PubMed · 17211373
A Wisconsin foundation's aggressive approach to patent licensing is damaging its reputation, compromising its own university's research collaborations and stymieing stem cell research.
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2007. Burning bridges.. https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt0107-2
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Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) undertakes an examination of an embryo outside the mother's womb subsequent to artificial insemination in order to identify a potential genetic and chromosomal impairment of that embryo. PGD is not being practiced in the Federal Republic of Germany since it cannot be reconciled with the provisions of the Embryo Protection Law. Objections have been raised against PGD based on ethical, religious and feminist arguments as well as on the grounds of legal framework policy. The essence of those objections relates to the fact that this method relativises the inviolability of the embryo in its early stages. Even human dignity itself is considered in danger. However, those objections have themselves caused demur. A variety of ethical reasons make it appear conceivable to allow PGD under narrowly defined conditions in medically founded cases. PGD can be used to the benefit of the health of both the pregnant mother and the expected children. In case PGD should be permitted, it would have to be within the framework of medical and sociopsychological counselling.
Human tissue engineering and regenerative medicine may be considerably advanced by embryonic stem-cell research and cell line development, to provide preventive means, cures and treatment strategies for a range of debilitating conditions and injuries. Research may result in embryos from which stem-cells are derived losing viability, which offends some religious convictions. The different status religions and laws may attribute to embryos serves different purposes and results from different approaches. Neither need depend on, nor impose itself on, the other. Embryos surplus to IVF patients' needs may be donated to research with appropriate consent. In some circumstances, it may be ethical to ask patients to make their fresh embryos available for research. Prohibitions against deliberately creating embryos for research purposes are common, but not universally adopted, and are being challenged. Women who donate ova require information about risks, which for women considering donation for research may not be balanced by compensating benefits.