Human Embryo ResearchTreatment of EmbryosTechnologyIssues: CostsOptionsPre-implantation Genetic TestingWhat should we test for?Inherited Genetic DisordersArguments in favor of testingArguments against testingEthical IssuesResearchStem cell researchStem cells may cureArguments for researchArguments against researchPotential Therapeutic UsesRegulationsNIH Human Embryo Research Panel Recommendations Acceptable ResearchNeeds Additional ReviewUnacceptable ResearchGuidelines for Review/ Conduct of Federally Funded ResearchHuman Embryo ResearchJames G. Anderson, Ph. DPurdue University.Treatment of EmbryosGenetic ScreeningResearchTechnologyAmniocentesis (after 15 weeks of gestation)Chorionic villus sampling (1st trimester)Pre-implantation genetic screening (before clinical pregnancy)Issues: CostsEight million carriers of cystic fibrosis30,000 babies born with cystic fibrosis Annual costs of care range from $8,500-46,000Embryonic screening cost $6,000-13,000The cost is not covered by health insurance in the U.S.The cost is covered in the U.K.OptionsElect not to have childrenArtificial insemination with anonymous donorPrenatal genetic testing with possible abortionPre-implantation genetic screeningPre-implantation Genetic Testingin vitro fertilization (IVF)Allow fertilized cells to divide until 8 cells – 3 daysRemove single cell for diagnosis within 15 hoursDecide whether or not to implantWhat should we test for?Genetic disorders700 inherited conditions344 test clinically available211 prenatal tests offeredTraitsGenderInherited Genetic DisordersTay-Sachs diseaseSickle-cell anemiaCystic fibrosisHemophiliaHuntington’s DiseaseDown’s SyndromeArguments in favor of testingPermits couples with genetic predispositions for disease to conceive a child without passing on the disorderReduces abortionsCouples have a right to the informationArguments against testingMay lead to designer babiesResults in destruction of embryosDiscriminates against embryos with disabilitiesPotential misuse of genetic informationPotential stigma and discrimination against carriersEthical IssuesLife of the embryoEugenicsUse of genetic information (e.g, employers, insurance companiesLack of regulation of fertility clinicsDisposal of unused embryosResearchImprovements in pregnancyFertilizationEgg activation, maturation and freezingEmbryonic screeningHarvesting embryonic stem cellsCloningCross-species fertilizationStem cell researchDerived from 4-day old embryosStem calls can be transformed into 220 human cell types (e.g., pancreatic cells, nerve cells, skin cells, cardiac muscle cellsStem cells may cureAlzheimer’s diseaseParkinson’s diseaseHuntington’s diseaseDiabetesSpinal cord injuriesSkin tissue for burn victimsDamaged arteries and heartsGrow body parts (livers, hearts)Arguments for researchPotential cures for neurological and other illnessesNew field of research will boost the biotechnology industryOther countries will continue research and developmentFertility clinics already possess 400,000 unused frozen embryos that will be discardedArguments against researchFertilized egg is a human being and should not be destroyedStem cell research is similar to using the results of Nazi medical experimentsUsing fertilized eggs for research is a “slippery slope”Commercial exploitation – treat human embryos as propertyProduction of embryos to harvest stem cells.Potential Therapeutic UsesParkinson’s DiseaseHuntington’s DiseaseDiabetesSpinal cord injuriesGrowth of new tissue/organs from stem cellsRegulationsNIH ban on funds for research on human embryosFertility Clinic Success Rate and Certification Act 199225 states have laws regulating disposal of embryosCongress is considering the Human Genome Privacy ActDebate over applicability of the Americans with Disabilities ActNIH guidelines allow federal funding of research with embryonic stem cells from existing cell lines28 states criminalize harm to fetusUnborn Victims of Violence Act (pending)NIH Human Embryo Research Panel Recommendations Acceptable ResearchMethods of improving the chances of pregnancyFertilizationEgg activation, maturation, and freezingPre-implantation genetic diagnosisDevelopment of embryonic stem cellsNeeds Additional ReviewCloning and use of oocytes without their transfer to the uterus for gestationUnacceptable ResearchCloning and use of oocytes followed by transfer to the uterus for gestationCross-species fertilizationGuidelines for Review/ Conduct of Federally Funded ResearchQualified researcherValid research designMajor scientific clinical benefitsNumber of embryos should be minimalInformed consent obtained from gamete donorsEmbryos not be created solely for researchNo buying and selling of embryosNo research on embryos more than 14 days