• Human Genes in Other Organisms: Qualitative Research Report

Phase 2: 'Public engagement'

Phase 1 provided the basis for broad engagement with the public on the topic. In Phase 2, all who wished to participate were able to put their views forward for consideration and discussion.

See Issues In Focus: Human genes in other organisms. Submissions closed 3 May 2004.

Phase 3: 'Consideration and reporting'

The Council reflected upon the topic, and wrote a final report that will included its advice to Government:

• The Cultural, Ethical and Spiritual Dimensions of the Use of Human Genes in Other Organisms

Working group

Members of the working group were:

• Anne Dickinson
• Gary Hook
• Jill White
• Cheryl Smith.