The role of genetic disposition in human health and disease — bioethical aspects of DNA testing

Abstract

The aim of the Human Genome Project, an international collaborative effort currently in progress, is to identify and catalogue all human genes and to identify the underlying DNA nucleotide sequences. It provides a basis for determining how genes give rise to human diseases, thus opening up new approaches to their cure and prevention. The efforts to map the human genome present no inherent ethical problems but are eminently worthwhile, particularly since the knowledge they provide will be universally applicable for the benefit of human health. In terms of ethics and human values, it must be ensured that the methods used in gene mapping adhere to the high standards of research ethics and that the knowledge gained will be used in an appropriate manner and only for the benefit of the persons tested. This presents a substantial challenge to the medical geneticist. Interdisciplinary discussions on expectations and misgivings provide him with a unique opportunity to broaden his own understanding of important concepts such as human individuality, family bonds or health and disease.