Current projects

Donor conception

Donor conception: ethical aspects of information disclosure

Parents of children conceived using donor eggs or sperm may or may not choose to tell them about their genetic origins. Is this a private family matter, or are there wider public interests at stake? What kind of information might children and parents need about the child's genetic origin? What interests do donors have in receiving information?

This short project will explore the ethical issues that arise around the disclosure of information in connection with donor-conceived children.

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Neurotechnology

Novel neurotechnologies: intervening in the brain

Technologies and devices that intervene in the brain are being developed to help treat diseases such as stroke, dementia, obesity and depression. This, and the possible use of such technologies for non-medical purposes, is becoming a subject of debate.

This Working Party will explore the ethical, social and legal issues arising from the development and impact of these 'novel neurotechnologies'.

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Mitochondrial donation

Mitochondrial donation: ethical issues

The treatment of inherited mitochondrial abnormalities in human embryos using donor mitochondria is an advancing area of research.  The techniques involved could have profound implications for future generations.

This project will explore the ethical issues relevant to affected families, potential donors, researchers, medical professionals and others trying to understand and respond to the therapeutic possibility of mitochondrial transfer.

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Emerging biotechnologies

Emerging biotechnologies: ethical issues

Emerging biotechnologies such as synthetic biology and nanotechnology have the potential to provide benefits for health, the environment and the economy, but they also raise concerns.

This Working Party is considering the common ethical issues raised by such technologies, both past and present, and the implications for policy, governance and public engagement.

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